Made in SWFL 2020 — Manufacturing on the Rise

SEPTEMBER 2020

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY ®

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BUILT TO LAST

Home to over 1,000 manufacturers employing close to 13,000 workers, manufacturing in Southwest Florida is alive and well. From power boats to cutting-edge medical devices and world-class chocolates, these dynamic businesses create value and jobs within the region. The manufacturing sector continues to attract investments and grow at an accelerated rate. And it shows no sign of slowing down.

AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGES

57,200

$

MANUFACTURING

49,452

$

MANUFACTURING IN SWFL

12,442

The number of employees currently working in SWFL’s manufacturing industry as of 2019.

CAREERS & SALARIES

ALL INDUSTRIES

$98,936

Industrial Production Manager 110K

WHAT'S BEING MADE IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA? • Medical equipment

• Fluid management solutions

• Printing and Signage

• Medical supplies • Wire products

• Machine tool Manufacturing

• Motorcycles

• Water & Gas filtration systems

• Lubricants

• Hurricane protection

• Distilleries & Breweries

• Furniture

• Landscaping supplies

• Concrete

• Chocolates

• Boat lifts

• Tooling

• Frozen Foods

• Boats

• Private Label cosmetic manufacturing

• Building Supplies windows/doors

• Railroad equipment • Mining equipment

Yearly Salary (USD)

$90,151

• Shipping and Containers

Managers (other)

100K

80K

$85,617

Industrial Engineers 60K

$44,513

Machinists 200

Sources: FL Research and Economic Database Application; FL Dept. of Economic Opportunity Data supplied by: CareerSource SWFL

300

400

500

600

700

800

Number of Employees Graphic and banner art supplied by ConRic PR & Marketing, 2019

SRMA

Ongoing support available for SRMA members in SWFL

The year of 2020 has been quite an odd one.

From COVID-19 and social distancing to protes�ng and riots, it’s been difficult to keep up. Throughout all the bad news, it’s also important to acknowledge the good.

Regionally, there has been an ongoing effort to redevelop and reinforce the U.S. supply chain and bring manufacturing back home. As a rapid demand for Personal Protec�ve Equipment hit the U.S. market, the faults within our supply chain quickly became apparent. How can you import and provide healthcare workers and the general popula�on with protec�ve equipment when global demand spikes almost instantaneously?

Behind the scenes in Southwest Florida, a coali�on formed from local government officials, healthcare firms, private en��es and the Southwest Regional Manufactures Associa�on. The main goal of this coali�on: u�lize the diverse por�olio of regional manufacturing firms and outreach systems to manufacture our own PPE locally, hopefully for the longterm.

The Southwest Regional Manufactures Associa�on itself is a local support system and networking pla�orm for manufacturers spanning Charlo�e, Lee, Hendry and Collier coun�es. The associa�on offers monthly roundtable discussions and presenta�ons, social networking events, plant tours and other resources to help manufacturers thrive in Southwest

Florida. With a focus on training and educa�on for manufacturing employees, it helps provide the founda�on for long-term manufacturing growth within the region.

More recently, the SRMA has begun integra�on into the FloridaMakes organizaJEFF POIRIER �on, which is a member of the na�onally funded Manufacturing Extension Partnership network. FloridaMakes provides shared resources and networking across different Regional Manufacturing Associa�ons in order to promote manufacturing growth throughout the en�re state of Florida.

With business leaders and advisors covering the en�re state, FloridaMakes also provides real industry experience and exper�se in supply chain op�miza�on, workforce training, enterprise assessment and more. A stronger network with a more aligned focus means more resources to help your manufacturing business grow.

With social distancing and working from home s�ll commonplace, the SRMA has temporarily moved to web-based educa�onal and networking events.

Please join us on Wednesday, Sept. 16 from 8–9:30 a.m. for our next scheduled Roundtable Discussion �tled “Recover > Restore > Reboot” where we will

THE SRMA offers events where members can meet and network with representa�ves of other local manufacturing companies. discuss OTJ training, diversifica�on of supply chains, and economic incen�ves and funding. The webinar will be hosted via the Zoom virtual pla�orm. Register online today at srma.net/category/events.

