Pilot Study Report 13-084 Appendix C Open-ended Comments

Pilot Study Report 13-084 Appendix C Open-ended Comments.pdf

Rural Establishment Innovation Survey (REIS) (Also Known as National Survey of Business Competitiveness)

Pilot Study Report 13-084 Appendix C Open-ended Comments

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PILOT STUDY: NATIONAL SURVEY OF BUSINESS COMPETITIVENESS
Appendix C

1

Table of Contents
Open Ended Comments............................................................................................................................... 4

2

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments

3

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments

Open Ended Comments
ID
10017
10042
10084
10097
10110
10131
10137
10151
10182
10237

Mode
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Alias
Q03
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10244 Mail

Q03

10267
10303
10317
10327
10351
10367
10392
10415
10442
10460

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Q03
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10471 Mail
10475 Mail
10508 Mail

Q03
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10515
10546
10580
10585
10588
10604
10618
10624
10638
10690

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Result
Livestock Supplements.
Caskets and other funeral related products, wholesale distributor.
Animal feeds.
Aircraft gearing manufacturing.
Aviation.
Retail-Fertilizer, Crop protection chemicals, Seed, and Custom application.
Steel fabrication, heating air conditioning.
Contract plastic injection molding.
Manufacturing and distribute wood moldings and associated wood products.
Rental construction and industry equipment caterpillar dealer.
Parking facility control equipment's and system time and attendance equipment and
system.
Education, research and technical assistance on cancer prevention, treatment, and
survivor support.
General offices of company distribution center.
CPA and tax.
Custom Cabinetry.
We make extreme cold weather clothing.
Pharmaceutical manufacturing
Commercial printing.
Screening plants for agriculture and mining groups.
Hot Dog (copyright) patient warming system (anesthesia medical device).
Raw milk transport.
Wholesale lumber and building products distribution and hardwood lumber
processing.
Hardwood lumber.
Machine and fabrication job shop.
Nursery and Garden Center - We grow plants - sell lawn seed - sell chemicals for
customer use.
Fabricated metal products - Conveyors
Linear motion parts, components and systems.
Sales marketing, customer service, A/P and air
Precision Custom Springs and Wire Form Products.
Hardwood logs - lumber.
Oversee the handling of tax payers' money in the running of a fire district.
Livestock identification plastic tags
Manufacturing
Oil and gas exploration.
4

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
10711
10729
10763
10810
10863
10890
10920
10933
10962
11219
11226
11246
11251
11258
11262
11296
11319
11346
11371
11378
11423
11433
11448
11476

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
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Q03
Q03
Q03
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Q03
Q03
Q03
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Q03
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11482 Mail
11527 Mail
11557 Mail

Q03
Q03
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11570 Mail
11582 Mail
11593 Mail

Q03
Q03
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11618
11650
11687
11694
11829
11833
11924

Q03
Q03
Q03
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Q03
Q03

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

CNC machine shop laser work.
Museum - exhibits/educational programs.
Lumber
Audit, tax and accounting.
Bulk feed products.
Cathodic protection material manufacturing.
Wire harness for military aircraft.
Child education and care.
Wireless communications.
Sale and rental of biofeedback, stem units and related supplies.
Components for HVAC-R equipment.
Wholesaler of auto parts and lubricates.
Dock levelers for truck docks.
Commercial bank.
Telephone, IP television, internet service provider.
Plastic injection molds - manufacturing.
Chemicals.
Lumber (green)
Grass Seed.
Trailer manufacturer.
Solid wood church and courtroom furniture.
Low voltage cabling systems.
Diatomaceous earth.
Gas, diesel and oil, trucking coast to coast.
Roof trusses 96 percent, 2 percent floor trusses, 2 percent truss connection
hardware (hangers, etc.)
Media.
Cement.
Agricultural cooperative serving farmers with input products for crop production and
marketing services.
Costume jewelry design and production.
Lumber manufacturing, power generation, and forest management.
Ductile iron foundry, pattern shop, and machine shop. Provide fully machine-cast
parts to OEM customers nationwide.
Abrasive Product Manufacturing (sand paper)
Lumber.
IT Services
Taxes accounting payroll.
Manufacture diagnostic equipment for rotating machinery.
Newspaper publishing.
5

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
11976
11985
12007
12022

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

12061
12084
12090
12120
12131
12184

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

12227
12235
12282
12322
12341
12383
12398
12467
12489
12526
12606
12611
12619
12640
12714

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

12728
12744
12759
12777
12782
12811
12864
12874
12889
12951
12996
13027

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
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Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Food processing, instant vegetables.
HVAC, fans, units, A/C, etc.
Construction.
Dental prosthetics.
Distributor of raw materials for the rubber industry. Sales throughout the U.S. and
some in Canada and Mexico.
Trucking / Food transportation
Lumber.
Forest products
Barns and livestock fencing.
Sales and distribution of building materials.
The manufacture of airport quality windsocks and windsock brackets, with or
without screen printing.
Lumber.
Screen printing.
Sales of remanufactured ink cartridges.
Manufacturing of data requisition: data collection equipment.
Mining and processing clay.
Dunnage bags.
Production and distribution of snack products, primarily nuts.
Vehicular lighting.
Legal services.
Poultry
Industrial Design - textile and exhibit pubic art graphics.
Commercial radio broadcasting.
Cold finish steel bars.
Crop protection, Fertilizer, Application - of fertilizer
Manufacturer of light fixtures for displays, exhibits, tradeshows, museums. Small
family owned business.
Food supplement ingredient manufacturing.
Bath rugs
Legal services.
Clay roofing and flooring products.
Manufacturing
Logistic Contractor.
Mold design and manufacture, mold repair and contract machining.
Milk.
Par-fried potatoes - french fries, and chopped and formed.
Vaccines for poultry.
Repair to paper manufacturing equipment.
6

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
13049
13052
13102
13106
13113
13140
13147
13150
13184
13216
13285
13377
13467
13543
13607
13647
13653
13685

Mail
Mail
Mail
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Q03
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Q03
Q03
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Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
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13725
13754
13806
13824
13855
13883

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
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Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
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13889 Mail

Q03

13915
13931
13935
14007
14020
14082
14086

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

14117
14148
14158
14164

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Soft Drinks.
Beer, wine, spirits wholesale distribution.
Gas fired unit heater and HVAC products.
Employ the developmentally disabled adults.
Specialty manufacturer of safety communication products.
Marine industry towboat components - propeller shafts, steering, rudders etc.
Staffing
Veterinary Medicine
Wholesale bakery, retail bakery.
Thermal managed exhaust tubing.
Manufacturing of exterior automotive lighting.
Civil engineering.
Live plants.
Vending provider.
1. Mold making for injection molding. 2. Injection molding.
Industrial gasses - Argon, Oxygen, Nitrogen.
Full service dental lab.
Printing.
Woodminster Summer Musical, a summer program of three Broadway musicals for
seven performances of each.
Softwood lumber.
Machined non-ferrous components. Automotive, electrical, sporting goods.
Manufacturing communication equipment.
Electrical distribution.
Gas, groceries.
Fertilizer application equipment sales, Apache sprayers, Dalton NH3 applicators,
Miller sprayers.
Scent eliminating products - Apparel and liquid sprays/soaps - for the hunting
market.
Ready-mixed concrete.
Refurbished agricultural equipment.
Candy
Agricultural - feed, grain.
Commercial Banking.
Retail Agriculture - seed - feed - fertilizer - chemicals - grain elevator.
Employment and training for persons with disabilities using work as a tool. We own
and operate a Merry Maids franchise, a popcorn company and a premium coffee
distributionship among other smaller contracts.
Non-emergency medical transportation.
Insurance sales.
Commercial Printing.
7

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
14327 Mail
14332 Mail
14350 Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03

14400
14437
14459
14515
14533
14537

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

14571
14627
14676
14683
14686
14731
14751
14756
14814
14864
14894

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

14917
14922
14969
14987
15004

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

15017
15024
15062
15066
15151

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

15159
15175
15211
15218
20158
20162

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Agricultural and petroleum products.
Cheese.
Custom saddles
Manufacture and install custom electric signs, awnings, ADA signage, and digital
prints.
Wooden packaging.
Swine management.
Make furniture.
Freight hauler.
Manufacturer of twist ties.
Machining operation manufacturing rotary airlocks, slide diverter valves and
pneumatic conveying systems.
Ready mix concrete, concrete products, and tools.
Textile distribution, cut and sew.
Museum - activity/recreation.
Warehouse distribution, automobile parts/accessories.
Agriculture
Dehydrated and frozen apple products.
Veterinary services
Poultry processing fully cooked chicken products.
Manufacturing antifatigue mats.
Telecommunication services including broadband.
Cotton gin - processing cotton from the field to bale form to go to textile mills.
Selling cottonseed to dairies.
Biodiesel
Ready mix concrete, precast concrete hog slats.
Manufacturer and seller of pre-cut cedar log homes.
Solid waste handling equipment.
Electric resistance heaters and elements, flange/process heaters, fire bar and multicell elements.
Agriculture/agronomy products.
Weight loss services.
Manufacture saw blades and construction equip.
AM radio station.
Routed exterior signs, using western red cedar, HDPE plastic, for the US
Forest/National Park Service.
Accounting and tax services.
Legal services.
Repair and rebuild mining equipment.
Hardwood lumber.
Agricultural chemicals.
8

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
20184
20190
20215
20230
20264
20304
20332
20410
20533
20643

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

20693
20782
20786
20807
20882
20896
20903
20929
20954
21092
21123
21151
21183
21186
21212
21261

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

21288
21296
21301
21497
21512
21540
21598
21656
21693
21806

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

General machining and fabrication, hydro rakes.
Agricultural implements.
Printed paperboard packaging.
Veterinary services.
Industrial gas and welding supplier.
Cement
Build automation tools/systems.
Frozen, liquid, and dried egg products.
Design research and product development consulting services.
Supermarket equipment sales, remanufacturing.
This business is an office where paperwork from normal business activities takes
place. We have manufacturing location about the U.S. Our principle business is
manufacturing consumable roof supporting ventilation devices used in underground
mining applications.
Roofing products.
Polyurethane foam manufacturing; processing polyester fiber.
Pulp for making paper.
HVAC.
Legal services.
Growing and processing of Maine wild blueberries.
Bank.
Office supply retail, commercial printer.
Hazardous gas detection equipment.
Specialty chemicals, lubricants, and ice melt products.
Contract metal fabrications.
Bus transportation.
Cabinet doors, laminated countertops.
Irrigation, center pivot dealer.
Truck sales, new and used parts, truck repairs.
Furniture manufacturing. Bedroom furniture. Commercial furnishing i.e. dorm
furniture, hotel furniture.
Boat manufacturer.
Oil and gas.
Manufacture of steel castings.
Flooring sales and installation.
Mounted ball bearing products.
Manufacturing farm equipment.
Business development, lending.
Printing ink manufacturer.
Manufacture graphite fishing rods.
9

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
21817
21841
21959
21973
21990
21998
22098
22170
22296
22311
22371
22375
22420
22503
22531
22541
22583
22634
22692
22696
22706
22741

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
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Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

22749
22832
23055
23089
23186
23216
23224
23270
23371
23412
23426
23503
23721
23752

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

23785 Mail
23863 Mail

Q03
Q03

Systems integration (both security and communications).
Manufacture food processing machinery.
Hospital apparel.
Cabinet sales
Agricultural equipment sales and service.
Performance textiles.
Manufacturer of distilled spirits.
Manufacture bullets and ammunition.
Healthcare - Nursing service supplemental staffing.
Steel storage tanks pressure vessels.
Precast concrete products.
Special agricultural equipment.
Financial services.
Lamp and shades wholesaler.
Sawmill, wood lath.
Aluminum and zinc die castings.
Cabinets, counter tops, flooring.
Manufacture fiberglass tanks and manholes.
Tank heads, boiler manholes, butt weld pipe caps and hinged closures.
Veterinary.
Transportation of food products.
Geo-spatial technology.
Precision machining - Computer numerical control, CNC turning, CNC milling, CNC
Swiss. Parts for medical - construction, electrical - printing - auto.
Tool and die stamping assembly of car parts.
Plastic containers.
Manufacturing pallets and crating out of wood.
Modular housing.
Import / Distributor of sausage casings.
Architectural millwork.
Sawmill-wood.
Sale and service of agriculture equipment and light industrial machines.
Entertainment with food and beverages.
Machine shop, Swiss automatic high precision.
Radio station - advertising sales.
Steel tube fabrication.
Plastic injection molds.
Mechanical contracting: plumbing, HVAC, refrigeration, process piping and fire
sprinklers for industrial and commercial use.
Local exchange carrier (Telecom).
10

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
23972
24001
24086
24107
24123
24204
24219
24245
24304
24429
24532

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

24575 Mail

Q03

24644
24650
24737
24847
24918
24964
25019
25091
25098
25152
25189
30007
30105
30116
30158
30192
30239
30268
30271
30321
30334
30352
30370
30374
30386
30474

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
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Mail
Mail
Mail
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Mail

2-way radio remote control manufacturing.
Trucking/hauling locally (not at this location).
Farm machinery component manufacturing.
Screwmachine parts.
Banking / Lending / Investments.
Cavern tours.
Insurance.
Trailers - snow, boat, utility.
Candy.
Post frame buildings.
Transportation.
Services. We are a Professional Employer Organization (PEO). We help businesses
cope with growing regulations.
Gas analyzers and gas mixing systems for industrial gases such as CO2, O2, AR, N2,
H2.
Animal feed and farm supplies.
Jewelry castings.
School and institutional furniture.
Doors
Natural gas compression and transmission.
Textiles - aprons, tablecloth, napkins.
Manufacture of seaming equipment for the paper industry.
Aviation services.
Snack foods.
Title Insurance, abstracts.
Manufacturing
Manufacture farm/agricultural implements.
Dust filtration and grain aeration systems.
Make rubber bands, wraps, straps; sell packaging and tape.
Instrumentation Factory Rep. Control Panel Manufacturing and Service.
Real estate closings, title insurance.
Oil and gas production.
Assembly of electronic locks.
Manufacture Signs.
Wholesale distribution food products.
Telecommunications products/service
Legal services.
Pharmaceutical preparations for animals.
Business Machine Manufacturing.
Chromatographs' sensors detectors.
11

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
30576
30681
30684
30709
30712
30715

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

30722
30800
30849
30915
30920
30964

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

30999
31020
31035
31066

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

31105
31164
31194
31283
31303
31381
31422
31440
31457
31484

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

31505
31545
31548
31554
31574
31633
31746
31755
31781
31797
31916

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
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Q03
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Q03

Trucking, wrecking.
Baler twine, hay preservative.
Custom wooden boats and yachts.
Archery supplies.
Insulate lines and tanks in the oil field.
Agriculture retail.
Manufacture island forms and pipe bollards for gas stations, manage four selfstorage facilities and some buildings for rent, and operate two car wash locations.
Beef products.
Generation and transmission of electricity.
Commercial faucets - brass casting.
Service provider for persons with disabilities.
Textiles
Manufacturing packaging for the cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and personal care
markets.
Banking services.
Professional Liability, Insurance Brokerage
Repair sales/service industrial air moving equipment.
We are an art museum and gallery with limited sales of jewelry, books and
consignments of artists.
Pallets and crates
Paper shredders.
Job shop. Machine shop services.
Textiles.
Aircraft and passenger seat overhaul.
Custom boat building and repair.
Box spring frames.
Floral wholesale
Distributor of standard plastic machine engineered products.
Machine shop, commercial and nuclear precision machining. Machine shop,
commercial and nuclear precision machining.
Fuel and livestock feed.
Financial counseling.
Buy light calves for farmers and ranchers.
Manufacturer / Construction
Grain marketing and agricultural supply cooperative.
Making animal feed.
Custom Cabinets.
Educational tourism.
Plastic lined piping systems.
Lumber.
12

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
31940
32248
32320
32325
32375
32407
32417
32434
32472
32646
32678
32735

Mail
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Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

