Manufacturing Profile
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SALINA'S MANUFACTURING PROFILE
August, 2005
STUDY CONDUCTED BY
The Salina Area Chamber of Commerce
P.o. Box 586
120 W. Ash
Salina, KS 67402
785.827.9301
INDEX
Introduction
Population Sample
Description - Population Sample
Participating Companies' Cumulative Payml/lmpact
Business Changes
Export & Import Activity
Emerging Technology Trends
Manufacturers' Needs
Manufacturers' Needs - Overview
Employment & Training Needs
Facility Needs - Planned Expansions
Utility Needs
Public Services - Manufacturers' Perceptions & Issues
Public Services
Numerical Ratings
Comments
Other Public Services
Streets
Water Services
Tax & Appraisal Issues
City Government
Housing
Community Strengths
Economic Development - Implications of the Data
Site Selection Factors
Local Conditions Impacting Competitiveness of Salina's Site Selection Factors
Other Factors Contributing to Business Retention
Economic Development - Business Recruitment Needs
Conclusions of the Study
3
4
7
13
18
21
24
2
INTRODUCTION
Bel\\een August I. :,mn4. and August I. 2nn5. the S~ùina Area Chamber of Commerce (SACC) interyiewed
the Chief Executi\e Officers of 61 local manufacturing companies, The purpose of these interI.'Íews was to
3) identify and assess factors impacting manufacturers' competitiveness, and consequently. of SACC s
economic de\Clopment efforts. and to b) provide SACCs Board of Directors with the data necessary for
action planning,
The stUdy's objectives were to gather infonnation to a) align and target SACCs economic development
efforts with current and emerging economic development dynamics, b) utilize SACCs personnel and
resources to meet its business and industry needs more effectively, c) provide industI)' members with the
'-CI\lCCS they truly need and want. and to d) enhance the \'alue of the community's economic portfolio,
Gl\en tlle primary economic de\'elopment mission of the SACc. Salina's Manufac/Uring Profile reflects
the data collected solely from an economic development perspective,
Care has been taken to present data in the a~gregate in order to maintain tlle confidentiality of the
Individual companies participating, Please note that the percentages presented tl1roughout tlle report have
been rounded to the closest whole percentage point.
SYNCHRONIST BUSINESS INFORMA nON SYSTEM software was used to organize and analyze the
collected data and to provide insight into the local economy. This nationally validated economic
development tool provided infonnation on Salina' s manufacturing sector's value, gro\\th, potential, risk,
satisfactioTL emerging problems. and untapped marketing opportunities.
3
DESCRIPTION - POPULATION SAMPLE
4
Description - Population Sample
Total Manufacturing Companies Interviewed:
North of Iron St 28
South of Iron St. 31
Surrounding Towns 2
61
Cumulative Employment:
7,373 employees
Companies by Employment Ranges
. 1,201- 3,000 employees
. 501-1,200 employees
. 251-500 employees
. 101-250 employees
. 51-100 employees
. 21-50 employees
. 7-20 employees
. 1-6 employees
1
3
3
5
8
7
23
11
Participating Companies' Cumulative Payroll Impact
Based on cumulative employment (7,373 employees), and using a conservative average (manufacturing)
wage of $10.50 per hour, approximately $161,026,320.00 in payroll dollars is added to the loca:l economy
each year by the 61 companies interviewed for this study. In addition, with a circulation rate of 1.67, these
dollars generate approximately $289,913,954.00 per year in business activity. Ifwe assume that only one
third of that amount is spent on items subject to sales tax, $6,355,333.00 per year is likely generated in
local and state sales tax
Business Changes
Of the 61 companies interviewed:
.
16% (10) have had changes in ownership.
20% (12) have had changes in management.
66% (40) have had changes in technology.
32% (19) expect negative local, state, or federal legislation changes.
33% (20) expect positive local, state, or federal legislation changes.
.
.
.
.
IMPUCA nONS
.
Businesses with changes in ownership and/or management may benefit from information,
assistance, or networking opportunities to facilitate or support those changes.
Salina manufacturers are adopting new technologies that may impact their labor, training, and
facility needs to varying degrees.
The integration of new technologies, while initially increasing manufacturers capital investments
and expenses, may decrease operating expenses and increase their competitiveness over the long
term.
Companies expecting either positive or negative legislation, impacting their businesses in the next
five years, may benefit from participation in the SACC's legislative activities.
