As we settle into 2025, it is important to focus on our key objectives and reflect on what has enabled our success in the past. Our future is brimming with possibilities that are rooted in organizational foundations established well over 100 years ago. Dating back to 1903 when Mauser introduced the first steel drum1, this company has been committed to providing innovative solutions to customers’ packaging needs. From transporting products using horse and trailer in the early 1900’s to now developing onsite plants at customer locations using Mauser built machinery, our innovative mindset enables us to meet the ever changing challenges and demands of our global market ever since Mauser was founded in 1896
While our history provides us a solid foundation, it is our key advantages of today that will enable us to remain a resilient and dynamic organization into the future. Those key advantages for the MIPS business unit include:
- Most comprehensive Plastic and IBC product range for UN and non-UN applications with unique “fit for purpose” solutions
- Largest Reconditioning capabilities and network; offering responsible care solutions across a full spectrum of products, including competitor products
- Industry leader in PCR product development with the largest product range on multi-layer PCR solutions via revolutionary Infinity Series product line
- Full-service provider offering Manufacturing, Collection, Recycling, Reconditioning, and Fleet-management
- Vertically integrated with in-house blow molder and key component manufacturing
- Strong Financials and cash flow generation
- Quality, capable and dedicated people
To continue to capitalize on these advantages, in 2025 we will focus on the key objectives laid out for the company earlier this year by Mark Burgess, President and CEO. These key objectives are achieving organic sales growth per the budget, achieving key operational and productivity initiatives, executing on key initiatives, and continuing to invest in our billion-dollar plan. For the MIPS business unit, there are very specific projects and strategies we must execute on to reach our goals in each of these key objectives.
Achieve organic sales growth per the budget
Our goal for organic sales growth is to attain a minimum +5.5% increase in budgeted volumes. To do this we will optimize volumes from our previous investments in Plastic South Africa, China, Singapore, and Reco Turkey and Poland. Additionally, we plan to ramp up production at our new IBC plants in Italy and China. We will also capitalize on the amicable separation with Fanshun in China to boost IBC sales.
Execute on key organic initiatives
We will execute on key inorganic initiatives by finalizing and integrating various acquisitions in Europe and Asia which will significantly enhance our product portfolio and global footprint. We will also evaluate further greenfield projects and other acquisition potentials to cover white spots in various parts of the world.
Achieve key operational and productivity targets
We aim to achieve key operational and productivity targets by building on the significant improvements of 2024. In Safety, we improved by 44% in 2023 and 16% in 2024. Our goal is to further enhance safety metrics by 5%, reaching a TRIR recordable rate of 0.90. We will deliver on $25.5 million in EIP and SIP projects by leveraging our new EIP organizational structure to implement a structured continuous improvement approach and best practice sharing. Additionally, we will focus on improving underperforming businesses and implementing 2% productivity improvements. Finally, we strive to achieve an industry-leading OTIF of at least 98%.
Invest in our Billion Dollar Plan
We will continue to invest in the Billion Dollar Plan by expanding our adjacent markets and investing in sustainability and innovation strategies by further rolling out our PCR strategy in the Netherlands and the UK, following recent PRC strategy completion in Italy. This will help build a PCR network across Europe, enhancing access to premium PCR material. We aim to get closer to our customers by finalizing on-site production with BASF in Spain, Germany, and China. Additionally, we will further develop our Medical Waste Business in Europe, explore food applications, and investigate new end-customer segments such as EV battery supply. We will also roll out CO2-neutral IBC and additional CO2 footprint reduction services, and establish a digital service platform for end customers, including closed-loop systems, product tracking, and CO2 reduction reports.
There is a lot of work for us to do to meet these goals and objectives, but I am optimistic and excited about what this year has in store. Despite what challenges await us, I am confident in the ability and commitment of our people to overcome the obstacles that we will inevitably encounter. My leadership team and I are focused on leading with integrity and cultivating an environment where creativity and innovation can thrive for the next 120+ years.
Michael Steubing
President, Mauser International Packaging Solutions