So email your comments to pnash@boatingbusiness.co.uk I received another example of lean manufacturing recently after Sunseeker's Robert Braithwaite sent out a letter leaning on his suppliers for "a 5% reduction on current and future orders".

I wonder where this will all end? The Big Four builders rely on a number of small suppliers, most of whom operate on a shoestring and already tight margins.

Yet Braithwaite's letter - addressed, incidentally, Dear Sir or Madam - leaves no doubt.

"The increasing value of orders needs to be met with a steady and continuous reduction in prices, unfortunately these have not been apparent and we are now insisting that these reductions be made with immediate effect."

Braithwaite's final paragraph begins: "I appreciate this comes as some surprise?" Mr Braithwaite was unforthcoming, offering only that: "We intend to become more successful both as a world business and as a British business, therefore any help that we receive from our suppliers is always very important. As in everything, we treat our suppliers with the greatest of respect, as they look after Sunseeker, and we also look after them, as I am sure most would confirm".

Another letter from the Fairline school of negotiation, I'd say.

Some suggest if the suppliers give in to this demand, the next will be for a higher discount with more stringent delivery and quality schedules.

Perhaps finding a new client is the answer.