...companies looking at products, markets, strategies to compete

For years, small and mid-sized manufacturers did not face the challenge of selling.  Business from multi-nationals was steady.  Credit markets were open.  Consumer spending was strong.  The worldwide economy insulated many U.S. companies from severe fluctuations in sales and revenue.

Today, foreign price competition and volatile business conditions have companies of all types re-examining their current business models.  Manufacturers who once stood apart simply by being more efficient are now scrambling to fill their sales pipelines, develop new products and services, and pursue customers in entirely new markets.   Differentiating from the competition, moving up the value chain, and collaborating with customers is the new recipe for success.