32799
32837
32881
32946

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

32949 Mail

Q03

32952
33043
33050
33127
33183
33217
33220

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

33258
33292
33311
33344
33408
33438

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

33460 Mail

Q03

33467
33471
33488
33497

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Dairy feeds- Manufactured and delivered.
Retail, sawmill, timbers, boards, and post and rail.
Wine
Steel reinforcement for concrete applications.
Fabrication of solid surface counter tops.
Structural steel sales and fabrication.
Manufacture of protective covers (tarps).
Decorative interior molding.
Mulch and soil products.
Movie theatre.
Welded steel frames used as bases for large generator sets.
Grain - barge loading grain terminal.
Contacts and connectors (screw machine products) MK-C-39029 / medical /
aerospace.
Insurance and real estate.
Safe patient handling devices, wheelchairs and exam tables.
Printed patterns for home sewing.
Provide professional hotel management services to owners/operators of
independent hotels.
Gospel music CDs, Dvds, etc., traveling and singing southern gospel music. This being
our home base.
Pizza.
Commercial printing.
Silkscreening - embroidery - promotional products, printing - sign makers.
Professional services: civil engineering and land surveying
Veterinary hospital.
Account receivable financing and customer billing service.
Flexible polyurethane for furniture and bedding, chemical systems for various
industries.
Accounting services - tax.
Precision sheet metal fabrication.
Investment castings.
Manufacture of custom table pads.
Cast metal products.
Nonprofit conservation science organization research and education (biology and
ecology).
We manufacture and distribute top soil, mulches, composts and landscape
construction materials.
Industrial leather products.
Wood handrails and moldings.
Hauling - stone, salt, coal, etc.
13

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
33528
33561
33623
33633
33706
33722
33752
33760
33770
33800
33865
33891
33894
33917
33920
34015

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

34080 Mail

Q03

34090
34245
34466
34479
34500
34576
34744
34754
34868
34897
34937
34976
35064
35069
35084
40010

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

40013
40083
40108
40214

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Science labs and furniture for K-12 and higher education.
Machine shop - industrial tooling.
Plastic injection mold parts - custom.
Agricultural products - custom services to the customers product application.
Commercial print shop.
Ground Clay - Sport's Field.
Oysters.
Transportation
Automotive parts, brake rotor. Brake drum and brake pads.
Income tax preparation.
Retail sales of floor products and installation.
Roof truss manufacturing.
Trucking and farming.
Retail candy store.
Commercial printed products.
Hardware and lumber.
Management company - provide management services to senior housing facilities
(assisted living, independent living, CCRC's).
Sustainability Counseling Services including building commissioning, LEED consulting
and energy modeling.
Real estate title insurance.
Custom fabrication of vessels for the pharmaceutical and bio-tech industries.
Selling building materials.
Hermetic motors
Manufacturer of Portland Cement.
Automotive, trucking (carrier).
Recreational fly fishing and upland game hunting, trout farming.
Redi-mix Concrete/Aggregates
Manufacturing of kraft paper protective packaging.
Trucking.
Hardwood veneer
Men's polo shirts / firemen uniforms.
NAICS 42161.
Vitamin mineral premixes.
Commercial real estate.
Commercial printed materials, L/H, envelopes, magazines, newsletters, annual
reports.
Water management products that attach to drainage tile.
Accounting and tax services.
Flexible electrical conduit.
14

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments

40236
40239
40332
40460
40463
40468
40485
40516
40543
40567

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

40570 Mail
40625 Mail

Q03
Q03

40670 Mail
40679 Mail

Q03
Q03

40691
40727
40758
40777
40827
40831
40855
40871
40887
40937
41053
41101
41110
41147
41158
41252
41280
41293
41299
41312
41322
41368
41380

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

For hire private hauling company - specializing in hauling, gravel, asphalt, sand, dirt
and salt locally.
Modular manufacture - single family, multi-family and commercial.
John Deere farm equipment.
Provide trucking in the forest industry.
Plastic injection molding, rubber compression molding, mold making.
Consultant Engineer - Civil - Material Testing
Medical service provider.
Fuel oil, gasoline wholesaler.
Fishing tackle manufacturer.
Design and manufactures roll coating and harvesting machinery.
Agriculture: From the farm to the processor, dams, tarps, equipment covers, piler
chain covers, fertilizer tarp, load out socks, air and water socks.
Recycled textile waste products.
Manufacturer of industrial medical housewares, and automotive products out of
polyurethane Foam Thermal Seal Specialist.
Veterinary Medicine - small animals.
Installation, dis-assembly, maintenance, and refurbish of commercial, modular
buildings.
Steel fabrication.
Manufacturer of kitchen and bath cabinets.
Consulting Engineering (Civil and Environmental)
Metal fabrication of displays.
Legal services.
Cedar producer.
Pottery Distributor. Previously manufactured red clay pottery.
Insurance products and financial services.
Wood based panels (MDF) and laminate flooring.
Wood products manufactured and supplied into the packaging and crating business.
Contract aerosol filling and chemical blending and small packaging.
Manufacturing, fiberglass, safety products.
Manufacture brick.
Pallets
Veterinary medicine and surgery.
Cave tour. We also have a gift/souvenir shop.
CPA services.
Portable trade show displays.
Food service "pizza," 19 units, two states: California and Nevada.
Land surveying.
Produce electrical wiring harnesses and battery cable.
Supplies for coal preparation and mining companies.
15

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
41430
41459
41533
41543
41586

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

41599
41645
41662
41760
41778
41795
41801
41807
41839
41857
41883
41905
41964
41978
41997
42008
42036
42051
42070
42076
42102
42106
42129
42208
42269
42320
42363
42385
42407
42466
42472
42492
42499
42509

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Distribution and manufacturing of moving products.
Energy loss surveys.
Formal tubular products exhaust, air, hand rails, structural.
Engraving, embroidery.
Steel processing.
We have 2 main products. We provide replaceable parts to the refractory industry.
We also build small run semiconductor molds in a fast turnaround.
Aluminum recreational products - dock systems, boat lifts, trailers, boats.
Machine shop.
Horseback riding apparel development and design business.
Windows and doors.
Bituminous asphalt and crushed limestone road construction and resurfacing.
Contract metal fabrications.
Manufacture marble.
Gypsum wall board.
Processed cheese.
Production and shipping of snack foods.
Design and manufacture membrane switches.
Manual Wheelchairs.
Blend agricultural additives. Vitamin and mineral premix and dry organic acids.
Custom precision machining and fabrication.
Truck transportation.
Residential remodeling.
Crushing cottonseed.
Air curtains.
Construction Supply
Selling advertising; printing and graphic/web design.
Automotive drive line and air conditioner parts.
Marketing, branding agency.
Sales and engineering for new injection molding and die cast machine.
Steel highway bridges.
Mental health and social welfare services for children. We are a non-profit agency.
Round wire springs.
Tax return preparation.
Zinc and aluminum die cast parts OEM and Aftermarket.
Engineering/Architecture
Solder and chemicals.
Family and entertainment.
Lumber.
Precision metal parts.
16

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
42580
42596
42599
42625
42640
42643
42646
42657
42666
42683
42716
42731
42735
42753
42794
42799
42812
42836

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

42854
42871
42880
42951
42988
43030
43047
43069
43073
43084
43156
43166
43201
43211
43246
43267
43270
43291

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Snack foods.
Recycled rubber products for the automotive sector.
Building material and wood working.
Metal forming, machining, powder coating, welding, and product assembly.
Newspaper
Canned and frozen vegetables.
Fertilizer and agricultural chemicals.
Cheese manufacturing.
Making ice cream.
Charter bus transportation.
Contract manufacturing for larger companies.
General practice of law.
Wicker furniture manufacturing.
Meat production and distribution.
Commercial electrical fittings
Custom roll forming, metal stamping welding and press brake.
Microwave components; military and commercial applications.
Specialty lumber
Primary product - professional performance season, professional exhibition season,
community theatre, arts and education program. Secondary product - after school
program, youth theatre, youth ballet, youth chorus, youth visual arts, adult
instructive programs, rental of the facility.
Hardwood frames and dimension products, kitchen cabinets.
Manufacturer of upholstery.
Heavy steel fabrication and delivery.
Seed corn production and sales.
Legal Services.
Mining of sand and gravel.
Architectural woodwork, store fixtures
Manufacturing.
Carpet backing
Chromium and nickel plating.
Affordable Housing
Fans/Blowers.
Veterinary medicine-dogs and cats.
Radio Advertising.
Manufacture and rebuild mining equipment.
Plastic cores.
Confectionary Flavors

17

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments

43296
43312
43383
43419
43424
43432
43444
43506
43511
43518
43557
43562
43572
43604
43736
43762
43803
43839
43875
43881
43941
43972
43978
44009
44052
44075
44109
44113
44134

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

44261 Mail
44266 Mail

Q03
Q03

44329
44355
44377
44417
44426
44463

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Premier collection of Norwegian-American artifacts and exhibitions, events, and
classes that showcase the immigrant experience.
Steel joists and girders.
Aluminum billet.
Packaging machinery.
Over the road trucking.
Art, gift and home decor.
Corrugated packaging.
International development/humanitarian assistance.
Aluminum windows and doors.
Manufacture and sell footwear and accessory dryers.
Printer and scanner for financial sector.
Sawmill and logging.
Manufacturing wooden pallets.
Contract manufacturer of household cleaning products.
Manufacturing - ceramic tile.
Advertisement sales through 300+ and radio station.
Veterinary services.
Frozen bakery goods.
Towing and storage.
Moving and storage.
Manufacture of lumber, plywood and particle board.
Party goods.
Transportation of off-road materials, clay, sand, gravel, rock, etc.
Subcontract cable and harness wiring (electronic).
Dairy processing
Agricultural products.
Manufacturer concrete blocks, distribute masonry supplies and clay brick.
Housing support services, job training, and employment for individuals with I/DD.
Food manufacturer
Sensors for atmospheric research and data analysis on the data collected by the
sensors.
Converted coated two side paper.
Credit union - financial services. This address is also main corporate office. Have over
200 branches across North Carolina.
Formed and welded wire products: I.E. fry baskets, wire shelves, medical baskets.
Const. E0 Dealer
Manufacture products for the water industry.
Precision Swiss automatic screw machine products.
Steel and stainless steel castings.
18

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
44487
44494
44553
44557
44580
44602
44630
44633

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

44648
44658
44669
44675
44683
44728
44736
44795
44825
44864
44879
44886
44895
44901
44905
44927
44948
44970
45015
45021
45030

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

45035
45046
45055
45143
50023
50152
50189
50216
50453

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Mechanical testing.
Helicopter windows.
Third party administration services for employers that self fund their health plans.
Manufactured homes.
Manufacturing and imprinting apparel (screen printing, embroidery).
Manufacturer of castings.
Used tractor and implement parts.
Veterinary medicine services and products.
History museum: Tours, exhibits, educational programs, and research library and
archives.
Soft drinks.
Heavy duty - radiators and charge air coolers and heavy duty engine machining.
Metal fabricating.
Dimension Sawmill.
Embossed apparel and accessories; embossed auto, pharma and etc. parts.
Manufacturing aviation instruments and medical units.
Fertilizer and chemical sales to growers.
Apparel.
Design and build grain storage and handling systems.
Manufacturing.
Trailers, repairs, oil field rentals.
Long haul refrigerated transportation
Custom cabinets.
Animal feed.
Janitorial supply distribution.
Farm equipment dealership, sales - parts - service
Footwear.
Construction products distribution.
Ready mix concrete producer and delivery.
Custom plastic injection molding and tool building.
Nonwoven fabrics for furniture, bedding, filtration and automotive interiors and
exteriors.
Legal services.
HVAC and Roof Services.
Manufactures party and craft supplies and WHLSE.
Lumber, posts, poles, log home materials.
Aluminum extrusions - fabricated, machined, finished and assemblies.
Architectural precast concrete, cast stone concrete.
Metal stamping and forming.
Visual art center - nonprofit.
19

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
50463
50511
50539
50721

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

50964
51349
51413
51435
51442
51494
51642

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

51943 Mail
52060 Mail

Q03
Q03

52076
52085
52175
52185
52284
52340
52355
52474

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

52537
52549
52564
52586
52643
52865
52897
52977
53031
53053
53076
53185
53225
53414
53735
53878

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Manufacture of fishing lures.
Cast Emboss polypropylene and polyethylene film.
Peanuts.
Printed circuit boards.
Seasonal. We had cotton modules from the cotton field to the cotton gin for
processing (September through November only).
Manufacturing
Explosive manufacturer.
Hardwood sawmill producing hardwood lumber.
Veterinary medicine and surgery.
Retail agriculture chemicals and fertilizer sales.
Seafood
Manufacture of plastic component parts that go into other people's products. Also,
making parts and then assembling parts.
Kiln dried hardwood lumber.
Manufacture wood floor and roof trusses for commercial and residential
applications.
Manufacturing steel fabricated parts.
Human services for people with developmental disabilities.
Sales and service of Hotsy pressure washers.
Industrial and agricultural water purification equipment manufacturer.
Custom school furniture and ready to assemble office furniture.
Trucking, construction, and blacktopping.
Lumber manufacturing.
Candles - decorative, t-lights, votives, wax melters - retail, wholesale; other products
bought wholesale to retail.
Distribution of commercial construction products.
Powder metal tooling.
Lumber, specifically one inch Southern Yellow Pine.1
Sawmill - green lumber.
Underwater pluggable electrical connectors.
Recycling, dumpster service - C and O and garbage.
Precision metal fabrications.
Maps for oil-gas industry.
Rubber and elastomeric molded goods for industry.
Aircraft kits.
Fabricated metal products structural, ornamental, and miscellaneous.
Electricity.
Positive displacement pumps.
Roof trusses (wood only).
Fluid milk, ice cream, cheese.
20

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments

53892
53915
54002
54036
54039
54058
54220
54265
54507
54769
54991
55043
19999
39999
49998
29999
69999
29998
10515
10763
11346
11423
11924
12090
12619

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q29A
Q29A
Q29A
Q29A
Q29A
Q29A
Q29A

13935 Mail

Q29A

21598 Mail
24532 Mail

Q29A
Q29A

33183 Mail
33217 Mail

Q29A
Q29A

33488 Mail
33760 Mail

Q29A
Q29A

33770 Mail
33920 Mail
34576 Mail

Q29A
Q29A
Q29A

Products manufactured in part or in whole with fiberglass: tanks, troughs, enclosures
primarily.
Insurance property and casualty.
Roofing supplies.
Retail Grocery.
Manufacture roller coasters and amusement rides; engineering.
Manufacturing Sage fly rods.
Lumber manufacturing.
Public Accounting.
Contract office design and furnishing. Healthcare interiors. University interiors.
Rebuild torque converters and transmission bands.
Steel manufacturing.
Manufacturer/marketer of self-contained, residential hot tubs.
Manufacturing- contract manufacturer.
Structural steel.
Used farm equipment and tractor parts.
Furniture manufacturing.
Human Transportation Services.
Air distribution/life safety products.
We are a nursery and growing plants.
Customer did not require.
No housing market in these years.
Type of production, cost of integration technology and new manufacturing process.
We are a community newspaper; our market is very stable.
Very stable product mix.
We sell radio advertising.
Agriculture has shifted due to the economy and our product has become less needed
and desirable. But there is still a market, though smaller.
The products we build haven't needed any changes in many years (except larger hole
in hitch).
We have government contract in transportation that do not require any changes.
We are not "goods" oriented. We are civil engineers. The only new items worked on
were bio-swales for apartment drainage systems.
Our business continues to thrive as the animal industry stays constant.
Construction has been down and any work has been bare-bones. Customers are
asking for less than we offer.
We don't produce goods.
Distribution whs. We follow the way setup and there some adjustment, but no big
change.
Management has become stagnant. Does not see long term growth in this business.
Industry does not change much, if any.
21

