Supply Chains

Manufacturing today is a competition among supply chains. Manufacturers that cannot meet the increasing performance requirements of their customers lose their position in those chains—often to low-cost overseas suppliers. To compete, U.S. manufacturers must protect their positions in supply chains by being lean, fast, and innovative.

The MEP system is uniquely positioned to be the resource of choice for increasing the competitiveness of U.S.-based supply chains by offering a network of assistance providers throughout the country, consistent delivery approaches to implementing Lean, Quality, and other performance improvement programs for manufacturers; and the flexibility to customize services and products to meet varying needs. MEP is the only organization whose mission is to improve the competitiveness of U.S. manufacturing.

• Smaller manufacturers supply to large Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) or their first-tier suppliers.  MEP has a long track record of improving the competitiveness of these suppliers through a wide array of services. In addition, MEP works with OEMs and large first-tier suppliers to understand their expectations regarding supplier performance. MEP translates that knowledge into enhanced awareness and performance among suppliers.

• Domestic suppliers that are lean are highly valued in supply chains because they are faster, more flexible, cost competitive, and less likely to fail. These attributes provide a competitive advantage when compared to distant low-cost overseas suppliers. MEP is recognized for delivering results in Lean and having Lean experts on staff across the country.

• Supply chains cross state boundaries and suppliers support multiple OEMs. An effective national supply chain improvement strategy must support suppliers across the country, deliver consistent services and results, and be capable of customizing services to meet regional and company or location-specific needs. The MEP system is the organization providing consistent Lean services combined with opportunities for growth to suppliers from coast-to-coast.

In today's global economy, U.S. manufacturers’ competitiveness depends on far more than the activities that occur within factories. It depends on the performance of the full value chain. Helping manufacturers meet the growing challenges to their international competitiveness will require MEP to focus not only on expanding service to traditional manufacturers themselves, but also on improving the performance of companies in related sectors that affect the cost of manufacturing and impact the ability of manufacturers to bring their products to world-wide markets.

Contact: Mark Schmit