FROM THE GUEST EDITOR

In an increasingly globalized world , the pressure to outsource manufacturing to countries with lower labor costs is immense . However , as we stand at the crossroads of economic recovery and sustainable development , the importance of maintaining local manufacturing cannot be overstated . The decision to keep production within our borders is not just about economics ; it is about securing the future of our communities , ensuring the quality of our products and maintaining our national resilience .

One of the most immediate benefits of local manufacturing is its impact on job creation . When factories remain on home soil , they provide stable , well-paying jobs to our citizens . When people are employed , they spend money locally , supporting small businesses and driving economic growth . Additionally , a strong manufacturing sector creates a ripple effect , stimulating demand for raw materials , transportation and other services , further bolstering the economy .

Local manufacturing also ensures that products meet the high standards consumers expect . Rayonier Advanced Materials ( RYAM ) in Fernandina Beach , Florida , is a perfect example of this ; when production is kept close to home , it is easier to oversee and maintain quality control . Moreover , local manufacturers are more likely to invest in advanced technologies and sustainable practices , knowing that their reputation is directly tied to the products they produce . RYAM ’ s latest project on bioethanol will help transition from fossil fuels to a cleaner , renewable energy source . This commitment to excellence is harder to guarantee when manufacturing is outsourced to distant locations where oversight is limited .

Local manufacturing also plays a vital role in promoting sustainability . By producing goods closer to where they are consumed , we reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation . As consumers become increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of their purchases , supporting local manufacturing is an obvious way to make a positive difference .

Finally , maintaining local manufacturing helps preserve cultural and community heritage . Many regions have built their identities around specific industries , from textile mills , medical devices and fabrication shops to bottling in the Northeast and car manufacturing in the Midwest . When these industries thrive , they support not just the economy but also the cultural fabric of the communities .

In conclusion , while the allure of cheap labor and reduced costs might tempt businesses to offshore their manufacturing , the long-term benefits of keeping production local far outweigh the short-term gains . Local manufacturing supports our economy , ensures product quality , strengthens national security , promotes sustainability and preserves our communities . As we look to the future , it is crucial that we recognize the value of local manufacturing , commit to policies and practices that support it and continue to help build a skilled workforce pipeline .

SHERRI MITCHELL , Executive Director Nassau County Economic Development Board Guest Editor

PUBLISHER Howard M . Holley and Dr . Barbara C . Holley

CHIEF CONTENT OFFICER Elesha Mavrommatis

ART DIRECTOR Leslie Proctor

ADVERTISING SALES Jeanne Coates

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Yvette Alleman

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARDS

First Coast Region Eric Becher • Vavarde Strategic Funding Greg Blosé • Palm Coast Chamber of Commerce Cindy Dalecki • Marketing 2 Go Heidi Jameson • JAXUSA Partnership Maks Levanovich • SouthState Bank Scott Maynard • St . Johns County Chamber of Commerce Sarah McPhersonv • Advent Health Dr . Sandra Miles • DSM Initiatives , LLC Dr . Daniel Ray • St . Johns River State College Erin Wallner • UF Health St . Johns

Greater Daytona Region John Guthrie , Halifax Health , Editor Nick Conte • City of DeLand Richard Cooper • Foundation Risk Partners Heather Edwards • Volusia County Economic Development Department Tracy Marino • Team Volusia EDC Dean O ’ Brien • 06 Marketing LLC Brian Rademacher • City of Ormond Beach Kate Sark • Ocean Center Chris Thomes • Daytona State College Amy Workowski • The W Agency

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EVOLVE Business and Entrepreneur Magazine Executive Edition - Fall 2024 | Page 34

FROM THE GUEST EDITOR