Archive for September, 2011

Post Falls Chamber prepares for fall

Pam Houser

Summer is officially over, kids are back in school and fall is in the air. As much as I love the summer season, fall is my favorite. Summer is so busy and things seem to slow down a bit when the leaves start to change. With hundreds of business and nonprofit organizations in the area, there’s always a place to engage. I encourage you to check out the Chamber websites for upcoming events: www.postfallschamber.com or www.visitpostfalls.org.

Thank you to all the businesses and individuals who supported our annual Denim and Diamonds Dinner Auction. This fundraiser is held each year to raise funds for the day-to-day operations of the Chamber and Visitor Center. We would not be able to provide the programs and services to our community without the support of donations, so I want to extend a sincere “Thank You” to our volunteers and business community.

Ribbon Cuttings for new businesses in Post Falls are on the rise again, and The Post Falls Chamber is pleased to welcome Top This Frozen Yogurt & Treats and Horizon Credit Union’s new office to our community. And speaking of new businesses, we have a few ground breakings coming up this month. KTEC (the new technical high school on the prairie) and Underground Force are scheduled to break ground on Tuesday, Oct. 4. Both of these projects will have a positive impact on the economic vitality to our region and we are pleased to be a part of it.

We want to extend an invitation to all our readers to attend the 1st Turkey Shoot on Saturday, Oct. 1, at Cabela’s. This event will benefit the Post Falls Food Bank. Early registration is suggested. More information can be found on their website at www.postfallsfoodbank.org.

The Post Falls Chamber will host several events this month including an open house at the University of Idaho Research Park on Oct. 6. This event will provide an opportunity to tour the facility and meet with their University President, Duane Nellis and CEO, Charles Buck.

The 2nd Soup & Chili Cook-off will be held at the Chamber on Thursday, Oct. 20. PFHS cheerleaders will be serving up old fashioned root beer floats and we will have live entertainment on the patio from 4-7 p.m. A Candidate Forum will take place right next door at City Hall from 7-9 p.m.

Last but not least, I want to give a shout out for the Boys and Girls Club’s “Catch the Wave” Dinner Auction on Friday, Oct. 21. The Boys and Girls Club is now operating in Post Falls and Coeur d’Alene and needs the support of the community to provide after school services to hundreds of boys and girls in Kootenai County. Event tickets are available at the Chamber office.

Congratulations to our Vice President of Tourism and Membership, Jame’ Davis, for being named one of Kootenai County’s Top 30 Under 40! We are proud of her accomplishments and all that she does in our community!

Pam Houser is President and CEO of the Post Falls Chamber of Commerce. Email pam@postfallschamber.com.

atangen | Sep 29, 2011 | Comments 0

Full Story

Post Falls Chamber calendar of events

Sept. 30 — Post Falls Chamber Ribbon Cutting at Horizon Credit Union, 920 N. Highway 41 No. 10 — 12:05 p.m. Come see their new office and enjoy refreshments.

Oct. 4 — Post Falls Chamber Groundbreakings — KTEC (Kootenai Technical Education Campus), 6838 W. Lancaster Road, Rathdrum, 1 p.m. and Underground Force Manufacturing, 6001 E. Seltice Way, 4 p.m. Governor Butch Otter will be on hand to help break ground for these two new Post Falls business.

Oct. 6 — Post Falls Chamber Open House at University of Idaho Research Park, 721 Lochsa St. Come tour their facility and enjoy refreshments — 5-6:30 p.m.

Oct. 18 — Post Falls Chamber Takin’ Care of Business Breakfast at Red Lion Templin’s — doors open at 7 a.m. Register online at www.postfallschamber.com by Friday, Oct. 14. Cost is $13 per person.

Oct. 20 — Post Falls Chamber 2nd Soup & Chili Cook-off — 4-7 p.m. on the Chamber patio and parking lot. Registration is $15 per entry, $20 if you need power. Call the Chamber at 773-5016 to register. Come down and taste all the entries for only $6 and vote on your favorite soup, chili, and booth design. The Post Falls Trojan Cheerleaders will also be selling root beer floats.

atangen | Sep 29, 2011 | Comments 0

Full Story

Coeur d’Alene Chamber calendar of events

Business Tech Tour — Oct. 7

The Business Development Committee presents the 2011 Business Tech Tour, Friday, Oct. 7 from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Best Western Coeur d’Alene Inn. This tour is your opportunity to “see inside” local businesses. Includes breakfast hosted by Best Western Coeur d’Alene Inn, lunch sponsored by STCU and transportation will be provided by Alpha Omega Tours. Businesses to be toured are: Esterline, Namaste Foods, L A Aluminum Casting Co., Stratford Homes, Bayshore Systems.

