Help is at hand for any small or medium enterprise looking to embrace the rise of Eastern Europe and the Far East in the world of manufacturing.

Troubleshooter Don Lovejoy believes the challenge of cheap labour and production costs in India and Poland can work to the advantage of UK based manufacturing companies.

He said: “Many manufacturers view the greater competitiveness of countries like India and Poland as a threat to their existence, but this is an opportunity, not a threat.

“Firms can embrace the low wages and production costs there and be more competitive as a result.

“Many large manufacturing companies are already doing this, but it would also work for the smaller enterprises – who may not have the knowledge or the contacts to set this up.”

The Shropshire-based management consultant has helped several manufacturing and engineering companies establish links with factories in India , and believes struggling firms here can embrace some of their ideals when dealing with production problems.

He said: “I used to make regular trips to India when working for street lighting manufacturers D W Windsor, because their grey castings were made over there.

“This meant the company could bring costs down, offer greater variety, and shorter lead times.

“But I experienced a more supportive culture in India than here, and they believe in the value of teamwork – a lot of UK firms could learn something from that.

“For instance, in Calcutta I once saw two men jogging and carrying a fridge-freezer on their heads! This would never be considered in this country, but no-one batted an eyelid!

“This was the epitomy of teamwork, because if one had tripped, or they weren't co-ordinated, one or both of them could have died.

“If we could instill that kind of teamwork and ingenuity in this country, we could deal with problems on the production line much better.”

---Ends---

Issued By Market Care Public Relations
Your Contact: Richard Swancott on 01782 416371
or richardswancott@marketcare.net