.
.
.
5
Export & Import Activity
Of the 61 companies interviewed:
.
64% (39) of companies interviewed are engaged in exporting or importing activities.
0 38% (23) of companies interviewed are exporting their products.
0 49% (30) of companies interviewed are importing resources, parts, or assemblies.
Regions and/or countries named by respondents for exporting and importing include: Afiica,
Asia, Austria, Belgrade, Canada, Caribbean, Chili. China, Europe, India, fudo-China, lsrnel,
Japan, Kazakhstan, Italy, Latin America, Mexico, Malaysia, New Zealand, Nigeria, Scotland,
South America, United Kingdom, West fudies, (former) Yugoslavia. Generalized responses
included "world-wide" and "20 countries".
.
IMPUCA nONS
.
Salina manufacturers could likely benefit - and become more cost -competitive - from being part
of a Foreign Trade Zone.
Emerging Technology Trends
.
20% (12) of the 61 manufacturers interviewed are expanding their production capacity through the
use of CNC machines and robotics. Others have already done so.
Radio Frequency fuventory Systems (RFI) are either already in use or under consideration by
Salina manufacturers.
New and diverse LED and other digital applications are being used for engineering, information
management, telecommunications, and printing as well as for the manufacturing of medical, wood,
and metal products.
A number of proprietary engineering, chemical, biological, environmental, and electronic
innovations were cited.
.
.
.
6
MANUFACTURERS' NEEDS
7
Manufacturers' Needs - Overview
18.. Companies
Interviewed
18 Employment
Needs
0 Facility Needs
Land Needs
1
Of,lIe 61 comJHIllin illtuviewetl:
.. 59G/o (36) have employment needs.
.. 39G1o (23) have facility needs.
.. 25% (15) have land needs.
. 4] % (25) have increasing utility needs.
8
Employment" Training Needs
Salina's manufactulþ-s expressed ftusùation that their access to a skilled labor force was being limited by
the a) city's low pOpulation density, b) the number and size of its strong, competitive manufacturing
companies, and c) Che worker skill gaps that are not being sufficiently addressed by local education and
training providers.
'Though employers 4ited the general, overall value of a) Salina's Midwestern work ethic, b) the character of
its people, and c) tlte productivity of the existing labor force, they are experiencing increased difficulty in
hiring new, skilled, and drug-free workers who are "work bardened".
Most manufucturerS expressed regret that they were having to "steal" qualified employees from each other.
Unfortunately, this pmctiœ has caused some employers to drop employee education and training benefits
that might later ~e their employees attractive to competitors. In addition, a number of CEOs said that
noo-oompetitive hi~ng clauses with previous employers were preventing a number of highly skilled
individuals from tüpng jobs with them. While competitively valid from the employers' perspective, such
clauses may be an uinintended incentive to skilled workers to leave the area all together.
Furthermore, several CEOs recounted their problems in attracting professionals to Salina. Though they
have found it bard t~ sell Salina as a great place to live and work, the professionals who eventually take the
risk and the job - and move to Salina - do not want to leave.
Besides the 36 conWanies cUITently neediug employees, the 41 conWanies planning to expand will need
approximately an iadditional 380 high-skilled workers over the next three years. Salina's hiring
environment, simi~ to other cities across the nation, is likely to become even more competitive.
10
60
50
40
30
:æ
10
. All companies
0
. Companies
currently
needing
worters
[I Companies
with future
hiring needs
1st Qtr
..
59% (36) of companies interviewed are currently searching for skilled workers.
71% (47) qf companies anticipate adding a cumulative total of 380 new, high-skilled jobs in the
next three years.
30% (18) qf companies interviewed were concerned that area education and trnining institutions
were not ~eeting the local area's manufucturing skill needs,
Training n~s related to employment needs include:
..
..
..
L Welder-Fabricators
2. Plastics Fabricators & Extruders
3. Aircrnft sub-assembly
4. CNC Tedmicians
5. Woodworking and carpentry not hobby-
based skills but production-based sk:iIIs tied to
architect's specifieations.
9
.