Tour is limited to 46 people so sign up today! For more details or if you have questions, please contact Brenda Young at (208) 415-0110 or at Brenda@CdAChamber.com.

Upbeat Breakfast — Oct. 11

The Coeur d’Alene Convention and Visitor’s Bureau presents October’s Upbeat Breakfast with guest speaker Karen Ballard, Administrator at the Idaho Department of Commerce on Oct. 11. Karen will be speaking about the state of Tourism in Idaho, in particular North Idaho and its effects on the economy. Karen joined the Idaho Division of Tourism for a newly created tourism development position in 1992. The job entailed expansion of international visitation to Idaho in collaboration with Montana, Wyoming and South Dakota through Rocky Mountain International. She was appointed the Administrator of Idaho State Tourism in November 2007.

With a reservation, the cost is $14 with a reservation or $19 at the door and includes breakfast and coffee. Reservations must be made by the Friday before the breakfast. For more information please call Brenda Young at (208) 415-0110 or email her at Brenda@CdAChamber.com.

2nd Friday Artwalk — Oct. 14

Stroll through beautiful Downtown Coeur d’Alene and enjoy local and nationally acclaimed artists. Visit supporting galleries, shops, restaurants an businesses with your family. This is a free event from 5-8 p.m. Just follow the yellow balloons! For more information please contact Cheryl at (208) 292-1629.

99th Annual Luncheon — Oct. 18

The Coeur d’Alene Chamber invites you to attend the 99th Annual Membership Luncheon on Tuesday, Oct. 18 held lakeside at the spectacular new Hagadone Event Center from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. At the Luncheon, the Chamber will be kicking off its year long Centennial Celebration, commemorating 100 years in 2012. So, join us on Oct. 18 and learn how your Chamber will be advertising its 100 years of success! The Centennial Celebration Steering Committee Chair, Kiki Miller, promises a fun and exciting program packed with many surprises. The Chamber will be welcoming incoming Chairs and presenting the Citizen, Volunteer and Committee of the Year Awards. The Hagadone Event Center is located next to the clubhouse at the Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course. Contact Diane at (208) 292-1635 for information on the Luncheon or to purchase tickets.

Tickets for the luncheon are $30 per person and company tables can be reserved for $240 each. Table Sponsors are also available for $60. Table sponsors will receive recognition on a power point screen running during the event and a table top plaque with their logo on the table round, that seats 8 people. For sponsorship information contact Marilee at (208) 415-0111.

Business After Hours at Idaho Lights — Oct. 27

This month’s Business After Hours is at Idaho Lights located at 6055 N. Sunshine Street in Coeur d’Alene from 5-6:30 p.m. Business After Hours is a networking event and opportunity for members to show off their offices or facilities. Food and beverages are provided by the sponsor business and there are drawings for door prizes. For more information please call Brenda Young at (208) 415-0110 or email her at Brenda@CdAChamber.com.

atangen | Sep 29, 2011 | Comments 0

Full Story

Stopping crime in its tracks

Crime Stoppers of the Inland Northwest is an independent, nonprofit organization of broad-based volunteer community leaders dedicated to maintaining and improving public safety through education and the development of creative and effective solutions.

Crime Stoppers encourages citizens in the community to volunteer vital information helpful to law enforcement agencies in their fight against crime and provides Telephone Numbers, a Post Office Box and an Internet Web address where persons can provide tips.

Tipsters can remain anonymous and are eligible to receive a cash reward if the information given leads to the solution of a crime, an arrest or a grand jury indictment of a felony offender.

All information that comes into any Crime Stoppers tipline is kept completely confidential. Callers never have to give their names or appear in court.

Crime Stoppers has been accepted by police as a valid and effective investigative tool. It allows law enforcement and the community to come together as partners and work toward making the region a safer place to live, work and raise a family.

Crime rates have been reduced by as much as 37 percent in some areas served by Crime Stoppers. Since the start of Crime Stoppers program, many calls have been received across the nation. These calls have resulted in thousands of arrests and recovery of substantial amounts of property nationwide. Calls have included information about murder, robbery, rape, assaults, drug and firearm offenses.

Crime Stoppers relies on volunteers and tax deductible contributions from the public to administer this community safety program. The reward money paid out for information leading to the arrest of felons in our community is acquired through fund raising efforts, sponsorships and donations from concerned citizens and businesses.

