From McKonly & Asbury

The uncertainty and disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic created significant challenges for the manufacturing industry. The combination of forced business closures, new employee safety requirements, reduction in new orders and completely unexpected supply chain disruptions left many with more questions than answers. Now that the vaccine is being widely distributed, new systems for employee protection deployed, and an increase in new orders, manufacturers have turned the page. According to the Manufacturers Outlook Survey: First Quarter 2021, published by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), industry optimism is at a two-year high. The survey found that manufacturing output is expected to exceed pre-pandemic levels in the next few months while the need for new employees is also projected to move in the same direction. Despite the good news, many report continued issues with the supply chain and workforce. To help clients, prospects and others, McKonly & Asbury has provided a summary of the key findings below.

About the Survey

The survey was conducted in the field between February 19 and March 5, 2021. It includes responses from 450 manufacturers ranging in size from small to large companies. Specifically, responses were gathered from 102 small manufacturers (22.7%), 240 responses from medium-sized manufacturers (53.3%) and 108 responses from large manufacturers (24.0%). The primary industrial classification of respondents included chemicals, computer and electronic products, electrical equipment, fabricated metal products, food manufacturing, furniture, machinery and transportation products.

Key Survey Findings

• Return to Pre-Pandemic Revenue – The question on most business owners minds is when the industry will return to pre-pandemic levels. It was found that 33% indicated revenues had already returned to pre-pandemic levels while 6.3% reported revenues will return by the end of first quarter of 2021. Overall, 67.6% of respondents indicated they expected to see a return by the end of 2021, while 85.7% indicated the same by the end of 2022.
• Overall Business Outlook – As the impact of the pandemic continues to subside, the survey wanted to understand the overall outlook for industry companies. It was reported that 27.3% reported having a very positive outlook, 60.22% somewhat positive, 10.67% somewhat negative, 1.78% very negative. It appears that confidence is returning as over 87% of respondents have a positive outlook.
• Current Business Challenges – There was also discussion about the top business challenges facing industry companies. The survey found that 76.2% of respondents indicated the rising price of raw material costs to be a top challenge, 65.8% indicated attracting/retaining a quality workforce, 50.9% rising healthcare insurance costs, 50.2% rising transportation and logistics issues, 48.7% supply chain issues and inventory management, 29.3% trade uncertainties and 17.3% cited slower export sales.
• Full Time Employment – Given the workforce issues many are experiencing, the study inquired about expected changes in full-time employment. It was found that 8.0% of respondents expected an increase of more than 10%, 17.78% an increase between 5% to 10%, 34.4% increase up to 5% and 33.56% expected employment to remain the same. On a positive note, minimal decreases are expected with only 7% indicating some level of workforce reduction is possible.
• Employee Compensation – Since full-time employment opportunities are expected to increase, the survey wanted to understand if employee compensation will increase over the next year. It was found that 8.72% of respondents expect an increase greater than 5%, 32.44% an increase between 3% to 5%, 48.77% an increase up to 3% and 9.62% no change. Less than 1% expect to decrease compensation.
• Product Price Changes – The survey also wanted to understand how product prices will be impacted by the various challenges faced by industry companies. It was discovered that 11% of respondents will increase prices more than 10%, 25.89% will increase prices between 5% and 10%, 37.72% will increase prices up to 5% and 23.44% expect prices to remain the same. Less than 2% of respondents expect they will reduce prices in the coming year. It is likely the expected price increase is being driven, in part, by the rising costs of raw materials.

It appears the manufacturing industry is recovering quite rapidly from the seismic changes brought about due to the pandemic. However, with growth comes challenges in workforce management, compensation, and other operational areas. If you have questions about the information outlined above, our seasoned and experienced manufacturing professionals are here to help. For additional information, call at (717) 761-7910 or click here to contact us. You can also visit our webpage to learn more about the manufacturing services our team provides.

Most small businesses have email accounts, but they may not be using them to their full potential. Email isn’t just for communication — it’s also an effective way to market products and services. When businesses carefully craft their messages and send emails to the right people at the right time, they can connect with customers and increase sales.

Grow with Google is teaming up with Constant Contact to help small businesses improve their email marketing strategies. Attendees will learn how to design clear and compelling emails, segment their audience to deliver tailored messages, and track performance to refine their strategy.

