Kickstart: Embracing new manufacturing methods for vinyl records

United Record Pressing says it is the oldest vinyl record manufacturing company in the U.S., but its age isn't stopping it from updating its production floor just in time for its 75th anniversary.

Nashville-based URP completed a $10 million expansion in 2023, which included buying 24 new presses to add to its fleet of 40 refurbished machines. It also said in a December 2024 news release that it has embraced dedicated production cells to improve the manufacturing process, using a team of both veteran and new operations leaders who adapted practices from electronics manufacturing.

"This alignment allows URP to handle projects of any size, from large, major label releases to community-oriented indie albums, while reducing lead times, honoring visual creativity and ensuring consistent quality," URP notes.

The new work floor also allows the company better leverage against international competitors with lower labor costs, "outmatching the efficiency and craftsmanship of global competitors to meet the surging demand for vinyl in the modern music industry," the company said.

Efforts to support kids, military veterans, animals and cancer research all were winners in the annual Chase Plastic Services Inc.'s Giving Card campaign in 2024.

The Clarkston, Mich.-based resin distributor handed out a record-breaking $15,000 to charities in 2024, the eighth year for the program. Chase customers and employees nominate organizations to receive donations.

The six charities receiving $2,500 for 2024 are:

• Best Buddies, an organization to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

• Camp One Step, which provides free year-round camping experiences for kids with cancer and their families.

• The Chuck Strong Initiative benefiting the Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, a partnership with the Indianapolis Colts has generated $15.5 million for cancer research since 2013.

• Hometown Hero Outdoors, a nonprofit organization promoting outdoor adventures for service members.

• Imagine FURever Ranch, a senior dog sanctuary in Kansas City.

• Roberta's Legacy, which supports people with breast cancer with individualized care and resources.

The Goodyear Blimp is marking its 100th birthday in 2025, and while the brand may be all about rubber, it is plastics that make the blimp possible.

The blimp's balloon-like body, or envelope, is made with DuPont's Tedlar-brand protective film, polyester and polyurethane. The gondola of the Wingfoot One is made with carbon-fiber composites, weighing 2,626 pounds — 800 pounds lighter than previous models — with seating for 12.

Akron, Ohio-based Goodyear will take the blimp to 100 locations throughout 2025 to mark its centennial. It is also offering a chance to win a blimp ride as part of the celebrations.