With 2018 now behind us, I think we can characterize last year with the word volatility. Many parts of the global economy had rocky years, as did the raw materials that we use in our manufacturing processes. In addition, all of the tariff and trade activity added to the volatility and has created uncertainty as we move forward.
Mauser Packaging Solutions spent 2018 focusing on our legacy companies coming together as one global company. It was a busy year, with the launch of our new brand, the many capital and improvement projects around the company and the acquisition and integration of ICS. We have strengthened our global team with the growth of our workforce and have continued to extend our already formidable range of products in every business. By continuing to fortify, and invest in, our core business, we have positioned ourselves to look at 2019 with confidence and optimism.
With a new year comes new challenges and expectations. The theme for 2019 is “redefining Mauser Packaging Solutions”. This is a year in which we want to focus on several critical success factors, first and foremost is Safety. During the week of January 14, we will be having a “Safety Week,” where Safety is highlighted in each of our plants, around the world. To support many of the other critical success factors, we will invest the most capital in company history in 2019. Further, we have engaged consultants (Proudfoot in North America and Best Consultants in Europe) to help us accelerate the creation and implementation of the Mauser Operating System (MOS). The MOS will be our way of homogenizing best practices across all of our facilities, around the world. Finally, we will further invest in our people through more specific training and development programs and the reintroduction of a formalized apprenticeship program.
As you can see, we have a very productive 2019 planned for Mauser Packaging Solutions. As always, the business revolves around our people. We believe we have the best, most dedicated and capable people in the industry. Through teamwork, relentless effort and solid execution, we can exceed our goals and ensure another great year for the Company.
Thank you again for all you do to make our Company great. Happy New Year.
All the best.
Ken Roessler