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
40010 Mail
40460 Mail

Q29A
Q29A

41322 Mail

Q29A

41368
41662
41795
42269

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q29A
Q29A
Q29A
Q29A

42812
44266
44630
50463

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

Q29A
Q29A
Q29A
Q29A

50964 Mail

Q29A

51442
52185
49998
10237

Q29A
Q29A
Q29A
Q52

Mail
Mail
Mail
Mail

10618 Mail

Q52

10624 Mail
10638 Mail

Q52
Q52

11246 Mail

Q52

11346 Mail

Q52

11482 Mail

Q52

11593 Mail

Q52

We own and manage commercial real estate for our account.
It is pretty hard to change the way we haul forest products out of the forest.
We stay current with latest methods/practices as way to conduct business and have
not needed improvement/innovation activities especially.
No call for innovation in our environment. Most processes are set and are mostly
hands on.
Machine shop practices remain unchanged.
None considered necessary.
We are about up to date on our innovative processes as we can be in the last 3 yrs.
We have std catalog items that are currently being used; modifications are made to
some units per customer request.
Business supplies product for further processing to customer.
No reason.
Improvements or innovation to production or marketing have been minimal.
Cotton industry and commodity has not changed the way you pick up cotton
modules.
We are comfortable doing business as we do it. The business continues to grow at
the rate we desire.
Our product and customer base does not allow much innovation.
No reason.
2.00 dollars was not enough money to complete survey!
This board is made up of five commissioners, put in office by a public election to
serve a five year term. Monies are received from tax payers' dollars and
appropriated as needed for the running of the fire district.
Innovation will drive future success of this business. Over the next three years we
will invest in new designs and equipment.
Please reply with survey results.
We are an auto parts and lubricate wholesaler. The market dictates a lot of these
questions. We belong to a program distribution group (Comquest) which also has a
very important part of a lot of these questions.
This industry has been in recession for past five years; only third and fourth quarter
of 2013 have been profitable. The operation here has been in survival mode for
years. To emerge from this and encourage innovation and growth will take
considerable financing to do quickly. This financing is not available through
conventional means, making the recovery difficult.
Economy needs to rise up in all areas surrounding us except just one. We are south
of Florence, Alabama, approximately 40 miles, and if it were not for business we
receive from the tri-city area, Florence, Muscle Shoals, Tuscumbia, and Sheffield, we
would not be in business. We deliver up to 100 miles in either direction;
Birmingham is somewhat on the rise. I think we need to advertise more in that area.
Thanks.
Federal government regulations and lack of active management of our federal
timber lands are by far the largest impediments/road blocks to our business and
industry to survive and grow!
22

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments

11833 Mail

Q52

11976 Mail

Q52

12611 Mail
12619 Mail
12714 Mail

Q52
Q52
Q52

12744 Mail
12777 Mail
13052 Mail

Q52
Q52
Q52

13216 Mail

Q52

13725 Mail

Q52

13754 Mail

Q52

14086 Mail

Q52

14117 Mail

Q52

14350 Mail

Q52

14515 Mail

Q52

The reason I didn't answer this questionnaire sooner is I just don't know most of the
answers. Sorry I couldn't be of more help, but really don't feel I'm the one for the
questions. P.S. Think you really don't have the right person for these questions!
We also purchased in the last three years three other food processing companies
that are not included in this survey.
I am a public artist industrial designer and educator - yet formed a thriving business
model to support these creative activities.
A lot of questions were not applicable to a local radio station!
Not much on farm business.
This company is experiencing hyper growth. We are in our 4th year of almost 50
percent growth.
Survey not too well-suited for law partnership with no manufactured product.
Biggest problem is finding entry level employees.
We are a manufacturing plant. Most innovation and funding is done at the corporate
level.
Producers Association Inc. is a not for profit which contracts with the City of Oakland
to produce Woodminster Summer Musicals at Woodminster Amphitheater in
Joaquin Miller Park. We hire at least 11 members of actors equally for each
production. We hire 12 Union Local 6 musicians for each production. We hire
choreographers, carpenters, light, sound and set designers and costume designers
and stitchers, as well as carpenters. They are all salaried except for choreographers,
set, lighting and sound designers who independent contractors. The managing
director/producer, the producer/director and the house manager are annual full
time employees. We sell tickets, season and single online and by mail and in person.
We attract 22,0000-25,000 people to 21 performances. The climate in the Bay Area
is not always comfortable at night - fog is common. Why an outdoor amphitheater
was built in the Bay Area (a WPA project) is beyond me.
Question 5 may need explaining. Two friends from Minnesota came to Montana
looking for a sawmill for sale. None of the factors in Question 5 applied.
One of the dumbest ever. $2.00 is a huge insult! I am sending it back - I have been
paid $40-50 for less time consuming surveys.
My company is a non-for-profit business operating a variety of ventures to create
employment for people with disabilities. We are very unique - and I can only hope
our participation has some value to your research.
I am semi-retired and my main goal is to maintain a reasonable margin of profit in a
dwindling market. However, I continue to work on new ideas and patents and other
sources of income in this very uncertain economy. Government interference, overregulation, and taxes are stifling small business and innovation. It is very
discouraging. Globalization and career politicians are destroying small business, the
middle class, and innovation. Welcome to the next global "Great Depression!"
This business has been in business for 174 years and making less profit now than in
the last 50 years. Due to government restrictions and banking. If they would ease
up everybody could make better money, and that is the bottom line to business.

23

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments

14571 Mail

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20304 Mail

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21296 Mail

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21497 Mail

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22541 Mail

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22832 Mail

Q52

Company was sold two years ago to a private equity firm. Highly leveraged so
primary goal is to pay off debt. Innovation and increased revenue is secondary. How
many of your respondents experienced an ownership change in the last five years?
Business has been very slow in the construction field for the past 4-5 years. We are
doing the best we can to stay open but it's getting harder each week. We also have
the weather to deal with in the concrete business. It's been extremely cold for the
past three weeks so we have done nothing to increase profits. Not real sure what
the future holds for this company.
As with most surveys I feel they are wasted money. Use the money spent on surveys
and studying things to reduce tax amounts. This will stimulate business. Get
government out of businesses' way and things will proceed.
Although only being here one year, I have been in senior management positions for
similar manufacturing for over 23 years.
In the last couple years we have made the largest investments back into this facility
in its history. 95% of the investments have been because of federal regulations. No
energy reductions (actually energy increases), no product improvement, no
production increases or productivity increases. All have been for Federal Safety or
Pollution Control. The investments in turn have greatly increased our tax base and
those taxes. Good for U.S. business? I think not.
The federal government is hindering business in all ways possible. Over regulation of
banks, health care, EPA, entire mining industry. The over regulation is not by a law
passed by the legislature but by political agenda. The government is picking winner
and losers, thus throwing hundreds of thousands of people and business out of
work.
We have a very unique business that didn't quite line up with your study - you may
want to consider us an outlier. Thanks.
I'd love to meet the person who can complete this form in the half hour you stated
having given sufficient thought to each question so that the resulting responses
provide real value to the recipient.
The government officials do not fully appreciate the fact that not enough cash is
retained after taxes to grow a business making less than five percent of sales. All the
retained cash is needed to fund the increased need for more working capital. For
example: 100 percent of our profit will be needed to pay for the increased energy
costs if they double (as predicted by the president). Absolutely no room for growth.
1) Present location for business was great 42 years ago. City government has allowed
area to degrade. 2) Six years our business building expansion took over two years to
accomplish a 6 month building program. Over $60,000 in city building dept changes
after they approved plans. Some of the changes were bad and resulted in cracks in
the concrete floors. -Dumb. 3) Our business and reputation is based on quality
castings and we have and are continuously improving our operation. 4) Finding
qualified people to train into leadership - positions, particularly my engineering
position is near impossible.
Paying - too much unemployment - too much government money paid to stay off
work, minimum wage; these cost, cost all of us working. We pay people to not work
and too much bad attendance, as our government. They are paid better than free
24

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
trade will get. No competition to work, more to stay home and get paid. No drug
test, no alarm clock, or days off.
23089 Mail

Q52

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23371 Mail
23412 Mail

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24204 Mail
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31303 Mail
31505 Mail
32248 Mail

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32646 Mail

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32735 Mail

Q52

I have not seen the small reward that the letter said was enclosed but thought I'd fill
it out anyway and maybe I could get a report.
I oversee our subsidiaries from Addison, Texas. Nationwide Homes has their
headquarters and manufacturing operation in Martinsville, Virginia. All questions
were answered from the standpoint of the location being Martinsville.
None.
Start-up business starting third year.
(1) Response is voluntary? Then why send another survey when we didn't respond
to the first? (2) You state in your cover letter that there is "no need to access
business records," then proceed to ask questions regarding percentages (#10, 20,
21). (3) Question 10 lumps managers and professionals. Huh? (4) You can have
your $2.00 back.
(1) Long (2) Thanks for the 2 bucks!
We are a service business and are always looking for ways to become more efficient
or productive. We want to grow our business without adding many personnel.
Increased use of technology by our employees and our clients is critical to our
success.
Didn't know all answers; sorry.
The recession is not over. We need healthy markets independent of government
meddling and control. The assumption that government can help - other than by
being a customer - is false.
We are a generation and transmission electric cooperative.
The single greatest driver of our business in the recent past and near future is
advanced manufacturing and automation. We also put great emphasis on lean
manufacturing, cost reduction and speed to market.
ObamaCare is going to hurt our ability to expand and grow due to health care costs
rising 40 percent in 2014.
Make it easier to be able to borrow money.
These questions are not pertinent sawmill, woods, industry.
In the past two years the only innovations to the movie business is the change from
film projectors to digital 2D and 3D. This has caused small theatres to close - mostly
because of equipment costs and installation costs. Film projectors, if kept serviced
and maintained, could last 50-100 years and still put a quality picture on the screen.
The movie industry has now fallen prey like all technology to the need to have to buy
new every six months to a year. Businesses can't afford to do this. The cost of
health care, especially in Hawaii; any worker who works 20 hours is entitled to paid
health care. Do the Math.
Crop production (yields) highly dependent on weather. Sales are slow but steady relative to world population growth. Company is a cooperative - our members have
ownership and receive profits back in equity patronage.

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Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments

33183 Mail

Q52

33220 Mail

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33292 Mail

Q52

33438 Mail

Q52

33467 Mail

Q52

33920 Mail
34015 Mail

Q52
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34245 Mail

Q52

34466 Mail

Q52

Unfortunately I don't believe we are much help to your survey. We have a
longstanding reputation in community and city/county jurisdictions. Specialized
professional service. The average tenure is now about 16 years. The economic turn
down hit our industry very hard. All owners took 10-20% cuts in pay and employees
took cut in hours. We made it work. No loans. We did cut workforce in half at 2008.
Work holding firm now.
Because our business access capital to fund account receivables for clients, the fund
utilized are not directly utilized by our company, but are essential to build business.
Not doing this to be a nice guy. Doing because you hired our football coach - Guns
up.
Innovate is a very strong word - it implies creativity and likely significant changes. We
work more to solve problems or improve our production processes. We don't
consider that innovating as this is an old/mature technology.
We manufacture and distribute top soil, bark, mulches, and compost and associated
landscape materials. My husband and I started the business in 1978. He died three
years ago. Our biggest problems are conflicting land use regulations, cost of diesel
fuel, and lack of adequately trained diesel mechanics and helpers. (Our business
uses lots of big machinery and trucks - all of which break!) Thanks for the $2.
This economy is the worst for small business that I have seen in my 46 years. State
and federal government has become a detriment to business and the economy.
This is too time consuming - I have a job.
Just for insight, in 2008-2009 when the economy took a dive, we had three locations
and 22 employees. We are down to one location and seven employees. We have
maintained for a few years now. Our company survives on the housing market as do
many others. If the housing market would turn around, we could create so many
more jobs across the country!
I do not know how we were selected for this survey because most of it does not
seem to apply to our type of business. We only do custom fabrication for the
pharmaceutical and biotech industries. The business has grown steadily since it
started in 1990 in one of the owners' garage. We have a web site with contact
information but practically all our new business is by word of mouth. Advertising
does not work because our customers are looking for someone to build a custom
product with quality as well as quick and on time delivery. Customers are building or
remodeling facilities so delivery is sometimes tantamount to their success and they
want a company they can depend on. Therefore, we have worked hard to build a
reputation of being straight with our customers and telling them what we can do
and following through on it. Our biggest problem is funding and cash flow. All of our
cost, labor and materials, are up front. Then it takes 8-12 weeks to produce the
product. We have to design each vessel from specifications the customer requests.
Therefore, how we fabricate can change from one vessel to the next. After the
product is shipped the customer then will take 45-60 days to pay. We have no bad
debt; it just takes a while for the money to come. Because our customers are all
over the USA we do most our communication over the internet. Our employees are
at minimum highly skilled. Because we do custom we have trained most of our
employees for the skills needed. They sometimes come to us with basic skills but we
26

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
look for people who have knowledge of how the materials work and react, and can
think, reason things out, and work independently. This is sometimes a challenge.
We have very little turnover after the second year of employment. The first year is
where practically all of our turnover happens. Our suppliers are very specific
because of the traceability and testing required of our product. We work under and
are authorized by the ASME code and National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessels.
We are listed as a manufacturer but our business is different because we do not sell
off the shelf or to the public.

34744 Mail

Q52

34897 Mail
40855 Mail

Q52
Q52

40937 Mail

Q52

41053 Mail
41158 Mail

Q52
Q52

41322 Mail
41543 Mail

Q52
Q52

41807 Mail

Q52

I would appreciate assistance with innovative ways to improve this company.
I think this survey has been somewhat duplicated by at least two other
governmental agencies. Having done many of these over the years, I believe
government intervention is a business restraint, not a help. The more government,
the worst it seems to get. Looking at government managed operations, i.e. Postal
Service, IRS, national debt, for a few, I don't believe they know or understand a
policy and liability statement.
Nice survey; thought provoking.
We compete against Chinese and European manufacturers. We are seriously
hampered by environmental regulation that go well beyond what our competitors
have to abide by (even the Canadians). We are also impacted by the lack of young
people with technical training (mechanics, electricians, controls). This is especially
hurtful in comparison to the Europeans. We are impacted by the slow
disappearance of an industrial base in the U.S. Twenty years ago the U.S.
manufactured much of the equipment that we use; now almost 100% is made in
Germany and China. Higher costs (in the case of German goods) and slow response
take a toll. We own two facilities in these premises; they are fairly integrated. I have
filled out the survey for the joint operation.
Business is being pulled down and reduced growth due to government programs
that incent people not to seek work. Also, increased regulations and reporting
requirements that demand labor cost and result in reduced earnings to fund
innovation and growth.
We are a pallet broker. I am the only person working.
We are a small owner run and worked business in rural America. We do what we do
well and take pride in the integrity of our personnel, a good work ethic, and live and
work by Judeo-Christian values. This goes a long way toward providing a quality
service and people know they can trust us to do an excellent job for them. That's
what keeps us in business.
Too long for busy business owner, thanks.
We are small business that manufactures marble custom made to size. I don't
believe this applies to us. We deal with wholesale customers. We manage with little
employees.
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Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments

41964 Mail
42036 Mail

Q52
Q52

42492 Mail

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42499 Mail

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42625 Mail

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42666 Mail

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42854 Mail

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42880 Mail

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42951 Mail
43030 Mail

Q52
Q52

43270 Mail

Q52

Under present ownership worked 3 years. Prior to acquisition 3 years with "old"
company, 6 years total. This company has been in business since 1957. Current
owner is a PhD mechanical engineer.
The survey seems based on manufacturing of products, or computer based business.
Started 6 years ago with one location. Now I have eleven locations. Was no
competition when we started; now it is very competitive with hundreds of locations?
The question that really needs to be asked is - Do you find the need for any
government funded jobs and programs? Answer - Maybe 5 percent of those that are
instilled into our economy in the USA I find needed. The other 95 percent are of no
help and a waste of taxpayer money.
We are a supplier of custom, customer designed parts to OEM's. We offer
suggestions only regarding customer designs for improved manufacturability
We make ice cream on a small island in the middle of the Pacific ocean, and a lot of
the questions do not apply.
Some of the survey did not really apply to a non-profit arts program. Hope this info
helps.
Health Care is out of control. Government involvement is crippling small business.
Employee/work force is incentivized by our government to not work, not hold a full
time job, and draw unemployment. Entitlements need to stop!
Our company's largest challenge and/or lost opportunity in both our production
facilities, located in Schofield, Wisconsin, and Springfield, Missouri, is the availability
of qualified CNC machine operators, fitters, welders, painters and material handlers
that "truly desire full-time long term employment". Therefore, one of our most
common practices for new hires is to recruit applicants with less than desirable work
skills or qualifications, or applicants that are able to demonstrate long term work
experience for whatever reason with former employers. This in turn ultimately
contributes to a large portion of our 20% turnover rate that we've experienced over
the past several years. Our long standing and most effective practice (on a more
limited basis over the past several years) is to hire applicants that are low on work
experience or skills but are able to demonstrate a good work ethic with former
employers or our HR personnel performing the interview. These new hires are then
brought into our job training/progression plan, starting them out at level entry
material handling positions. From there, they typically progress in other areas
depending individual capabilities and initiative. The problem is we're finding far
fewer applicants that "truly desire full-time long term employment" these days as
compared to years ago. I honestly believe that this is a result of now generations of
unemployable people relying on government programs as opposed to earning a
living. If the USDA serious about being part of the solution, this is one area of many
that they ought to consider.
Thanks for the $2!
We have looked into the R&D Tax Credit a couple times but found it cumbersome
and too much paperwork for very little credits for a company this size. The program
seems built for large corporations. Should be a similar program of credits for small
companies. We have not made use of State business development programs but we
know some are out there. It takes too much time to wade through all the
28

