| The purpose of this study was to assess the industrial extension needs of the food processing and distributing industry in the state of Washington and to determine how Washington State University can help the food processing and distributing industry overcome barriers to competitiveness through industrial extension services. The recognition of previous research on industrial extension needs have long argued that a major gap exists between the underlying management assistance needs of small businesses and the information/services currently available. The food processing and distributing companies in the state of Washington were examined because of their contributions to the US agribusiness complex and their projected role in the future of the state's economic development plans.;Telephone interviews were completed with 413 business owners/operators with an additional 20 questionnaires being completed by request of the firms and returned by fax.;The results of the study indicated that food processors and distributors in Washington who need or desire assistance were identified as those with a high or moderate probability that they would use industrial extension services at a fair hourly rate or at no charge. It was found that firms not using computers or not using them to their fullest potential, with equipment that is less than state-of-the-art, and beliefs that technology will have an impact on their business in the next five years were most likely to use industrial extension services. Those firms who felt that they lacked technology, information or technical support, along with having difficulty complying with regulations would be willing to use industrial extension services.;Food processing and distributing companies seeking industrial extension assistance are likely to seek out information concerning state and federal compliance regulations along with environmental regulation compliance. Marketing, fund raising and cash flow, along with product and nutritional labeling are additional areas of assistance to be sought out.;Finally, the results of the study found that food processors and distributors in Washington who expressed a need for desired assistance and resources as those who are likely to utilize bulletins and newsletters more often than any other type of information from Washington State University. |
