A Look at How Manufacturers Are Surviving

Larger manufacturers ($1 billion+) remain concerned with shipping and logistics bottlenecks with about half expecting scarce shipping container availability throughout 2022. Access to capital isn’t a major concern, despite rate increases. No large companies expressed worries about access to capital, and only 10% of smaller manufacturers did. The vast majority (72%) of manufacturers expect to have the staff to meet 2022 production demand, thanks to alternative work schedules and more training. Only one-third said they were raising wages, with those increases concentrated in mid-sized companies. Manufacturers remain dedicated to lean principles (68% haven’t cancelled or delayed projects), yet 44% stockpiled supplies, and companies elevated supply chain issues from the shop floor to the executive suite.