To find out what you can do to help make our community a safer place to live and work, or to get more information on the North Idaho Chapter go to www.crimstoppersinlandnorthwest.org or email nicrimestoppers@gmail.com. To report information regarding a crime, call the tip line at (208) 667-2111.

atangen | Sep 29, 2011 | Comments 0

Full Story

Do you know your risk for breast cancer?

Did you know breast cancer is the second most common cause of death in women? Did you know that there is an easy way to assess your risk for breast cancer and other estrogen sensitive cancers such as uterine, ovarian, cervical and prostate? Did you know that you can decrease your risk with diet, herbs and vitamins?

Estrogens are anabolic hormones that produce tissue growth. Since these hormones exert great biological activity in small doses, it is very important that the body effectively eliminates them.

There are large variations in how women metabolize estrogen. Some estrogens are considered to be “good” because they are associated with reduced cancer growth or having anticancer effects. “Bad” estrogens encourage tumor development and can cause DNA damage.

Estrogen metabolites in women and men can assess whether he or she is at risk of developing estrogen sensitive cancers with a simple first morning urine collection. The most important ratio is the 2:16 ratio (2-OHE and 16a-OHE1). Many studies have shown this ratio provides an important indication of risk for future development of breast cancer.

Each woman has an unique biochemical makeup that determines how much of each form of estrogen is produced. In many women the primary cause for a abnormal 2:16 ratio is dietary. You can improve your ratio by eating cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and brussel sprouts, ground flax seeds and fish oils.

I strongly believe every woman should have their estrogen metabolites tested, especially if they are taking any hormones. With this a simple test you may be able to prevent breast cancer from occurring.

atangen | Sep 29, 2011 | Comments 0

Full Story

Diversity boosts local manufacturing

Alivia Body

A diversified economy is a sustainable economy.

Manufacturing’s share of employment broadened over the past 20 years, moving from a deeply rooted wood products industry to a more diversified industrial mix.

In 1991, wood product manufacturing comprised nearly 40 percent of industry employment in Kootenai County. By 2010, that number dropped to just over 15 percent. It is not that wood product manufacturing is a dying industry. It still is the largest employer. It is just changing as the economy becomes more globalized.

Fabricated metal product manufacturing has shaped its way from the bottom half of the industrial mix in 1991 to second by 2010. Industry employers have molded themselves into a diverse subsector well positioned for ever changing market demands.

The top five manufacturing industries today, in order, are wood products, fabricated metal, computers and electronics, furniture and plastics, and rubber products.

Average annual employment has fluctuated dramatically throughout the past decade, declining through the 2001 recession and falling to levels as low as 3,900 before peaking in 2007 at nearly 4,800, the highest in manufacturing employment in over 20 years. The recession that began in December 2007 brought on an even longer and deeper degradation, but the industry is bouncing back. With fewer employers, employment in manufacturing still increased 6.9 percent from the first quarter of 2010 to first quarter 2011.

Manufacturing and manufacturing jobs play an important role in the economy.

In terms of gross domestic product, manufacturing averaged $285 million a year over the past five years, holding its market share and keeping pace with the overall economy in Kootenai County. It peaked beyond the general economy during the expansion years and dipped below through the most recent recession.

When assessing the size and importance of the manufacturing sector, it is vital to recognize that many other sectors such as transportation, finance, telecommunications, wholesale and retail trade and accounting depend on a strong manufacturing base. While manufacturing itself is the fourth largest sector in Kootenai County, its impact on the overall regional economy is much larger when this multiplier effect is taken into account. Being a heavily export-oriented industry, manufacturing has a multiplier of 2.42, the average over the top five subsectors with wood products the highest at 3.49 followed by aircraft manufacturing. That means that for every 10 jobs created in manufacturing, another 14.2 jobs are created in other sectors and subsectors, or for every 10 jobs created in wood products production nearly 25 more are created in other industries. Due to the high multiplier, manufacturing generates a strong positive impact on the regional economy. For comparison, the average employment multiplier for the remaining top subsectors of each industry is 1.66 with leisure and hospitality one of the lowest at 1.38.

While the general public perceives the manufacturing sector as marked primarily by a loss of jobs, the facts paint a different picture. Manufacturing is complex, and its production processes increase demand for raw materials, energy, construction and services from a broad array of supplying industries.

Manufacturing still pays premium wages and benefits and supports much more economic activity per dollar of production than other sectors. The average wage is almost 19 percent higher than wages in other sectors of the local economy — $37,500 compared to $31,600 in other sectors. Employees typically receive health care insurance and retirement benefits as well.

Another major indicator of the importance of manufacturing to the strength of the economy is its key role in driving innovation and technology. U.S. inventors still account for more than one-half of all patents granted in the United States, and the nation outpaces its rivals in terms of industrial research and development. Besides, the technology and advanced processes developed in manufacturing consistently spill over into productivity growth in the service and other sectors.

