Despite Tough Times, Glass Companies Find Ways to Maintain Market Positions

While it may appear that 2009 will be bringing a number of business challenges, some companies in the glass industry, such as J.E. Berkowitz L.P. (JEB) in Pedricktown, N.J., are taking steps to ensure steady growth for the future.

"In 2009 commercial construction is anticipated to drop in demand and with a smaller pie … the flat glass industry will be under pressure to reduce prices to secure work," Arthur Berkowitz, president of JEB, told USGNN.com™. "Our initiatives in continued employee training, process improvements (ISO) and improved quality and service will all contribute to remaining cost, quality and service competitive."

In order to fulfill this plan, JEB has invested into a number of initiatives and capital expenditures.

For starters, the company plans to install a third CNC drill and mill machine this month to better support its Interiors Glass Division.

In addition, JEB is now licensed by DuPont to manufacture and market the SentryGlas Expressions interlayer product line.

"We have installed a 60-inch wide digital printer, computer hardware and graphics software, and the in-house technical expertise to provide this exciting product for both interior and exterior applications with almost unlimited graphic and color [possibilities]," says Berkowitz.

JEB has also invested into a number of IT initiatives. These include improving tracking through bar coding, a new website and improving internal and customer communications.

"Our commitment to our employees, both in the office and plant, will increase with continued investments in ISO 9000 quality audits and certification and our wellness program, combined with initiatives in safety and training and a full-time, in-house trainer," states Berkowitz.

JEB also plans to continue its commitment toward green building and LEED.

"In addition to investing in 400 specially-designed returnable steel racks, our sourcing of raw materials and vendor relationships will continue to head in the direction of regional supply and earning LEED points for our customers' projects," states Berkowitz.

He adds, "When we built and equipped our new plant in Pedricktown the plan was to be able to succeed in both growth times and in leaner times by being a low-cost, high-quality and service-driven company. We believe that 2009 will test our abilities in leaner times."