As Plastics News marks its 25th year of publication, we take a year-by-year look back at some of the events, people and curious coincidences that have shown up its its pages. Check back through the end of the year (not including holidays) to follow along. This year: 2008.
JULY
Lego A/S will end its 2-year-old outsourcing agreement for its blocks and bring production back in house. The Danish company had shifted production to outside suppliers to cut costs, with Flextronics International Ltd. actually operating in Lego plants. “Jointly, we have now come to the conclusion that it is more optimal for the Lego group to manage the global manufacturing ourselves,” the company says.
The Society of Plastics Engineers are promising big changes as the group tries to shore up finances and attract a younger generation of engineers.
AUGUST
A deal between Ford's Automotive Components Holdings LLC and Johnson Controls Inc. for JCI to acquire the massive 1.6 million-square-feet auto interior plant in Saline, Mich., has fallen apart, and outsiders question if anyone can take on the plant. “The handwriting is on the wall. They probably should close it,” one analyst says. The bulk of the plant will end up under the control of Faurecia SA, but as part of a three-way deal.
“The Olympic effect” slows production in China as the desire to have clear skies for the Beijing Olympics prompts officials to reduce traffic and electricity consumption. Processors expect once the event is over, they will again have steady power supplies and be able to get trucks rolling.
SEPTEMBER
The struggling auto industry claims another major supplier as Cadence Innovation LLC is forced to file for protection under Chapter 11. Industry experts say it won't be the last as the auto industry takes a far sharper downturn than expected.
OCTOBER
Nike Inc. debuts its $100 “Trash Talk” sneakers, made from scraps of polyurethane foam, leather and other parts left behind after standard show production
NOVEMBER