Like most of the Idaho economy, the industrial landscape is made up of mostly small and medium-sized firms. Smaller companies are nimbler in managing their businesses and may offer better opportunities for internal advancement for their workforce. This is one consistent sign of innovation, dynamism and change that characterizes the Idaho economy. A large number of small establishments means that entrepreneurship is alive and well.

But like the nation, the regional economy is not keeping pace with global competitors in the development of human capital and the skills needed to maintain leadership in the national and global economies. With the workforce aging and a lack of interest from the upcoming generations, the region is not producing enough production workers, much less the more highly skilled engineers and scientific researchers who are the foundation of advanced technology intensive manufacturing.

With demand for manufacturing growing as the U.S. dollar weakens and U.S. exports rise at least in the short-term, it in turn spurs the creation of jobs, investments and innovations across many other sectors.

Alivia Body is Regional Economist with the Idaho Department of Labor.

atangen | Sep 29, 2011 | Comments 0

Full Story

Manufacturing spotlight – SUNSHINE MINTING, Tom Power, CEO

Power

The sun has been shining on Sunshine Minting in Coeur d’Alene, and the 2012 forecast is for much of the same.

The global supplier of precious metal and base metal mint products, Sunshine Minting was recently honored by Inc. magazine as one of the fastest-growing companies in the nation: Sunshine’s revenue grew 304 percent in the difficult years of 2007 to 2010.

So when Power says “The precious metals side of the business will probably remain flat,” that’s not necessarily bad.

A little further down the metallurgical road, though, Power says there might be dynamic potential. He declined to give many specifics, but said a licensing agreement on another coin project could lead to 65 more jobs and a $30 million expansion project within the next two years. Sunshine now employs about 260 people in Coeur d’Alene.

Power said his company strives to be a good corporate citizen but acknowledges some layers of regulation can be trying.

“We’re a benign operation, but because we work with precious metals, the biggest impact comes from the DEQ (Idaho Department of Environmental Quality) and EPA (federal Environmental Protection Agency),” he said.

Power pointed out that for most minerals and contaminants, Sunshine’s water must be cleaner than what comes out of your tap. He said the company has spent about $100,000 on effluent treatment this year and might spend another $150,000.

Still, life is good for Sunshine and its employees, Power said. Although workers start in the $8 to $10 an hour range, Power said the best employees are rewarded promptly with more training and promotions, moving relatively quickly into the $12 to $16 range. He said Sunshine also offers one of the most comprehensive benefits packages in the region.

“We’re a big believer in training and promoting from within,” he said.

Because Sunshine is a “non-traditional industry” — very few companies are in the coin and precious metals minting business — the manufacturer is running 24/7. That’s not always ideal for workers who expect weekends, nights and holidays off.

“Our biggest challenge is getting people to fit into the non-traditional work environment,” he said, “but for those who do we offer some excellent careers.”

— Mike Patrick, NIBJ staff

No wonder our country’s economy is in trouble. According to Sunshine Minting CEO Tom Power, it costs the federal government — which means you, the taxpayer — 9.6 cents to make one nickel.

Manufacturing spotlight
SUNSHINE MINTINGTom Power, CEO
The sun has been shining on Sunshine Minting in Coeur d’Alene, and the 2012 forecast is for much of the same.The global supplier of precious metal and base metal mint products, Sunshine Minting was recently honored by Inc. magazine as one of the fastest-growing companies in the nation: Sunshine’s revenue grew 304 percent in the difficult years of 2007 to 2010.So when Power says “The precious metals side of the business will probably remain flat,” that’s not necessarily bad.A little further down the metallurgical road, though, Power says there might be dynamic potential. He declined to give many specifics, but said a licensing agreement on another coin project could lead to 65 more jobs and a $30 million expansion project within the next two years. Sunshine now employs about 260 people in Coeur d’Alene.Power said his company strives to be a good corporate citizen but acknowledges some layers of regulation can be trying.“We’re a benign operation, but because we work with precious metals, the biggest impact comes from the DEQ (Idaho Department of Environmental Quality) and EPA (federal Environmental Protection Agency),” he said.Power pointed out that for most minerals and contaminants, Sunshine’s water must be cleaner than what comes out of your tap. He said the company has spent about $100,000 on effluent treatment this year and might spend another $150,000.Still, life is good for Sunshine and its employees, Power said. Although workers start in the $8 to $10 an hour range, Power said the best employees are rewarded promptly with more training and promotions, moving relatively quickly into the $12 to $16 range. He said Sunshine also offers one of the most comprehensive benefits packages in the region.“We’re a big believer in training and promoting from within,” he said. Because Sunshine is a “non-traditional industry” — very few companies are in the coin and precious metals minting business — the manufacturer is running 24/7. That’s not always ideal for workers who expect weekends, nights and holidays off.“Our biggest challenge is getting people to fit into the non-traditional work environment,” he said, “but for those who do we offer some excellent careers.”
— Mike Patrick, NIBJ staff
No wonder our country’s economy is in trouble. According to Sunshine Minting CEO Tom Power, it costs the federal government — which means you, the taxpayer — 9.6 cents to make one nickel.

