I’m often reminded these days of a quote from Henry David Thoreau, “What recommends commerce to me is its enterprise and bravery. It does not clasp its hands and pray to Jupiter.” It could be tempting for manufacturers to simply try to survive until the economy recovers. What differentiates the true successes is their willingness to push forward, take risks and really create their own opportunities.

Finding and implementing cost-saving procedures has become even more vital as the recession drags on. Manufacturers can take multiple steps in the adhesive application process to reduce costs while improving productivity. Read “Where Do We Go From Here?” to learn more.

Manufacturers can also target new applications in order to surpass their competition. For example, methyl methacrylate adhesives are increasingly being used for architectural polyvinyl chloride (PVC) installations. “Methyl Methacrylate Adhesives for Architectural PVC” has the details.

Today’s successful manufacturers are not expecting to emerge from this recession simply by hoping for the best. They’re actively working to increase efficiencies or focusing on new opportunities-or both! I’d love to hear what steps your company is taking to succeed despite the recession. Please contact me at (330) 336-4098 or suttons@bnpmedia.com to share your story.

Errata

In its press release dated June 15, the Adhesive and Sealant Council conveyed inaccurate information regarding Bill Campbell’s position at TOTAL Petrochemical. This information was included in the August issue of ASI. We apologize for any confusion this may have created. The corrected information is provided below:

The Adhesive and Sealant Council recently announced that Gary Delzell, Bostik, Inc.’s director of Supply Management, was unanimously elected to join the council’s board of directors. Delzell was elected to the board in a special election to fill the term of Bill Campbell, president of Bostik, who assumed a new position within the TOTAL group on July 1.