Mainebiz

March 19, 2018

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W W W. M A I N E B I Z . B I Z 25 M A R C H 1 9 , 2 0 1 8 companies are still allowed to export to the United States, but at great expense. "China was hit with 200% to 300% duty on these fabrics," she says. " at's very big. We're not seeing the Chinese products coming in right now, but we now have to be vigilant to see if they're coming in through other countries." Business values As business picked up, it became clear that, to retain good people, Auburn Manufacturing had to stay ahead on compensation. is was highlighted when it was discovered that the local big box store was paying more to its ware- house distribution workers. It was not a conscious decision, just a holdover from the sluggish economy. So Leonard gave everyone in the company a $2 hourly bump in pay. Other business values include leading collaboratively. "She's a big advocate for making sure her people are well taken care of, which is not always the case in the manufacturing sector, where it can be more about the bottom line," says Messer. "Everyone has a voice in the company and she relies on them for their input and their expertise. She provides them with the training they need in order to grow in the organi- zation. In this economy, it's hard for businesses to fi nd skilled employees, or employees, period. So what she's recognizing is that, if you want to grow your business, you have to invest in your employees." Leonard also values off ering a con- sistent American-made product. While other manufacturers were moving jobs overseas, Leonard kept operations in Maine. She's led the evolution toward standardization in the industry, being fi rst to embrace performance-based test- ing and third-party certifi cations. Her initiatives were recognized by U.S. Sen. Angus King when he invited her to be his guest at President Barack Obama's 2015 State of the Union address. Laurie Schreiber, Mainebiz senior writer, can be reached at lschreiber @ mainebiz.biz THE VALUE OF A BUCK. OF A BUCK. You understand the value of a dollar. Early mornings. Late nights. Tenacity, wit, and a work ethic that means you never quit, you never settle. Neither do we. Our team honors your lifelong effort with the same level of dedication — and the same work ethic — that it took to realize your dreams. First Advisors PERFORMANCE YOU CAN TRUST First Advisors Investment Management. Retirement Planning. Trust Services | firstadvisorsonline.com | 866-563-1900 PROTECTING DREAMS | Securities and investment products are not bank deposits, are not insured by the FDIC or any other government agency, are not obligations of, nor guaranteed by, any bank or bank affiliate, and may involve investment risk, including the possible loss of value or principal amount invested. She's a big advocate She's a big advocate She's a big advocate She's a big advocate She's a big advocate She's a big advocate She's a big advocate She's a big advocate She's a big advocate She's a big advocate She's a big advocate She's a big advocate She's a big advocate She's a big advocate for making sure her for making sure her for making sure her for making sure her for making sure her for making sure her for making sure her for making sure her for making sure her for making sure her for making sure her for making sure her for making sure her people are well taken care of, which is not always the case in the manufacturing sector. — Wayne Messer Maine MEP

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