By Andrew Carlsgaard, benchmarking and analytics director, MAPP MAPP’s 26th annual State of the Plastics Industry Report, based on responses from 152 plastics processing leaders, depicts an industry that is stable and optimistic but also under increased profit pressure, with most companies operating in the middle of the performance spectrum rather than at extremes. Notably, … [Read more...] about Processors Report Optimism for 2026 Despite Sales and Margin Pressures: 2026 MAPP State of the Industry Report
2026 Issue 1
How Well Do Leaders Know Themselves?
By John Vermeesch, founder and steward, Narrow Road Coaching A Leadership StorySummer 1980-something. West Point. John Vermeesch was an 18-year-old new cadet sweating through New York’s humidity, running the mountains of the Hudson Valley, and learning just how much he didn’t know about leadership. That summer, he always carried a 3"x4.5" book called Bugle Notes, a … [Read more...] about How Well Do Leaders Know Themselves?
From Chaos to Control: How MAPP Members Are Taking Charge of MRO Spending with Grainger
By Shelby Lasley, GPO Director, MAPP In the world of manufacturing, most companies can quickly identify their biggest cost drivers: labor, raw materials and energy. But tucked behind the scenes, in storerooms and tool cribs, lurks a category that often goes unnoticed until something breaks – maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) supplies. More than 40% of MRO purchases … [Read more...] about From Chaos to Control: How MAPP Members Are Taking Charge of MRO Spending with Grainger
New Year. New Mindset.
By Lindsey Munson, editor, Plastics Business January 2026 came and went in a blur. I’m sure, like many of you, we have had little time to pause and reflect on what we’d like to accomplish this year – both professionally and personally. Still, I am someone who appreciates a good plan (hello, Type A), loves to learn and strives to be the best version of myself. Rather than set … [Read more...] about New Year. New Mindset.
PTXPO 2026 Returns to Rosemont: Innovation in Molding and Moldmaking
The Plastics Technology Expo (PTXPO) is a three-day showcase of cutting-edge plastics processing technologies and innovations, presented by Plastics Technology, MoldMaking Technology and Gardner Business Media, Inc. Held in Rosemont, Illinois, PTXPO is strategically located in the heart of the Midwest, placing attendees in the “Golden Corridor of Manufacturing.” Recognized … [Read more...] about PTXPO 2026 Returns to Rosemont: Innovation in Molding and Moldmaking