Fluid markets require flexible equipment
July 1st, 2020
Custom manufacturers rely on equipment that multitasks across product lines and markets, with minimal downtime. by Maura Keller Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, every custom end-product manufacturer faced some type of financial challenge. Reduced or canceled orders, customer attrition and market changes always affect manufacturers’ bottom lines. Another commonality among manufacturers is their heavy dependence […]
Performance upholstery fabrics meet myriad consumer demands
June 1st, 2020
High-performing upholstery fabrics offer more features than ever, without sacrificing style and comfort. by Maura Keller Consumers don’t want to choose between beauty and durability, nor do they want to sacrifice performance for sustainability, according to LeAnne Flack, marketing manager for Milliken Specialty Interiors. “Just as [consumers] are more closely examining the food they eat, […]
Long-term growth: The right equipment, the right software, the right employees
October 1st, 2019
At each step along the supply chain, customers demand quality, efficiency, flexibility and speed. The right kind of equipment, with the right kind of software and the right kind of operator, can lead to long-term growth. by Maura Keller Today’s consumer expects faster turnaround times and custom quality at low prices, which means that manufacturers […]
Enhancing workplace (and worker) performance: automation and technology, equipment ROI and the new workforce
July 1st, 2018
Canvas Innovations in Holland, Mich., focuses on custom marine canvas and upholstery products, says owner Chris Ritsema. The company also has a smaller portion of the business dedicated to other textile-related products, such as porch enclosures, shade sails, awning recovery, furniture covers, golf cart enclosures and a wealth of other custom projects. “We continue to […]