There is still time to host an in-person or virtual viewing party for your local business community. Here are all the details:

Sell More with an Engaging Email Marketing Strategy
Wednesday, May 5, 2021
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

Hosting is as easy as 1-2-3

1. Register the event in the Grow with Google Partner Community
2. Sign up to receive the viewing link on the Grow with Google OnAir website.
3. Use the promotional kit to start getting the word out

With universal COVID-19 vaccine eligibility across the Commonwealth, Pennsylvania employers must tackle new legal and labor challenges as employees return to the physical workplace.

The PA Chamber, in partnership with K&L Gates, are offering this free program that is designed to empower Pennsylvania employers with the resources needed to develop and administer workplace guidelines that balance business continuity with employee safety and privacy.  The webinar will be held on Tuesday, May 4th from 11 am – 12:15 pm. 

Program Highlights

• How should I manage our transition back to in-person work? What considerations and potential pitfalls should I keep I mind?
• What pandemic-related workplace rules are still in effect?
• Can I require our people to get vaccinated? Even if I can, should I? What factors go into that decision?
• Can I ask employees or job applicants if they have been vaccinated?
• Can I offer incentives for employees to get vaccinated or are there risks with that approach as well?
• Can I maintain two sets of workplace rules: one for those vaccinated and another for those who are not?

Register here.

To print the program flyer, click here.

This program is a free PA Chamber Member Sponsored Webinar and is open to Pennsylvania’s business community. 

Find Out What is Happening at the Ronald McDonald House of Danville

Do you want to learn more about the Ronald McDonald House of Danville? Ginnetta Reed, Director of Marketing and Events will be sharing information about what has been happening at the House, programs offered, and upcoming event information on Tuesday, April 27^th at 7 AM. During this time you will also learn more about how Business Networking International (BNI) has helped support the Ronald McDonald House of Danville and how BNI can help support your business during these challenging times. If you would like to learn more please register today or contact Ginnetta Reed directly at glreed@rmhdanville.com to learn more.

Partner Kurt Trimarchi Named as a Power 100 recipient by the Central Penn Business Journal

 McKonly & Asbury Partner, Kurt Trimarchi was recently recognized as a Power 100 recipient by the Central Penn Business Journal. This list features the most influential people in Central Pennsylvania and recognizes the men and women who hold positions that give them the ability to shape local communities and influence the quality of life for people in the region.

Trimarchi has been with McKonly & Asbury since 2003 and has over 20 years of broad domestic and international tax experience. He leads the firm’s largest family-owned business relationships; providing strategic advice to meet their needs.

“Individual recognition is great, and I appreciate my name being associated with the amazing people on this list. Having said that, the only reason I can be on this list is because of the terrific people I have worked with and am working with today. Additionally, these types of awards are a recognition of the great clients we have and are working with today. Without all of them, my name never shows up on this list, so while I am thrilled to be listed, I want all of the praise to go to everyone else I have been involved with.” Trimarchi said.

The full Power 100 list is not ranked, but listed alphabetically and includes lawmakers, business leaders, educators, and more who inspire innovation and economic growth across the region.

Montour Area Recreation Commission (MARC) Will be Leading Cleanups

The Montour Area Recreation Commission (MARC) will be leading cleanups in Hess Recreation Area, Hopewell Park, North Branch Canal Trail, North Branch Canal Trail Parking Area / River Access, Montour Preserve, Washingtonville Borough, Montgomery Park River Access, Riverside Borough River Access, and the North Branch Susquehanna River. Interested volunteers may sign up for a location by clicking this form.

Hopewell Park / Danville Borough Farm Trail System Hunting Season Trail Closure Reminder

Please be reminded that hunting season trail closures at the Hopewell Park / Danville Borough Farm Trail System will begin next Saturday, April 24, with the opening of the mentored youth spring gobbler hunt.  Trail closures will be in effect on Saturdays only from April 24 – May 31.  MARC staff will be posting trail closure notices at the site in the coming days.

The Pennsylvania Game Commission this week announced the final 2021/2022 hunting seasons, including three Sundays (November 14, November 21, and November 28).  For your reference, please find attached to this message a summary of the resultant 2021 Hopewell Park / Danville Borough Farm Trail System hunting season closures, as well as a copy of the Danville Borough Farm Land/Facility Use Memorandum of Understanding between the Borough of Danville and the Montour Area Recreation Commission which governs the operation and maintenance of the site.  An updated calendar of trail closure dates is posted to MARC’s website.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding these hunting season trail closures, please contact me at any time.  This information has been posted to MARC’s Facebook page and is being shared with all known interested parties. 

