E-shots Web-exclusive: Survey shows small manufacturers will do more with less next year

Taking the pulse of small manufacturing businesses, the International Profit Assoc. Small Business Research Board (IPA SBRB) released a survey of these companies on Dec. 28 that revealed a slight drop-off in confidence for 2007. Compared to the previous report released in August, the manufacturing confidence index dropped 1.8 points to 43.2.

The survey points to a drive toward greater productivity through cost containment. While 59.6% of respondents expect revenue to increase in 2007, only 29.3% plan to add to their workforce. In addition, finding quality employees is no longer the number one issue affecting these businesses: Cost of materials is. Concerns two through five are healthcare costs, taxes, government regulation, and energy/fuel costs.

For the complete survey, go to www.ipasbrb.com/manufacturer-survey-1206.htm.