November/December 2010 | Trade and Industry Development

November/December 2010

Trade & Industry Development Magazine

November/December 2010

Welcome to our Supply Chain issue! In the high-speed, globalized business world of the 21st century, supply chain management is a critical make-or-break factor. The Romans knew well how important the supply chain was, which is why they became the masters of building roads to secure their empire. The British Empire, upon which the sun never set, likewise ensured its security by having mastery of the sea. In business, supply chain management evolved to feed the assembly line, and today wrestles with complex webs of global inputs and outputs which are imperative to business survival, let alone growth. In this issue, we will examine some of the latest developments and core considerations to keep your company's supply chain clicking along at the speed of light.

In his article on moving to multiple Distribution Centers, Phil Quartel offers a wealth of insight into what considerations must be accounted for in the process, and how to best grow your distribution network. John Rhodes provides an excellent examination of the Plastics industry, and discusses the latest cutting-edge technologies, such as Bioplastics and Nanocomposites. Ed McCallum examines the Metals industry, and provides an in-depth look at where it's heading and what factors are driving it. And Jennifer Alten offers an illuminating focus on Ports across the country. Also, Joan Yim, with a vast amount of experience in logistics, government and maritime affairs, offers sound advice for all of the stakeholders involved. And the Association of American Railroads and SPI's Bioplastics Council offer clear-eyed assessments of their respective industries.

In this issue

Plastics: Update and New Developments in the Plastics Industry

BY: John M. Rhodes

We've come a long way from the black Bakelite phones and radio cases. In fact, your new coffee cup may actually be made from corn-based plastics. While the origins of man-made polymers can be traced to the nineteenth century, the development of novel plastic materials and break-through applications continue at an intense pace. Just when the industry seems to be slowing down, a next generation of performance plastics is being developed that takes its cue from nano-, bio- and composite technologies. In this article, we will discuss the current state of the plastics industry and delve into the innovative materials and applications that will stimulate a new level of market demand. We will also assess the impact of new technologies on plastics companies and on communities seeking to retain and attract plastics industry businesses. more....