atangen | Sep 29, 2011 | Comments 0

Full Story

Local firms make Inc.’s top growth list

Sholeh Patrick

Recession, inflation, joblessness; it’s about time we heard something good about business for a change. Sixteen Idaho companies, four of them in North Idaho, made the prestigious Inc. magazine’s “2011 Inc. 500/5,000” top growth list. Inc. ranked 5,000 U.S. companies by revenue growth over the last three years and released the results this month. One Idaho company, Scentsy in Meridian, made the top 100 with 2,904 percent growth; two more made the top 500.

Three Idaho companies on the list are in Coeur d’Alene: Alligator Diesel (a top 500 rank of 263; 1,213 percent growth), Sunshine Minting (rank 1,011; 304 percent revenue growth), and Pita Pit, USA (rank 4,512; 17 percent growth).

Pita Pit, a food and beverage chain bought in 2005 by former North Idaho Immediate Care owner and once-lieutenant governor Dr. Jack Riggs, employs 300 and reported $10.8 million in revenue between 2007 and 2010. Sunshine Minting, a precious metals products manufacturer and minter, employs 260 and reported $698.6 million. Sunshine CEO Tom Power was heavily involved in the successful KTEC initiative to bring a professional-technical high school to North Idaho. One more North Idaho firm — bioassessment laboratory EcoAnalysts (rank 2,402; 99 percent growth) — is based in Moscow.

Alligator Diesel Performance, a parts retailer, is a rather fascinating top-performer with just 22 employees. In 2007 it reported $400,540 in revenue. By 2010 revenue had jumped to $5.3 million. Alligator Diesel Performance was founded in Las Vegas in 2005 by Chad and Jayme Hall, who relocated the business to Post Falls in 2009 and Coeur d’Alene this year.

In addition to revenue growth, qualifying companies must be for-profit, based in the United States, and independent — not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies.

Combined, the 5,000 represented 370,592 new jobs. Many of the companies are not giants; the median number of employees is 51. The top five industries for job growth are human resources (52,696 new jobs), business products/services (49,147), health (41,817), IT services (40,890), and government services (23,192). Full-time and part-time employees are counted in job statistics, but independent contractors are not.

The people factor isn’t just about jobs. Also of interest is that nearly 80 percent of these top 5,000 high-growth companies have an active online presence beyond Web sites. Seventy-eight percent use some combination of Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Only nine percent use none of those. Social media is fast becoming a necessary tool for business.

For more information on the list see Inc.com.

Sholeh Patrick is an attorney and Hagadone News Network columnist.

Local firms make Inc.’s top growth list
By SHOLEH PATRICKNIBJ Correspondent
Recession, inflation, joblessness; it’s about time we heard something good about business for a change. Sixteen Idaho companies, four of them in North Idaho, made the prestigious Inc. magazine’s “2011 Inc. 500/5,000” top growth list. Inc. ranked 5,000 U.S. companies by revenue growth over the last three years and released the results this month. One Idaho company, Scentsy in Meridian, made the top 100 with 2,904 percent growth; two more made the top 500.Three Idaho companies on the list are in Coeur d’Alene: Alligator Diesel (a top 500 rank of 263; 1,213 percent growth), Sunshine Minting (rank 1,011; 304 percent revenue growth), and Pita Pit, USA (rank 4,512; 17 percent growth). Pita Pit, a food and beverage chain bought in 2005 by former North Idaho Immediate Care owner and once-lieutenant governor Dr. Jack Riggs, employs 300 and reported $10.8 million in revenue between 2007 and 2010. Sunshine Minting, a precious metals products manufacturer and minter, employs 260 and reported $698.6 million. Sunshine CEO Tom Power was heavily involved in the successful KTEC initiative to bring a professional-technical high school to North Idaho. One more North Idaho firm — bioassessment laboratory EcoAnalysts (rank 2,402; 99 percent growth) — is based in Moscow.Alligator Diesel Performance, a parts retailer, is a rather fascinating top-performer with just 22 employees. In 2007 it reported $400,540 in revenue. By 2010 revenue had jumped to $5.3 million. Alligator Diesel Performance was founded in Las Vegas in 2005 by Chad and Jayme Hall, who relocated the business to Post Falls in 2009 and Coeur d’Alene this year.In addition to revenue growth, qualifying companies must be for-profit, based in the United States, and independent — not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies.Combined, the 5,000 represented 370,592 new jobs. Many of the companies are not giants; the median number of employees is 51. The top five industries for job growth are human resources (52,696 new jobs), business products/services (49,147), health (41,817), IT services (40,890), and government services (23,192). Full-time and part-time employees are counted in job statistics, but independent contractors are not.The people factor isn’t just about jobs. Also of interest is that nearly 80 percent of these top 5,000 high-growth companies have an active online presence beyond Web sites. Seventy-eight percent use some combination of Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Only nine percent use none of those. Social media is fast becoming a necessary tool for business.For more information on the list see Inc.com.
Sholeh Patrick is an attorney and Hagadone News Network columnist.

