Carrie Hines, Executive Director of the American Small Manufacturers Coalition (ASMC), recently appeared on C-Span to discuss the results of the Next Generation Manufacturing Study and the actions small manufacturers should take to remain competitive both domestically and globally.
Overall, the message is positive. According to the NGM study recently released by ASMC, small manufacturers continue to face challenges with the pending retirement of baby boomer leadership, and shortages of qualified employees .
Ms. Hines’s message was simple: America’s small manufacturers are able to compete. They play critical roles in supply chains that create products consumers are still interested in buying. They are also adapting for the future in many ways including emphasizing sustainable manufacturing processes and technologies that have become increasingly important.
One of concerns voiced by C-Span callers is the difficulty many are experiencing in accessing capital for equipment purchase or expansion. They expressed concern for the manufacturing sector in particular, but also for the impacts on the larger economy caused by lack of capital and how it is impacting job growth and demand for products produced by small manufacturers. Here in Illinois, Governor Quinn recently announced the Advantage Illinois Program to accelerate investments and ease the credit crunch for small businesses.
Small manufacturers are at a disadvantage when it comes to international trade, but the popularity of outsourcing is beginning to wane and manufacturers are reaping the benefits. While only 41% of small manufacturers feel they can become actively engaged globally (compared to 64% of larger companies), programs are available for manufacturers looking for expert assistance. Larger manufacturers are also starting to recognize the benefits of American-based suppliers and are bringing some of those orders back to the United States.
In Illinois, manufacturers can call IMEC or link directly with the state’s International Trade Centers -- http://www2.illinois.gov/gov/exports/Pages/default.aspx
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