by William R. Carteaux Staying competitive in a constantly changing business environment has been a challenge for plastics processors in recent times particularly during the relentless 2009 economic slump that is (hopefully) beginning to appear in the rearview mirror. As our industry attempts to work its way out of the worst economic downturn our nation has experienced since … [Read more...] about Priority Federal Legislative Issues in 2010
Business Planning
Plastics Markets: The Road Ahead
by Dr. Peter Mooney Over the past few years, the U.S. economy has encountered the most serious downturn in overall economic activity since the Great Depression, resulting in destructive repercussions throughout Wall Street and Main Street. As we slowly, tentatively emerge from this cathartic experience, embarking upon a new year and a new decade, plastics industry participants … [Read more...] about Plastics Markets: The Road Ahead
Investing in Energy-Saving Improvements
by Ryan Thompson, Murphy Company As more corporations respond to an anemic world economy by putting capital improvement programs on a starvation diet, the age-old question asked in every cyclical downturn surfaces anew: "Is cutting capital improvements now the right decision?" In some industries, it is. In others, like the plastics industry, it isn't. Right now, there is a … [Read more...] about Investing in Energy-Saving Improvements
We Don’t Need to Assess Our Operations – We Are Doing Great!
by Laurie Harbour-Felax The majority of the readers of this publication, along with a majority of other manufacturing companies throughout the country, have probably repeated the title statement far more than one time. In todays environment, many small- to middle-market business owners are struggling with their performance both financially and operationally, but feel they … [Read more...] about We Don’t Need to Assess Our Operations – We Are Doing Great!
Flying Blind? Defining Cost Drivers Leads to Success
by Jeff Mengel When it comes to running your business, how do you gauge conditions? Do you stick your finger out the window - flying blind - or, like a pilot, do you rely on the instruments available to you to ensure your business maintains a consistent altitude and direction? When it comes to quoting - one of the most significant decisions businesses make - many … [Read more...] about Flying Blind? Defining Cost Drivers Leads to Success