Cunrent job openings include (duplications represent frequency of requests):
Technicians - Metals
1. Welders; welders; certified welders; welding;
welder who can think for custom
welding/fabricating jobs
2. Machinists; machining
3. Manual lathe operators
4. Steel fabricators; fabricator
5. RoboticslCNC technicians
6. Program controllers
7. Laser teclmicians
8. Paint booth technicians
9. Skilled scales technicians
10. Auto machine experience; Automotive
technicians
I I. Certified engine mechanics; high-skilled
mechanics
12. Diesel mechanics
13. Hydraulics technicians
14. Mechanical Technicians;
mechanical/technical technicians
15. Electrical technicians; electrical technicians;
electrical technicians; electrician, electrical
technicians
Technicians - Woods
16. Cabinet production workers
17. Cabinet finishers
18. Carpenters
19. Journeyman woodworker
20. Bench woodworker
Technicians- Other
21. Drafting; Draftsmen/designer
22. CAD operator with experience
23. Pressmen
24. Qualified artist
25. Camera operators
26. Video editors
27. Seamstresses; commercial seamstresses
Construction
28. Road construction workers
29. Civil construction workers
MISe. - Skilled
30. CDL drivers with good driving records & no
Dills
31. Clerical Workers
MISe. - UnskiUed
32. General seasonal workers
33. Unskilled assembly
34. Low and semi-skilled workers
35. General production
10
'MPUCA nONS
..
The
cmrent
Frequent
"
gaps.
Facility
O¡the61
.. 776/0 (47)
O¡these 47;
... 74 %(35)
" 26% (12)
Engineers
36. Milling engineer with wheat expertise
37. Electrical Design engineer
38. Production engineering
M~m
39. Construction management
4-0. Management people with teclmieal
background
41. Management specific to galvanizing
42. Project managers
43. Controller
44. Estimators
4- 5. H1Jfi1M Resources
of a comprehensive worker recruitment pian may need to be considered - given the
projected employment needs of Salina's manufacturers.
and stronger links with education and tt'aining providers may benefit both
and education and tt'aimng providers in order to address Salina's labor-force skill
- Planned Expansions
10
GO
50
40
30
2tJ
10
«I
. All companies
. Planned
expansions
1st atr
interviewed:
facility needs and are planning to expand.
projecting a cumulative investment of$58,215,OOO.OO.
in their beginning planning phases and have not yet calculated an estimated
11
Utility Needs
10
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
.. Companies
Interviewed
. Water Needs
0 Sewer Needs
. Gas Needs
. Electricity
Needs
0 Phone, etc.
Of the 61 comptmies interviewed:
.. 39.3% (24) have increasing water needs.
.. 41% (25) have increasing sewer needs.
.. 39.3% have increasing gas needs.
.. 39010 (23) have increasing electricity needs.
.. 39.3% (24) have increasing telecommunications needs.
12
PUBLIC SERVICES
MANUFA CTURERS' PERCEPTIONS & ISSUES
13
Public
The following
manufacturers
Services Evaluation Report reflects the "forced choice" ratings given by 61
available public services in Salina, using a scale of 1-5, with 5 being high.
PUBLIC
- NUMERICAL RATINGS
1 2 12 25 21 4.03
2% 3% 20% 41% 34%
Fire 1 4- 26 30 4.39
2% 7% 43% 49%
1 7 17 32 4 4.39
2% 11% 28% 52% 7%
6 3 13 17 16 6 3.62
10% 5% 21% 28% 26% 10%
7 7 14 6 12 15 3.20
11% 11% 23% 10% 20% 25%
1 18 25 13 4- 3.86
2% 30% 41% 21% 7%
1 3 22 25 10 3.66
2% 5% 36% 41% 16%
2 4 15 26 11 3 3.69
3% 7% 25% 43% 18% 5%
2
3%
9
15%
25
41%
18
30%
5
8%
2
3%
3.25
City 5 9 11 18 18 3.98
8% 15% 18% 30% 30%
3 2 11 14 14 16 3.77
5% 3% 18% 23% 23% 27%
of executives responding: 61
14
PUBLIC SERVICES - COMMENTS
The fullowing data¡ comes from analysis of CEO comments related to a) public services listed on the chart
on page 14, or to b) other services not listed 00 the chart but of concern to the respondents.
Regulatory Enforcement & Its Impact on Business Expansion & Investment
/</~~~ì
Of the 61 comp;mi~ interview~~9í. Solo ~ cited ongoing problems with city regulatory requirements,
inspections and enforcement ~
Comments and their implications follow the table below. The table graphically higWights bow the 61
companies numeriÇally rated the city's regulatory enforcement services. A scale of" 1-5" was used for the
table, with "5" beiIJg the highest favorable rating and "1" being the least favorable rating.