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
qualifications ect. from information we find on the internet. It would be better if this
State had a department with people who could quickly (about one hour) tell us if we
qualify for any state, county, regional development programs.
43506 Mail

Q52

43557 Mail

Q52

43562 Mail

Q52

43803 Mail

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44009 Mail

Q52

44113 Mail
44266 Mail

Q52
Q52

44669 Mail
44886 Mail

Q52
Q52

44901 Mail

Q52

45015 Mail
45046 Mail
45143 Mail

Q52
Q52
Q52

50023 Mail
50964 Mail
51413 Mail

Q52
Q52
Q52

51442 Mail

Q52

52185 Mail

Q52

We are non-profit.
1. Survey is too long. 2. Innovation is critical for U.S. companies to thrive in global,
low-cost, highly competitive B-B business.
Key to success: "Hire people smarter than you and work for them." This survey
needs to go into your trash as we are not the norm. That is why I haven't filled it out
so far. I need to hop into a loader and get to work! Happy New Year.
It was hard to answer some questions since I am a veterinarian and this is a
veterinary clinic.
The biggest issues of this business are Obama Care and government regulations. The
second is offshore or Mexican competition. Major customers (corporations) tend to
look at component costs rather than delivered product cost to make decisions on
purchasing. Government has provided incentives for corporations to go offshore
and to Mexico for our products making us non-competitive.
In Newport, Oregon; we used to have our branch located in South Beach. We
recently moved into Newport to be on the Newport side of the bridge, to be out of
the tsunami area, and to have access to faster, more reliable broadband service.
Thanks for the $2.00 bill. Government has no place in private enterprise.
1) Tell people to work their ass off every day. 2) Treat customers like your best
friend. 3) Service people like there is no tomorrow. 4) Don't lie or cheat anyone. 5)
Hire the best employees you can and keep them.
Need more people trained in welding, bating and manufacturing skills; skilled labor.
The lack of high speed internet is severely hurting my business. Banks are also not
lending to small businesses in this area.
As long as the government continues to have so many assistance programs it will be
hard for businesses to find good labor willing to work.
This survey may not apply to a law firm, but somewhat.
None.
Without a way to get money, at reasonable interest rate, there will be very slow
growth, or none.
Seasonal company only operates September-November and quarters.
None.
I have worked in this business for 40 years. I sold a similar business in 2010 after
owning it (partner or sole proprietor) for 36 years. This business was established and
operates on the same model.
Small business right now is carrying the load for America. King Obama and his
cohorts have no business experience and continue to load up small business with
more financial burdens. Everything from Obama Care to extended unemployment to
trying to raise minimum wage makes it harder and harder to stay afloat. Unless
there is a turnaround in the next election small business will be a category to avoid
when making career decisions.
29

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
52340 Mail

Q52

52537 Mail

Q52

52586 Mail

Q52

52643 Mail

Q52

53185 Mail

Q52

54002 Mail

Q52

54265 Mail

Q52

69999 Mail

Q52

Another waste of time and money!
Some wages are kept low in order to qualify for Insure Oklahoma. We get a
significant rebate on health insurance premiums if employees stay under a certain
income. We don't know how Obama-Care will play out in this, but we are good for
another year, hopefully. We recycle all possible waste: cardboard, glass, aluminum,
and take other packaging materials and re-use for shipping (from other businesses).
We are currently researching several innovations to improve our operations in order
to be more efficient and profitable for the future of our business. We are looking at
various aspects of our manufacturing process and will be a 12-60 month process.
We are hopeful for a strong company going forward. I also chose to use this paper
form in hopes to keep a tree farmer in business, because it indirectly affects our
business. I also hope to keep our postal workers employed.
The constant harassment of small business by state and federal agencies making it
more difficult to manage. The changing of rules and regulations by government
(especially Department of Transportation) that I feel are not cost effective and unfair
to some business and industry. These regulations tend to slow down innovation.
We are in a rural area that has changed significantly in the past few years. Our
business vitality is compromised by those changes.
The number one impediment to doing business is the Federal Government. One
time individuals who might be interested in working are hooked on unemployment
benefits, food stamps, massive fraudulent Social Security Disability payments, state
paid health benefits to what degree healthy individuals who could work and don't is
immense. When they do work it is for cash, so that they can hide behind their
government benefits. For those of us who choose to work, we are now paying
higher taxes, supporting those who don't. We also fund government agencies such
as OSHS, DOT, EPA and others, that instead of helping and aiding the business
community, have become a barrier to growth.
Our innovation would most likely to use our experience, gained over time and
application of our skills, to offer more and more professional accounting or business
services to West Texas.
We provide transportation services to individuals and occasionally groups such as
weddings, rafting parties, etc. Many of the people we transport have a medical
issue. Our biggest problem is locating good vehicles at a price that is affordable or
economically viable and the lack of labor we can afford to hire.

10116

Phone

Q03

Make point of purchase displays

10719

Phone

Q03

Machine job and welding, and manufacturing and fabrication.

10797

Phone

Q03

Cattle Feed

11181

Phone

Q03

Aerospace and electronics

11291

Phone

Q03

Legal services

11657

Phone

Q03

Title insurance

11744

Phone

Q03

Ball bearing manufacturing

12318

Phone

Q03

Customize t-shirts and other clothing

12523

Phone

Q03

Trucking

12542

Phone

Q03

Horse livestock and industrial trailers.

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Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
12615

Phone

Q03

Advertising

12807

Phone

Q03

Wholesale gasoline and diesel.

12839

Phone

Q03

Photo Engraving Plates

13507

Phone

Q03

Were a metal fabrication company

14024

Phone

Q03

Gasoline and diesel terminal

14049

Phone

Q03

Industrialized lubricants

14138

Phone

Q03

Entertainment and Arts venue

14282

Phone

Q03

We supply labor to the maritime industry.

14980

Phone

Q03

Motor coach

20085

Phone

Q03

Developmental Disability Service Provider

20130

Phone

Q03

Liquid Asphalt and Emotions

20193

Phone

Q03

Bronze memorials for cemeteries

20251

Phone

Q03

Manufacture polyethylene pipe

20311

Phone

Q03

Dairy farm supplies

20414

Phone

Q03

Full service animal hospital

20447

Phone

Q03

Rabbit equipment

20500

Phone

Q03

We manufacturing and constructing cooling towers.

20708

Phone

Q03

turkey processor

20761

Phone

Q03

Food ingredients

20768

Phone

Q03

Auto Parts

20812

Phone

Q03

Sawmill

20875

Phone

Q03

Supplying packaging equipment

20979

Phone

Q03

Country Grain Elevator

21086

Phone

Q03

Manufacture gypsum drywall board.

21191

Phone

Q03

We make valves for the aircraft and medical industries.

21195

Phone

Q03

We're a metal working job shop.

21256

Phone

Q03

Dead Stock Removal Service from livestock farms.

21317

Phone

Q03

Injection molding

21466

Phone

Q03

Chemicals

21522

Phone

Q03

Ready-mix concrete.

21580

Phone

Q03

tool and die

21831

Phone

Q03

Nuclear instruments

21858

Phone

Q03

Make containers for the produce industry

21888

Phone

Q03

Fiberglass commercial utility products

21909

Phone

Q03

Battery Distributer

22012

Phone

Q03

Accounting

22091

Phone

Q03

Grain processor and flour mill

22127

Phone

Q03

Manufacture business forms

22219

Phone

Q03

We primarily provide service for ranches.

22268

Phone

Q03

We rebuild ware parts for the industry.

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Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
22398

Phone

Q03

Manufacturing

22429

Phone

Q03

Agricultural services

22476

Phone

Q03

Lumber

22513

Phone

Q03

Transportation services

22518

Phone

Q03

Machined parts for customer preference

22703

Phone

Q03

Immigration attorneys

22761

Phone

Q03

We're manufacturers of underground pipeline fittings

22881

Phone

Q03

manufacture homes

22994

Phone

Q03

Animal health products

23145

Phone

Q03

Milk

23282

Phone

Q03

We build boats.

23300

Phone

Q03

Oil and gas well servicing

23311

Phone

Q03

Grain and agronomy facticity

23774

Phone

Q03

Metal stamping and welded assemblies.

23807

Phone

Q03

Fuel

23822

Phone

Q03

Transportation

23917

Phone

Q03

Engineering services and geology

24091

Phone

Q03

Machine shop

24114

Phone

Q03

Television production company.

24355

Phone

Q03

We export fresh fruit overseas

24563

Phone

Q03

Engineering and modular chemical plant construction

24596

Phone

Q03

A newspaper

24658

Phone

Q03

Museum gallery and hands on education programs.

24726

Phone

Q03

Frozen Seafood.

24789

Phone

Q03

Delivering irrigation water to farmers and municipalities

25044

Phone

Q03

25107

Phone

Q03

Dump truck service, spread agricultural lime
We are seating company. We make seats for Pontoons, we do industrial,
marine golf and recreational vehicles. OEM seating and aftermarket
seating. etc.

25157

Phone

Q03

Historic preservation, education

30310

Phone

Q03

Air and Space Museum

30834

Phone

Q03

auto sales and service

30953

Phone

Q03

Petroleum equipment accessories

31721

Phone

Q03

Manufacturing

32196

Phone

Q03

farm equipment

32681

Phone

Q03

Laminated wood products.

32992

Phone

Q03

coat wire products with plastic

33090

Phone

Q03

Show production

33133

Phone

Q03

A broadcast entity

33543

Phone

Q03

We mill flour.

32

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
33717

Phone

Q03

Print Advertising

34572

Phone

Q03

We are a grain elevator.

34642

Phone

Q03

legal

34790

Phone

Q03

34886

Phone

Q03

Piping and manufacturing equipment and fabrication
We haul different kinds of products in a belt trailer. Farm products,
fertilizer, material.

34990

Phone

Q03

Oil industry

40279

Phone

Q03

Industrial coating

40400

Phone

Q03

Utility poles

40590

Phone

Q03

Recker, towing and use automotive parts

40606

Phone

Q03

We are a manufacturer of architectural wood products.

40749

Phone

Q03

pet food

40770

Phone

Q03

Professional video products.

40838

Phone

Q03

Manufacturing of Service beds

41131

Phone

Q03

Kitchen Cabinets

41218

Phone

Q03

Milk Processing

41921

Phone

Q03

Art Museum

42021

Phone

Q03

Timber investment management

42433

Phone

Q03

Painting at remote sites.

43251

Phone

Q03

Manufacturing

43754

Phone

Q03

43794

Phone

Q03

Manufacturing custom commercial cabinetry.
We manufacture materials that go on running tracks on fields or baseball
fields.

44122

Phone

Q03

Sell and repair forklifts for distribution centers.

44141

Phone

Q03

Advertising

44289

Phone

Q03

Steele fabrication and welding and wholesale distribution division

44359

Phone

Q03

we process fish

44472

Phone

Q03

Food

44819

Phone

Q03

Heavy weight conveyor belt

44871

Phone

Q03

current carrying wire

45117

Phone

Q03

Refurbish Power Plants

50062

Phone

Q03

Brass and aluminum casting.

50478

Phone

Q03

Legal services

51155

Phone

Q03

51158

Phone

Q03

Job shop/ machine shop
Education and history. We have an art gallery as well and we also do
genealogy research.

51188

Phone

Q03

free community paper

51235

Phone

Q03

Signs

51376

Phone

Q03

Smoke Sausage

51520

Phone

Q03

Distributor

51865

Phone

Q03

Dehydrate alfalfa

33

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
52147

Phone

Q03

building material business supplier

52196

Phone

Q03

Almond processer

52218

Phone

Q03

groceries

52385

Phone

Q03

Accounting services.

52586

Phone

Q03

Lumber

52630

Phone

Q03

Manufacturing automotive products.

52646

Phone

Q03

Steel fabrication

52758

Phone

Q03

Sell and service industrial compressed air and vacuum products

52856

Phone

Q03

Sculpture

52959

Phone

Q03

Sawmills, stone burr mills, and hammer mills.

53045

Phone

Q03

We manufacture a protective packaging called Paper Honeycomb.

53072

Phone

Q03

Baker's Yeast

53204

Phone

Q03

Printed material

53362

Phone

Q03

Entry doors and windows

53583

Phone

Q03

Bakery

53691

Phone

Q03

53697

Phone

Q03

Advertising agency.
Manufacture large scale music boxes and the restoration of antique music
boxes

53862

Phone

Q03

Oil and gas fishing.

53970

Phone

Q03

Litho Laminated Graphic Packaging

53984

Phone

Q03

Log homes

54015

Phone

Q03

Wholesale, Retail and USDA inspected cattle for custom operations.

54137

Phone

Q03

Absorbent pads for retail

54261

Phone

Q03

Architecture

54470

Phone

Q03

Veal calf feed

54498

Phone

Q03

dump truck bodies

54663

Phone

Q03

Huckleberry Jams and Jellies

54707

Phone

Q03

Museum towards works of art.

55138

Phone

Q03

10116

Phone

Q29A

10797

Phone

Q29A

consulting
Don't have a lot of change in the industry, other than improving
technology
Fairly stable business. If you would have went back 5 or 6 years there
would have been changes. There has been a shift from feed lot beef to
dairy.

20447

Phone

Q29A

21256

Phone

Q29A

I wouldn't say they are not possible, There is no need for it yet.
They're not necessary. From 1910 to today, you do the same thing. If a
farmer's got a dead animal, you pick it up.

21317

Phone

Q29A

Upper management doesn't see the value.

21522

Phone

Q29A

The industry doesn't change.

21909

Phone

Q29A

Because we are doing well enough as it is.

22127

Phone

Q29A

Were at a very mature market and there aren't a lot of improvements

34

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
22994

Phone

Q29A

23282

Phone

Q29A

23300

Phone

Q29A

23822

Phone

Q29A

40606

Phone

Q29A

Not necessary
because we are we are pretty much up to date already with the bus that
we do
We haven't had a lot of business lately because of the recession in the
building industry and we haven't been able to afford to make any
improvements or get any advice on improvements.

43251

Phone

Q29A

This business downsized incredibly last spring

43794

Phone

Q29A

The economy is bad.

44359

Phone

Q29A

45117

Phone

Q29A

51235

Phone

Q29A

we have a stable customer base
Because of the refurbishing. You have to restore to the original so it's not
really improving anything, it’s a restoration.
What we do hasn't really changed, we are doing the same job we have
always done.

53204

Phone

Q29A

There hasn't been a need.

20130

Phone

Q48

Worker

20500

Phone

Q48

Not technically a manager

22476

Phone

Q48

Owner

23311

Phone

Q48

Location administrator

33543

Phone

Q48

Administrative assistant and customer service.

43251

Phone

Q48

Low-level

55138

Phone

Q48

12318

Phone

THX

20085

Phone

THX

20761

Phone

THX

Administrator
Internet driven software that sale products on, customers order products
on computer at business or at personal home
A lot of what you ask seemed to deal with production or those types of
businesses and we are a service company. A lot of the questions seemed
to go towards product so a lot of the questions didn't really apply.
The whole survey is not applicable. I'm sorry the USDA is wasting time on
a wholesale distributor like us. It just does not seem logical.

21858

Phone

THX

22476

Phone

THX

24114

Phone

THX

24563

Phone

THX

24596

Phone

THX

Make the survey shorter.
I am disappointed that there was not any questions on the effect of
government mandates and legislation on our business. They have had a
severe effect. This is only getting worse.
We had looked into getting assistance. Unless you're a woman or a
minority it's not happening. If you're a basic average white guy you're
getting screwed and you better not even try. We believe that private
business should be private and government should keep out. The
administration now doesn't understand anything about business.

Q03
Q03

Center pivot sales and service for agriculture
museum of Maine Native American culture and history

10007 Web
10054 Web

What we do is well-established processes.
Our volume is so low that we do not have any available cash to do
improvements.

I hope that someone gets something good out of it. MCP 11-21
If the federal government would get out of everyone's business, that would
help everyone's business.

