By
February 9, 2004

Cincinnati Mayor Charles Luken presented the 2004 Partner America Small Business Achievement Award to Metalex Manufacturing, a Cincinnati, Ohio based high-technology contract machine shop, during the Opening Plenary Session of the 72nd Winter Meeting. Metalex was recognized for its contributions to the local economy and its commitment to improving its business.

Metalex Manufacturing was founded by Werner Kummerle in 1971. Over the years, the business had grown to over $45 million in revenues and 150 employees and counted NASA, GE, Boeing and Procter & Gamble among its clients. Both the company and its owner were very successful. However, following September 11th and the struggles of the space shuttle program. Metalex's revenues were cut in half. Kummerle was faced with a decision — he could retire and walk away or he could focus on aspects of the business that could be improved.

Kummerle hired American Management Services to identify, mentor, develop, and execute structural and procedural changes to eliminate waste and improve customer satisfaction and communication. American Management Services is a provider of implementation-based profit improvement and turnaround services to small and mid'sized businesses.

Kummerle noted, "From the first moment we began working together, we viewed American Management as a partner, not someone who is going to tell us what is wrong. We were joined at the hip and we worked through Metalex's problems together. This year, I expect Metalex to exceed my expectations and look forward to a profitable 2004."

George Cloutier, President and CEO of American Management Services and Chairman of Partner America discussed the importance of the award. "We always need 100% commitment from ownership. Sometimes this means personal sacrifices and tough decisions. The credit for this success goes to Werner, whose commitment to excellence has benefited him, his employees, his customers, and the city of Cincinnati."

Kummerle thanked Partner America, American Management Services and the U.S. Conference of Mayors for the honor and shared a valuable lesson he learned over the past few years. "I know now that every business has its ups and downs, but the true measure of success is how you overcome diversity and challenges."

The selection of Metalex Manufacturing for the 2004 Partner America Small Business Achievement Award was based not only on the company's commitment to improvement, but also on the financial success, staying power, employee growth, and innovativeness of the business. All nominations were received from American Management professionals and were chosen by a committee within the Conference of Mayors.