by Dr. Andreas Reger, researcher All businesses face threats of decline, but none is as great as the threat posed by an economic recession. According to the National Bureau for Economic Research (NBER), the US economy has experienced 11 recessions since 1945 and business failures are disproportionately concentrated during such recessions. Because of the financial … [Read more...] about How to Prepare for the Next Downturn
Business Planning
This Year I Hope to (Insert Answer Here)
by Jeff Bush, author Imagine closing your eyes, throwing a dart at the Wall Street Journal to pick a stock you had to invest your entire savings in. You can't look at the price until the last day of the year; nervous? But yet, this is how most businesses plan. They choose one time a year, develop a plan, put it in the drawer only to review it at the same time the following … [Read more...] about This Year I Hope to (Insert Answer Here)
US Tariffs on Steel and Aluminum Imports: Action Items for Businesses
Dave Andrea, Daron Gifford and Bryan Welsh Plante Moran By now, you've heard about the new tariffs on imported steel and aluminum instituted in early March 2018. It's no surprise many businesses have questions and concerns. Here's our overview and key actions to consider. The situation The 25 percent tariff on imported steel and 10 percent tariff on aluminum were based on … [Read more...] about US Tariffs on Steel and Aluminum Imports: Action Items for Businesses
Five Industry Trends Affecting Plastics Processors
by Jay Smith, senior manager, and Scott Walton, COO Harbour Results, Inc. As plastics processors look to develop a strategic plan for 2018 and beyond, it’s 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. 1. Automation If plastics … [Read more...] about Five Industry Trends Affecting Plastics Processors
Top 5 Reasons to Invest in New Machinery
by Brittany Willes, Plastics Business You may know the saying "Time Wounds All" – and that especially includes equipment. Even machines that are well-maintained and cared for are subject to the ravages of time and eventually need to be replaced. As inconvenient – and often expensive – as it can be to invest in new machinery, there are several very good reasons for doing … [Read more...] about Top 5 Reasons to Invest in New Machinery