2
0
18
16
14
12
10
8
6
4
Tire (rounded off) brealul.own of how the 61 compa;nies rated the City's Regu.latory
Services followS .
.. 16% (10) gave a 'T' rnting.
.. 21% (13) gave a "2" rating~
.. 26% (16) gave a "3" rating.
.. 28% (17) gave a "4" rating.
.. 8% (5) gave a "5" rating.
Business Expa~sion as related to City Regulatory Services & Industrial Property
Availability
Of the 61 companiies in the sample, 77610 (47) of them are planning to expand. Of these 47 companies:
L .. 45% (21)lofthe 47 companies are currently experiencing difficulties with city regulatory services.
.--' 32% (15)iofthe 47 companies are finding property unavailable that meets construction and
expansion needs as well as the city's zoning and infrastructure specifications.
15
Business Retention as Related to City Regulatory Services and Industrial Property
Availability
44)%
35"1"
30%
25%
III Building
Services
III Industrial Land
20%
15%
DTexas
opportunities
D Street
improvements
100/..
5%
""1..
Of the 61 participating eompanies:
..
38% (23) ¡stated they might leave Salina because of city codes, permits, inspections, policies and
practices.
13% (8) are currently looking at otllcr cities because Salina is not making more industrial land
available.
5% (3) ar~ looking at Texas for relocation or expansion.
5% (3) ar~ waiting for promised water services to support existing business and planned
expansions,
26% (l6)cited needed street improvements.
..
..
.
..
Investment Forecast
Of the 47 compani~s planning expansions, 27 anticipate a $58,215,000.00 investment This would result in
the approximate addition of 1,073,400 square feet Property taxes for these expansions could generate
$1,700,000.00 per year. This amount could potentially double, once the other 20 companies, who are
planning expansions, finalize their plans and fmish their calculations.
Furthermore, these 47 companies plan to hire an additional 380 workers. At a conservative, average
manufacturing wage of$10.50 per hour, $8,229,700.00 in payroll could be added to the local economy.
With a circulation fate of 1.67, new payroll dollars could generate $13,859,664.00 per year in local
business activity. If 1/3 of that amount is spent on items subject to sales tax, approximately $325,702.10
eould be generated in local and state sales tax per year.
'_fUCA nONS
.
Building the reality and perception of a favorable and supportive business climate could result in
significant economic benefits for Salina, it business community, and its citizens.
..
City regulatory and zoning policies and practices even if ouly by perception - currently have a
chilling affect on business and industry's view of the city's support for business retention,
expansion, and recruitment.
..
The city's local, regional and state-wide regulatory reputation could potentially hamper the city's
economy and its economie development efforts.
16
Other Public Services - Comments
STREETS
Of the 61 companies interviewed:
.
26% (16) cited needed street and/or intersection improvements.
0 Streets cited as having issues and/or needing improvement were:
> Ninth - as needing improvements particlÙarly at the North end
> Broadway - as needing landscaping, four lanes, left turn lanes and no dividers
> North-South road East of Diamond (used by 8 companies) as needing
development/paving
Grant (used by 3 companies) - as needing development/paving
Schilling
Centennial (entire length of street) - as needing improvement to handle traffic at
shift changes
> Commerce Street
0 Intersections cited as needing improvements were:
> Ninth and Interstate 70 interchange
> Ninth and Schilling
> Schilling and Centennial
> Grant and Broadway
> Broadway and State
>
>
>
WATER SERVICES
.
26% (16) of the 61 companies cited water problems.
0 21 % (13) of the water issues north of Iron Street cited problems with quality, hardness,
taste, color, and accessibility. Tens of thousands of dollars a year are being spent by
some companies to clean the water enough to prevent machinery damage and/or product
contamination.
0 5% (3) companies cited water problems such as cloudiness, pollution, and/or broken
water mains.
TAX & APPRAISAL ISSUES
.
20% (12) of the companies interviewed cited property tax appraisals and rates as a serious
problem. Issues included:
0 Consistency and fairness
0 Respectful customer service
0 Futility of local appeals
13% (8) of the companies interviewed cited city sales tax as too high and/or as hurting
competitiveness.
.
CITY GOVERNMENT
.
18% (II) of the companies interviewed perceive city government as negative.
