He said the main focus now is on staying competitive.
Almendares was able to stay competitive the longest without acquiring players from the United States.
Staying competitive is a big concern, but the answer is not to pull back within our borders and trade with ourselves.
The two smaller European producers' chances of staying competitive against much larger rivals are slim.
He conceded that the merchants had not stayed competitive, but said they should be helped to understand the market's needs.
But he sees his schedule as necessary for staying competitive and advancing his career.
There is also cheaper equipment and parts that can be purchased but staying competitive is much more money.
But they are working hard and staying competitive.
A key part of staying competitive must be making the single market work and completing the single market.
"The cost of staying competitive is going up," the senior executive said.