First week of shut-down

This is the first week the majority of manufacturing firms in our industry have shut-down due to the coronavirus. It’s now time to formulate a strategy that will ensure the business survives this period. I have conversed with a number of MDs of fabricators and there are common themes that crop-up. The first centres around the Job Retention Scheme. With manufacturing temporarily ceasing, it made sense to furlough production staff. However, when it came to sales and customer service personnel, the story was mixed. The majority believed it was essential to retain these staff as they wanted to keep in constant contact with customers. Engagement was crucial in supporting customers and would help cement the business partnership moving forward. However, with a reduction in sales and revenues this would impact cash flow and reserves. As one director told me: “It’s a real fine-line. If I furlough a member of the sales team they would not be able to undertake any work for or on behalf of the organisation. This could be counter-productive as I want my sales team using their time at home to be in constant contact with existing and potential new customers.”

John Cowie – Editor Windows Active Magazine

03.04.20