33% (20) of the companies interviewed view the city as anti-business.
4% (7) of the companies interviewed feel the city needs to cooperate more in community planning.
.
HOUSING
.
.
13% (8) of the companies interviewed cited the lack of affordable housing as a problem in
recruiting workers - even for mid-management professionals.
Housing availability was seen as becoming critical in the next three to five years.
.
17
COMMUNITY STRENGTHS
18
COMMUNITY STRENGTHS
Responses given by the 61 participating manufacturers, when asked to list the community's strengths, have
been grouped into the following categories.
.
Distribution: geographic location; distribution; Interstate access; trucking access; crossroads;
traffic; convenient shipping, etc.
.
Community: community size; good community; good people to do business with (both
customers and other business associates); clean community; lifestyle; climate; culture;
entertainment district; population stability; Bicentennial Center, quality of life; environment;
safety; security, family town; etc.
.
Economy: economy; good economy; econoßÚc growth; good industrial base; good companies;
strong companies; competitive prices; non-union; tax abatements; econoßÚC growth; business
activity, etc.
.
Workforce: workforce; decent workforce; stable workforce; workforce ethics; work ethics;
values; dedicated workers; educated; workforce with certificates and degrees; good attitudes; etc.
.
Cost of Living: cost of living; cost of doing business
.
Airport Authority (AA): Airport Authority; AA has been wonderful; partnerships with SACC
and the City; cooperation; inftastructure & cable provided
.
Salina Area Chamber of Commerce (SACC): Salina Chamber of Commerce; SACC
support of business climate; partnerships with City and Airport Authority; business supports/help;
cooperation. etc.
.
Schools (K-12): adequate schools; schools; school system and literacy; education contacts; great
schools, etc.
.
City: services; utilities; partnerships with SACC and the Airport Authority (AA); cooperation
.
Low Crime Rate: low crime rate; crime rates; etc.
.
Medical Resources: good medical facilities; advancing and growing; truly regional
The chart on the following page demonstrates the response frequencies for (~ach of
the categories defined above.
19
Community Strengths - Comment Response frequencies
35
30
Distribution
II Community
0 Economy
Workforce
II Cost of living
Airport Authority
II SACC
K-12 Schools
II City
II Crime Rate
Medical
25
20
15
10
5
0
The folJowing responses define ftICtDrs contributing to busiRess decisions to locate análor keep a
numufaciurer in Salina. Of the 61 companies ÎltterviewetJ:
..
57% (35) cited Salina's geographic location, Interstate access, and distribution and trucking
resources ås a factor.
40% (25) cited the community, its people, family orientation, cost-of-living, and lifestyle as a
factor.
36% (22)lcìted the local economy, industrial base, quality and strength of other local
manufactUrers, cost of doing business, and low union profile as a factor.
30% (I8) tited the local workforce's work ethic and values, but not necessarily its skills, as a
factor.
II % (7) cited the local cost of living and cost of doing business as a factor.
10% (6) cited the Airport Authority's assistance and support as a factor.
10% (6) cited SACC's assistance and support as a factor,
10% (6) cited the quality of the local school districts (Salina, Ell-Saline, & Southeast of Saline) as
a factor.
7% (4) cited the low crime rates as a factor.
3% (2) cited. the local and regioual medical. resources as a factor.
..
..
.
..
.
.
.
..
MllPUCA nONS
.
C~g on ~. s strengths as a tool for ecmwmic tlevelopm£nt may incbule:
..
Targeted ~eting strategies highlighting Salina's distribution, community, and workforce assets
and resomrces that may enhance business recruitment and retention efforts.
Investments in Salina's warehouse and distribution resources and supports may:
0 help attract new business,
0 s..pport and grow existing business,
0 grow the local and regional economies, and
0 Í1!lcrease tax revenues for community development, services, and quality of life.
A comprebensive workforce recruitment, education and trai.ning plan could enhance Salina's
competitiveness in attracting and retaining business and industry.
ill
..
20
Economic Development
Implications of the Data
21
Economic Development - Implications of the Data
SITE SELECTION FACTORS
Site selection factors evaluated by companies considering a community for relocation or expansion include:
business climate; public policy; land availability and costs; utility availability and costs; water and waste
systems access, quality, and costs; other utility needs; telecommunications; workforce skills, av;ùlability
and costs; education services; crime rates; transportation services; highway access; environmental factors;
quality of life; and cost of living factors.
