New Zealander Views Industrial Conditions

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 715, 15 July 1929, Page 9

New Zealander Views Industrial Conditions

ENGLAND PROGRESSING AMERICA'S CHAIN STORES ”1 found business in England improving,” said Mr. John Phillips, general manager in Australia and New Zealand for CHipman (Australasia). Ltd., who for the past 10 months has been touring abroad. He returned by the Niagara today, and had some interesting observations to make about the countries he has visited. These include England. Germany, France, Belgium, America and several others. "The British coal mines are geltiug back their foreign orders, and most of the mines are working full-time.” he said. The carpet business is good and is also working full-time. Motorcars are in good demand, and the cycle trade is busy. "I could see signs of progress in many parts of England. The older men are giving way to the younger sons, and these sons are travelling more and finding out what is required in different foreign markets. “Also, these sons are scrapping lots of old-fashioned machinery and putting in up-to-date and efficient plants, thus enabling them to get output and compete with other countries which manufacture similar lines. Principals of the many firms I interviewed, who have not previously done foreign business. are now keen to get into the game; and will listen to suggestions. This was not possible a few years ago. GERMANY LACKS MONEY “Germany, as far as an outsider can see, is up against it. This is due to lack of money. Before the war Germany would extend almost any terms to foreign buyers. >nw they ask for cash. They cannot afford to wait tor their money', and the banks cannot help them at present. “America is developing into a country of chain stores and mergers, and it is difficult to see where it will all end. When travelling through America, it becomes rather monotonous to see the same stores everywhere. with the same goods in the windows. The smaller man is being squeezed out. which seems a pity, as this will mean the loss of individuality and the monotonous "sameness” in every town. Some of the chain stores are already in England and will no doubt soon extend to the Continent. They have their eyes on Australia as well. CANADA PROSPEROUS “Canada everywhere seems prosperous, and should continue to be so. Their newsprint business is growing all the time, and new mills are being built.” Mr. Phillips was successful in making connections with many English, Continental, American and Canadian manufacturers, who are leaders in their particular lines. He to make a trip through New Zealand at once and later through Australia. One of the best agencies he obtained was that of Proctor and Gamble.