atangen | Sep 29, 2011 | Comments 0

Full Story

Manufacturing potential

Bill Jhung

This recession has exposed some weaknesses in our economy and many would agree the health of the manufacturing industry is important not only for near term economic recovery but crucial for long-term economic vitality for our nation.

One may ask why is the manufacturing sector so important? Manufacturing jobs are the most effective job multiplier. According to national economists one manufacturing job on the average helps to create 2.34 jobs in other industry sectors, higher than any other industry. The national average pay and benefits for a manufacturing job was $56,900 compared to $33,387 for non-manufacturing (non-farm) jobs. Each $1 worth of manufactured goods helps to create $1.43 of activities in other sectors. Therefore, growth in manufacturing industry helps to fuel other sectors, creating jobs and investment in non-manufacturing sectors.

Because we live in a global economy it’s helpful to assess not only domestic manufacturing activities but also foreign manufacturing activities. Clearly every globally competitive manufacturer wants a share of the U.S. market. Which means the U.S. is likely the toughest market in the globe. If a local Idaho manufacturing business can compete successfully domestically it may mean they have the core elements necessary to build a globally competitive business.

Global data tells us that 73 percent of the world’s purchasing power and 96 percent of today‘s consumers live outside the U.S. It’s estimated that from 2010 – 2015, 87 percent of the world’s economic growth will occur outside of the U.S. The global opportunity for Idaho manufacturers is great but so few are taking advantage. Currently less than 1 percent of American businesses export, and of those 58 percent export to only one country.

One may ask, is there a resource that can help more North Idaho manufacturers to become regional competitors; regional manufacturing businesses to become national competitors; and national players to become global competitors. Is there a resource to help manufacturing businesses walk through these growth stages successfully?

Idaho SBDC at NIC exists to help businesses thrive and grow. We have coaches with extensive manufacturing industry expertise who can help guide business leaders through challenges of management, marketing/sales, organizational development, operations, finance and leadership. Despite the recession, we have been able to assist manufacturing businesses to refine their business models and realign their resources to establish a new track of growth through our leadership and business coaching and training.

We also have an in-house Export coach with more than 20 years of experience to guide businesses through the intricacies of going global. Even for those who are currently exporting we can help them develop a more effective strategy to grow their exports.

Growing businesses create jobs but growing global businesses will create more skilled, professional and management jobs which will contribute more powerfully to creating a healthier and a more dynamic economy in North Idaho.

Bill Jhung is the director at Idaho SBDC at the North Idaho College. For more information please email Bill at wkjhung@nic.edu or visit IdahoSBDC.org.

