Washington – The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) issued the following statement in support of Manufacturing Day 2018 which will be recognized across the country on Friday, October 5.

“What better way to showcase America’s ‘manufacturing story’ than to open the doors and put operations on full display. Sharing that picture helps expand knowledge about manufacturers’ contributions to society and is why we so strongly support Manufacturing Day,” said AF&PA President and CEO Donna Harman. “For our part, paper and wood product manufacturing jobs employ approximately 950,000 men and women in rural and urban communities across 45 states. They are using highly innovative and sustainable business practices to make products that represent four percent of U.S. manufacturing GDP. On Manufacturing Day and beyond, we will support their ability to grow the economy, create jobs and make the products the help make everyday life convenient, safe and easier.”

Manufacturing Day is an annual celebration co-produced by manufacturing industry leaders to underscore the benefits of and educate the public about manufacturing. Thousands of manufacturers are opening their doors to provide Americans a look at operations so they can better understand manufacturing and the jobs it creates. AF&PA represents the pulp, paper, packaging, tissue and wood products industry that is among the top 10 manufacturing employers in rural and urban communities across 45 states, employing approximately 950,000 men and women.

For more information about AF&PA and the products our industry makes, visit www.afandpa.org, and follow #MFGDay18 on Twitter for real-time news on Manufacturing Day 2018 activities.