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"Thriving in this slow recovery is a performance challenge. In particular, reappraising strategy and operations as well as offering tailored products, manufactured in factories with a footprint adapted to their customers’ demand, are key."

TIM Lawrence, PA Manufacturing EXPERT

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Optimising manufacturing performance in a volatile environment


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Manufacturers in the automotive, consumer products and engineering sectors are still feeling the impact of the financial crisis. At just over 70 per cent, current capacity utilisation is still around 10 per cent below the long-term average from the early 1990s until the start of the crisis in 2008-09.

A slow recovery seems to be under way, although there is still a sense of recession across the global economy. The current market environment suggests manufacturers must adopt two major tactics to drive performance:

  • capitalise on high growth in emerging markets and their expanding customer base
  • focus on innovation and efficiency as the key levers for success in low-growth markets.

Whether a company is seeking to maintain its leading position, close the gap on competitors or make dramatic improvements to protect or restore profitability, optimising performance will be key.

New challenges in emerging markets

For established manufacturers, emerging markets are no longer the easy place they once were to sell products engineered and developed in the West. In developing economies, corporations now face strong competition - both from international companies with similar structures and objectives and, increasingly, from businesses originating in emerging markets. To thrive, market leaders will have to offer tailored products, manufactured locally in factories with a footprint adapted to their customers’ demand.

New competition in established markets

Manufacturers will discover that their competitiveness is at risk in established markets too. China’s exports are reaching the same volume as those from the European Union, with manufacturing equipment and goods accounting for 89 per cent of Chinese exports. As a result, car makers, consumer goods companies and industrial conglomerates will be challenged on cost and competitiveness in domestic markets.

Performance Excellence is the answer

These two key challenges mean global manufacturers must reappraise their strategy and operations. PA’s Performance Excellence programme covers the key areas where manufacturers must be at the top of their game. Delivered by PA experts with industry experience, supported by our capabilities in technology and innovation, cost and process optimisation, global supply chain, production and sales networks, the programme covers all dimensions of manufacturing performance to maximise the benefits we can deliver to our clients.

Complementing our Performance Excellence programme are a range of specialist tools, including the PA Perfect Cost Grid®, our web-based cost-engineering and benchmarking platform. Our team of experts is committed to working closely with our client’s staff and management to create a lasting impact for their business. Our work ensures our clients are in the right place and in the right shape to meet the challenges of tough times and unlock their full potential for growth.

To talk to us about how PA can deliver exceptional results for your manufacturing businesses in today's competitive environment, please contact us now.