IPFA CORNER

As we begin a New Year, and millennium, it is an exciting time to be in the plastics fabrication industry. At the same time, there has never been a more challenging era to be in business. With the advent of the Internet, we can now compete with fabricators coast to coast, and then some. This can lead to more competitive pricing for fabricated parts and ultimately to lower margins. In order to stay profitable, we must be more productive with the resources we have at our disposal.

In order to stay current and competitive in our fast moving economy, and industry, we as fabricators need resources that will; promote our industry and provide training in all the aspects of our businesses from fabrication technique to managing our shops. Those are just a few of the things that the International Plastics Fabricators Association (IPFA) was formed to provide. From promoting its members and plastics fabricating, to providing a forum for education and bringing suppliers and fabricators together, the IPFA is your resource.

We are currently developing agendas for regional workshops scheduled to begin later this year. The workshops will address a variety of topics including machining, welding, thermoforming, finishing, safety, and business management and marketing. As we finalize the agendas, we welcome your input regarding all aspect of your business. By taking an active role in the IPFA you can help guarantee your success in our new economy. But you must get involved!

Regular membership in the IPFA is available for those whose primary business is the fabrication of plastic stock shapes. Associate membership is available to those allied to the field of plastics fabrication. For more information, see our ad on page 11 of this issue or visit our Web site at www.fabricators.org. The association is also developing an enhanced mix of member benefits from vendor relationships to insurance programs. Watch our site for news on these new exclusive member services.

Speaking of our Web site, have you checked it out lately? In response to member's requests, all member companies, their primary contacts, their city and state, and a hot link for direct e-mail to them, have been listed under the "Member Benefits/Application" button, under the heading of "Member Roster". We hope that this will generate even more business for your companies through our Web site as an added benefit of your membership.

You can make a difference. Take an active role in the success of your business by joining the IPFA today. The association is looking for members who would like to get involved in helping shape the future of our association and our industry.

For more information, contact the IPFA at 630-980-4740 or visit their website at www.fabricators.org.