LOCAL CONDITIONS IMPACTING COMPETITIVENESS OF SALINA'S SITE
SELECTION FACTORS
(Note. Please refer to the Public Services - Numerical Ratúrgs chart on page 14 for additional local
infonnation impacting site selection factors.)
Business Climate and Public Policy
. 18% (11) of the companies interviewed perceive city government as negative.
. 33% (20) of the companies interviewed view the city government as anti-business.
. 92 % (56) of the companies interviewed recounted ongoing difficulties with the city's regulatory
services (permits, inspections, etc.).
. 38% (23) companies stated they might leave Salina because of city codes, pennits, and inspection
policies and practices.
. 77% (47) of the 61companies interviewed are planning to expand.
. 45% (21) of the 47 companies planning to expand are currently experiencing difficulties with city
regulatory services.
. 20% (12) of the companies interviewed cited property tax appraisals and rates as a serious
problem. Issues included:
0 Consistency and fairness
0 Respectful customer service
0 Futility of local appeals
. 13% (8) of the companies interviewed cited the city sales tax rate as too high and/or as hurting
competitiveness.
. 4% (7) of the companies interviewed feel the city needs to cooperate more in community planning.
Land Availability & Costs
. 32% (15) of the 47 companies planning to expand are finding property unavailable that meets
construction and expansion needs as well as the city's zoning and infrastructure specifications.
. 14% (8) of the companies interviewed are currently looking at other cities because Salina is not
making more industrial land available.
Water & Waste Water Systems
. 26% (16) of the companies interviewed cited problems with water quality and suitability for
industrial processes.
. 5% (3) of the companies interviewed are waiting for promised water services to supp0l1 existing
business and planned expansions.
. 39% (24) of the companies interviewed have increasing water needs.
. 41 % (25) of the companies interviewed have increasing sewer needs.
Utility Needs - Other
. 39% (24) of the companies interviewed have increasing gas needs.
. 39% (23) of the companies interviewed have increasing electricity needs
. 39% (24) of the companies interviewed have increasing telecommunications needs.
22
Transportation & Highway Access
. 26% (16) of the companies interviewed cited needed street and intersection improvements.
Quality of Life & Cost of Living
. 13% (8) of the companies interviewed cited the lack of affordable housing as a problem in
recruiting workers - even for mid-management professionals.
Crime Rate
. 9% (6) of the companies interviewed cited the need for more timely police responses ;:md follow-
up to break-ins on the North end of town.
Education
. 59% (36) of the companies interviewed are currently searching for skilled workers.
. 30% (18) of the companies interviewed were concerned that area education and training
institutions were not meeting the local area's manufacturing skill needs.
. 77% (47) of companies anticipate adding a cwmùative total of380 new, high-skilled jobs in the
next one to three years.
OTHER FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO BUSINESS RETENTION
Issues Potentially Needing SACC's Technical Assistance & Support
.
64% (39) of the companies interviewed are engaged in exporting or importing activities.
0 38% (23) of the companies interviewed are exporting to over 50 countries.
0 49% of the companies interviewed are importing resources, parts, and/or components.
0 24% (15) of the companies interviewed identified other businesses that are needed in
Salina to support the existing manufacturing community.
67% (40) of the companies interviewed are or will be integrating new technology into their
operations.
32% (20) of the companies interviewed anticipate negative legislation impacting their business
within the next five years.
33% (19) of the companies interviewed anticipate positive legislation impacting their business
within the next five years.
.
.
.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT - BUSINESS RECRUITMENT NEEDS
New Businesses Needed for Local Outsourcing & Resource Procurement
1. Foundry
2. Plastics extruder with high-pressure press
3. Plastic pre-processed fabrication work
4. Technical maintenance contractor
5. Machine shop
6. Raw metal products supplier
7. Sheet rolls of plastic supplier
8. Metal finishing; detailed post fabrication; tool & die
9. Plumbing sub-contractors
10. Stainless steel fabricator
11. Aluminum and stainless steel distributors
12. Hardwoods warehouse and distribution center
13. Independent powder coater
14. High tech electrical components supplier like Graingers
15. More large industries
23
CONCLUSIONS OF THE STUDY
24
CONCLUSIONS
Based on the data and its implieations for SACC's economic development program and its ability to recruit
and retain business and industry, the Chamber's Board of Directors of may wish to consider the following
as part of its action planning processes:
.
