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Auto Suppliers Seek Their Own Bailout

Trade groups warn industry could collapse from bottom up as Big 3 troubles filter down

By Rob Quinn,  Newser Staff

Posted Feb 26, 2009 2:12 AM CST
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(Newser) – The auto industry is warning that it could collapse from the bottom up if the government doesn't immediately assist America's car parts suppliers, the Washington Post reports. Suppliers are struggling to use their unpaid billings to troubled automakers—usually 45 to 60 days behind deliveries—as collateral for operating loans, and may soon go under. "We're on the cusp of what could be cataclysmic," said an industry analyst.

Trade groups have met with the administration's task force to ask for help, and subcontractors further down the supply chain are trying to get the ear of lawmakers. One proposed rescue plan would create a "quick-pay" program to cut the delay in payments to 10 days, although GM execs say they would prefer it if the government agreed instead to guarantee that the billings will be paid.

Transmission input gear forgings pile up at FormTech in Royal Oak, Mich., earlier this month. FormTech is struggling to stay alive, overwhelmed by the latest wave of auto industry trouble.
Transmission input gear forgings pile up at FormTech in Royal Oak, Mich., earlier this month. FormTech is struggling to stay alive, overwhelmed by the latest wave of auto industry trouble.   (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
n employee of auto supplier FormTech works on a vertical press die set in Royal Oak, Mich., earlier this month.
n employee of auto supplier FormTech works on a vertical press die set in Royal Oak, Mich., earlier this month.   (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
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Our biggest issue as small business is being able to get a seat at the adults' table. - D. Craig Wiggins, president of Tooling & Equipment Capital Solutions

We're on the cusp of what could be cataclysmic. - Aaron Bragman, an auto analyst with IHS Global Insight

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Michigan lawmakers seek help for auto suppliers
Detroit Free Press

Auto suppliers face disastrous year
BNET

 
General Motors • automaker • Ford • auto industry • suppliers • supply chain • auto bailout

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