Manufacturers’ vaccination rates remain low

Only 16% of manufacturers and distributors report a vaccination rate of greater than 80%, according to a new industry report from Sikich. The latest Sikich Industry Pulse: Manufacturing and Distribution found that most respondents (28%) are reporting a vaccination rate between 41% and 60%. The report also found that attracting and retaining talent continues to be an uphill battle for manufacturers and distributors. 84% of businesses have experienced plant-floor employee turnover in 2021, and only 9% were able to fill open positions in less than 30 days. “The COVID-19 pandemic led to the US workforce greatly reevaluating its priorities, and employers have to adapt to meet new standards,” says Dave McKeon, leader of Sikich’s human resources advisory team. “Maintaining a safe and engaging work environment will be a top priority for manufacturers and distributors in the coming months. As the federal vaccine mandate works its way through the courts, we recommend companies prepare to comply by identifying service providers for tests and finalizing corporate policies and procedures. At the same time, company leaders also need to put in place competitive benefits, career progression paths and employee engagement activities to attract and retain talent.”