The Northeastern Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center Adds to its Team of Experts

 To better assist manufacturers in capitalizing on growth opportunities, addressing workforce challenges and implementing new technologies, NEPIRC continues to add to its team of experts. 

Steven Goul recently joined the firm as a Mechanical Engineer. Mr. Goul brings with him an impressive resume, which includes ownership of two patents and more than 20 years of engineering experience with companies like Sanofi Pasteur, Honeywell Aerospace and Lockheed Martin. Within those companies, and through ongoing professional education, Mr. Goul received Six Sigma Black Belt, ISO9001, AS9100 and Lean Manufacturing designations and certificates. Additionally, Steve has been an active member of the U.S. Navy for 31 years, including deployment to Afghanistan. Mr. Goul still proudly serves one weekend a month at the U.S. Navy Expeditionary Combat Readiness Center in Norfolk, VA. Mr. Goul’s educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Penn State University and a master’s degree in engineering from the University of Wisconsin, where his thesis focused on teamwork and conflict resolution.

In addition, NEPIRC added Brandon Henrie as the organization’s newest Business Advisor. Mr. Henrie possesses 14 years’ experience in the medical sales industry. Throughout that tenure, Mr. Henrie obtained numerous recognition awards for exceptional client service and territory development. Brandon holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from Kutztown University. Through continuing education and personal development, Mr. Henrie was a contributing author to “Job’s Analysis of the Range of the ‘Dalton Syringe Rocket.,’” which appeared in the Journal of Chemical Education, and obtained his Lean Specialist certification. Brandon is also an accomplished Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practitioner and teaches evening and weekend youth classes at Phoenix Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Nescopeck. In his role at NEPIRC, Brandon will maintain and cultivate valued client relationships throughout Lackawanna, Monroe, Pike and Wayne counties.

Voters will consider three amendments to Pennsylvania’s Constitution on the May 18^th primary ballot. Two of those amendments deal with the governor’s authority related to emergency declarations and the third adds long-overdue language prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race or ethnicity. The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors is joining with groups across the state in encouraging people to vote yes on all three of these amendments.

The amendments related to disaster declarations would involve the General Assembly in how disaster declarations are managed and how long they are in effect. After 21 days, the Legislature would have to agree to continue a declaration and, if terminated, the governor could not issue a new declaration based on the same or similar circumstances without the General Assembly’s concurrence.

The third amendment would bring Pennsylvania’s Constitution in alignment with the U.S. Constitution by prohibiting restriction or denial of an individual’s equal rights because of race or ethnicity.

The Pennsylvania Department of State provides the language that will appear on the ballot, as well as a “plain English” explanation of each question. The Chamber of Commerce does not have a position on the referendum related to municipal fire and emergency medical services companies also referenced on this website.

Some legislators have expressed frustration over the wording that will appear on the ballot as being biased against the amendments. A website, VoteYesPA.com, has also been developed as part of a campaign to encourage voters to support these amendments. Posters are available at the Chamber office to anyone who wishes to display them.

The Small Business Administration released technical guidance and a sample application (see Supplemental Documents) for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. The SBA will not begin accepting applications until early May, but the release of these documents allows restaurant operators to see the application and begin organizing documents.

The National Restaurant Association is currently updating its FAQ document to reflect the specifics of this application.

There are an estimated 100,000 individuals enrolled in non-group coverage that is ACA-compliant who can enroll in Pennie™ coverage with access to savings under this legislation.

The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) includes provisions specific to the Affordable Care Act (ACA) resulting in significant impacts, including large savings, for Pennsylvanians seeking individual market coverage and those already enrolled in coverage through Pennie™.

This is the largest coverage expansion since the ACA passed in 2010. The eligibility enhancements under this law allow for money to be put back in the hands of people and provide potentially life-altering coverage and relief to many Pennsylvanians who may be struggling with the pandemic and its economic repercussions.

What’s included in ARPA?

The plan includes an increase in the eligibility for, and the amount of, premium tax credits for Pennsylvanians at all income levels during the 2021 and 2022 plan years. Those earning more than the current cap of 400% of the federal poverty level — about $51,000 for an individual and $104,800 for a family of four in 2021 – will be newly eligible for subsidy tax credit.

Under this law, no one will pay more than 8.5 percent of their income in premiums for the second lowest cost silver plan, the benchmark plan, in their county. In some cases, lower-income enrollees could have their premiums eliminated completely.

