Plastic Manufacturing Industry Challenges in 2021

Many industries were hit with a new set of challenges this year, and the plastic industry is no different. Plastic fabrication companies in Utah and all over the country are having to adjust to new safety regulations, lack of supplies and increased demand. New manufacturing technology has also appeared recently, which businesses are having to learn fast. Most of these challenges have appeared because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Fortunately, while it’s taking many plastic manufacturers time to adjust to these new challenges, the plastic industry has stayed strong.

New technology

Since the plastic industry saw a major setback during the pandemic, many companies are trying to increase productivity through the use of technology. Automation technology is often a great help when it comes to increasing productivity. Companies are also utilizing artificial intelligence to adapt.

While all this new technology is usually helpful, it takes a lot of time and effort to learn. Most companies have to hire special teams to operate and maintain all this new technology.

The demand for plastic is skyrocketing

Many individuals and businesses have increased their demand for plastic, mainly for shipping purposes. A lot of the plastic is being used to ship items purchased through online shopping. Since people are now used to doing most of their shopping online, the demand for plastic likely won’t decrease.

Plastic is also used for many pandemic supplies, including medical equipment and personal protective gear. The demand for items like surgical gloves and syringes is still extremely high, and both items require plastic.

While this is a good thing when it comes to sales, the increased demand is leaving some manufacturers unable to fill orders in time. This puts a major strain on workers and business owners, especially since certain supplies are low.

More production means more pollution

Plastic fabrication companies in Utah and all over the globe are producing more waste due to increased production. This waste is bad for the environment and is already filling many landfills. Pollution is only expected to increase, as the demand for plastic is so high. Recycling programs were launched to combat plastic waste, but a lot more needs to be done.

Getting used to safety guidelines

While most COVID-19 safety guidelines have been in place for over a year now, some companies are still finding it hard to adjust. Trying to focus on your job while social distancing is a challenge for many people. Also, if someone in your department contracts COVID-19, everyone working around that person will have to take some time off. This could lead to late orders or work being left for employees who are already busy.

Since demands have increased, it’s become even harder for some manufacturing warehouses to properly social distance. Companies are also having trouble fitting all customers and other visitors into their front offices due to COVID-19 safety precautions.

While many challenges are facing the plastic industry in 2021, there is much to look forward to as well. Production is up, new technology is making things more efficient than ever and the arrival of COVID-19 vaccines means the end of the pandemic is getting closer every day.

If you’re looking for a quality plastic design company in Utah, contact D&D Plastics today to discover what we can do for your operation.

Categorised in: Plastic Design Company

This post was written by Writer