Manufacturing has been an important component of the U.S. economy for decades, but global competition has changed the face of manufacturing throughout the country. Now, more than ever, companies are faced with complex decisions about where to maintain operations, where to downsize and where to expand, along with the most difficult element of evaluating the labor force. Our “Feature” articles give tremendous insight into evaluating your labor force and tax credits and incentives for manufacturers.
 
There is also an article on ports and an article on FTZs that you’ll find most interesting.  “Industry Outlook” highlights two industry associations: NAM and NMMI. The area “Spotlights” include Alabama, Kansas, Tennessee and Utah. They provide additional information to influence your next site location decision.
 
We, at Trade & Industry Development, hope the articles included in this issue will give you valuable information to proceed with plans that will help grow your company to the heights in which you envision. As always, if further information is needed, the economic developers and consultants participating in this issue will be glad to assist you.