To the editor:
Oct. 22-28 has been designated as Minnesota Manufacturing Week. In New Ulm, the strong manufacturing presence has been foundational. The manufacturing sector of our economic landscape provides good jobs, opportunities for supportive businesses and opportunities for our employees. Production facilities need transportation, their employees need health care, training, insurance and groceries, their administration offices need printing service, supplies delivered and other services. From realtors to dentists, the entire New Ulm community benefits from the presence of manufacturing companies.
The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development calls manufacturing the "backbone" of our economy with nearly one in seven jobs tied to the industry. Statewide, manufacturing has the second-largest total payroll of any business sectors in Minnesota, providing $16.4 billion in 2010 wages. Manufacturing contributes $37 billion to the state economy and represents 15% of our gross domestic product.
We are grateful that many of the manufacturing plants and businesses in New Ulm are Chamber members and during this recognition week, we say thank you and wish you abundant success.
Audra Shaneman
President & CEO
New Ulm Area
Chamber of Commerce