A Foreign Trade Zone designation could contribute to Salina's manufacturers competitiveness in
local, regional, and global markets.
Ongoing and increased cooperation with the City of Salina, the Airport Authority, SACC, and
business and industry has potential for streamlining regulatory services and enforcement for tlle
benefit of all.
Ongoing and increasing partnerships with the City of Salina, the Airport Authority, SACC, and
business and industry could enhance community plarming for industrial land availability as well as
industry's increased utility, community services, and street access needs.
Targeted marketing strategies higIùighting Salina's distribution, community, and workforce assets
and resources could enhance business recruitment and retention efforts. It could also reduce the
operating and transportation costs of raw resources and manufactured products for Salina's
manufacturers.
Investments in Salina's warehouse and distribution resources and supports might:
0 help attract new business
0 support and grow existing business
0 grow the local and regional economies
0 increase tax revenues for community development, services, and quality of life.
A comprehensive workforce recruitment, education and training plan could enhance Salina's
competitiveness in attracting and retaining business and industry.
Closer supportive partnerships with and between local school districts, post-secondary institutions,
SACC, and business and industry could enhance the skills, employment, and career opportunities
of Salina's citizens.
Partnerships between the City of Salina, SACC, contractors, realtors, and other entities and
agencies interested in housing could help address the housing challenges irùúbiting Salina's a)
economic and employment growth and b) its manufacturers' ability to attract a skilled workforce.
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The Salina Area Chamber of Commerce would like to express its thanks to the 61 manufacturers who
viewed this study as important to their own businesses as well as to the Salina and regional economies.
Your time and interest are appreciated. SA CC looks forward to serving and working with you in the
future.
25
ON-SITE VISIT FORM
Salina Area Chamber of Commerce
To be filled out by the interviewer - Information is confidential
6/22/05
Page 1/6
Company Name
Contact Name
City/State/ZIP
Phone
(
1. What is your company's greatest achievement in the last five years?
3.
Has the company introduced new products/services/capabilities during the last five years?
Are new products/services anticipated in the next two years?
0 Emerging
0 Growing
0 Yes
0 Yes
0 Maturing
0 Declining
0 No
0 No
2. Where is the company's primary product/service in its life cycle?
4.
5.
Is there new technology emerging that will substantially change either your company's
primary product or how it is produced?
If yes, please explain:
0 Yes
0 No
6.
As a percent of sales, how much does the company spend on R&D?
00%
0 Under3%
03%-6%
0 Over 6%
7. As a percentage, approximately how is the R&D budget divided among:
New product development
Product improvement
Production improvements
%
%
%
8. Where is the R&D facility located?
Synchronist Business Information System@
~ Blane, Canada Ltd,
ON-SITE VISIT FORM
Salina Area Chamber of Commerce
To be filled out by the interviewer - Information is confidential
6/22/05
Page 2/6-
9. Is the company's primary market:
10. Are total company sales:
0 Local
0 Regional 0 National 0 International
0 Increasing 0 Stable 0 Decreasing
0 Increasing 0 Stable 0 Decreasing
11. Is the market share of the company's key product(s):
If changing, please explain:
12. Does the company plan to expand in the next three years:
0 Yes
0 No
If yes, Estimated dollar investment
Estimated number of jobs to be created
Estimated facility size increase
Approximate date of expansion
$
sq. ft.
13. Are export sales as a percentage of total sales:
Where are your export markets?
0 Increasing
0 Stable
0 DecreasÎ;ng
0 No exports
14. Is the percentage of products and/or components imported by the company:
0 Increasing
0 Stable
0 Yes
0 Decreasing
0 No imports
0 No
15. Does the company have overseas production:
If yes, where is the overseas production located?
Is it a contract production or a company facility:
0 Contract production
0 Company facility
,-
Synchronist Business Information System@
@ Blane, Canada Ltd.
ON-SITE VISIT FORM
Salina Area Chamber of Commerce
To be filled òut by the interviewer - Infonnation is confidential
6/22/05
Page 3/6
16. Approximately what percentage of U.S. market share do international competitors
control for your company's primary product:
00%
0 Under 2()%
0 21 %-50%
0 Over 50%
Where are the international competitors located (country or region)?