35

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
10120 Web

Q03

10186 Web
10215 Web

Q03
Q03

10285
10354
10372
10484
10615
10696

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Re-manufacture of truck and tractor parts
Landscaping, General Lawn Maintenance, Brick Paving, Things that one would want
to make the exterior of their residence look more appealing.
Abrasive cutoff wheels supplied to the metals industry primarily steel
Recovering rubber & urethane covered rollers used in industry, printing, paper,
metal industry, etc.
Environmental & Archaeological consulting
Woodwork
Oil and Gas Development and Production
Deposit & Loan Products
custom molded rubber products

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Three discipline firm:
Civil Engineering
Architecture
Land Surveying
Hospitality
Custom Spraying
We manufacturing copper building electrical wire
Contract Chemical Manufacture
Automotive Parts Manufacturing
Lumber: Boards Dimension, Shop and Timbers
Electrical distribution

10773
10776
10848
10876
10913
10936
10986
11003

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Book manufacturing services.
11049
11101
11122
11159
11181
11198
11266

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

11384 Web

Q03

11394
11403
11410
11479
11487

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Printing and binding of softcover books.
Hauling freight to western 11 states.
AMBULATORY HEALTHCARE
Financial
Aerospace engineered products and manufacturing
READY MIX CONCRETE PRODUCER
Hydraulic Cylinders
Maritime Museum--preservation and celebration of maritime history; creation and
display of entertaining and educational exhibits; preservation of historic information
and artifacts; conduct and management of educational programs and events.
Manufacture and repair of industrial machinery including removal and reinstallation.
Welding fabrication, machining, design.
Manufacture of labels
Own and operated a public use airport KHNB.
Excavation services
steel

36

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments

11510
11521
11622
11705
11717
11790
11804
11848
11854
11870

Veterinary services including acupuncture, surgery, general medicine, etc., for large
and small animals.
Dimensional Limestone Block and finished Product
Warning lights and sirens. integrated warning systems
Precast Concrete, Concrete Accessories
floral distribution
manufacture concrete landscaping products
Gaming manufacturing, poker chips, dice, playing cards, tables, etc.
steel fabrication
Poultry
Fabrication of structural and miscellaneous steel
wholesale distributor of hvac equipment, parts, and accessories and industrial
supplies and sheet metal fabrication for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
Corrugated Packaging
Fuel Ethanol, Corn Oil, Cattle Feed

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

11908 Web
11944 Web
11948 Web

Q03
Q03
Q03

11967
12054
12068
12078
12096
12149

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

12180 Web
12204 Web
12220 Web

Q03
Q03
Q03

Steel fabrication
Material handling racks
Manufacturing Scrap Processing Equipment
Food & Beverages, including Distilled Spirits
manufacturing home heating products
Financial Services
Highway/Heavy Construction/ Material Supplier - Asphalt and Aggregates
Grain Handling equipment; Bucket Elevators, Drag & Screw Conveyors, Catwalks &
Towers. Dust Collection & Filtration Systems; Fans, Airlocks, Cyclones, Bughouse
Filters, Blow Pipe and Fittings
Further Processed Poultry Products
Historic Real Estate Development

12247
12288
12346
12403
12413
12458
12564
12579
12648
12684
12755
12850
13040

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Telescopic stadium and gym bleachers
stadium and event seating
Commercial and quick printing
Southern Yellow Pine Dimension Lumber Production
Custom Farming
PVC pipe manufacture
Aircraft Maintenance
Manufacturing Baked and Fried Potato Chips
Manufacturing
Automotive stampings
Retail sales of auto fuels and convenience store operations
Architecture Design & Planning
We publish a monthly newspaper covering the antiques and art marketplace.
Manufacturer of Electro-mechanical test equipment for semiconductors

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

37

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
13043
13061
13074
13199
13243
13247
13274
13290
13298
13327
13337
13347
13371
13381
13410
13416

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

13428 Web

Q03

13494 Web

Q03

13565
13625
13641
13669
13690
13711
13741
13758
13765
13877
13960
13965

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

13971
14055
14064
14125

Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Home health care and home hospice care
Residence and Farm Insurance
hardware retail
Discount clothing.
Sheet metal fabrication
Manufacture of wood and gas heating units
Commercial Printing
Member education and advocacy.
Agricultural seed, fertilizer, chemical, and crop insurance sales
Handheld Test & Measurement devices for fiber optic systems
pneumatic valves
Calcium Chloride Products including Peladow*, Dowflake*, and Liquidow*
Producing live theatre, not-for-profit
Printing of Bags & Tray liners
Disability Services
Veterinary services & products
We manufacture and distribute wheels and tires used in off the road applications
such as tractors, ATV's etc.
Industrial bulk filtration products for aviation fuel, diesel fuel, and insulating oil used
in electric utility.
we supply products to livestock producers, gardeners, landscapers, hobby farmers,
and most types of ag related needs, except large row crop farmers.
ready mix concrete
educational products for k12
Toll Processor of flat rolled metals
Ceramic Capacitors
Polyurethane Chemical Grouts, Epoxy Resins
Refractories manufacture
Manufacture tooling and dies for other manufactures. (Bevel gear forge dies)
Oatmeal
Industrial valves
welding and repair
Law firm
IT related Consulting, Training, Testing Center, Development, Hosting, Vendor
Management, and more.
Manufacture of Windrow Compost Turners
We are a 501(c)(3) that deals with adults with mental and physical challenges
Paint manufacturing

38

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments

14177
14230
14304
14317
14377
14404
14443
14478
14524

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

14561
14591
14610
14620
14633
14652
14658
14695

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

14741
14783
14806
14906
14976
14993
15035
15094
15147

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

15171 Web

Q03

15198
20020
20076
20090
20106

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Certified Public Accounting firm
Tax return preparation
Financial statement preparation
Audits
Small business services
Etc.
John Deere Equ
Fertilizer and farm supplies
Crushed granite stone
Ready Mix Concrete manufacturing and delivery
A&E Consulting Services
Financial services, banking, commercial and residential lending.
Manufacturing of Prestressed Concrete Strand (a 7-wire steel cable)
Wine
1040 Tax Preparation for overseas Americans & Payroll Processing for Geographically
disbursed organizations
Welded pipe for oil and gas industries.
IT MSP
Creative and strategy agency
Ammunition Manufacturing
Laboratory furniture and fume hoods
SHEET METAL FABRICATION
Title Insurance, escrow collection,1031 facilitator, real estate investments
Business office for our Regions Distribution Centers who engage in wholesale
distribution of Tractor Implement Repair Parts.
Hay Farm & Trucking
Caramels
Newspaper publication and printing
Outdoor Advertising
Moving & storing of used household goods
Custom manufacturing wire cloth filtration
Automatic washing machines
Manufacturing Amusement rides
WINDOW PARTS
WOOD MOULDINGS
Manufacturing automotive suspension systems- Metal stamping, welding and
assembly
Manufacturing of instruments used in the gas and petrochemical industries.
High Sensitive Labels
Machine shop services
grain elevator
39

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
20220 Web

Q03

20234
20243
20267
20366
20382
20493
20507

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

20513
20516
20530
20539
20610

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

20615
20631
20708
20711
20736
20756
20778
20840
20871
20888
20893
20899
20913
20918
21067

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

MANUFACTURE ATTACHMENTS FOR HEAVY EQUIPMENT
Anderson Columbia Co., Inc. a multi-dimensional company with a diversity of
operations, including:
• Highway and road construction
• Bridge, pier and wharf construction
• Paving operations
• Industrial and commercial site development
• Airport construction
• Landfill construction
• Forestry production and products
• Material mining and processing
veterinary services - large and small animal
conveyor components
Manufacturing of metal enclosures that house power distribution equipment.
freeze dried foods and spices
Finished cattle for market.
Dental equipment supplies and services
Bent River Machine designs and builds custom factory automation and tooling for
manufacturing companies. We also do OEM Manufacturing and Tooling to print
fabrication. We design in Solid Models, fabricate, and integrate tooling and
machines.
Manufacturing B2B; Food Processing Equipment
Livestock feed manufacturing
Manufacturer and retailer of window fashions
Wholesale electric sign manifesting
Truck equipment, stainless steel hog feeders, stainless steel tender boxes and tire
recycling equipment
wire rope
RTE and Raw poultry products
Underground coal mining equipment
Carbon Black
social services
animal feed
Inorganic chemical production
Brochure distribution service for the tourism and travel industry.
Marine Transportation
Non-profit Visual and Performing Arts Center
mfg of mixers and pump for grouting
Child Day Care services
Processed Missouri Fire Clay
we manufacture and sell ready mix concrete
40

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
21132 Web
21226 Web

Q03
Q03

Breads, Cakes, Cookies, Sweets
Commercial Bank

21271
21284
21363
21395
21543
21584

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Steam Flakes corn
Commodity Sales
Truck broker
Digital Printing
Molds, Dies, Special Machines and Parts
Petroleum Products (gasoline, Diesel Fuel)
Decorated Apparel, Promotional Products, Corporate Fulfillment, E-Commerce

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

21594
21645
21675
21689
21725
21729
21755

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

21779
21872
21876
21949
21966
21983
22015
22039
22054
22135
22222
22250
22338
22361
22368
22405
22446
22463
22491

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Precast Concrete for highway construction
1) Concrete Noise Walls
2) Concrete Safety Barrier
3) Concrete Retaining Walls
Solid wood moldings and solid wood components
Banking
Manufacturing of Homes
ready mix concrete
Veterinary Services, products and supplies.
Legal Services
Corporate headquarters of a waste to biofuels development company. Executive
management, administration, accounting, finance and business development
functions are located at this business location.
distribute animal health products
Transportation Coordination
We sell franchises. We do not own any company stores.
Services of Cable Television, Telephone, Long Distance and Internet
Injection molding. Thermoforming
semiconductor wafer handling equipment
Newspaper and Commercial Printing
brick
Insurance
Machining
Consulting services for Department of Defense.
Radio Equipment Manufacturing
dairy distributor
Returnable racking
Extrusion machinery
Printed tape and labels
Riding Lawn Equipment and Utility Vehicles
financial svcs
41

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
22547
22552
22562
22590
22647
22657
22710
22722
22789
22798

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

22905
22949
23017
23020
23080
23098
23151
23163
23172
23235
23327
23334
23478
23520
23536
23605
23616
23619
23658
23665
23684

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

23693
23700
23703
23718
23725
23759

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

timeshare resort
Manufacture parts from wire
LEGAL SERVICES
public accounting including income tax preparation and bookkeeping
FINANCIAL INSTITUTION
Entertainment venue for live plays and current films
Commercial grains, wheat, corn, and soybeans
student transportation
Personal Insurance, Auto Home Life
Growers and Processors of Bagged Forage Feeds and Garden Mulch
DESIGN AND MANUFACTURE OF HIGH TEMPERATURE & VACUUM-CONTROLLED
FURNACES FOR R&D AND PRODUCTION.
Frozen French Fries
Custom Plastic Injection Molding
Tax, Audit, Small Business Consulting, Accounting
Passenger/Auto/Freight Ferry Service to Lake Erie Islands
Appliance handles
Custom Plastic Injection Molded parts
Veterinary medicine and surgery (small animal)
Insulated Wood Building Components
Manufacturer of custom wire and cable
Cellular Telecommunications
Custom office furniture and retail store fixtures
Aerospace Components
window and door sales to homeowners and homebuilders and remodelers
Frozen potato products
Farming
Tire manufacturing and sales
Reproductive Health Care
Electronic Connectors
Lumber
Musical Components
This is Frank Lloyd Wright's only realized skyscraper. We have an art gallery, a
permanent Frank Lloyd Wright furniture gallery, guided tours of the 3 historic floors
and art exhibitions.
Systems Engineering services
Wine
SHREDDED SCRAP
Law firm
Banking
42

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
23849
23884
23910
24006

Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

24012
24021
24025
24042
24054
24066
24120

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

24133
24136
24146
24165
24208
24242

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

24296
24324
24328
24399
24451
24459
24507
24525

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

24528
24539
24626
24635
24655
24666

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Metal Doors & Frames for commercial construction
Ag. products
ready mixed concrete
Coated Paper
This is an Agricultural supply business. There is a hardware store, a seed cleaning
plant, a large scale agricultural fertilizer blending plant to sell to customers. We have
grain and feed storage bins for rent to the community. We also sell lumber and
livestock feed and have an auto shop with a full time mechanic.
Sheet metal parts
aerospace machine shop
Extruded aluminum
Customized t shirts
fiberglass products
Manufacturing of wind turbine blades for the utility industry
Printed material (business cards, forms, booklets, letterhead, envelopes, etc.) and
bulk mailing services
Savory Food Flavoring
Structural and Miscellaneous Steel Fabrication and installation
Construction equipment, OTR trucks, parts and service.
nonprofit - mental health - family and child organization
Outsourcing, lab supplies, Rehab center for disabled adults
Community based services for mental health, substance abuse and intellectual
disability needs.
custom canning sport caught fish, retail sales of fresh, smoked and canned fish
Window coverings
Rubber & Plastic Component distribution and Assembly
structural clay products
manufacture industrial abrasive machinery
Large fabricated steel products for energy projects
ACCOUNTING AND TAX PREPARATION SERVICES
Mechanical components and systems including stampings, fabricated sheet metal,
plastic injection molding, precision metalworking, and rapid prototyping
Long haul trucking of perishable goods.
Surface Mining with product sold to Power facility attached to the mine.
Editing/Post Production
dairy products
Drink mix powders

24683 Web
24694 Web
24704 Web

Q03
Q03
Q03

Tools for the fastener industry. Punches, Dies, Inserts,& non-wear for:
Hot Formers, Cold Formers, Nut Formers
automotive metal stamping
wine
43

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
24714
24744
24748
24804

Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

24852
24871
24931
24950
24954
25001
25014
25103
25119
25131
25136
25147
25172
30019
30030
30033
30037
30060
30141
30153
30188
30198
30208
30282
30292
30297
30304

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

30310
30341
30364
30398
30436
30450
30456

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Grapes and wine
Envelope manufacturing
Design and manufacture of rubber molded products
manufactures Rep
Web design for the agricultural industry, farm news on the Internet for producers &
industry.
Fabricated metal products for the material handling industry
Manufacture of display cases
Water treatment chemicals and services
citrus grove management and caretaking service
bookkeeping and tax preparation
beef cattle
Structural Steel Fabrication
Manufacturing of Interior and Exterior wood doors.
Publishing, advertising, creative services
CNC Machining Services
Manufactured animal feed
R&D for production of industrial enzymes
custom precast concrete
Supplier of engine and transmission core to rebuilders
printing & mailing services
This is the corporate headquarters of our company
Veterinary products
Plastic and metal parts
computer networking
Metal Buildings Manufacturer.
Window & floor covering sales.
Building products manufacturer
Engineering, manufacturing and testing of ordnance products
Trade Association for Newspaper industry in Arkansas.
graphite fishing rods
Radio broadcasting
air & space museum - preservation and interpretation of artifacts and story of
development of flight and space exploration
History tours, educational field trips and museum
Metal Roofing, Siding and metal processing.
Ready Mixed Concrete
Chemicals
Support for national veterinary practice.
legal services
44

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
30464
30481
30514
30538
30542
30555

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

30586 Web

Q03

30591
30601
30607
30648
30687
30700
30728
30855
30889
31017
31024
31058
31091

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

31188
31227
31319
31371
31407
31428
31443
31535
31600
31611

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

31627 Web
31637 Web

Q03
Q03

31643 Web
31647 Web

Q03
Q03

Jewelry design and sales
Alumina Oxides
Marine Design- Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering
wood chips
Sound Recording and Post production for video and audio
Leather and textile products
Manufacturing of box liner paper from recycled cardboard/paper products as well as
the acquisition of the recycled materials from commercial business and private
individuals.
Building Industry Products
Our core product line specializes in accessories for the concrete construction
industry.
Energy Services
Commercial lithographic Printing
Architectural Services
Attorneys at Law
Steam and Water Boilers
Airplane Cabin Interior Parts
Private mixed-animal veterinary practice
Supply and service vending machines.
We are a printing company
Newspaper Publishing and Printing
Concrete products
Gasoline and Diesel
certified public accountant services for income tax preparation, monthly accounting,
payroll, financial statement, financial planning, etc.
Commercial printing
The production of beaded novelty ice cream products.
This is a law office which provides legal services.
Manufacture potato handling equipment.
Crushed Limestone, and bituminous concrete
BOAT TRAILER MANUFACTURER
Environmental Consulting
MANUFACTURING ALUMINUM MOLDS FOR PLASTIC ROTATIONAL MOLDING
Livestock and utility trailer manufacturing. Repair and parts sales and service.
General ranch and farm supplies and services including fuel, hardware, propane,
tires, c-store etc.
Grain marketing and agricultural supply
Non-profit organization offering hands-on learning exhibits and programs operating
a children's museum.
Broaching machines and broach cutting tools
45

