Why would Jack Welch propose relocating company plants onto barges?

Jack Welch's proposal to relocate company plants onto barges primarily aims to leverage more favorable tax regimes. By moving plants to locations where tax rates are lower, companies can significantly reduce operational costs, thereby increasing profitability. This strategy allows for greater flexibility in managing overall business expenses and optimizing financial performance.

Relocating production facilities to advantageous tax locations can also provide opportunities for growth in international markets, tap into local resources, and potentially avoid some regulatory burdens. This tactic fits within a broader strategy of minimizing costs and maximizing efficiency, which was a hallmark of Welch's management approach during his tenure at General Electric.