La Jolla, Calif. — Nexeo Plastics has remained focused on its people and culture, even in a challenging market.
"Our people drive our long-term success," President and CEO Kurt Schuering said March 11 at the Plastics News Executive Forum in La Jolla, Calif. "The market is in a tough situation now, but if we confront these challenges head on, we won't just survive, but thrive."
Schuering has almost 30 years of market experience. He joined The Woodlands, Texas-based Nexeo in June 2024. Schuering also holds president and CEO titles with GPD Cos. Inc., Nexeo's holding company.
Challenges now facing the plastics market, according to Schuering, include rising costs, downturns in key end markets and shifting global supply chains. The industry also is responding to the rise of electric vehicles, an emphasis on sustainability, shifting spending patterns on consumer goods and the impacts of potential tariffs on Canada and Mexico.
In spite of these challenges, Nexeo "is focused on delivering solutions for innovation and growth," Schuering said.
"There's been a ripple effect across the industry that's forcing companies to make tough business decisions to be profitable," he added. "We've prioritized employee retention and development and worked on technical training and leadership development."
Nexeo has used employee engagement surveys to learn how to build relationships and how to do business. This has included use of hybrid work models and flexible schedules, Schuering said.
Nexeo also has taken part in community and sustainability initiatives. "Participating in community service projects builds camaraderie and gives back to the community," Schuering added. Other employee-based initiatives at Nexeo have included career development programs that create "a culture of accountability."
"Sometimes you have to take yourself out of your comfort zone to build employee ownership and empowerment," Schuering said. "That includes transparent communication and setting clear expectations and maintaining an open dialogue."
On the technology front, Schuering added Nexeo is using artificial intelligence on end market analysis, market forecasts, daily operations and real-time tech support.
Nexeo distributes resins and compounds in North America, Europe and Asia for more than 30 suppliers. The firm has annual sales estimated at more than $2 billion.