by Liz Stevens, contributing writer Plastics Business No manufacturing operation is immune to supply chain risk. Supply chain problems can occur at any stage of the product lifecycle, and – for those who cannot avoid risk (think everyone) – a “belt and suspenders” mindset is vital to preparing for potential disruptions on the horizon. To minimize risk exposure and be better … [Read more...] about Prepare for Supply Chain Pressures
Supply Chain
Resin Supply Chain Issues: Suppliers Offer Perspective, Solutions
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor Plastics Business Uncertainty in the resin supply chain is sending ripples through the plastics industry and into end markets. The result has been predictable: price increases for the processor at the time of resin purchase. What are the biggest issues facing the resin industry at the moment, and what can the processor do to alleviate … [Read more...] about Resin Supply Chain Issues: Suppliers Offer Perspective, Solutions
Understanding the Flow of Inventory Management
by Grainger Editorial Staff Is a large percentage of your company's dollars going toward inventory? Managing inventory efficiently can help cut down on many costs that you may not even be aware of. Poor inventory control can lead to emergencies, such as running out of much needed materials. This can take time away from production, and finding a quick replacement part can be … [Read more...] about Understanding the Flow of Inventory Management
Managing the Supply Chain Squeeze
by Laurie Harbour Harbour Results, Inc. Supply chain management in manufacturing is by no means a simple process, and for the plastics processor it can be an even tougher challenge. Plastics processors experience what we like to call "the supply chain squeeze," where they typically are in the middle of two much larger manufacturing companies – the end customer and a large … [Read more...] about Managing the Supply Chain Squeeze
OESA/HRI Identify Automotive Supply Chain Trends
Plastics Business The Original Equipment Suppliers Association (OESA) and Harbour Results Inc. (HRI) recently completed the third Automotive Tooling Barometer to better understand the impact and cause of automotive program delays. The Barometer indicates that 66 percent of tool shops had more than half of their projects over the past four months delayed two weeks or more. … [Read more...] about OESA/HRI Identify Automotive Supply Chain Trends