Independent Contractor repping TR in Wisconsin for ten years...saw the web coming and started my own web design, production, programming, hosting and Internet marketing company (did both from 94 thru 97).

First 27 web clients were manufactures and about half of 300+ sites we do now are manufacturing.

How may we help? You might try www.IndustryQuote.com for some insights into the industrial buying process...and, of course, my book, WebForging (www.WebForging.com), which is meant for a wide variety of businesses and has highlights for manufacturers, specialty retailers, health care and real estate organizations.

Regards,
Keith

Wow, this thread is ancient, but I'd like to share a little experience about this. From what I understand, only a few internet marketing companies can represent the Thomas Register... in other words, businesses can only go through them to get on the register. It's sort of a monopoly, and some people out there seem to be doing well at it.

That certainly isn't the only or even the best way to approach manufacturing businesses, as Keith's response will attest to. But it seems like a pretty good angle, as the Thomas Register does have some pretty good social capital.