By Andrew Carlsgaard, benchmarking and analytics director, MAPP Healthcare and benefits strategy remains one of the most consequential business decisions US manufacturers make each year. In 2026, employers continue to face rising health benefit costs, tighter operating budgets and greater pressure to use benefits as both a retention tool and a financial management … [Read more...] about Manufacturers Experience Healthcare Cost Increases in the Past Year, Search for New Options
Articles
Technology Focus: Training Services
A look at training services that deliver specialized education through structured classroom coursework, real-world operational scenarios and hands-on learning in injection molding, extrusion, blow molding and material science – designed to upskill operators, technicians and engineers in plastics manufacturing. American Injection Molding … [Read more...] about Technology Focus: Training Services
Champion Plastics, Crescent Industries, Viking Plastics: Automation and Lights-Out Production
By Liz Stevens, writer, Plastics Business Automation in plastics manufacturing is evolving from isolated tasks to fully integrated production strategies designed to reduce labor dependency, improve consistency and increase capacity. This article profiles three MAPP member companies – Champion Plastics, Crescent Industries and Viking Plastics – that are applying automation … [Read more...] about Champion Plastics, Crescent Industries, Viking Plastics: Automation and Lights-Out Production
Technology Focus: Auxiliary Equipment
A look at auxiliary equipment in plastics manufacturing that supports primary processes, such as injection molding and extrusion, by managing tasks like material conveying, temperature control, drying, blending, recycling and more to streamline production, reduce labor and improve product quality. Conair Group724.584.5500www.conairgroup.com The Conair Group, Cranberry … [Read more...] about Technology Focus: Auxiliary Equipment
Building a Practical AI Strategy: Lessons from BRI
By Adam Noble, vice president, Blue Ridge Industries IntroductionBlue Ridge Industries (BRI) is a custom contract manufacturer specializing in injection molding, high-volume automation and engineering design – creating quality solutions since 1985. The company was founded by technical owners who excel at creating quality solutions and this technical, data-driven culture only … [Read more...] about Building a Practical AI Strategy: Lessons from BRI