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments

31659
31684
31689
31702
31706
31736
31752
31808
31820

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

31824 Web
31861 Web
31877 Web

Q03
Q03
Q03

31892
31974
31984
32002
32036
32040

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

32053
32060
32097
32100
32117

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

32122 Web
32145 Web

Q03
Q03

32155 Web
32160 Web
32168 Web

Q03
Q03
Q03

32177 Web
32200 Web
32206 Web

Q03
Q03
Q03

32301 Web
32314 Web

Q03
Q03

carbon/carbon composites; carbon based high temperature insulation; advanced
high temperature materials; testing; industrial fabrics
Full Service Bank
Banking/Financial Services
Apparel Manufacturing
Movies
Plastic Pipe
CONSTRUCTION AND FORESTRY EQUIPMENT
MANUFACTURER OF ALUMINUM WINDOWS
Books. We are a publisher.
Grain Storage, Wholesale Gasoline and Diesel, Crop Production products and
services
Retail supplies: date coding, price marking, tagging, shopping carts...etc.
READY MIX CONCRETE, AND AGGREGATES
Geoprofessional consulting services consisting of applied earth science, engineering
and technology.
Commercial Printer
Gray iron castings
Agricultural Equipment
Dental Restorations. We are a full service dental lab.
Custom Plastic Injection molding and Mold making.
Design and manufacture of post and beam material packages for primarily houses,
additions and some commercial projects.
Promotional products
Custom Packaging
process cattle hides
Medical Software develop and service and support
We manufacture heat exchangers, an energy recovery component for the HVAC
industry.
food ingredient manufacturing
We develop and manufacture inkjet (thermal and piezo) print engines for printing
businesses. Desktop, Enterprise, and Graphics.
Machined Parts and assembly
Award Ribbons, medals, rosettes.
OEM Hydraulic components
Medium to Heavy Steel Fabrications
We fabricate Indiana Limestone
Daily newspaper
We are a job shop. We make custom gears and shafts and whatever anyone can
think of to be made.
Computer Consulting
46

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
32329 Web

Q03

32338
32346
32350
32411
32430
32437
32489
32506
32526
32603
32610
32627
32649
32670
32707

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

32775
32783
32787
32793
32804
32863
32868

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

32889
32912
32916
32929
32958
32963

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

32975 Web
32987 Web
32995 Web

Q03
Q03
Q03

33007 Web
33053 Web
33070 Web

Q03
Q03
Q03

Training in ethical decision making, educational materials, and research.
In Home Care
Behavioral Health Rehabilitation Services
Geosciences and Engineering
Manufacturing aluminum grain boxes and aluminum flatbeds
trucking
Wood treating.
Precision machined parts for the medical, aerospace and commercial industries
Re-sale of auto and truck parts.
Metal fabrications: industrial pins and pointed wire products.
Manufacture of Electrically heated bedding and box fans
PAPER PRODUCTS AND POOL CHEMICALS
Production of crude oil
Landscape Materials, Block, Paving Stones
Law firm
Mfg. precision optical components
Manufacturer of custom rubber and plastic products for seals and gasket needs.
Work holding devices for CNC machining primarily in the Automotive sector with
particular emphasis on aluminum wheel production
Human services to persons with disabilities and elderly
providing veterinary service and sales
store fixtures for retailers
Hauling oil field equipment; supplying rental items to oil service industries
Family and Business based immigration law.
non-profit corporation providing social services
We recycle refractory materials, bricks, ceramics, for reuse in a variety of business
operations.
gas handling equipment and gas for semiconductor applications
Building materials sales and distribution
Beverage (mainly Coca Cola products) and Ice cream
school notebooks
FEED & FARM SUPPLIES
Media Productions -- websites, interactive multimedia presentations, video
productions, on-line training and education programs, 3D animations and mobile
apps
Disposable Cannulae used in Cardiac Surgery
Industrial Electrical Connector Mfr
Industrial aluminum ladders, platforms, and waterfront equipment (docks,
gangways, stairways etc.)
Crushed limestone aggregates
Precision CNC machined ferrous and nonferrous parts
47

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
33104
33115
33138
33180

Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

33190 Web

Q03

33201 Web
33208 Web
33225 Web

Q03
Q03
Q03

33232
33239
33242
33245
33307
33317
33320
33327
33337

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

33351
33355
33372
33379
33388
33413

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

33477
33518
33539
33543
33567
33580
33606
33640
33657

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Architecture design services
Commercial Printing, Graphic Design, Wide Format Printing
manufacturing military and industrial actuators
Trucking produce
Auxiliary power components for mobile equipment including Power Take-Offs,
hydraulic pumps, motors, cylinders, valves and reservoirs.
Our company is responsible for several business lines. Professional Services Division
provides staffing, logistics, Private Security Detail, IT and Telecommunication
Support, Facilities Support, Low Voltage which includes the sale, maintenance &
repair of Access Control, CCTV and Nurse Call. Our company also operates a
Restaurant and Country Club, Shopping Mall and Travel Plaza's
polyethylene film for packaging
Publishing print magazines and Web material
Manufacture detergents, cleaners, sanitizers, disinfectants for the food and
beverage industry
Conveying & Processing Systems
Manufacturing of Oilfield and Utility Safety Anchors
Frozen vegetables
Administration
Contract Manufacturing
Hard Chrome Plating and Hydraulic Repair and Manufacturing
Farm equipment
Telecommunications Service
Mental health treatment- Day treatment, outpatient services, emergency services,
and transportation.
gear for rafting, kayaking and canoeing etc.
Mining, washing, sorting and selling sand and gravel products
Steel Manufacturing
Grain Elevator/Livestock feed sales
copper and brass tubing
The plant operation prints and manufacture flexible packaging for four markets,
food, consumer products, health & beauty and the military.
Refrigeration Control valves
Commercial Printing
flour mill
Wholesale of Alpaca Apparel and Alpaca Products.
Manufacture of protective clothing for industry.
Commercial Foodservice Equipment
exterior signs
Sales, service and repair of weighing equipment

48

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments

33688 Web

Q03

33763 Web
33777 Web
33784 Web

Q03
Q03
Q03

33790
33793
33816
33828
33831
33844
33848
33881
33929
33933
33947
33950
33974
33986

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

34012
34026
34037
34049
34116
34127
34149
34154
34161
34174
34206
34209
34265

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

34279
34298
34305
34330
34354

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Plastic extrusion components for windows, fences, siding and other building industry
products.
Quality Management Software for companies that need to comply to quality
standards for FDA, ISO, OSHA, USDA and other regulatory bodies
Ultra-high precision flow instrumentation and calibration systems.
Creative Full Service Media Agency
Tool and die
Plastic injection molding
Grocery
trucking
manufacturer of concrete pumps and shotcrete equipment
Manufacturer of cellulose insulation for homes and most business structures
Retention Knobs
Accounting Services
Traffic Control and Pavement Markings
Book Manufacturing /publication printing
Solenoids, coils and pilots
Production of canned pet food
sales
THE MANUFACTURE OF ELECTRICAL TRANSFORMERS
Restaurant and brewery
Aluminum Extrusions for Distribution, Truck Trailer, Rail Car, Automotive, and
Industrial customers
manufacturing billiard cues
ag equipment dealer
Lumber & Plywood Manufacturing
Laboratory products
Commercial and Residential grilles and Registers for the HVAC industry
Screen Printing, Promotional Products, and Graphic Design
trucking
manufacture of wood doors
Architecture and Interior Design Services
Fire trucks
Engineered Plumbing Products
Distribution of Electric Service
Manufacture capital equipment that is used in the Electronics Manufacturing
industry.
Screen printing & embroidery
Commercial Print
Tractor Mufflers
Material Handling Equipment
49

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
34367 Web

Q03

34403 Web
34436 Web

Q03
Q03

34461
34536
34543
34598
34620
34647

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

34653 Web
34658 Web
34717 Web

Q03
Q03
Q03

Custom Drawn and Stamped Metal Components
Early Childhood Education services:
6 weeks to 12 years of age: Childcare
Prenatal to 5 years of age: Early Intervention, Early Head Start, Healthy Families
America, Head Start, Pre-K Counts
We expand perlite in our 4 furnaces.
We manufacture lids and caps for pickup trucks, from fiberglass and aluminum. We
sell to dealers and we have a retail store that sells and installs these and
miscellaneous auto/truck accessories.
Beet sugar storage and distribution
Conveyor pulleys and rollers
Local and Long Distance Moving & Storage and Records management
Own and manage apartment buildings
Seed Corn Brokerage
Diversified wood products manufacturer. Hardwood and softwood plywood,
particleboard, decorative laminates, hardwood veneer and lumber. Imports,
trucking division, and forestlands.
Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul of Aircraft
Rubber bonded to metal, anti-vibration products for cars and trucks.

34735
34780
34839
34851
34893
34911

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Machined Parts
Manufactured Parts
Printing paper materials
Super calendar Paper production
STRUCTURAL AND MISC. STEEL FABRICATION
Technology
Veterinary services

34917 Web
34973 Web

Q03
Q03

34986
35001
35012
35015
35032
35049
35172
35178
35185
40101
40120

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Animal Health Supplements
(Nutritional and Nutraceuticals, Only Non pharmaceutical products)
Irrigation Equipment
Trade Only Print Mfg of labels, forms, plastics, and specialty coatings/labels and any
combination thereof.
Education - Head Start Agency
Manufacturer of pallet stock, cross ties for the railroad and lumber
specialty wood products
Wood Fence Pickets
Contract manufacturer of Powder Metal Parts.
Storage tanks
Computer service and repair.
Certified Public Accountants and Advisory Services
Further processing facility - protein products
machining
50

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
40147
40162
40177
40206
40224
40248
40265
40276
40283
40366
40393
40446
40479

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

40496 Web
40560 Web

Q03
Q03

40600
40622
40662
40666
40674
40734
40808
40815
40932
40984
40996
41003
41013
41086

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

41091
41119
41125
41222
41235
41248
41286

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Banking services
wire product for the HVAC and Appliance industry
Diabetes Education-Information-and Outreach Programs
Personalized stationery and wedding invitations
preliminary wind assessment services
Outdoor, Specification Grade, Site and Area Lighting Fixtures
Home fragrance products like candles, room sprays, reed diffusers, potpourri etc.
IT Staffing Services
Manufacture Metalized Film Capacitors
Manufacturing of aftermarket carpeted automotive floor mats
Manufacturing of industrial electric motors.
Commercial Bank
Promotional products
Communications Company, we offer land lines, internet, TV, Cell Phones, Security
Systems and Secure Care units.
Manufacture of hardwood plywood
Manufacturer of plastic injection molded, extruded plastic parts, chemical products
for the sporting goods industry.
Food packaging machines
Book Binding and Book Manufacturing
Manufacturer of polypropylene agricultural baling twine
Architectural Wood Molding and Custom Millwork
granite memorials
Hot dogs, Sausages, Chicken Wings, Chicken Tenders
Evaporated Salt production and packaging
Medical device- ultrasound needle guidance accessories
Beverages - non alcoholic
cold storage warehousing
ready mix concrete
Financial/Banking
Museum
Refurbishment of large aluminum wheels that hold silicon wafers for ion implant
machines (a step in the manufacturing of computer chips) in the semiconductor
industry. This service is performed for chip manufacturers worldwide to help
maintain this critical part of ion implant machines.
METAL FABRICATING
Manufacture modular buildings, walk-in coolers and walk-in freezers
Gluten Free/Allergen Free bakery
Boat marina, boat repair/sales
Records management/Information Management
Commercial Printer
51

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
41319
41334
41350
41394
41452
41470

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

41504
41536
41592
41605
41642
41740

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

41774 Web
41860 Web
41898 Web

Q03
Q03
Q03

41947
41952
41973
42088
42093
42110

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

42121
42144
42191
42213

Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

42243
42296
42309
42424
42443
42525
42590
42630
42686

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Food Production
Newspaper publisher
Stainless Steel products for commercial kitchen industry
Accounting services
Electronic Manufacturer of Industrial Optical Encoders
Custom precision machining of components, metal and plastic
Manufacture concrete drilling and doweling units - also produce items for Other
Equipment Manufacturers
Non metallic gaskets for OEM customers
Fiberglass pipe manufacturing
Financial Services (Banking)
hoses for residential construction, medical respirators, industrial ventilation
Frito-Lay snacks
US made manufacturing of outerwear, lawn bags, and other items. We also have
embroidery and screen print.
Symphonic and Chorale Concerts
Transportation of Goods
Task Lighting Form & Assembly
Extrusion of Plastic Parts
Stamping of Metal Components
Small animal veterinary medicine
WE are a distributor of Safety, Industrial, and janitorial products
Agriculture Equipment
Wine
Hot Forged Wheel Wrenches; Jack Tools; Hood Supports for the automotive industry
The site performs research and product testing as well as administrative back-office
support for corporate functions. It also houses sales & marketing.
Goods and services for the swine and poultry industries.
fiberglass boats 30-65' in length
Gear Boxes
This location is our corporate offices; no product are produced, nor are services sold
from this location, but I will try to answer on behalf of our whole company as this is
its nerve center.
Printing
Administration
Banking, insurance, investments, mortgages
direct mail
Drapery Manufacturer
Retail Grocery
Permanent mold aluminum casting and machining
Hyd. repair and Machine shop
52

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
42697
42768
42828
42890
42903

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

42931
42970
43004
43007

Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Manufacture blow molded containers from High Density Polyethylene
OSB
mfg hydraulic fittings
Non-profit Watershed Restoration
Fast Food
Design and manufacture of microelectronic solutions for implantable medical
devices
wooden pallet recycling
finishing services on printed products
Fabricated components and equipment for the food packaging/processing industry
Trout River Lumber L.L.C. is a SPIB Mill located in Central Virginia in Nottoway
County. We are producers of pattern stock in Southern Pine, New Heart and Longleaf
Heart pine utilizing properly dried and conditioned materials. TRL is a leader in the
Pre-Finished Flooring industry, and not only produces The Virginia Plantation
Collection, but is a primary producer for several leading flooring manufacturers. TRL
also produces a full line of products for the Treated industry and Industrial market.
We are pleased to offer custom milling, resawing, end-matching, ripping, cut to
length and packaging services. TRL is strategically located with access to major
interstates and is spurred to the main line of Norfolk Southern Railroad in Crewe,
Virginia.

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

43307 Web

Q03

This position enables us to service our local and national wholesale customer base in
a timely and cost effective manner.
We distribute our products through wholesale lumber distributors and flooring
distributors nationwide.
Pallets
Powdered metal bushings, bearings and structural parts.
Non-destructive testing
WAREHOUSING
Insurance
Corporate office
coal
Digital print output for creating graphics and signs for Museum exhibits, retail,
casino, corporate, and trade show applications.