Manufacturing potential
By BILL JHUNG
This recession has exposed some weaknesses in our economy and many would agree the health of the manufacturing industry is important not only for near term economic recovery but crucial for long-term economic vitality for our nation. One may ask why is the manufacturing sector so important? Manufacturing jobs are the most effective job multiplier. According to national economists one manufacturing job on the average helps to create 2.34 jobs in other industry sectors, higher than any other industry. The national average pay and benefits for a manufacturing job was $56,900 compared to $33,387 for non-manufacturing (non-farm) jobs. Each $1 worth of manufactured goods helps to create $1.43 of activities in other sectors. Therefore, growth in manufacturing industry helps to fuel other sectors, creating jobs and investment in non-manufacturing sectors. Because we live in a global economy it’s helpful to assess not only domestic manufacturing activities but also foreign manufacturing activities. Clearly every globally competitive manufacturer wants a share of the U.S. market. Which means the U.S. is likely the toughest market in the globe. If a local Idaho manufacturing business can compete successfully domestically it may mean they have the core elements necessary to build a globally competitive business. Global data tells us that 73 percent of the world’s purchasing power and 96 percent of today‘s consumers live outside the U.S. It’s estimated that from 2010 – 2015, 87 percent of the world’s economic growth will occur outside of the U.S. The global opportunity for Idaho manufacturers is great but so few are taking advantage. Currently less than 1 percent of American businesses export, and of those 58 percent export to only one country. One may ask, is there a resource that can help more North Idaho manufacturers to become regional competitors; regional manufacturing businesses to become national competitors; and national players to become global competitors. Is there a resource to help manufacturing businesses walk through these growth stages successfully? Idaho SBDC at NIC exists to help businesses thrive and grow. We have coaches with extensive manufacturing industry expertise who can help guide business leaders through challenges of management, marketing/sales, organizational development, operations, finance and leadership. Despite the recession, we have been able to assist manufacturing businesses to refine their business models and realign their resources to establish a new track of growth through our leadership and business coaching and training. We also have an in-house Export coach with more than 20 years of experience to guide businesses through the intricacies of going global. Even for those who are currently exporting we can help them develop a more effective strategy to grow their exports. Growing businesses create jobs but growing global businesses will create more skilled, professional and management jobs which will contribute more powerfully to creating a healthier and a more dynamic economy in North Idaho.
Bill Jhung is the director at Idaho SBDC at the North Idaho College. For more information please email Bill at wkjhung@nic.edu or visit IdahoSBDC.org.

atangen | Sep 29, 2011 | Comments 0

Full Story

Jobs Plus president: Manufacturing outlook strong

Griffitts

Few individuals know more about the current state of local industries than Jobs Plus President Steve Griffitts. After obtaining a finance and business management degree from Brigham Young University (minors in accounting and economics), Griffitts accumulated both national and international experience in business sales and operations, banking, and with major corporations such as GTE and AT&T. He has been recruiting businesses to the area for Jobs Plus — the Coeur d’Alene Area Economic Development Corporation — since 2002.

In a recent NIBJ interview, he gave a resounding high mark to the future of the local manufacturing industry.

What percentage of the companies you seek to recruit are in the manufacturing industry? Why do you recruit from this industry?

“About 60 percent recruitment is in this area. The reasons we go after small to medium size manufacturers are (1) we can work directly with the decision maker, and that’s important; and (2) the multiplier effect is significant. From 100 manufacturing jobs an additional 415 jobs are created.”

Griffitts said this 400 percent multiplier has a broad brush, reaching beyond the industry itself. Manufacturers need raw supplies and create distribution channels for the product, so support companies will grow or evolve around manufacturing. Ancillary jobs, such as office supplies, health services, and lifestyle support, tend to result from the average higher salaries of manufacturing employees.

Griffitts said 100 jobs in manufacturing also generate an average:

• $12.7 million income

• $5 million more in bank deposits

• Seven more retail establishments

• $7.7 million in retail sales

• $2 million in services receipts

• $540,000 increased tax revenue

How do you determine which manufacturers to target for recruitment?

“I look for economic strength and national markets for their products, so they are not regionally dependent for distribution and sales. I look at their technology and product mix to see if they can move forward here. Can the market sustain them?

“When I go to visit a business, it’s not just to build face-to-face rapport; I want to see if they’re a good fit for our community. If I find they’re only looking here to save money, but don’t have other business model criteria for success, I don’t want them to come here and just be mediocre. I want them to be vibrant.”

What methods or tools do you use to approach, then convince them to relocate here?

Griffits does his homework, culling business journals and making “cold” contacts. He is a member of several associations and business groups and attends conventions. One example is the medical design and manufacturing show; he said the combined industries make the show more vibrant, “a higher level” of manufacturing.

However, he said the most effective method is personal.

“I often talk to existing companies that are here and get referrals; it’s the most effective method. For example when I called a (new) client yesterday, he asked me, ‘Are you just coming up here to drive business from our area to your area?’ I replied honestly, ‘Yes!’ He laughed, but hesitated. It was the personal referral I had which convinced this CEO to talk to me. Now a face-to-face meeting is set.”

What is the strongest selling point of this area for manufacturers?

“They look for educational institutions, an available and trained workforce, inexpensive housing, a solid partnership with fiscally responsible city/county/state governments, an economically vibrant area, infrastructure, low taxes, and fast tracking — getting the process from decision to a functioning facility as soon and efficiently as possible. If I had to narrow it to the top three selling points for North Idaho, they are a ready and trained workforce, affordable housing, and fiscally responsible state/local governments with low tax structure and a low cost of doing business.”

