Manufacturing companies are among the most sought after acquisitions in the lower middle market.  Manufacturing acquisitions provide a stronger return on investment than other sectors. During the COVID-19 crises, manufacturing companies remained opened and essential, while other industries were shut down.  Manufacturing is critical to our economy. Here are a few stats from The National Association of Manufacturers: Manufacturers contribute $2.35 trillion to the U.S. economy For every dollar spent in manufacturing, another $1.81 is added to the economy For every one worker in manufacturing, four employees are hired elsewhere Most manufacturing firms are small – 75% of these firms employ less than 20 employees Over the past 28 years, U.S.-manufactured goods exports have quadrupled Manufacturing performs more than 62% of all the private-sector R&D in the nation, driving more innovation than any other sector