Every once in a while, I see a story about a U.S. plastics company that's making something that I would have assumed had moved to a lower-cost country like China years ago. Today, the story is from the Wood River Press, and it's about Greene Plastics Corp., a Hope Valley, R.I., company that makes plastic beads. This company, also known as The Beadery, is an employee-owned molder that is celebrating its 75th anniversary this month. The company is located in a historic mill, made of granite and built in 1848. Greene Plastics employs 120. Greene Plastics' Web site explains that it has survived by specializing in beads -- offering a wide variety of products to customers around the world:
In a highly competitive market, the local company has prevailed - due in part to innovative, cost-effective manufacturing techniques, and to a commitment to quality. THE BEADERY is also known for distinctive product and packaging design and for meeting and leading fashion trends in its industry. In recent years, the importing of complementary items has rounded out the product lines to meet growing demand. Significant expansion of marketing internationally brings increasing sales in over 30 countries.Congratulations to Greene Plastics/The Beadery for reaching its 75th anniversary.