| Many feel-good success stories are built around the broad category of demographics. Baby boomers (ages 44-62) have been and will continue to be one of the strongest demographical forces within the United States. There are 76 million of us representing 28% of the U.S. population. Undoubtedly you have read the headlines, from music to automobiles to health care, the list goes on and on. If it’s a major theme or trend, the “boomers” are in the driver’s seat. Today, what does this large segment of the population want? We want wide open spaces, simplicity, healthy normal lives, shorter commutes and quality family time. We like working from home, farmer’s markets and backyards. We don’t need 100 acres, but 15 to 25 would be ideal. The research of demography suggests there is a move away from city life to a slower pace. And with the quieter way of life, we still want to be active. Retirement does not mean the same thing to us as it did to our parents. Forget 65, we will be active until 80 or longer, but we want it on our terms.
Technology is arguably the most important innovation in the history of mankind. The technology boom is the industrial revolution (late 18th, 19th century) times ten and going strong. It too has been driven in large part by demographics. It has empowered us all. Because of the internet, we have access to the world. We can work from anywhere, at any time, and be successful. We are more knowledgeable, more mobile, make better decisions and small businesses can compete, even from the middle of nowhere, because of the web. Information is the key and we have it at our fingertips.
The Greening of America. This is big, getting bigger and will have a major impact on all of our lives. Rural America will be a primary beneficiary of this movement. One of the most beautiful roads I’ve ever traveled is Hwy 231 in Virginia. It’s only 30 miles or so in length, beginning at Interstate 64, just east of Charlottesville, heading north to the small town of Gordonsville. This road is pure Virginia farm land with rolling hills, perfectly groomed pastures, white fence lines, long driveways and beautiful animals. We all have examples of Hwy 231. If the decision is to live in this type of environment or the crowded beltways of Houston, L.A., Atlanta, Chicago, Philly…. (especially when you didn’t have to) I think you get my point, it’s a forgone conclusion. Going green is a macro trend that is here to stay. Corporations, law makers, politicians, and most importantly the population is in favor of all things that are positive for the planet. Fake is out and natural (Alpaca fiber) is in and in for a long time.
When people ask why Alpacas? The answer is easy. It’s all about the animals and the positive impact of demographics, technology and the greening of America. Alpacas are a feel-good story.
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