After a pause Griffitts added with emphasis, “And a phenomenal quality of life!”

A modest parts manufacturer in Coeur d’Alene, Alligator Performance, just made Inc. Magazine’s Top 500 list for three-year revenue growth. How do you see the outlook for local manufacturing?

“We have Empire Airlines doing phenomenally well and expanding; L.A. Aluminum and Ground Force Manufacturing are expanding. Buck Knives has increased dramatically in the last year. We are heads and shoulders above the nation.”

Griffitts is confident Idaho will have no trouble attracting more businesses and fostering success from this industry.

“While other states are pushing manufacturers out, we welcome them — their experience, their technology, their vibrancy — and we feel the future is strong with respect to manufacturing.”

Jobs Plus president: Manufacturing outlook strong
By SHOLEH PATRICKNIBJ correspondent
Few individuals know more about the current state of local industries than Jobs Plus President Steve Griffitts. After obtaining a finance and business management degree from Brigham Young University (minors in accounting and economics), Griffitts accumulated both national and international experience in business sales and operations, banking, and with major corporations such as GTE and AT&T. He has been recruiting businesses to the area for Jobs Plus — the Coeur d’Alene Area Economic Development Corporation — since 2002.In a recent NIBJ interview, he gave a resounding high mark to the future of the local manufacturing industry.
What percentage of the companies you seek to recruit are in the manufacturing industry? Why do you recruit from this industry?
“About 60 percent recruitment is in this area. The reasons we go after small to medium size manufacturers are (1) we can work directly with the decision maker, and that’s important; and (2) the multiplier effect is significant. From 100 manufacturing jobs an additional 415 jobs are created.”Griffitts said this 400 percent multiplier has a broad brush, reaching beyond the industry itself. Manufacturers need raw supplies and create distribution channels for the product, so support companies will grow or evolve around manufacturing. Ancillary jobs, such as office supplies, health services, and lifestyle support, tend to result from the average higher salaries of manufacturing employees.Griffitts said 100 jobs in manufacturing also generate an average:• $12.7 million income• $5 million more in bank deposits• Seven more retail establishments• $7.7 million in retail sales• $2 million in services receipts• $540,000 increased tax revenue
How do you determine which manufacturers to target for recruitment?
“I look for economic strength and national markets for their products, so they are not regionally dependent for distribution and sales. I look at their technology and product mix to see if they can move forward here. Can the market sustain them?“When I go to visit a business, it’s not just to build face-to-face rapport; I want to see if they’re a good fit for our community. If I find they’re only looking here to save money, but don’t have other business model criteria for success, I don’t want them to come here and just be mediocre. I want them to be vibrant.”
What methods or tools do you use to approach, then convince them to relocate here?
Griffits does his homework, culling business journals and making “cold” contacts. He is a member of several associations and business groups and attends conventions. One example is the medical design and manufacturing show; he said the combined industries make the show more vibrant, “a higher level” of manufacturing.However, he said the most effective method is personal.“I often talk to existing companies that are here and get referrals; it’s the most effective method. For example when I called a (new) client yesterday, he asked me, ‘Are you just coming up here to drive business from our area to your area?’ I replied honestly, ‘Yes!’ He laughed, but hesitated. It was the personal referral I had which convinced this CEO to talk to me. Now a face-to-face meeting is set.”
What is the strongest selling point of this area for manufacturers?
“They look for educational institutions, an available and trained workforce, inexpensive housing, a solid partnership with fiscally responsible city/county/state governments, an economically vibrant area, infrastructure, low taxes, and fast tracking — getting the process from decision to a functioning facility as soon and efficiently as possible. If I had to narrow it to the top three selling points for North Idaho, they are a ready and trained workforce, affordable housing, and fiscally responsible state/local governments with low tax structure and a low cost of doing business.”After a pause Griffitts added with emphasis, “And a phenomenal quality of life!”
A modest parts manufacturer in Coeur d’Alene, Alligator Performance, just made Inc. Magazine’s Top 500 list for three-year revenue growth. How do you see the outlook for local manufacturing?
“We have Empire Airlines doing phenomenally well and expanding; L.A. Aluminum and Ground Force Manufacturing are expanding. Buck Knives has increased dramatically in the last year. We are heads and shoulders above the nation.”Griffitts is confident Idaho will have no trouble attracting more businesses and fostering success from this industry.“While other states are pushing manufacturers out, we welcome them — their experience, their technology, their vibrancy — and we feel the future is strong with respect to manufacturing.”

atangen | Sep 29, 2011 | Comments 0

Full Story