To join the Southwest Regional Manufactures Associa�on, please sign up on our website at www.

SRMA.net/join or email info@SMRA.net for addi�onal informa�on.

Stay Strong. Stay Safe. Stay Manufacturing.

Jeff Poirier is currently Board President for the Southwest Regional Manufacturers Association and Chief Operating Officer of VGM Holdings. Contact him at jpoirier@vgmholdings.com or (239) 332-0855.

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Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY ®

SEPTEMBER 2020 SEPTEMBER 2020

HENDRY COUNTY

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY ®

LEE COUNTY

Page 13

FSBDC

Manufacturing rises as Hendry infrastructure grows It’s important to strengthen Supply chain disrup�on your local supply chain can be prevented

Hendry County has more to offer than picturesque landscapes and rural charm. While it may not be a manufacturing powerhouse like its neighbors across Southwest Florida, Hendry County expects to see its growth in manufacturing, logis�cs and distribu�on sectors increasing over the coming years, helping to solidify all of SWFL as a manufacturing des�na�on in Florida.

A strong agriculture community, Hendry ranks among the top in agricultural producing coun�es in Florida. In contrast, manufacturing employs less than 500 people; however, those numbers may soon be rising. Manufacturing companies have quietly been moving into the area and taking advantage of all the loca�on has to offer. Centrally located between coasts, Hendry has connec�vity throughout Florida via Highways 27, 29 and 80. Combined with the abundance of large tracts of land, no impact fees, expanding road networks and the future opera�on of an interna�onal cargo hub airport, Hendry is posi�oned as an emerging des�na�on for both commercial and industrial developments.

Preparing Hendry County for future opportuni�es has become a collabora�ve effort across the County, focusing on topics such as land use, infrastructure and workforce. Custom Stainless Steel Equipment is one of three new manufacturers to move to Hendry over the last year. The company manufactures products for hotels and pharmaceu�cal companies across the world. Hendry County offered them an opportunity to expand for a frac�on of the cost of the loca�on in which they were originally located. In partnering with the Hendry Adult

Educa�on School, the company has the ability to work with instructors and students ensuring they have a workforce with the skills needed to operate their business throughout their reloca�on and 3-phase expansion plan.

An�cipa�ng more expanKEITHA DANIELS sion projects like Custom Stainless Steel Equipment, the City of LaBelle has developed a new community-driven economic development and disaster resiliency plan and designated several zoning districts for commercial and industrial development strategically located along the City’s main corridors and close to centralized u�li�es.

One such designated industrial area known as the Employment Village, offers 793 acres of mixed-use capabili�es along Highway 80.

Thirty miles to the east, the City of Clewiston is also a�rac�ng companies that are leaving crowded and over-developed urban areas for a more spacious, rural se�ng with opportunity for expansion. The industrial park, located within the City limits, has sold most of its lots to manufacturers who will provide goods and services throughout the State and the 600-acre Clewiston Industrial Business Park, just outside of city limits has had such high demand, the owner is exploring expansion op�ons to meet the growing need and requests.

Meanwhile, 10 miles west of Clewiston along U.S.

HENDRY COUNTY

Centrally located between coasts Abundance of large tracts of land No impact fees Expanding road networks The future operation of an international cargo hub airport Opportunity to expand for a fraction of the cost Offering certifications and apprenticeships www.hendryedc.com | 863-675-6007

Highway 27, Hendry County can expect interna�onal commercial cargo planes hauling perishable goods to begin landing at Airglades Airport in the not-too-distant future. Once completed, the airport will be situated on more than 3,000 acres and will include a state-of-the-art perishable cargo complex to send and receive perishable goods to all La�n American cargo hubs. Airglades will further diversify the region’s economy by adding global trade, air commerce and logis�cs to its exis�ng por�olio. This exci�ng project presents the region with significant new economic opportuni�es.

Iden�fying and training future work force is vital to the sustainability of a growing manufacturing sector.

To meet demand for a changing workforce, the Hendry County Adult School is offering more cer�fica�ons at both of its loca�ons. Appren�ceships have also become available through larger employers, guaranteeing employment a�er training.

