Made in Laurel: Why It Matters to Us

We recently sat down with one of our co-owners, Jim Rasberry, to talk about something that runs deep for him: why American manufacturing—especially right here in Laurel, Mississippi—matters. For Jim, it’s personal. He was born and raised in this town, and today, he’s raising his own daughters here. That sense of place, of legacy, and of responsibility shapes everything we do at Scotsman Co. 

From day one, the mission was clear: make quality goods right here in Laurel and invest in the people and place we call home. For Jim, the realization that building a factory in his hometown could create real change came early.

“Something we learned is that activity begets activity,” he says. “A new manufacturing operation in a small town makes a statement. It says Laurel is worth everyone’s investment of time, energy, and enthusiasm. That’s the kind of change that gets me excited.”

Manufacturing, after all, is more than machinery and materials. It’s about people. It’s about creating something with your own two hands and the pride that comes from it.

“I believe the epitome of contribution is turning ideas into action,” Jim explains. “We all take turns being contributors or consumers. For a community to thrive, we have to be good at both.”

That spirit of contribution is built into everything we do at Scotsman Manufacturing. It reflects Laurel’s own story—a town that has always adapted, evolved, and redefined itself through the decades.

“Laurel started as a lumber town, became an oil town, an agricultural town, and even a manufacturing town,” says Jim. “Our success depends on our ability to adapt to the changing demands of today’s consumers.”

That adaptability shows up in every product we create—especially the ones that carry personal meaning. One of Jim’s favorite examples? The butcher block.

“One of the most memorable gifts Mallorie and I received when we got married was a cutting board with our names on it,” Jim remembers. “It wasn’t elaborate, but it was meaningful. That cutting board’s been part of our kitchen for over 15 years. I’m proud we now make products like that, items that will stand the test of time.”

In an era when it’s often cheaper to outsource, Scotsman Co. is doubling down on American-made. Why? Because it matters.

“Manufacturing in America isn’t easy and it sure isn’t cheap,” Jim admits. “But it’s worth it. The things we make are the things we keep. It’s part of our identity—and our value to the rest of the world.”

For us, American made isn’t just a label. It’s a promise. A promise to build things that last. To believe in the strength of small towns. To contribute to something greater than ourselves.

That’s why we’re here. And that’s why we believe: American made matters.