Spring 2012 Whats New

The first quarter of 2012 is now behind us. 2012 has been a unique year so far in many ways.

We almost did not have a winter here in the east and spring actually arrived in February: very strange.
The first quarter was very busy with customers releasing cans at a very aggressive pace. The level of activity and the broad number of industries represented (industrial, chemical, beverage, snacks, food, confections, etc.) shows a true recovery across the board. Thank you to everyone.
Independent Can Company is in an industry that many people consider "traditional, smoke stack, not innovative, old". These beliefs are so wrong. The innovations in the can business are dramatic:

Beverage		Aluminum bottle cans, lighter gauge, fully 100% recyclable and more
Food Sanitary Cans		Shaped cans, lighter gauge, fully 100% recyclable and more
Specialty		Faster concept to delivery of new shapes, sizes and designs than ever before, 100% recyclable, lighter gauge (lower cost)

 

The can manufacturing business is global. Steel mills are located in all developed and developing countries in the world. Can manufacturers are located in these same countries. This is why we participate in organizations and meetings globally. In the past year we have attended meetings in the following countries: Italy (2 trips), England, Germany, Switzerland, Turkey (several trips), China, Dubai and Israel. In the next 3 months we have meetings scheduled in China, Holland and Germany. In addition to attending meetings and conferences we have bought equipment from 6 countries.
Steel: 90% or more of the steel we use is produced in the United States. Unfortunately the global investment in the production of tinplate is being made in the developing countries (China and India). In the future we may have to import more tinplate to meet our needs.
The most exciting development in the past 2 years has been the shift in where tins are being made. In the past 2 years we have begun making tins in our plants in the United States that were previously made in China. We are currently installing and will have a line operational in May that will be directed specifically to replace tins that are currently 100% imported (more to follow).
I hope that you can feel the excitement that we have for the business and the future of the can business here in the United States.

Sincerely,
Rick Huether
President and CEO

 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Visit our Booth at the Sweets and Snacks Show

 

We have new summer and every day designs for your consideration.  It is not too early to plan for seasonal tins.  We are exhibiting at the Sweets and Snacks Show in Chicago, Booth 781, and will have many of our stock tins on hand. Tins are the perfect eye-catching packaging for confections and snacks.    

 

 

POSTED BY:

Ryan D. Huether

Vice President of Business Development 

Independent Can Company

ryan@independentcan.com

http://www.westernspecialty.com

ZIPPO EARNS PRESIDENT’S “E STAR” AWARD

ZIPPO EARNS PRESIDENT’S “E STAR” AWARD

Pennsylvania Company Earns Presidential Distinction for Export Excellence

WASHINGTON, D.C. – May 17, 2012 – Today, Zippo^®, maker of the world famous windproof lighter with the lifetime guarantee, was presented with the President’s prestigious “E Star” Award by U.S. Commerce Secretary John Bryson. Zippo owner and chairman of the board, George Duke, received the award on behalf of the company at a ceremony which took place at the White House in Washington, D.C. First established in 1961, the President’s “E” Awards are the highest recognition any U.S. entity may receive for making a significant contribution to the expansion of U.S. exports.

"We are deeply honored to have been recognized by the United States government for our continued expansion efforts, especially as we celebrate our 80^th anniversary and approach the manufacture of our 500 Millionth windproof lighter,” said Duke. “While we strengthen our international presence and create jobs domestically, it’s important that we continue to acquaint overseas markets with classic Zippo craftsmanship and quality products. We are anticipating strong growth internationally and are excited about expanding our global footprint even more in the coming years.”

A second-time recipient of this national export award, Zippo first received the President’s “E” Award in 1994 having demonstrated export expansion that was measurable, innovative, sustainable, and which had broad impact. Created in 1969, the President’s “E Star” Award was authorized by the Secretary of Commerce to recognize “E” Award recipients for their continuing significant contributions to U.S. export expansion. U.S. Secretary John Bryson specifically highlighted the company’s recent upsurge in international sales and development of international markets.

