by William Carteaux, SPI Looking back on 2013 – a year marked by partisan bickering in Washington that resulted in the first government shutdown in over 17 years – we in the plastics industry are hopeful that at least a few key issues are ripe for bipartisan solutions in 2014. Importantly, though, where consensus cannot be reached despite our best efforts, we must continue to … [Read more...] about After Gridlock, Plastics Industry Looks to Federal Policy Modernization and Cutting Red Tape
Business Planning
Manufacturing Buzz Tempered by Challenges from China and Mexico
by Laurie Harbour, Harbour Results, Inc. The buzz today for manufacturing is exciting. From large companies moving critical manufacturing operations back to the US to universities starting new programs for manufacturing to companies that are growing and adding employees, the manufacturing industry is booming in the US. From our perspective, there is no better time for US … [Read more...] about Manufacturing Buzz Tempered by Challenges from China and Mexico
2013 Legislative Outlook: Uncertainties Mean Plastics Industry Must Remain Engaged on National Issues
by William R. Carteaux, SPI: The Plastics Industry Trade Association With the November elections fading into a distant memory, Congress and the White House now face the challenge of day-to-day governing – and it will be a challenge. As I talk to plastics company leaders around the country, their frustration over the recent handling of the so-called "fiscal cliff" comes across … [Read more...] about 2013 Legislative Outlook: Uncertainties Mean Plastics Industry Must Remain Engaged on National Issues
Capacity Constraints: The New Norm?
By Laurie Harbour, Harbour Results, Inc. Capacity constraints are one of today’s biggest challenges for any supplier. Although there is still a lot of uncertainty in the economy, customers are demanding higher and higher volumes, while also launching new products. Plastics processors are working long hours, trying to hire new people and contemplating new equipment with … [Read more...] about Capacity Constraints: The New Norm?
The Operational Impact of the Morning Huddle
An ownership transition at SPI Industries, South Bend, IN, triggered a re-evaluation of operational methodologies throughout the plant. With a desire to "turn the culture and turn the ship," President James Doster implemented a morning meeting to share critical benchmarks and process updates with his staff. Previously, the management team would review metrics once a month — … [Read more...] about The Operational Impact of the Morning Huddle