Original equipment manufacturers, regulated industries, federal, state and local governments have incented their respective tier one and tier two suppliers to open markets that have been traditionally closed to minorities, women, the disabled, the disadvantaged and small businesses. Corporate supplier diversity programs have become the norm for many companies in the metals trading and distribution industry.

The non-ferrous metals market is a growing industry without significant supplier diversity. As one of a few metals merchants which is both female and minority owned, HL provides the diversity that many metals consumers seek.

HL is certified as an Asian American-owned business by the US Pan Asian American Chamber Of Commerce (“USPAACC”).

HL is certified as a Woman Minority Business Enterprise (“WMBE”) by the Supplier Clearinghouse for the Utility Supplier Diversity Program of the California Public Utilities Commission.

HL is certified as a Woman Business Enterprise (“WBE”) by the National Women Business Owners Corporation (“NWBOC”).

What Does Being A Diverse Supplier Mean?

HL Metals is proud to have been a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and a Woman Business Enterprise (WBE) metals merchant since its inception in 2007. HL Metals has been certified as a MBE since 2010 and a WBE since 2011.

MBE/WBE certification is a pivotal point in the business life of a supplier because it authenticates that the business is compliant in its ownership, management and control by a qualifying diverse group. The certification adds credibility to the company and it provides procurement personnel the confidence and trust that a certified MBE/WME company has met the rigorous requirements of the certification process.

Why Is Supplier Diversity Important?

Diverse and Women-Owned business enterprises are among the fastest growing segments in the U.S. economy. According to the United States Census Bureau’s 2012 Survey of Business Owners data, there were 9.9 million women-owned firms and 8 million minority-owned firms nationally. Receipts for both women-owned firms and minority-owned firms were $1.4 trillion respectively. Nearly 30 percent of businesses in America are owned by minorities.

The importance of Supplier Diversity:

• Promotes innovation in products, services and solutions
• Increases procurement opportunities for goods and services
• Adds competition
• Increases access to contractual opportunities with corporations and government agencies
• New business channels and expansion
• Broadened market appeal
• Economic growth inclusiveness
• Economic recovery and sustainability in communities
• Job creation for the nation