“I am pleased to recognize Zippo Manufacturing Company for receiving the President’s ‘E’ Star Award, which honors companies that make significant contributions toward increasing U.S. exports,” said U.S. Commerce Secretary John Bryson. “This Administration is committed to leveling the playing field for American businesses and workers to help U.S. companies build things here and sell them around the world. ‘E’ Star Award winners like Zippo have excelled in this effort, demonstrating four years of successive export growth. It is companies like this that are helping to grow our economy and put more Americans back to work.”

All nominations are reviewed by the “E” Award Committee, which is chaired by the Department of Commerce, and includes representatives of ExIm Bank, the Small Business Administration, and the Departments of Agriculture, Labor, State, and Transportation.

This year marks 50th anniversary of the first presentation of the President’s “E” Award by President John F. Kennedy.  The President’s “E” Award was created by Executive Order in 1961 to encourage U.S. companies to sell their products abroad. 

About Zippo
Zippo markets in more than 160 countries and is one of the most recognized brands in the world. Based in Bradford, PA, Zippo will produce its 500 Millionth lighter on June 5. Each is backed by an unparalleled lifetime guarantee. Zippo’s diverse product line includes lighter accessories; butane candle lighters; watches, fragrance, and lifestyle accessories for men; and a robust line of heat and flame products for outdoor enthusiasts. Zippo also owns the Ronson brand of lighters and fuel and W.R. Case and Sons Cutlery Company, both based in Bradford, PA. Zippo will celebrate its 80^th anniversary in 2012. For more information, visit Zippo.com.

Media Contact

Pat Grandy

Zippo Communications

pgrandy@zippo.com

814-368-2714

Photo Caption: Zippo spectrum finish lighters are imprinted via the auto-engraving process at the company’s plant in Bradford, PA. This model is popular in Zippo’s fastest growing markets, India and China.

POSTED BY:

Ryan D. Huether

Vice President of Business Development 

Independent Can Company

ryan@independentcan.com

http://www.westernspecialty.com

The Emotion of Design

The Emotion of Design

What makes a good design?  Some designs can meet all of the right criteria and still miss the mark with the buying public.  Our company experienced this a few years ago when we picked a design called “Holiday Lights”.  It was colorful and charming. It had texture, motion and interest but it was not a top seller that we expected it to be.

Perhaps the snowman is missing an expression.  Images bring about emotional reactions. If it makes you feel warmed, interested, amused, or relaxed, you will want to look at it and keep it around.  One of our new designs, “Best Friends” by renowned artist, Terry Redlin has a very visual and emotional appeal.  When we see a man and his dog, in the most beautiful of settings, the image takes us there.

"Best Friends" by Terry Redlin, courtesy of Wild Wings

Then there is the issue of color. Very similar patterns can have a different appeal if the colors clash.  Colors that are seen together in nature are generally more appealing but some consumers are excited by things that appear to deliberately violate those norms in an effort to achieve the “wow” factor.  Having red berries on green holly could be boring to some when compared with hot pink berries on metallic citrine!   Another of our new designs, “Jeweltone Ornaments” uses purple,  blue, violet and green – not exactly Christmas colors.

Independent Can is excited about our new offering for 2012.   Check out our online catalog when you have a chance.

Http://www.westernspeciatly.com

909-923-6150

Independent Can Company 

2040 South Lynx Plact

Ontario, CA. 91761

JOB OPENING: Operations Manager - Independent Can Company, Conneaut, OH

Operations Manager CONNEAUT, OHIO DIVISION Independent Can Company, a global familyowned manufacturing company, is seeking a qualified Operations Manager to join our Conneaut, Ohio Division. An engineering degree and background would be helpful. The successful candidate will report to the Vice President of Manufacturing and be responsible for directing and coordinating all activities concerning safety, human resources, administration, production, quality, maintenance, customer satisfaction and community activities for this division. The skills and qualify cations necessary for success in this position are mechanical aptitude, a demonstrated strong analytical ability, promoting process improvement, documentation skills, safety management, coaching, critical thinking and goal setting. The position requires an individual who must be able to interface in a professional manner with plant personnel, offi ce staff, customers and vendors. Finally, he/she must be a team player who has strong leadership, communication and organizational skills while understanding the Company Core Values and the importance of details, accuracy and follow-up. Equal Opportunity Employer ‚M/F/D/V‚ Drug-Free and Smoke-Free Workplace RESUMES WITHOUT COMPLETE SALARY HISTORY WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED Fax resume with complete salary history to: Human Resources Manager 410-272-6494 OR, email to hrdept@independentcan.com. To avoid spam fi lters, position title must be in subject line, or mail to P.O. Box 370, 1300 Brass Mill Road, Belcamp, Maryland 21017

