Issue link: http://www.insightdigital.biz/i/214203
American Custom Converting in Green Bay is one of many manufacturers in the New North that help set the region apart as the Converting Corridor. Continuing to build – and promote – this manufacturing segment will help strengthen the economy in Wisconsin. Hidden in plain sight Though converting companies are all around us, news and publicity are almost nonexistent in these flourishing factories. First, no one really tracks the variety of converting work where confidential customer relations supersede general public relations. Protecting business relationships with blockbuster brand partners is of utmost importance. In addition, statistics often get lumped in with the general paper industry. While the paper industry has grown at a slower rate and is typically less profitable per ton, converting is still seen as an adjunct. Ironically, buyers and product developers across the nation – and often around the world – know that Wisconsin is the place to visit when looking for converting transactions. (They will be back for the 7th Annual Converters Expo Thursday, March 13 at Lambeau Atrium.) Sales representatives from Wisconsin realize that large national companies such as 3M and Procter & Gamble look to Wisconsin to get their products developed and delivered with quality results. Kathy Schneider of Neenah has spent more than 30 years selling for local converters, working with brand leaders. She notes, "They rely on our expertise and hard-working reputation." Mark Kyles of American Custom Converting says his company is willing to adapt equipment to specialty needs: "We help their project engineers solve new product development issues, and then we manufacture the resulting product." Efficiency and automation keep cour tesy of American Custom Conver ting Products all handle multiple materials, along with many others like Tufco. Even in sub-sectors like coating, those in the know tout the Fox Valley for these specialties. the industry competitive. Converters can stay lean and advanced working with experts like Product Handling Concepts of Appleton. Allied suppliers in testing, engineering, equipment, roll grinding, machining, logistics and other support services make a formidable regional supply chain. It's happening right here. F Susan Stansbury is the owner of Right Angle Concepts and the founder of Converting Influence. She can be reached at Susan@RightAngleConcepts.com Independent to better serve your needs. From engineering to manufacturing, Argus is Northeast Wisconsin's choice! Whether your needs are personal or business, short-term or long-range, Argus provides the manufacturing industry with qualified personnel while aiming to connect jobseekers with positions that match their skills and ambitions. Serving Northeast Wisconsin for over 35 years with offices in Appleton, Milwaukee and Madison. 2339 W. Wisconsin Ave. Appleton, WI 54914 920-731-7703 www.argus-tech.com w w w.in s i g h t o n m f g . c o m November 2013 • / insight on manufacturing | 23