A Conversation with Skip Trafford, President,
Harrison International—Continued
Q. Why is it important that Harrison Steel have an international presence?
A. The short answer, to quote Thomas Friedman, is that the world is flat. When it comes to business, there are no boundaries any more. Our North American customers have grown by taking their products to China, Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America. In some cases, they're shifting manufacturing operations overseas. If we're going to be successful, we've got to be where the business is and where our customers are. We also have U.S. customers that want to source internationally and we can do it for them. We make it simple and seamless.
Q. Where is Harrison Steel focusing its international presence?
A. Two regions, the greater China region and Eastern Europe. China is such a boom market and a growing world power that we had to be there. Currently, we have a staff in China, a major advantage. I also travel there four to six times a year. Eastern Europe is strategically located; it's easily accessible to the Middle East where the petroleum industry is centered. There's a vibrant foundry industry in Eastern Europe. They are dedicated and eager to partner with us.
Q. What advantages do you offer customers?
A. There are a number of advantages: a lower cost source on many types of castings, Harrison Steel commercial and technical support, an in-country management team (as opposed to brokers who may never see the foundry), fully qualified and audited strategic foundry partners, back-up manufacturing by Harrison Steel, and expedited shipments and delivery to customers.
Q. Is offshore sourcing of castings right for all U.S. companies?
A. No. Often the best solution is to produce with Harrison Steel in the United States. My best advice is to talk to us about your project.