Southwest Florida offers great poten�al for manufacturing companies desiring growth or exposure to new markets. Hendry County believes that the posi�ve changes being made will help foster an environment that allows success for the companies reloca�ng to the area.

Keitha Daniels is the Director for the Hendry County Economic Development Council. She has worked for the Board of County Commissioners over the past six years with a focus in economic development. To contact her, email keitha@hendryedc.com

CHARLOTTE COUNTY

Cheney Brothers has already enjoyed robust expansion in a prime loca�on adjacent to Charlo�e County’s airport, one of the fastest growing in Florida.

Charlo�e County delivers for leading distribu�on opera�on

When Cheney Brothers, a top food distribu�on company, sought a cri�cal third point for their Southwest Florida shipping network, Charlo�e County was the obvious choice. Situated between Ocala and Rivera Beach, Charlo�e County delivers fast, cost effec�ve access to key markets— so fast that Cheney Brothers route drivers opera�ng out of Charlo�e County can service customers from Tampa to Naples and s�ll be home for dinner.

Charlo�e County also delivers a host of other crucial advantages, including: • Easy access to I-75 and US 17, with two nearby interchanges • High visibility from I-75 • Large available workforce • Minimal highway conges�on • Outstanding quality of life Today, Cheney Brothers services every market in Florida with cost-effec�ve speed. Ranked #31 in Florida’s largest private companies, the company looks

to Charlo�e County to drive even greater success in the future. Since its startup here, the company has already enjoyed robust DAVE GAMMON expansion in a prime loca�on adjacent to Charlo�e County’s airport, one of the fastest growing in Florida.

The fact is, there’s really no be�er loca�on for Southwest Florida distribu�on, or for supplying leading distributors like Cheney Brothers.

Seeking a faster route to success? We can deliver. Contact us today.

Dave Gammon is the director of Charlotte County Economic Development.

Contact him at (941) 764-4941. Learn more at Cleared4Takeoff.com.

Many lessons have been learned as a result of the COVID-19 Pandemic. In the manufacturing and distribution world, one of the most difficult lessons was the reliance upon a global supply chain. The lower cost options that prevailed over local sources turned into a menagerie of delays and lack of product availability due to reduction of production and disruption of the global distribution network.

Local supply chains potentially mean lower transport costs, lower supply chain risk, faster turnaround times and greater sustainability. There is also the joy of helping to strengthen your local economy, create jobs and increase local investment. You may have many good reasons to build local supply chains. One supply chain expert writing in Forbes suggested we’ve entered an age of trade protectionism.

Big companies that outsourced production and stretched their supply chains across the globe face pressure to build local supply chains if nations start increasing or adding tariffs on imports.

Globalization may not be under immediate threat, but companies have plenty of good reasons to consider building local supply chains regardless. The impacts of COVID-19 upon the global supply chain has produced an all too real awakening about the difficulties of managing a global supply chain. Locally, we’ve witnessed numerous companies “pivot” to produce PPE related products locally to help meet the demand for these products by our businesses and the government alike.

The overwhelming recommendation is for companies to look at developing local suppliers, encouraging them to collaborate or even merge in order to meet demands. Other experts say it pays to research the suppliers in your local market, if you don’t work with them already, to learn their capabilities. A local procurement strategy can also significantly affect the regional economy. An economic impact analysis performed by Oxford Economics in 2019 shows that small increases (10% or less) in local sourcing of key commodities can enhance local economic impact, significantly.

Advances in information and communications technology are making evolution of the supDANA BRUNETT ply chain more possible. Technologies such as cloud computing, AI, 3D printing and robotics are all critical to enabling the digital supply network of the future. At the same time, a volatile business environment is making it all the more necessary.

From a risk management perspective, the key will be to build a resilient supply chain that not only seeks to reduce risks but also is prepared to quickly adjust and recover from any unanticipated supply chain disruptions that may occur.

Strengthening your local supply chain can be a very impactful risk mitigation strategy for you to consider.

As your local economic development entity, the Lee County Economic Development office can help meet the needs of our local manufacturers by recruiting those businesses and industries that help strengthen our local supply chain. Understanding these needs is one of the reasons we partner with and sit on the board of the Southwest Florida Regional Manufacturers Association.

