Positive or Negative?

Wow, April already and so much uncertainty exists in our industry. We are unable to get through a day without hearing about another paper mill laying off people or shutting down. The box manufacturers are obviously in the same boat, cutting back production, lying off employees when necessary or in some instances, closing all together.

The plastic industry isn’t much better, as all of this is consumer driven, and in today’s economy it is tough to go out and look at unnecessary purchasing when so many of us struggle to just make ends meet.

So, what are our companies doing during these times? We are growing, and intend to continue along those paths. The country did not come to a stop. People still shop, buy things, eat, go to movies and have popcorn, get out and enjoy Spring, and yes, even buy or need a lot of consumer goods. Sure, we are all a lot smarter with our spending, but we are spending, and when we do, we generate waste paper and scrap plastics, items we recycle.

Too many recyclers and consumers are hurting, in part because they took advantage of higher priced export pricing over the last few years, now only to find our domestic partners are supporting those of us who supported them. Fortunately, our companies are in the latter group, and because of that, we are seeking out new accounts, additional volumes to recycle and opportunities of working with all of the available institutions, companies, communities, etc. who still need and want to recycle.

We all have a choice, that being to think positive or negative. We are a very positive company and are looking for positive partners.