Selling intangibles helps manufacturers

We know that manufacturing companies in Quebec are under stress as they deal with high costs, poor productivity, the high value of the Canadian dollar and intense global competition.

We know that globalization has changed the game, creating large differences in the cost of labour and materials around the world.

So what can Quebec companies do to compete in this tough environment?

Well, there's no simple answer to that question. But a new study by researchers at McGill University in collaboration with the Conference Board of Canada points to a promising area of growth.

Manufacturers increasingly are selling services linked to their products and many are finding the strategy is driving revenue growth.

Read full article: Montreal Gazette, March 28, 2012