GULFSTREAM SMALL BUSINESS SUPPORT PROGRAM COMPLETES ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL YEAR
Of $1 Billion in Annual Purchases, $339 Million Go to Small Businesses
Savannah, GA, January 11, 2002 - Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), purchased over $1 billion worth of goods and services within the United States during fiscal year 2001 including purchases from small businesses exceeding $339 million. Of that total, $23.9 million was placed with small disadvantaged businesses; $22 million was placed with women-owned small businesses and purchases totaling $60 million were awarded to Coastal Area small businesses.
"We view doing business with small, minority and women-owned businesses as smart and effective business," said Vincent Hrenak, Vice-President, Material, Gulfstream Aerospace. "The size of a supplier's operation is not as critical to us as the ability to deliver a quality product or service, on time, in budget. In many instances, small businesses can be more flexible and adaptable than their larger counterparts. That is just another reason why we like to do business with them."
Small businesses supply many of Gulfstream's engineering services, machined parts, maintenance repair overhaul items, nondestructive testing services, cabinetry construction, employment services, construction services, electronic components, raw materials and printing services.
Women-owned businesses supply construction services, wood products, adhesives/sealant, engineering services, plastic fabrication, electronic components, plating services and machining. Minority businesses provide engineering services, machined parts, foundry, leasing equipment, computer hardware/software, adhesives/sealant, coating, plastic fabrication and electrical components.
"Every department within Gulfstream contributes something to build our extraordinary Small Business Program," said Marshall Tuck, Gulfstream Corporate Small Business Officer. "Our success comes from the accomplishments of our small business suppliers and the long-term partnerships we share. Our Small Business Program is recognized nationally and has earned three consecutive "Outstanding Ratings" from the Defense Contract Management Command, Defense Logistics Agency."
In turn, Gulfstream provides assistance to its suppliers through technical, quality assurance, engineering, networking contacts/referrals, and by purchasing equipment and raw materials. Gulfstream also supports and sponsors many organizations, national, regional or local in scope, which mentor small businesses.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of General Dynamics, (NYSE: GD) designs, develops, manufactures, markets and services the world's most technologically advanced intercontinental business jet aircraft. Gulfstream has produced more than 1,300 aircraft for customers around the world since 1958. To meet the aviation needs of its customers, Gulfstream offers a full range of aircraft products and services, including the Gulfstream 100®, Gulfstream 200®, Gulfstream IV-SP®, the ultra-long range Gulfstream V® and Gulfstream V-SP®, Gulfstream Financial Services®, Gulfstream Lease®, Gulfstream Pre-Owned Aircraft Sales®, Gulfstream Charter Services®, Gulfstream Management Services® and Gulfstream ServiceCare®. The company employs some 8,300 people at eight locations. We invite you to visit our Web site for more information and photos of Gulfstream aircraft at www.gulfstream.com.
General Dynamics, headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, employs approximately 52,000 people and anticipates 2001 sales of approximately $12 billion. The company has leading market positions in business aviation, information systems, shipbuilding and marine systems, and land and amphibious combat systems. More information about the company can be found at www.generaldynamics.com.