BUZZ • HYTROL IN THE NEWS

The Presidential E-Award

Hytrol was one of a select few companies nationwide that received the President's "E" Award. President Bush congratulates those companies in the Oval Office at the White House. Hytrol President, Gregg Goodner, and Hytrol Director of International Operations, Dan Fischbacher, stand just to the left of the President's desk. Bob West, Hytrol Vice-President of Business Operations, is behind the third man from the left.

Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez joined President Bush at the White House to present Hytrol Conveyor Company, Inc. of Jonesboro, AR with the Presidential "E" Award for excellence in exporting.

"Exports create good high paying jobs here in Arkansas, and Hytrol Conveyor Company, Inc. is at the forefront of innovation and competitiveness," said Gutierrez. "I commend Hytrol Conveyor Company, Inc. for helping to grow new markets around the world."

The "E" Award is the highest honor the federal government can give to an American exporting company. The award serves to recognize U.S. firms for their competitive achievements in world markets and their part in increasing U.S. exports abroad. This marks the 45th Anniversary of the Presidential E-Award created by President John F. Kennedy in 1961.

"Hytrol has a rich 60-year history of success in the material handling industry," said Gregg Goodner, President of Hytrol. "For the past 15 years, we have strived to expand beyond the domestic market to become a global player in the industry. Our employees, our distributors and suppliers understand that this is an important part of our long-term strategy. We have worked as a team to achieve this goal. We want to be known as a world-class provider of material handling equipment, proudly located in Jonesboro, Arkansas."

The President's "E" Award may be given to persons, firms, and organizations engaged in the marketing of products that make significant contributions to the expansion of the export trade of the United States.

"Hytrol Conveyor Company is a model example of a business that understands the global economy and what it takes to compete in the marketplace," said U.S. Senator Blanche Lincoln. "Hytrol has been a source of pride for Arkansans for sixty years, and I am pleased its outstanding work has been recognized by the prestigious President's "E" Award. This honor is a product of the hard work and commitment of the people of Hytrol. It is also a testament to the vision established by Tom Loberg, a dear friend who built a company that understands good business and values its employees and the services they provide."

"Hytrol is a recipient in recognition of the company's achievement in export growth in the U.S. business community and in the efforts to increase sales and protect U.S. jobs through the export of products," said Dan Fischbacher, Director of International Operations. "This is the first "E" Award that has been approved for an Arkansas company in more than ten years. By maintaining its total manufacturing operation in Arkansas, Hytrol is contributing to the stability and security of the community and Northeast Arkansas. Dedicated workers are one of the keys in maintaining the company’s importance in its export business."

For Hytrol, export sales have increased by 90 percent over the four-year period. Only one year after beginning exporting, Hytrol began translating its promotional material into Spanish to accommodate its distributors, which now number 23 in 13 countries. The company focuses on creating a good relationship with its distributors; trying to make them more competitive and involving them in project development. Surveying potential customers in Mexico shows a willingness to learn what foreign customers want and need.

"The President's "E" Award for Export Excellence is recognition of Hytrol's continuous striving for quality, from the manufacture of its many products, to the development of international marketing strategies to reach customers outside the U.S., said Ray Riggs, Senior International Trade Specialist, U.S. Commercial Service.

And, while expanding its international presence, Hytrol also keeps a deep appreciation for the hard work of its employees.

"It is an honor for us to accept this award on behalf of the Hytrol Family. The Hytrol family is not just one company, but many hardworking employees, distributors, suppliers, and customers working to make an exceptional product known for its integrity and quality worldwide," said Bob West, Vice President of Business Operations.

"We must give credit where it is due," added Goodner. "A special thanks to our employees, without their dedication this could never have been possible."

In addition, Fischbacher stated that, "America has recognized one of it's own as being a leader. We are deeply honored and grateful for this exceptional opportunity."