Take the time to reach out to the SRMA at www.srma.net or email us at info@SMRA.net for additional information about the resources and support available to you as a local manufacturer.

Understanding your environment is essential to your business’s success and we can help with that.

Stay Strong. Stay Safe. Stay Local.

Dana Brunett possesses over 30 years’ experience in economic development in New York and Florida, managing economic development organizations and small business lending programs.

He is currently Business Development Director for the Lee County Economic Development Office.

Contact him at (239) 533-6813 or dbrunett@leegov.com.

As COVID con�nues to disrupt and transform our economy, local manufacturers face a myriad of challenges. Our consultants at the Small Business Development Center at Florida Gulf Coast University have seen several businesses weather the storm and posi�on themselves to succeed moving forward. Our message to local companies is straightforward. Now is the �me for ac�onable change and reassessment of many func�ons within your organiza�on in order to safeguard yourself heading into the coming months and years.

One of the primary challenges for manufacturers exists within their supply chain func�onality and flexibility. Unfortunately, many businesses did not have con�ngency plans to deal with supplier or logis�cs issues, and were unable to produce effec�vely during this cri�cal �me. The end result is lost revenues and cash flow interrup�ons that create problems for management and beyond.

A comprehensive analysis of your end-to-end supply chain is cri�cal to insure future produc�on levels both short-term and long-term. Here are some ac�on items you can work on now to be�er prepare yourself for future events.

Analyze your risk • Iden�fy your weak links to sharpen focus on alterna�ves. Assess all situa�ons and condi�ons that could poten�ally impact your supply routes.

Create an emergency plan • Think of all scenarios for the movement of your goods and materials. Consider an emergency budget to meet the needs.

Maintain inventory for a crisis scenario • Create and maintain essen�al supplies for business con�nua�on.

Finished goods, raw materials, components.

Iden�fy back-up suppliers • See what other suppliers can provide if current supplier can’t get your goods to you. You’ll need to iden�fy suppliers in other geographic loca�ons and build a rela�onship.

Broaden supply base • Diversifica�on in suppliers is a good thing. You can ensure that you’ll always be able to get at least some goods amidst any disrup�on.

U�lize logis�cs exper�se • Logis�cs experts can provide real�me advice and direc�on.

Consider all KEVIN BRADY transport op�ons for moving your goods and materials including: air, rail, truck and ocean.

While the above ini�a�ves can prevent long-term issues, it’s important to know what manufacturers can do now to improve their current situa�on. Once the disrup�on occurs there are some key ac�ons required to manage supply chains including: • Customer Communica�on • Evalua�on of Cri�cal Components • Inventory Audit and Projec�ons • Track Consumer Buying Pa�erns • Find Logis�cs Op�ons • Es�mate Impact on Cash Flow Looking ahead, supply chain disrup�ons will con�nue to occur in various forms.

As transporta�on companies restructure their fleets and debts, we’ll see a reduc�on in shipping routes and longer transit �mes. Interna�onal and domes�c providers will experience delays with raw materials and produc�on, further extending deliveries.

Payment methods and terms could be amended or renego�ated resul�ng in procurement issues and delays.

Diversifica�on will be paramount for manufacturers, with long-term and short-term planning essen�al for business con�nuity.

Take ac�on now to ensure your business remains viable and sustainable during a crisis.

Kevin Brady is an International Trade Specialist for the Florida Small Business Development Center at Florida Gulf Coast University covering Lee, Collier, Hendry, Glades and Charlotte counties. His focus is on consulting companies currently involved with global import/export and clients looking to expand their business domestically or internationally. He is a NASBITE International, Certified Global Business Professional and a member of the Academy of International Business. Contact him at kbrady@fgcu.edu or (239) 745-3700.

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Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY ®

SEPTEMBER 2020

COLLIER COUNTY

Manufacturing provides key to diversifying economy At the Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce, we believe a diverse economy is key to a robust economy. While legacy industries such as hospitality are the founda�on of Collier County’s economic stability, there has been a significant focus on the impact of manufacturing opera�ons in Collier County, and throughout the region, in recent years.

