A State Apparel Industry Needs Assessment: Special Concerns for Rural Economies

Abstract

This study examined the importance of apparel manufacturing to rural areas in Missouri experiencing economic difficulties as a result of the farm crisis. Investigators anticipated that apparel manufacturing often represented the only source or one of a few sources of off-farm employment in these communitites. Seventy percent of Missouri's population of apparel manufacturers responded to a survey designed to assess apparel manufacturers' perceived needs in making their firms more viable and competitive. This assessment was made in light of an examination of the importance of apparel manufacturing companies to the local and state economies, particularly regarding employment in rural areas. Results indicated that 64.5 % of the respondents' firms were in small towns, and 69.4% said their towns had been hurt by the farm crisis. Manufacturers identified primary needs in improving competitiveness as marketing and increased productivity. Manufacturers' needs were found to vary by locale (rural or urban) as well as by size of the firm. Discussion considers possible ways in which universities may assist apparel manufacturers to remain a competitive and viable part of rural economies.

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