http://www.westernspecialty.com

How Sweet It Was

How Sweet It Was

The global, economic downturn has given us a different set of choices and reminded us of what is really important. With all of our technology, conveniences and instant access, our lives are more frenzied than ever. What usually suffers is the casual and spontaneous time with family and friends. Now, when planning our budget dollars, we may elect to have friends over for dinner rather than meeting at a restaurant and find that it is a more intimate, memorable experience. When cutting out the extras and the non-essentials, we rediscover the things that sustained us 50 years ago – the simple, wholesome things like books, board games and outdoor activities.

The popularity of gift cards made it possible for us to know nothing more about our friends and family then where they liked to shop or eat. When most of us picture the holiday celebrations from our childhood, it is filled with anticipation for that wished-for gift, followed by an expression of delight. Whether you were young or old, the thoughtful gift from the heart meant more than the cost of the item. Tightening of the purse strings also forces us to be more resourceful and creative.

Does the trend toward nostalgic and retro packaging reflect a longing for simpler times? This year, there has been a resurgence of interest in packaging for food gifts. Many major brands have gone the nostalgic, retro or commemorative route with their packaging. A specialty food gift in a collectible tin can be given for a family to share or as a corporate thank-you gift. The bakers, confectioners and the poppers have more mixes, flavors and colors than can be imagined. The supplier as well as the shopper has become more creative – in search of that “expression of delight.”


Independent Can Company
http://www.westernspecialty.com
909-923-6150

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GREEN PRODUCTS PRICE GAP DETERS CONSUMER?!?!

GREEN PRODUCTS PRICE GAP DETERS CONSUMERS! Would you pay a higher price if you knew that the product you were buying was made in an ECO FRIENDLY way? Would you pay a higher price if the packaging was 100% Recyclable or made from a large portion of recycled material?

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Independent Can Company IS Hiring!

Employment

Independent Can Company is always looking for motivated and qualified people who understand, accept and support our Company Values. Those values apply to co-workers and customers alike.

Company strongly believes, supports, hires and manages by our employee-developed Core Values. The values are: Fairness, Flexibility, being Market and Customer and Improvement Driven, Dedication, Responsible and consistent Teamwork.

Independent Can Company will always accept resumes from individuals with the following qualifications:

Can Line Machine Operator
Press Room Operator
Can Line Mechanics
Machinists
Tool and Die Makers


IMMEDIATE OPENINGS

For ALL positions:

Resumes without complete salary history will not be considered.
To avoid spam filters, position title must be in the subject line of email responses.
NO AGENCIES OR SEARCH FIRMS ACCEPTED.

Fax resume with complete salary history to: Human Resources Manager (410) 272-6494 OR, email hrdept@independentcan.com, (position title must be in subject line), OR Mail to P.O. Box 370, 1300 Brass Mill Road, Belcamp, MD 21017

Compensation package includes, vacation, paid holidays, medical/dental coverage, profit sharing and 401k options. To be successful in this position the candidate must understand, accept and be committed to our employee-developed Company Values. These values are Fairness, Flexibility, being Customer, Market, and Improvement Driven, Dedicated, Responsible and consistent Teamwork.

