09/16/2010 - Dakota County Tribune Business Weekly

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ANDREW MILLER T.W. BUDIG AARON VEHLING

Apple Valley Walmart completes expansion 2A Horner, Emmer debates health care issues 10A Expansion does not stop for Anytime 44A

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DATE ##, 2009 SEPTEMBER 16, 2010

VOLUME 30, NUMBER # VOLUME 31, NUMBER 29

Dakota County Tribune Since 1884

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Recession receding for Minnesota manufacturers More local companies are exporting goods across the globe

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INSIDE BIZ FORUM

Former Tribune general manager reflects on the accomplishments of Thisweek Newspaper founder Daniel Clay. 4A

DAN CLAY FORUM

by Jessica Harper DAKOTA COUNTY TRIBUNE

Manufacturers received a devastating blow from the recession over the last few years, but the hard times may be nearing an end. Minnesota exports are on the rise – an indication that the global economy is recovering, said Kirstin Morell, a spokesperson for the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development. “We are seeing signs across the economy that things are improving, but we still have a ways to go,� she said. Minnesota exports increased 17 percent in the first quarter of 2010, compared to the same period a year ago, according to a recent report by DEED. The jump is the first year-over-year quarter increase since the third quarter of 2008. The state’s exports totaled $3.9 billion in the first quarter of 2010 – the same figure it exported in 2007, according to the report. The state’s increase in exports is slightly less than the nation’s, which had a 20 percent gain. The weakened value of the U.S. dollar is one reason why other nations are seeking Americanmade goods, Morell said. “The value of the dollar is one of many factors affecting exports,� Morell said. “Other important factors include price, quality, contracts and relationships.� Minnesota is seeing the largest demand coming from Asia, according to the report. Exports to Asia jumped 75 percent ( up $577 million) to $1.3 billion, exceeding U.S. growth to this region of 41 percent. Morell credits a strong demand for computer and elecSee Recession, Page 11A

T.W. BUDIG

The act of intolerance shown by Pastor Terry Jones is that of an individual, and not representative of a religion. 4A

BUSINESS 101

In 2010, reviewing your estate plan is not really optional anymore — especially if you are a business owner. THOMAS FAFINSKI 5A BEST PRACTICES

Photo by Jessica Harper

Udder Tech in Lakeville (above) recently has seen an increase in exports across the globe, namely Canada, Mexico, Europe and Australia. The company is following a statewide increase in exports in the first quarter of 2010. Photo by Jessica Harper

Lakeville-based Despatch Industries’ exports have increased significantly, from 10 percent of its revenue in 2004 to 90 percent in 2010. Much of this has gone to Asia. More than 95 percent of the solar equipment manufactured at Despatch’s Lakeville plant is exported to Asia.

Being present, listening and learning during a conversation will make you a better leader, and improve relations. JEFF APPELQUIST 5A

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