While work on the first issue of 2019 is well underway, we paused to see which Plastics Business articles caught the eyes of our readers in the last year. With archived stories going as far back as 2009, the website is a valuable resource, and the following stories were the top reads for visitors to the website in 2018.
1. 4DX Strategy Pushes Ideas to Goal Execution at GreenLeaf Industries
Every manager has done it: Look at the P&L sheets and analyze production. Consider customer comments and complaints. Prep for the meeting. Put ideas on the board. Finally: a strategic plan. After three months pass – or maybe just a month – what has happened to the plan?
2. The Pros and Cons of Reusable Containers
Green sustainable packaging solutions are as simple as reusing containers. Reusable Container & Pallet Association (RCPA) members are leading suppliers of the reusable/returnable industrial plastic containers, pallets and packaging. They supply solutions worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector.
3. Applying the Internet of Things and Industry 4.0 in the Plastics Sector
Everyone is talking about the promise of the industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and the related concept of Industry 4.0. But, discussions often are broadly conceptual, giving manufacturing operations managers and executives little real-world guidance on how to leverage new information and operational technologies to drive efficiencies in their facilities.
4. Resin Supply Chain Issues: Suppliers Offer Perspective, Solutions
Uncertainty in the resin supply chain is sending ripples through the plastics industry and into end markets. The result has been predictable: price increases for the processor at the time of resin purchase. What are the biggest issues facing the resin industry at the moment, and what can the processor do to alleviate some of the pressure?
5. Five Industry Trends Affecting Plastics Processors
As plastics processors look to develop a strategic plan for 2018 and beyond, its important to be aware of industry changes that may impact operations. Check out these five industry trends that are affecting or will affect plastics processors in the near future: automation, 3D printing and additive manufacturing, materials science, environmental sustainability and the changing role of product design.