How does this affect existing Marketplace members?

These eligibility changes also affect the current customers in the marketplace. Under this law, most of the existing enrollees will have an increase in the amount of the financial assistance they receive each month, this also includes individuals who will now become eligible for these Advanced Premium Tax Credits.

Once the changes are implemented, customers will see a decrease in their monthly premium payments.  This is also an opportunity for individuals to check if they would like to move to a different plan.

How does this play out for a real member?

• Scenario A: A 40-year-old single woman, nonsmoker who lives in Philadelphia with a $19,140 annual income. Under the old law she would be paying an estimated $66/month for the benchmark plan. Under this new law, she will now be paying $0/month. Savings of $792
• Scenario B: a married couple, who are both 64-year-old, non-smokers from Dauphin County with an annual income of $77,580. Under the old law, they would be seeing a monthly payment of around $2,400 and now under the new law, they will be paying $550, capped at 8.5 percent of their income for the benchmark plan.  Savings of $22,200

What if a member enrolled in off-exchange coverage?

Another key target audience affected by this law is those Pennsylvanians enrolled in off-exchange coverage. Individuals enrolled in individual coverage without a subsidy should check to see if they would be better buying a plan on the exchange.

My Benefit Advisor’s team of certified specialist are available to make sure customers on the individual market are aware of these savings and to assist those who wish to make the transition and take advantage of this increase in financial assistance.  Please contact My Benefit Advisor at (855) 874-0267 or www.mybenefitadvisor.com/indvidual.

Bloomsburg’s Mayor and another member of Council vying for that position will share their views during an upcoming candidate forum being co-hosted by The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Bloomsburg Inc. Incumbent Bill Kreisher and Justin Hummel are the only registered candidates and will be on the Democratic ballot in the May 18^th primary. The candidates will meet Wednesday, April 28^th at 7:00 p.m. at the Alvina Krause Theatre.

The format will be a modified debate. Each candidate will be presented with the same questions in rotating order with a set amount of time for each response. A limited number of questions from the audience will also be presented. Fred Gaffney, president of the Chamber of Commerce, will be the moderator. Candidates will also be given two minutes for closing remarks.

The public is invited to attend the event. Safety protocols, including physical distancing and masks, will be in effect.

Do you want to connect with Middle and High School Students to come work for you someday? Do they know what your company does?  Do they know what opportunities exist with your organization? 

We are now officially recruiting businesses to participate in the 2021 Live Virtual Future Careers Expo Event.  This year the Chamber’s Foundation is partnering with Central PA Workforce Development Corporation (CPWDC) and PA CareerLink to bring a more robust virtual event aimed at educating students about the diverse paths to a successful career.  We hope that your business/organization will participate.  This is a wonderful opportunity for you to meet with students and share with them what types of work your business does, and what types of jobs make your organization work.  This is an educational opportunity and not a “job fair”.   We want students to walk away inspired to follow a career path that might lead to your company. 

Details of the event are: 

• Date:  Thursday, May 6, 2021
• Time:  10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
• Location: Online via Booth Central web platform
• Hosted By: The Foundation of the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce, Central PA Workforce Development Corporation (CPWDC) and PA Career Link

 Participants:

• Hundreds of students from at least 8 Area Middle and High Schools (Benton, Berwick, Bloomsburg, Central Columbia, Columbia Montour Vo-Tech, Danville, Millville, Southern Columbia)

If your business decides to participate in the Expo please do the following:

Register Here.  Once you have selected the purple “Register for event” button to the right, you will be directed to the event platform Booth Central. You will need to: 1) Select the red “Apply for a Booth button”. 2) Create an account through a simple process by clicking “Join now” found on the Hello screen. 3) Select “Join as Booth Host”. 4) Complete the form and select “Register”. 5) You will then complete the event registration form. Please contact BusinessSolutions@CentralPACL.org with any questions. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Equal Opportunity Employer/ Program.

There is no cost to you for participating.  You can request multiple booths per organization if you want to showcase different careers or business units to students.  Each virtual booth will need staffed during the live virtual event.

The goal of this event is to educate middle and high school students about the workforce opportunities in our area, including the types of industries available here, the skills and education needed for specific careers, future job openings, etc.  We hope to convince local students that there are many great career opportunities in our region.

Please register for the event no later than Friday April 30, 2021 if possible by registering at here.

For questions or additional information, contact Jeff Emanuel at the Foundation at foundation@columbiamontourchamber.com or 570-784-2522.