by Laurie Harbour, president and CEO, Harbour Results, Inc. In 2020, if processors asked, “What would the state of the plastics industry be in 2021?” the sentiment would have been pessimistic. Many predicted the COVID-19-spurred recession to last 12 to 18 months and shutdowns and drop in consumer spending would result in many distressed businesses and industries. Business … [Read more...] about State of the Plastics Industry: Mostly Sunny with a Chance of Thunderstorms
Benchmarking
An Honest Assessment of the CRM Software Utilized in the Manufacturing Industry
by Ian Gjertson, analyst, MAPP Discovering and establishing new relationships can be complicated but are a prerequisite for attaining sales growth and sustainability. In addition to all the complexities involved in managing a business, developing healthy relationships is one of the most significant challenges. The more information executives and sales professionals have about … [Read more...] about An Honest Assessment of the CRM Software Utilized in the Manufacturing Industry
MAPP Benchmarking & Best Practices Conference
Plastics Business The 2021 Benchmarking and Best Practices Conference is planned for November 3-5, 2021, in-person at the Indianapolis Downtown Marriott. This event will bring together manufacturers from around the United States for 3 days of programs and activities. The goal of the Benchmarking and Best Practices Conference is to help plastics companies improve their … [Read more...] about MAPP Benchmarking & Best Practices Conference
Manufacturers Losing the Battle Against Healthcare Insurance Companies
by Troy Nix, executive director, MAPP America’s insurance company giants receive billions and billions of dollars in profit, yet the cost of providing health insurance continues to challenge US manufacturers both large and small, and the impact of the pandemic has only added fuel and complete confusion to the fire. According to the most recent study conducted in 2021 by … [Read more...] about Manufacturers Losing the Battle Against Healthcare Insurance Companies
A Message of Optimism: Getting Back on Track in 2021
by Maria Nix, contributing writer, MAPP Most manufacturing executives reading this article have survived an unprecedented year in business. While some have thrived, many are searching for sparks of hope to be used as fuel to drive forward and prosper in 2021. The good news is, according to over 220 executives who participated in the annual State of the Plastics Industry … [Read more...] about A Message of Optimism: Getting Back on Track in 2021