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Sweet and Dried Cranberries
Cranberry Jelly Sauce
Cranberry Whole Sauce
Cranberry Concentrate
Fruit processing
Manufacturing and wholesaling Rice Wine (Sake) products
Commercial Sheetfed Printing

43022
43041
43053
43059
43107
43112
43171
43207

43366
43410
43415
43465

Web
Web
Web
Web

53

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
43480
43592
43636
43662
43787

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

43871 Web
43911 Web
43924 Web

Q03
Q03
Q03

43952
43962
43989
44013
44030
44344
44414
44444
44458
44547
44573
44655
44680

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

44703
44712
44715
44744
44816
44932

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

44961
45000
45066
45083
45110
45125
50110
50138
50143
50195

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Low speed, high torque hydraulic motors and transmissions
Telecommunications--wireline phone, cable television, broadband/Internet
John Deere parts, sales, and service
Wooden pallets, mine timbers, crane mats
Concrete production and delivery
We distribute health sciences books and e-books to college bookstores and libraries
and hospital libraries.
Color pigment manufacturing facility
training
High performance materials for mass transit and aviation seating. Also high end
office furniture
accounting, tax preparation, retirement planning, and insurance products
Fabrication & installation of sheet metal.
Manufacturing, printing and distribution of promotional products
equipment for coke and steel industry
software manufacturing
Gearboxes
Trucking
Quick Service Restaurant Franchisee
Telecommunications
Arts and Culture
Manufacturing Fasteners
Manufacturer of vehicle door hardware
Stoneworking Tools including pneumatic carving tools, hammers, hand tools, stonesplitting equipment and quarrying equipment
Charter Bus Service
Precision metal cutting tools
corporate office
FOODS SERVICE WHOLESALE
Custom manufacturer of electrical coils and components.
Manufacture and/or rebuild of Single & Twin Screws, Barrels and Gearboxes for the
extrusion plastics industry.
Jewelry
blown film extrusion of polyethylene film for packaging applications
Theatrical Productions
production of ethanol
Financial services
Retailer of fertilizer and farm chemicals
Alaska Wildlife Conservation
Cast Polymer products
Manufacture Shaft Collars
54

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
50261 Web

Q03

50308
50321
50332
50373
50391
50529
50569
50581
50601
50619
50647
50770
50959
50969
51015
51045
51071
51088
51092
51105
51253

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

51279 Web

Q03

51520 Web

Q03

Vitamin and Trace Mineral Premixes for the Animal Feed and Pet Food Industries
A nonprofit providing employment to people with disabilities manufacturing wood
products.
wood veneered paneling
Veterinary services
Gray Iron Castings for a wide variety of industry / OEM's.
Aviation services. Fuel and hangar.
timber frame manufacturer
Sell & Service ... Auto, Home, Life, Health, & Financial Products.
CDX Plywood, Pine Lumber Boards and Pine Shop Boards
TRANSPORTATION
Manufacture Emergency Response Vehicles
Boat Storage, Boat Repair, Restaurant
Beef products
Hardwood lumber products
retail store displays and merchandisers
Custom manufacturing of signs and large format printing
IT consulting
Design, produce and service trade and special event environments.
Restaurants... we own and operate several restaurants
Sales office for imported food products
Fresh/Frozen Traditional and Gluten Free Pizza and Pasta items.
Automotive Tier 1 Supplier
Marine Aftermarket Equipment
Weather Stations
Automotive Monitoring Systems
Commercial Hollow Metal frames Doors, Wood Doors, Hardware, Toilet Partitions
and specialties

55

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
ESE, (Engineering Solutions Experts), based in Marshfield, Wisconsin, specializes in
getting food ingredient, processed food and dairy plants nationwide fully automated
as a way to maximize productivity, reduce costs, and increase profitability.
ESE’s line of Q5 analyzers, breadbox-sized pieces of equipment that use near infrared
(NIR) technology, analyze ten or more product constituents in process, and eliminate
the downtime associated with costly testing and rework. The Q5 greatly improves
product consistency, allows tighter variances and allows production operators to
adjust the line within seconds based on the Q5’s results rather than minutes or
hours typical of traditional systems. Formula changes can be made in the process,
saving a significant amount of time and labor. Because the Q5 has no moving parts,
no maintenance is required, further reducing labor and downtime.
Another way for manufacturers to improve their products and their bottom line is
with ESE’s process control system. Dairy, cheese, egg, ingredient, condiment and
beverage manufacturers are able to control the flow of raw materials which in turn
ensures consistency of the final product. Production can be done in either batches or
continuous process runs, and operator error is minimized because batches are
scripted according to preconfigured recipes. These process control systems also
allow for systems integration, an efficiency that saves significant time and cost,
especially when paired with the Q5 analyzer.

51531
51569
51578
51585
51646
51729
51770

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

51994
52023
52035
52067
52099
52111
52169
52222
52290
52310
52333

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

All of ESE’s analytic and process controls systems are backed by Rockwell
Automation, and come with ESE’s unparalleled training and support to ensure
accuracy, reliability and dependability.
Newspaper publishing and printing
Lending location for Agriculture and rural residents
Agronomy
agricultural sales and services
farm equipment machinery, parts and service
Foundry (cast tools & dies for the automotive industry)
We are a metal finishing job shop. We also have a division involved in agriculture.
We have about 100 acres and about 70 head of beef cattle.
Magazines
Retail sale, parts and service of Farm Equipment.
Freight/parcel delivery
Staffing
men's footwear manufacturer
it is the processing location for our bank
Landscape Lighting
Oil field services company providing salt water hauling and dirt construction services
Corrugated packaging
HDPE pipe
56

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments

52361 Web

Q03

52371
52396
52411
52422
52454
52600
52609

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

52732
52736
52748
52787
52792
52821
52862
52929
52984

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

52989 Web
53049 Web

Q03
Q03

53089
53095
53121
53150
53211
53218
53265
53357
53443
53478
53563
53567

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Design, manufacture and distribute wooden consumer and commercial kitchen,
entertaining and storage products, such as cutting boards, wine racks, knife storage
and rolling pins.
The original business processed potatoes into french fries and hashbrowns. The farm
that I manage was utilized to land apply the process water from the facility to grown
feed crops. The facility shut down in 2004 but the farm continues to take process
water from a gas turbine power plant and land apply it under a state WPCF permit.
Metal stamping (deep draw, progressive, fineblanking)
Manufacture fabricated metal products
School Bus contractor for local school
ACCOUNTING SERVICES- CPA FIRM
Fruit processing; apple sauce, apple juice, pie fillings
manufacture of rainwear
Media company the owns and manages 6 traditional print&online community
newspapers (5 Weekly 1 daily newspapers and 5 shoppers), 3 radio stations, several
niche publications and a web based publishing company.
The remanufacturing of wood building materials.
Consumer goods
manufacture of farm equipment and forestry equipment
produce hot mix asphalt pavement mixes and supply raw aggregates to consumers
interior design with a full service upholstery and drapery work room
Capital Machinery equipment for the packaging industry
Frozen Potato Products
Lumber processing. We make finger jointed studs
Engineering consulting, materials testing & failure analysis by Registered
Professional Engineers in Materials Science and Metallurgical Engineering in our
testing laboratory.
UNDERGROUND PIPE AND SUPPLIES
Marketing and communication products and services with a majority of them being
printed.
Custom Feed Manufacturing
CANNED MUSHROOMS
concrete
Museum of musical instruments: research, education, entertainment
FAUX FLORAL AND BOTANICAL ARRANGEMENTS AND TREES
Natural gas drilling products
Masonry Materials
Full Service Marina
Manufacturer of paints
Powder coating metal parts.
Steel springs
57

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
53646
53657
53688
53707
53751
53783
53810
53932
53941
53948
53978
54008
54094
54116

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

54153
54255
54275
54312

Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

54319
54380
54394
54402
54473
54538
54600
54685
54688
54691
54729
54809
54820

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

54835 Web
54899 Web
54918 Web

Q03
Q03
Q03

Commercial printing and retail office supplies
Manufacturing and distributing fresh produce packaging and packaging equipment.
Vinyl and aluminum, railing and fencing, retail
Vehicle cleaning solutions and equipment.
Catfish
Lumber Manufacturing
Civil Engineering Consultants and Land Surveying
TRUCKING PICK UP DEL. FREIGHT POWDERED METALS PARTS
Veterinary medical and surgical services for large and small animals
Office Coffee Service
Sand, Gravel and Construction Services
commercial roofing supplies and equipment
Hardwood lumber and hardwood plywood
We are a small department store. Customer service/personal shopping.
SEMA Equipment, Inc. is made up of 8 John Deere dealerships that provide
agricultural and technologies equipment, parts, service and after sale support for
John Deere and STIHL equipment.
Architectural Woodwork for commercial and residential applications.
Manufacture electric cooking smokers
Corporate Headquarters for multi-state chemical manufacturing company.
Grain Storage Warehouse
Agronomy input retailer
Feed Mixing and Delivery
Full Service Station
dump truck hauling of aggregates and excavation
Forged rail car wheels and axles
Sewing manufacture
Frozen Soft Serve dessert Manufacturer
Custom cabinets
Manufacture Wood Pallets
Steel and sheet metal fabrication and installation
art museum
printed materials
Logistic services and transportation
Transportation Lighting and Mirror Systems
Legal Services
Mechanical contracting firm, specializing in the design, fabrication, and installation
of custom equipment.
Industrial exhaust silencers and emissions units
Signs
58

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
54941 Web
54967 Web

Q03
Q03

54998
55067
55118
55145
55158
55187
55205
55212

Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03
Q03

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

10773 Web
10776 Web

Q29A
Q29A

11479 Web
11870 Web
12403 Web

Q29A
Q29A
Q29A

12413 Web

Q29A

12458
13625
13960
14064

Web
Web
Web
Web

Q29A
Q29A
Q29A
Q29A

20756
21271
22590
23693
24021

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q29A
Q29A
Q29A
Q29A
Q29A

24744 Web
30538 Web

Q29A
Q29A

32100 Web
32200 Web

Q29A
Q29A

Sign manufacturing, sales, service and Install
screen printing
We are a Sheltered Workshop and provide day programming to developmentally
disabled and handicapped adults. Life skills, reading skills, arts and crafts and
janitorial training.
Wire cloth and screen media.
Process hamburger for White Castle
Meat processing
Electric Generators
Custom cabinets
books
Sugar Manufacture
Limit innovation wanted by rural client base. Improvements not implemented due
to lack of initiative of management.
doing a good job
We want to use established techniques, i.e. "Best Practices", to avoid the pitfalls of
experiencing unexpected side-effects of untested innovation.
The owners have not felt there was a need to do so.
Stagnant industry and practices
Machinery updated a little at this location. New products company wide but not at
this facility.
This business is currently operating the way it has for thirty five years, by performing
Aircraft repairs at a reasonable rate. With the exception of newer recording keeping
technology, we operate and manage the business in the same fashion we have from
the beginning.
Not needed
n/a
We are a provider of services for challenged clients
We are always improving our services to some extent but it is personal care and
significant changes cannot be documented.
Improvements were made and completed
The owners are not very open to change
Not applicable in an art Gallery
lackluster market
Diminishing demand for our products has created cash flow problems which have
limited our ability to invest in improvements. Innovation has been impacted by the
future outlook of demand destruction in paper based communications and in the
mailing industry due to electronic media
One product one customer
Some improvements have not been made due to costs but we are looking to
implement some in the future
Lack of funds
59

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SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
32314 Web

Q29A

33053 Web
33242 Web

Q29A
Q29A

33372
34543
34839
40120
41248

Web
Web
Web
Web
Web

Q29A
Q29A
Q29A
Q29A
Q29A

52929
53049
53150
54255

Web
Web
Web
Web

Q29A
Q29A
Q29A
Q29A

54380 Web
54688 Web
54998 Web

Q29A
Q29A
Q29A

10773 Web

Q52

11049 Web

Q52

11394 Web

Q52

11410 Web

Q52

11521 Web

Q52

I supply temporary personnel, not much room for innovation.
Production of construction materials is a well refined, simple process, resulting from
many years of development.
Current systems have proven efficient and profitable.
This is a very rudimentary industry: dig and remove top layer of soil to uncover sand
and gravel deposits, transport that to the wash plant, clean and sort according to
size, load into customers' trucks for sale and transport to end user destinations.
Pretty simple.
Mature product. Very simple and plain.
Declining demand, emphasis on cost savings
na
The nature of our business
Innovation occurs at corporate headquarters. We have not been a part of that
process.
DOES NOT APPLY TO OUR BUSINESS
economy
We manufacture to specifications that are job specific.
Economic conditions have made it difficult, especially with the uncertainty of the
changes to health care.
N/A
This does not apply to the services that we provide.
Innovation is very slow moving in rural areas. It seems to be very sporadic. New
innovated farm equipment is OK, but new innovated construction and engineering
design is less acceptable.
Printing related businesses are unique due to the fact they are highly capitalized
businesses that provide services. These type businesses cannot "produce" anything
with a live order. There is no possibility for making a stock item to use open
capacity. The business only operates as a result of publishers needing printed items
and forecasting the need for print materials is extremely difficult.
Our success in innovation has been from working with our customers to improve
their process and / or expand their product lines. We have developed and now
manufacture several new grapples for the construction and pipeline industry for one
of our international customers. We have also redesigned fabric clamps for one of our
automobile industry customers that have saved them dollars by making their process
less wasteful.
Our greatest strength in innovation is our ability to design, build, test and then
manufacture for a direct sell to our customers.
We need economic development tools to continuing attracting innovative businesses
to our community. One of these tools is the USDA ED grant program!
The government should have no involvement in the funding or operations of
business. If we could remove most of the obstacles that are placed by the
government on business we would be able to operate with greater effectiveness and
grow employment.

60

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SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
It would be helpful if you stated up front that there would be an opportunity for
comment so participants could note confusing jargon or meaningless terms! (I
misplaced the paperwork.) For example, is the discussion of the climate and schools
and health care about our employees' well-being? Or whose? Many of the questions
are not relevant or are unintelligible.
Our half-dozen local competitors in the printing business have all folded, so our only
competition is the internet or an hour's drive away. Demand for commercial printing
has plummeted across the US and we've not been profitable since 2009.
Innovation for us has been laser platemaking, implemented in 2004, and increasingly
sophisticated leased Xerox color copiers over the past 10 years, upgraded a year ago
to a small "digital press". Keeping up with software and computer upgrades has been
a challenge for the last 30 years and that maintenance, not innovation.
Our staffing has not changed for many years except for the retirement of a pressman
and the departure of a bindery helper. Printing ink on paper has declined
significantly since the recession while toner on paper is climbing by nearly the same
volume. Our two pressmen have idle time to help with finishing digital output.
If we did need skilled labor it would probably be difficult or impossible to find a
skilled pressman, but we may just junk our presses when we retire in a very few
years (3 to 5).
I bought a tiny printing business in 1974 to try to support myself and an infant, not
to innovate.
Our local and county governments, as well as other businesses, give preference to
local businesses to help keep us going and in support of our superior customer
service. We must charge a bit more because the cost of living is extraordinary in this
resort area. We are a "DBE", Disadvantaged Business Enterprise" (i.e. womanowned) so receive no-bid printing orders from our transit agency, the second largest
in Colo. They are receiving federal dollars so using minority business is really
important to them. I am pursuing further government (D.O.T.) subcontract work but
it is so time consuming and burdensome that I'm frustrated. There are lots of
available resources but I can't devote the time and travel to use them and still run
my day-to-day business. IF we stay on track toward profitability I may hire a clerk to
take care of some of my paperwork so I can complete additional USDOT and federal
certifications. But not many highway construction companies need print jobs.
Taking advantage of the chance to review--after closing at 5:00 may be fewer
interruptions.

12288 Web

Q52

Review: What is the meaning of “access to material inputs”? Question 5a is
ambiguous. Importance for whom? 10p – could you define what the categories
mean? I just guessed. 12 is n/a. Our website is for transferring files, not taking
61

Pilot Study: National Survey of Business Competitiveness (ERSR10)
SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments
orders. Every job is custom and we talk with every customer. One employee uses a
computer to keep up with his personal mail on a daily basis. That would add 20%. 17it’s not the cost of computers and software that’s painful but the time required to
change and upgrade. We don’t formally survey customers but get a lot of feedback,
almost all positive. 31 is n/a

13641 Web
14377 Web

Q52
Q52

20513 Web

Q52

20708 Web

Q52

20756 Web

Q52

21779 Web

Q52

21949 Web

Q52

A tad long but doable.
Will I get results and/or analysis of this survey?
If I were you, I would change initial questions to just number of employees in each
category, not a percentage.
Cash is our number one issue in 2014. Our reserves are severely depleted.
I do not work for the business. I am a government employee and cannot answer
these questions
We are a contracted social service which provides residential care for persons with
intellectual disability. We follow state regulations which are very prescriptive and
innovation is less relevant than other businesses.
For questions 31 and 32, Fulcrum has marketed significantly improved goods and is
in the process of finalizing such contracts. Revenues have not been recognized yet as
the production facility is in the engineering/construction stage.
Although we don't use SBA loans at the franchise office, many of our franchisees use
them.
62

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SESRC Data Report 13-084
Appendix C. Open Ended Comments

22015 Web

Q52

22250 Web

Q52

22657 Web
23327 Web

Q52
Q52

23684 Web

Q52

23700 Web

Q52

24012 Web
24666 Web

Q52
Q52

24694 Web
24744 Web
24852 Web

Q52
Q52
Q52

25172 Web

Q52

30208 Web
30542 Web

Q52
Q52

Tax incentives for small businesses. I am surrounded by billion dollar firms that pay
less % then our business pays. Apple, Google, Yahoo etc.
As a DOD consulting services company, not sure my responses are applicable to this
study.
A lot of this doesn't apply to this organization. We are a non-profit community
theatre in a very small town in East Texas. It doesn't take a degree in rocket science
to popcorn.
Additionally, this organization runs the oldest continuous-operating movie theater in
the State of Texas, and have been showing films continuously since 1920. We are a
designated historical landmark in the State.
N/A
Like a lot of businesses, we have slow months and high months which affect us
directly if we are not ready for the slow months. Being ready for slow months and
having funds saved is my goal for the year. As well as communication with customers
about their needs and complaints. Joel
We've used the Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) program to fund
innovative developments.
This business is a small, locally owned (farmers, ranchers, and businessmen)
Cooperative that provides needed products within a reasonable driving distance to
this community. We are in a very remote part of Montana, just so you know we are
110 miles to the nearest Wal-Mart and 45 miles to the nearest McDonalds, just to
give you an idea.
It is a family business founded by my father who is still CEO
Our location is 1 of 10 locations in the United States, along with 20+ other locations
outside of the U.S.
Well done survey. I hope my responses are helpful
Thanks for the $2 bill. If you hadn't sent it, I may have just ignored the survey.
We are a Chinese owned company with the R&D division here in WA, applied
research & production at facilities in China.