17. Is overseas production by U.S. competitors:
Please explain:
0 Increasing
0 Sta.ble
0 Decreasing
18. Is merger, acquisition or divestiture activity in your industry:
D Increasing
0 Stable
0 Yes
0 Decreasing
0 No
19. Has the company's ownership changed in the last 18 months, or do you anticipate a change:
If yes, please explain:
20. In your industry, is production:
0 Under capacity
0 Balanced
0 Over capacity
21. Do you anticipate any federal, state, or local legislation changes that will adversely affect your
business in the next five years:
If yes, what changes?
How will they affect the company?
0 Yes
0 No
22. Do you anticipate any federal, state, or local legislation changes that will benefit your business
in the next five years:
If yes, what changes?
How will they affect the company?
0 Yes
0 No
Synchronist Business Information System@
CO Blane, Canada Ltd.
ON-SITE VISIT FORM
Salina Area Chamber of Commerce
To be filled out by the interviewer - Information is confidential
6/22/05
Page4¡, -
23. Has the company's top management changed or is it expected to change in the next 18 months:
If yes, please explain:
0 Yes
0 No
24. Are the projected employment needs for this facility:
0 Increasing
0 Stable
0 Decreasing
25. Will the following projected utility needs for this facility be increasing, stable, or decreasing?
Type of Utility Increasing Stable Decreasing
Water 0 0 0
Sewer 0 0 0
Gas 0 0 0
Electric 0 0 0
Telecommunications 0 0 0
26. Are the company's current facilities adequate for anticipated future operations:
0 Yes
0 No
If no, why not?
27. What are the community's strengths as a place to do business?
28. What are the community's weaknesses as a place to do business?
29. Are there any barriers to growth in this community?
If yes, what?
0 Yes
0 No
30. Does the attitude among executives at corporate headquarters toward this community as
a place to do business differ from local management:
If yes, please explain?
0 Yes
0 No
31. Are there any reasons the community may not be considered for future expansion?
If yes, please explain?
0 Yes
0 No
Synchronist Business Information System@
«:> Blane, Canada Ltd.
ON-SITE VISIT FORM
Salina Area Chamber of Commerce
To be filled out by the interviewer - Information is confidential
36. Is the number of unfilled positions:
D Increasing
6f22/05 Page 5/6
Low High
1 2 3 4 5
D D D D D
D D D D D
D D D D D
D D D D D
D Stable D Decreasing
DYes D No
32. How do you rate the availability of workers in this area:
33. How do you rate the quality of workforce in this area:
34. How do you rate the stability of workforce in this area:
35. As compared to other company facilities, how would you rate productivity in this facility:
37. Is the company experiencing recruitment problems with any employee positions or skills:
If yes, what problems, positions, skills?
38. Are primary recruitment problems limited to:
39. Is company investment in employee training:
D Community
D Industry
D Increasing
D Stable
D Decreasing
[J No company training
40. If investing in employee training, what percentage of the training budget is for:
New job skills training
Remedial skills training
%
%
Notes:
Synchronist Business Information System@
«;> Blane, Canada Ltd.
Salina Area Chamber of Commerce
ON-SITE VISIT FORM
To be filled out by the interviewer - Information is confidential
41. Are there suppliers or services that would benefit by being located closer to this facility:
If yes, company and location?
42. Are there customers that would benefit by being located closer to this facility:
If yes, company and location?
43. Please rate the quality of the following services provided by the community on a scale of 1 to 5.
Low High Does Not
1 2 3 4 5 Apply
Police protection 0 0 0 0 0 0
Fire protection 0 0 0 0 0 0
Ambulance paramedic service 0 0 0 0 0 0
Traffic control 0 0 0 0 0 0
Public transportation 0 0 0 0 0 0
Sewage treatment 0 0 0 0 0 0
Water quality 0 0 0 0 0 0
School (K-12) 0 0 0 0 0 0
Property tax assessment (fair & equitable) 0 0 0 D 0 0
Community planning D 0 0 0 0 0
Regulatory enforcement (fair & equitable) 0 D 0 0 0 0
CityNiliage services 0 0 0 0 0 0
County services 0 0 0 0 0 0
Please provide us with additional information on any items that you have rated a 2 or less.
Do you have any other comments you would like to share?
Thank you for your assistance.
Synchronist Business Information Systern@
\C Blane, Canada Ltd.
6/22/05 Page 6/t -
0 Yes D No
0 Yes D No