Airbus to Grow Business with S. California Manufacturers

Airbus Americas Chairman Allan McArtor announces an effort to forge new partnerships with Southern California manufacturers, with the goal of creating new contracts and new job opportunities for businesses in the region. The announcement was made to an audience of local manufacturers attending an educational summit at the Los Angeles, CA, Area Chamber of Commerce, focused on attracting new supplier companies for Airbus. Backed by a strong global backlog of aircraft and growing future demand, Airbus plans to double its annual $2 billion spending with U.S. manufacturers in the coming years.
 
“For many years, Airbus has been a critical partner for Southern California businesses, which translates into jobs and economic activity,” says Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. “By seeking new partnerships with businesses here, Airbus can help us grow the aerospace industry and ensure that it remains the strong economic engine that it is today.”
 
According to a press release from Airbus, the company spent more than $2 billion on parts, components, tooling, and services in 2011.
 
“Hundreds of American companies, with hundreds of thousands of jobs, are supported through Airbus’ partnership with the U.S., and with our commitment to expand, we believe those numbers will increase in the coming years,” says McArtor. “We are proud to have the support of Mayor Villaraigosa and the City of Los Angeles. California has always been known for its innovative companies and creative spirit, and we are excited for the potential impact our growth could have on the industry and the region.”
 
At the summit, Airbus presented suppliers with an overview of its plans for growth, including sales projections, manufacturing needs, procurement strategy, and details about what it takes to join the Airbus supply chain. Current suppliers also shared their experiences on working with Airbus, focusing on the areas of risk management.
 
“This effort by Airbus to increase partnerships with local manufacturers is a win for local manufacturers, a win for job seekers and a win for the aerospace industry,” says Gary L. Toebben, Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce president and CEO. “The potential growth of the aviation industry brings great hope to Southern California at a critical time for the region, as we slowly recover from the economic downturn.”