There are over 320 manufacturing opera�ons in Collier County, ranging from medical device manufacturers and chemical manufacturers to cable and wire manufacturers, collec�vely contribu�ng more than $800 million to the local economy in 2019.

Florida ranks among the na�on’s top states for manufacturing due to factors such as pro-business policies, workforce and trade infrastructure. Of the roughly 390,000 manufacturing jobs in Florida, Collier County accounts for over 4,500 manufacturing jobs and is experiencing year-over-year growth. Collier County has seen a 42.6% increase in manufacturing jobs since 2015 and is expected to see another 12.2% increase in manufacturing jobs by 2025.

As these companies grow, so does the need for a talented workforce. In order to support this growth and develop talent, the region maintains 13 produc�on-oriented programs and has more in the pipeline. Collier County Public Schools and the Greater Naples Chamber have recognized the importance of a “grow your own” talent strategy and are taking steps to create a talent pipeline for local manufacturers. The school district, with the assistance of the Naples Chamber, received a $3 million grant

from the state of Florida to create the Center for Manufacturing Excellence, which expanded Immokalee Technical College’s manufacturing offerings at a centralized loca�on. The center offers a tradi�onal machining course, specialized, industryMELANIE SCHMEES specific training programs and an appren�ceship program.

It is difficult to address any industry sector without addressing the impacts that COVID-19 has had on opera�ons. Collier County, like thousands of other communi�es, was fortunate to have some of its manufacturing opera�ons join the fight against the virus. Arthrex, one of Collier’s largest employers, started to manufacture personal protec�ve equipment, including protec�ve face shields which are cri�cal to healthcare workers and emergency responders. Manufactures who were thriving before the pandemic have reported con�nued product demand, increased hiring and major equipment purchases during the pandemic, demonstra�ng the resiliency and adap�veness of the sector.

Ongoing efforts from Collier County government to support industry include the adop�on and con�nued review of Innova�on Zones. These zones promote economic development and diversify the local economy by encouraging the construc�on of manufacturing plants, corporate headquarters and other targeted opera�ons.

Nor-Tech Hi -Performance Boats

LEE COUNTY CELEBRATES MANUFACTURING MONTH IN OCTOBER Join the growing number of manufacturers and businesses who have made their home in Lee County, FL, where opportunity awaits.

It's time to learn more about Lee County’s growth, business climate, workforce, and quality of place by visiting LeeCountyBusiness.com.

To explore potential investment opportunities, tax benefits and in-depth information on Lee County’s Opportunity Zones, visit LeeCoBiz.com.

Under the Innova�on Zone program, county commissioners create a zone and set a base tax year. Any tax increases collected in that zone are deposited into the zone’s Innova�on Trust Fund. Revenue from increased property values in each zone’s geographic boundaries helps pay for projects in that zone.

Fostering growth in the manufacturing industry is cri�cal to a stable economy, and it is something that we work hard every day to address. Now more than ever, by understanding the challenges and opportuni�es manufacturers face, we are on the forefront of advoca�ng for this sector. We have strong partnerships with local and state government, the business community and educa�onal ins�tu�ons to ensure that our manufacturers have the access to the resources that they need to grow and thrive.

Contact the Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce at (239) 262-6376.

Melanie Schmees joined the Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce in March 2019. Prior, she served as a compensation analyst at HealthCare Appraisers. She is pursuing her MBA from Florida Gulf Coast University. As Director of Business and Economic Research at the Chamber of Commerce, she conducts business retention and expansion visits, heads economic research and analysis initiatives and coordinates with numerous governmental, utility and not-for-profit organizations critical to economic growth marketing, services or contacts. To contact her, email melanie@napleschamber.org

YOUR #1 RESOURCE FOR EVERYTHING MADE IN SWFL. Southwest Regional Manufacturers Association (SRMA) connects manufacturers with one another and with valuable regional and state resources, including: Employee training

Public relations and marketing Legislation and regulation Ed Education and internships Awards and recognition

2201 Second Street, Suite 500 Fort Myers, FL 33901 800-330-3161 • edo@leegov.com LeeCountyBusiness.com

JOIN TODAY Visit srma.net or call Bill at 239-258-1385