What It Takes To Be A Top Manufacturing Company

What We’ve Learned As A Market Leader

What does it take to be a top manufacturing company?

With almost 50 years in the business and recent recognition as a “Made in the USA” success story by Construction in Focus, Universal Polymer & Rubber has learned the steps it takes to become a market leader.

Through the years, we’ve remained true to our roots, building upon our original foundation to branch out into additional markets to serve our customers in transportation, cargo control, construction, pipe manufacturing, automotive OE supply chain, and general industrial markets.

1. Set Yourself Apart By Staying True To Your Values

Companies that set themselves apart from the competition do so through continuous hard work, a strong desire to learn, and an understanding of industry dynamics.

Manufacturing is competitive businesses and companies must be able to address and adapt to issues like the growing skills gap, the dwindling interest in core manufacturing as a career choice, or imposed tariffs on a moments notice. Fluidity from top executives down to starter employees is a necessity.

2. Embrace Innovation & Excel Where You Can

 The next key to success is understanding competitive pressures and embracing innovation. As an example, at UPR, we implemented a mobile unit as a way to better serve customers. Using a specially-equipped trailer, we can provide hydrostatic testing and custom product modifications for customers on location. We take pride not just in our ability to offer quality products, but also in our excellent customer service.

3. Stay Competitive By Branching Out

 Sharing our experiences can help other companies refine their business models to be more competitive and successful.  Facing diversity with versatility means that you don’t have to rely on one market for success, leading to less of a struggle when the markets fluctuate.

Simply stated: take on other proponents that complement the “bread and butter” of your company.

4. Make Strategic Acquisitions, Then Stick to Your Strategy

 We attribute part of our enduring success to our strategic acquisitions.  With a total of five acquisitions, Universal Polymer & Rubber has always strived to become one of the largest non-mixing polymer fabricators in the United States. Through these acquisitions, we are able to offer a variety of polymer solutions including rubber extrusions, plastic extrusions, rubber molding, tarp straps, and gaskets.

5. Get to Know Industry Experts Like UP&R

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Ringing in a New Year of Continued Manufacturing Growth

2019 Manufacturing Projections

As manufacturers begin looking for ways to evolve in the new year, it is necessary to reflect back upon the year gone to learn and grow from the successes we’ve had, goals we want to achieve, and existing methods we want to improve upon.

In 2018, the U.S. had a year full of new trade policies which heavily impacted the manufacturing sector in different ways. The United States remains a major force in global manufacturing and saw expansion in many key areas of the industry. We saw positive signs regarding job stability, wages, benefits, and career paths which have increased interest and improved the brand image for manufacturing, an important factor for future generations.

Not only did the manufacturing sector benefit from a healthy 2018, but so did buyers, suppliers, and industries such as transportation, cargo control, construction, pipe manufacturing, automotive, and more general industrial markets. At Universal Polymer & Rubber, one of our high points was the acquisition of Gasko Fabricated Products, a die-cutter of polymer and hybrid materials capable of high production volumes.

The Future Looks Bright

The MAPI Foundation projects a bright outlook full of steady growth for manufacturing through 2021. This is, in part, due to the projected strength of capital equipment investment. This positive outlook, however, is tempered by the recent tariffs which could have a significant impact on U.S. manufacturers. While some businesses are benefiting, the longer term effects may provide a challenge for some smaller manufacturers, including increased costs.

Recent tariffs may lead manufacturers to raise prices, impacting consumers and/or leading to cuts in production. Moving into 2019, it’s up to manufacturers to discover new, innovative ways to save and mitigate the impact of any increased costs before price points hit the customers. In the end, the industry as a will need to adjust to any rapid changes.

Growth for Rubber and Polymers

The rubber and polymer industries are projected to have sturdy continued growth this year.  As vehicle use increases, so will the world demand for tires, increasing the demand for rubber and rubber fabrication services. Likewise, the construction industry will drive the growth of polymers. Polyurethane foams, which are used heavily in construction applications, are expected to drive significant market growth for industry stakeholders.

Despite concerns about tariffs, the projections for 2019 show a continued increase in demand for rubber- and polymer-based products. As a manufacturer of a comprehensive range of polymer and rubber parts and components, UPR remains committed to helping our customers compete and grow in the upcoming year.