Manufacturing & Distribution
Showing 129–144 of 260 results
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Does your business have a valid buy-sell agreement in place?
Winter 2016
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 831
Abstract: Owners of manufacturing and distribution companies are often so focused on the here and now that planning for future catastrophes may fall through the cracks. But operating without a valid buy-sell agreement can cause financial distress and even tear a company apart if tragedy strikes. This article outlines the details to address in a buy-sell agreement, including the types of “triggering events,” valuation parameters and buyout options. A sidebar explains how to avoid potential pitfalls when transferring family businesses to the next generation.
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Why smart manufacturers review their contracts
Fall 2015
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 430
Abstract: Manufacturers and distributors may enter into various types of long-term contracts, including property and equipment leasing, raw materials, confidentiality, exclusivity and joint venture agreements. This article explains why these contracts should be reviewed regularly to ensure that they remain enforceable, compliant and financially advantageous. It also introduces another reason to check up on long-term contracts: ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. Although the FASB has postponed implementation of the updated guidance for an additional year, proactive companies will start tracking the effects of the changes as soon as possible to meet the FASB’s retrospective application requirements.
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Think outside the retirement planning box – ESOPs can help owners and employees fund their golden years
Fall 2015
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 576
Abstract: Employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) are a popular retirement planning tool, especially among manufacturers and distributors. Most ESOPs are set up to provide a market for a departing owner’s interest in a closely held business. But they can also serve as a supplemental employee benefit plan or a mechanism to borrow money under favorable tax rules. This article explains how ESOPs work, outlines special guidelines that may apply and identifies key financial benefits ESOPs can provide to owners and employees.
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It’s not too late for year end tax planning
Fall 2015
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 721
Abstract: Manufacturing and distribution companies that expect to owe substantial federal taxes in 2015 can still take steps to soften the blow. But many tax breaks hinge on legislation that Congress might restore before it adjourns for the holidays. This article highlights some last-minute tax-saving strategies to consider before December 31.
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Getting employees to join the fight against fraud
Fall 2015
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 893
Abstract: U.S. businesses lose millions of dollars to white-collar criminals every year. The manufacturing sector is especially vulnerable to fraud schemes involving billing, corruption and noncash assets, such as theft of inventory and equipment. Research suggests that businesses that provide a convenient and confidential way for employees to report unethical behavior are more likely to unearth wrongdoing sooner and suffer smaller losses than those without established “whistleblower” policies. This article recommends ways to make reporting hotlines as effective as possible. A sidebar outlines the benefits of using an outside forensic accounting specialist when fraud strikes.
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Why deal structure counts – Comparing and contrasting asset and stock deals
Summer 2015
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 640
Abstract: The merger and acquisition market is picking up along with the performance of the manufacturing sector. If you’re planning to buy or sell soon, you’ll need to negotiate more than just the selling price. This article discusses how deal structure can have a major impact on expected cash flow and exposure to potential liabilities after the dust settles.
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Spotlight on financing alternatives
Summer 2015
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 430
Abstract: Private manufacturers and distributors can select from a wide menu of loan options from financial institutions. Popular choices include lines of credit, term loans, leases, mortgages and Small Business Administration (SBA) loans. This article helps owners and managers decide which option makes the most sense in today’s low-interest, tight-credit lending environment.
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Should manufacturers consider the expired research tax credit?
Summer 2015
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 661
Abstract: On Dec. 31, 2014, the research credit expired yet again. The congressional track record of continually renewing this credit suggests that it’ll be available again in 2015. This article provides a four-factor test that research expenses must pass to qualify for this tax break and explains various ways the credit may be calculated, so manufacturers can be prepared if Congress renews the research credit again this year — or possibly file amended returns to claim the credit for recent years.
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Creative ways for manufacturers to attract fresh talent
Summer 2015
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 836
Abstract: Owners of manufacturing companies know firsthand just how rewarding careers in this sector can be, both financially and intellectually. Some have found creative ways to breathe new life into their mature companies by enticing millennials to join their workforces. This article explains how flexible work options, personal development opportunities, investments in intuitive technology and participation in Project Lead the Way programs can help manufacturers close the talent gap. A sidebar discusses possible solutions to the driver shortage that many distributors now face.
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Using an IC-DISC to lower taxes
Spring 2015
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 433
Abstract: Manufacturers and distributors who export products should consider the use of an interest charge domestic international sales corporation (IC-DISC) to reduce their tax burden. This article answers some frequently asked questions about this strategy.
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Worker classification: What’s in a name?
Spring 2015
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 659
Abstract: As a recent class action lawsuit demonstrates, worker classification is a hot button for manufacturers and distributors. Making a clear distinction between employees and independent contractors is critical to avoiding class action lawsuits and audits by the IRS and state taxing agencies. This article lists the characteristics that distinguish employees from contractors and provides policies that can help you draw the line between these two types of workers.
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Uncle Sam wants you to invest in technology and training
Spring 2015
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 610
Abstract: The White House recently announced a series of executive actions for subsidies totaling roughly $550 million for investments in advanced manufacturing. These actions provide financial incentives for your company to increase spending on technology and training, if it’s not already part of your 2015 budget. This article discusses the three pillars of support that underlie the president’s manufacturing initiatives: enabling innovation, securing the talent pipeline and improving the business climate.
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Inventory fraud – Knowledge is your first line of defense
Spring 2015
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 831
Abstract: Inventory is one of the biggest assets on a manufacturer’s balance sheet. It’s also one of the hardest assets to measure and track. This article explains why inventory is so susceptible to fraud and how fraudsters typically steal or misstate inventory in a manufacturing environment. A sidebar reveals which types of manufacturers are the most at risk for fraud and why.
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Wage increases: Look before you leap
Winter 2015
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 438
Abstract: A recent Gallup poll shows that roughly three-quarters of Americans support a minimum wage increase. Factories and warehouses tend to employ a large number of entry-level and low-wage workers. For manufacturers who may be considering a wage increase for their hourly workers, this article looks at some important questions to factor into the decision. It addresses wage competitiveness and the up-front and hidden costs of an increase.
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Spotlight on final tangible property regs
Winter 2015
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 691
Abstract: Last winter, the IRS released long-awaited final regulations on the tax treatment of tangible property expenditures that apply to the current tax year. This article provides an overview of these rules, including several safe harbors, to help manufacturers file an accurate 2014 tax return. The regs address, in particular, expenditures on material and supplies and on capitalizable building improvements.
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“Made in the USA” makes a comeback
Winter 2015
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 623
Abstract: The trend of outsourcing to overseas suppliers and contractors may be losing some of its luster. Many businesses are returning to U.S. manufacturers — also known as reshoring — to obtain goods faster and at lower costs than foreign suppliers can offer. What’s more, “Made in the USA” tags can win over domestic customers who want to feel good about their purchases. This article discusses the benefits that domestic manufacturers offer and how manufacturers can comply with FTC requirements in order to claim a product is “Made in the USA.”