Production and sales management are based in China.
I don't understand why the US Department of Agriculture is conducting this survey.
Isn't this more appropriately a Department of Commerce function?
Make it shorter, you almost lost me around question 32
Please feel free to contact me directly should you have additional questions.
Thank you

30591 Web

Q52

Robert Adams
BIP Company, LLC
503-764-1860 ext.1867

63

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Appendix C. Open Ended Comments

31188 Web

Q52

31684 Web

Q52

32117 Web
32145 Web
32350 Web

Q52
Q52
Q52

Keeping up with technological innovations has been a must in our services related
business. Seems to be a full-time job acquiring new technologies and learning how
to apply them in our business. We could not be as efficient if we had no innovative
choices. We may not be into the actual research and development of innovation,
but we reap the benefits of that research and development by its application in what
we do and offer to our clients.
NONE AT THIS TIME. I DID NOT APPRECIATE BEING HOUNDED BY TELEPHONE CALLS
AND EMAILS ABOUT COMPLETING THIS SURVEY. IT IS VERY DIFFICULT TO FOCUS ON
INFORMATION SUCH AS THIS WHEN YOU NEED TO BE DEDICATING CLOSE TO 1005
OF YOUR TIME AND RESOURCES IN CLSOING OUT THE BUSINESS OVER THE YEAR
END. I THOUGHT THAT THE TIMING OF THE SURVEY WAS QUITE POOR. IF THE
TIMING IS GOING TO REMAIN AT THIS TIME FO THE YEAR, PLEASE DO NOT INCLUDE
THIS BUSINESS IN FUTURE SURVEYS. THANK YOU!!!
I am suspicious of politicians miss-using and miss-interpreting data for political
agenda. Unlike ideal university settings where research is driven by a neutral search
for truth and knowledge, government sponsored programs are always suspicious in
its motivation. I almost did not participate due to a lack of trust of this survey
motivation. Despite assurances of anonymity by this survey, the use of an access
code identifies who I am. I have no faith nor confidence that this survey will be used
properly and for legitimate reasons. I can only guess at why this survey was
conducted. Given that caveat, I don't think these questions are very good. There are
ample reasons for me to think there is a hidden agenda in selecting these questions
and structuring questions. I hardly think this value will produce much valuable
results. Another waste of tax payer money.
none
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We are a successful family business; however, we are constantly being pushed by
our customers to lower prices for our manufacturing and to constantly be on the
forefront of innovation. This is difficult in an environment of constantly rising prices
for supplies and services that we must procure from our vendors. Also, government
regulations, especially in the state of Calif., are driving costs up and businesses out.
We provide medical insurance and are EXTREMELY worried about Obama care and
how it will affect our employees and our business. It is a disaster!
We feel that the federal government and state governments DO NOT understand the
challenges that small businesses face. We would like to see LESS REGULATION AND
NOT MORE.
We are extremely worried that we are a nation that is becoming more Socialist in
nature and not a Capitalist one.
Members of Congress are out of touch with middle America and the Manufacturing
industries and we feel that there should be term limits for both the Senate and
House of Representives so that they will truly represent all of us. They are giving
away too much and spending more than we take in. If we ran our business like they
run the government we would be OUT OF BUSINESS! You can't spend more than you
bring in PERIOD!
They should have to abide by the same rules that they pass and make for us. (Like
Obama care)
WE ARE GETTING FED UP!! WE CANNOT BE THE BACKBONE OF AMERICA AND
SHOULDER ALL THE RESPONSIBILITES WHILE A PERCENTAGE DO NOTHING AND PAY
NOTHING--YET ARE ENTITLED TO GOODS AND SERVICES--EVERYONE SHOULD PAY
SOMETHING!!
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Business now days is extremely challenging!
We are a producer of crude oil. We have four oilfields in which we operate. I have
lumped everything together. I think a lot of the questions were not relative to our
operations.
The biggest issue we have is the community is deteriorating and the local
government is a joke, especially on power generation and politics are ridiculous. If
we could sell and relocate we would for sure, but the facility is a problem to sell for a
fair price, and is paid for so we don't move. But the attraction and retention of mid
and upper level talent is very difficult even if you pay above market value.
Ours is a unique company with a niche product, international sales, strong profits,
and 2nd generation ownership -- so we are not typical to the way business should be
done.

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Some of the questions were very vague and perhaps of dubious value from an
interpretive perspective. Too much emphasis on government involvement. My

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experience has shown that these programs are of limited effectiveness and too
cumbersome and restrictive to provide a responsive and reliable business aid.
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Happy to participate
Our single major problem is an inability to find and hire experienced telephone sales
people in spite of the fact that we offer higher compensation than similar
companies. One reason is the smallness of the local population base. A secondary
reason is the lack of interest in potential staff to relocate to our rural area.
The educational system has failed their students by not preparing them to enter the
workplace. They have never been allowed to fail so they have no conflict resolution
skills. People that are allowed to fail learn to improve from their failures. The public
unions continue to hamper educational innovation by not allowing the students and
families to choose who educates them.
The company, NRS, was started with $2,000 more than 40 years ago and now has
sales of over $30 million and is transitioning to 100% Employee Ownership. We have
always been at the forefront of the industry in providing the best products and
service to our customers.
The questions which discussed the reasons/important factors for locating our
business in this community were not applicable. The placement of this business was
strictly due to the location of the natural resources in the ground.
Your survey is way off the mark!
Innovation is great but without the perspiration to put it to use it's meaning less!
The issue is finding people willing to WORK and LEARN a stable skill that provides a
standard of living!
The trades have been victimized in the education system for the last 40 years, our
youth have been told if you don't go to college you're a failure.
This alone has fueled the further separation between the "have" and "have not's"

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The drive to learn, work and earn needs to be restored and it needs to start in grade
school, any life that's been admired was "built" it didn't just happen and it was the
result of someone's hard work and persistence! Not just cause they had a great idea!
It is too long - takes too much time!!! If you have this many questions you should
either pare them down or send out 4 smaller questionnaires throughout the year.
We are in the business of providing very high precision flow measurement and
calibration systems. These systems are typically used in aerospace applications. We
have been trying to introduce them into the energy industry, e.g. natural gas
pipeline leak detection by mass balance. We are fighting a significant uphill battle
due to the sheer size and inertia of the energy industry, and its unwillingness to
improve its measurement standards to those of the aerospace industry.
Printing is changing fast lack of capital and human resources to implement newer
software.

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Some of the questions were difficult because my parent company purchased the
assets of one of our suppliers and then the parent helped to provide cash until the

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business unit was able to fund itself. The existing company had produced a very
good product but truthfully was not run very well at all.
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nope
The first thing government can do is get out of the way. We have a few issues where
what one agency wants us to do is the opposite of what another agency is pushing us
to do.
Secondly, concentrate on skill development of the labor pool. Particularly technical
training at the high school level. There is an overemphasis on college preparation
compared to where most of the job opportunities will actually be, and there is going
to be great demand to replace positions of blue collar baby boomer retirees.
Manufacturing jobs pay well, increasingly involve technology, are more available
than many college degreed tracks, and should be promoted as a viable career path. I
can't tell you how many people have earned college degrees that cost them then of
thousands of dollars in debt to acquire but with which they cannot possibly get a job
within their field of study, while good positions in manufacturing are difficult to fill.
We are a non-profit, with approximately 60% of services funded by government
(federal and state) grants, less than 1% local charitable contributions, and 39%
customer private pay.
We would like to work with an AG school to do some research in support of our
products and have $ to help with this but get no positive results from previous tries.
It's tough as a small business due to work comp, liability, and health insurance.
Competitive wages. Lawsuits. Bad checks with little recourse. And the banks will not
even let you borrow money even if you have outstanding credit.
thanks Robert T. Bell
Most of our innovation comes from our continuous improvement programs
(Lean/Sigma and Voice of the Customer)
No comments

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This survey states Business Competitiveness but not one question revolved around
competitors or competitive situations. Very disappointing.
We are (1) of (3) domestic manufacturers of polypropylene agricultural baling twine
manufacturing in the USA. We are the only domestic manufacturer that is still
owned by a US company. Our market share is shrinking due to having to compete
with products coming in offshore from Portugal, Costa Rica, Vietnam, to say just a
few. The import products are much cheaper. As a result, the American farmer is
trying to save $$ and therefore switched to an alternative offshore.
We provide wages and benefits to the 99 employees at our manufacturing
companies. These wages go right back into the local economies. Our offshore
competitors take their money from the US and put back into their countries... NOT
THE LOCAL ECONOMIES.
We are proud to say we also are the only manufacturer who actually goes to the
extent of collecting our used twine from the marketplace and recycle. All of our
competitors turn their backs ....
Where is help for our American Government to save American manufacturers in our
industry? Where is USDA to reach out and be a voice?

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Please feel free to call me regarding the above comment.
 
Challenges with innovation in our company have included:
- knowing our core competencies is critical, regardless of the market potential; the
cost and time to achieve something outside our core is always higher than we
estimate.
- difficult keeping R&D from drifting back to a product development focus as
opposed to generating many possible product ideas or game changers, especially
with limited human resources.
- breaking down vertical silos and defining cross-functional workflows and
establishing metrics to drive accountability in that workflow has been critical for
improving innovation speed to market.
- have implemented stage-gate methodology to improve the quality of innovation
and to fail faster when we need to stop spending time and money on something that
isn't good enough, or if inputs or expectations change from original.

I think your questions were relevant. The assumptions about original location and
what would be the optimal current location need to be challenged more often and
action plans established. We boxed ourselves in for too long before making changes
to locate some portions of the business in communities better equipped to meet our
needs.
PLEASE KEEP ALL INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS SURVEY COMPLETELY
CONFIDENTIAL IN REGARDS TO OUR ANONYMITY.
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We generally do not see government "assistance" resulting in any true or lasting
benefit to anyone, whether in business, welfare programs or simply running the
overfunded, underperforming government schools. The one exception would be the
State of Idaho's Department of Commerce, led by Governor Butch Otter, in its effort
to grow exports from the state's manufacturing, agricultural and service sectors.
This agency has done a remarkable job in this regard, especially considering how rare
it is that any government agency gets anything done at all, let alone anything truly
beneficial.
Don’t have time to do this.
No comments.
The survey was sent to Morse Automotive Corporation. Morse sold this facility to
120 Return Center, Inc. in 2011. The responses are for 120 Return Center, Inc.
Glad to help, let me know the results when they are available.
Thanks for the $2! :)
Too darn much government in this country and too many people involved in
justifying their existence instead of producing goods or services for the benefit of the
populace and our standard of living.
We are a not-for-profit theatre...not sure what our work has to do with the US Dept.
of Agriculture...but I hope this was helpful
The survey was originally sent to our production facility but the person it was
addressed to was me in out corporate office so it was forwarded. All answers except
the one identifying the person filling out the survey were answered as if I were
working at the production facility.
Wasted my time, you should've started with # of employees.
NA
A good business but one that appears to be slowing way down...
Interesting survey
I struggled to answer these questions due to the unique situation my business has at
this location. The company I work for has over 11,000 employees all over the globe.
However since this location closed the division I work in only has 2 employees. We
share the location with two other branches of our company and they each have a
handful of employees here but we all work independently of each other as our goals
and services are very different.
With that said I tried to keep the focus of your questions based on this branch and
not the entire company.
The government purchasing has declined significantly by cutting projects at the
military bases. Heavy quoting different government projects but do not count on
those to sustain our business. In the last couple of years we have been increasing
our marketing efforts to the strong distributors and the end-user market.
I must say when the recession arrived in 2008 we did not start to feel it until 20102011. The government officials are creating more entitlement programs which does
not encourage the people to get out there to find a job. Unemployment was not
designed to be a life style but it has turned out that way. The government has not
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assisted the manufacturing sector but have increased our burden by forcing more
taxes, increase costs associated with health insurance.
We have way too much government in our lives.

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It is frustrating to know that the local, regional and state governments do not have a
good understanding of small business challenges; nor do they fully appreciate the
direct impact that taxes & tax increases have on our decisions to retain or trim our
staff or to expand/retract benefits offered to our employees. It seems that only the
big businesses get the "tax incentives" and the majority of small businesses end up
footing the bill.
Our goal is to provide excellent client service in a superior environment where
employees enjoy spending their time. We don't have a need to get rich; but instead
want to provide a good retirement benefit and have a wonderful cooperative highly
professional atmosphere for our staff who work on challenging unique problems, so
they can create solutions to help other businesses identify causes of failures & to
implement preventive measures.
Very time consuming survey that really does not pertain to this business. We are a
custom sewing manufacturing company and produce only what our existing
customers and new customers want to their specifications
It is difficult to dedicate funds and resources to innovation in this economy.
One of the greatest frustrations of our current expansion at this business and
nonprofits with which I'm involved, is dealing with gov’t Bureaucrats: Fire Marshall,
Food Inspectors, Electrical Inspectors, Tax Assessors, and County Appraisers etc.
There is NOTHING In writing – online or elsewhere - for most of the ridiculous
requests they make of us. They carry themselves like little fiefs, arbitrarily making
requests which contradict common sense and sometimes State law.
OBAMACARE is the LARGEST source of Angst at this time.
It is a Jobs Killer, plain and simple.
Our biggest problems that divert our efforts from innovation include outside
regulation including UL/CSA, EPA and various other federal and state regulations. I
estimate that we spend approximately 8-12% of our resources working to comply
with these items.
We are a seasonal operation. Due to this our staff changes from 50 (Jan-Sept) to
approximately 200 (Sept-Jan). This is a unique situation calling for a substantial
amount of employees to fill during our operating season.
One of our major challenges is the influence of NAFTA. The American sugar program
that is designed to balance supply and demand. High prices in the last couple of
years led Mexican farmers to increase acreage for sugar cane and flood the
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American market. The Mexican's do not have supply control mechanisms that
Americans have.

We are so hostile toward our Federal Government it is hard to express. The
contempt of Congress toward companies such as ours in beyond comprehension.
Obamacare is a total joke. The number of hours we have invested for this has cost
our tiny company thousands of dollars. THOUSANDS!!! This joke has forced us to
pay attention to things other than business growth and creativity. It has depressed
those of us who have had to trudge through this joke.
The idiots, and I do mean IDIOTS in Congress have yet to reinstate GSP status to the
Philippines which impacts the profits to our business and inhibits us from planning.
It affects our long term contracts.
Anti Dumping Charges (Import Duties) create substantial risk and create a variable
we cannot control.
The wealth gained by Federal Politicians is disheartening and creates total hostility
from those of us who pay attention. Socialist Senator Tom Harkin of Iowa has
amassed a net worth of $18,000,000 during his career. EIGHTEEN MILLION
DOLLARS!!! And he gets full salary for life when he retires. All this for $17 Trillion in
debt during his tenure? And you think patriots like me are happy?
And forgive me, but this survey is created by bureaucrats in the USDA to justify their
bloated salaries. Honestly, how lame are these questions? What the hell do you
expect to learn? This is pathetic.
OUR COUNTRY IS BROKEN AND I WANT TO REVOLT. I'VE PUKED ENOUGH.
Bite me,

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AuthorWang, Yi-Jen
File Modified2014-04-18
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