Equal Opportunity Employer - M/F/D/V - Drug-Free and Smoke-Free Workplace


INDUSTRIAL ELECTRICIAN
(Master electrician with Control Panel and PLC Experience)


Independent Can Company, a global manufacturing, family-owned company with annual sales of 60 million dollars, is seeking an experienced Industrial Electrician to join our maintenance team. The successful candidate needs to have hands-on industrial background in the manufacturing field. This person will be responsible for performing all required electrical repairs, maintenance, and new equipment installations. The incumbent will design electrical systems and draw ladder diagrams and schematics. He/she will also be responsible for researching and recommending improvements and upgrades in all electrical systems throughout the plant. Additionally, the successful candidate must keep up-to-date on electrical codes and be available for emergency call-ins after hours as needed. Proficiency in basic computer skills including Excel and Word, experience using the Internet, and the ability to learn company-specific software are required.

We offer excellent benefits including profit sharing, 11 paid holidays, two weeks vacation, 401(k) option and medical, dental and life insurance.

To be successful in this position the candidate must understand, accept and be committed to our employee-developed Company Values of being Fair, Flexible, Market, Customer & Improvement Driven, Dedicated, Responsible and be dedicated to Teamwork.
Email response must include "Industrial Electrician" in the subject line.



INSIDE SALES/MARKETING
(4 yr degree preferred)

Independent Can Company, a global manufacturing, family-owned company with annual sales of 60 million dollars, is seeking an experienced Inside Sales/Marketing person to join our Sales Team. The successful candidate needs to have sales, customer support and service experience, with media design experience (Adobe graphic design, photo-editing or layout software) a plus. Experience with media communications and/or advertising also a plus.

This person will be responsible for inside sales/account management as well as the development of new customers and new product sales in the United States and Canada while assisting with the Company’s marketing efforts. He/she will also be responsible for backing up outside sales people as needed with data entry, samples, and other office functions as well as working with the Marketing Specialist.

The skills and experience necessary for success in this position are creativity; experience with sales and customer service; marketing the ability to communicate effectively in writing, on the phone and in person; and the ability to set goals; sales acumen and a good mathematics skill level. The selected individual must have excellent communication and people skills and the adaptability to fit into a manufacturing/ distribution environment.

Proficiency with the Microsoft office suite (Excel, Word), experience using the Internet, and the ability to learn company-specific software is required. Being bi-lingual in Spanish or Chinese would be beneficial but is not required.

Email response must include "Inside Sales/Marketing" in the subject line.



LITHOGRAPHY PRODUCTION SCHEDULER

(Bachelor's Degree and Experience Required)

Independent Can Company, a global manufacturing family-owned company located in Harford County, MD is seeking a Production Scheduler to join our Lithography Department.

The successful candidate will report to the Director of Technical Operations and coordinate the production operations of that department. Duties include the balancing of customer, sales and can plant needs and scheduling production in the most efficient, cost-effective process considering set-up, run time and labor costs. This is an exempt position with purchasing responsibilities. The position requires an individual who must be able to interface in a professional manner with office staff, customers, and vendors. Knowledge and proven use of a computer system for spreadsheets and database management system as well as related software is a must. Finally, he/she must be a team player who has strong communication and organizational skills while understanding the importance of details and accuracy. Independent Can Company’s Core Values are the foundation for successful performance in this position – Fair; Flexible; Market, Customer & Improvement Driven; Dedicated; Responsible and be dedicated to Teamwork.




PRINTING PRESSMAN
(Large Format)

The successful candidate must be experienced in operating 36” and 45” presses. Experience with console-controlled Planeta or Rapida presses would be helpful. He/she will be responsible for preparation, set-up, running and routine maintenance for 4- and 6-color lines. This is a five-to six-day-a-week job; overtime is a condition of employment and paid after 8 hours. Applicant must have excellent problem-solving skills. Responsibilities include absolute assurance of quality standards in strict and complete compliance with customers’ needs while mentoring and training the personnel assigned to the team.



COATER OPERATOR -- LITHOGRAPHY

Wagner Spot Coater (Experience Required)

The Lithography Division of Independent Can Company, a metal decorator located in Belcamp, (Harford County) Maryland, is seeking an experienced Coater Operator. The successful candidate will be responsible for set up and operation of the Wagner Spot Coater. The Operator is responsible for the application of coatings and varnishes to metal sheets that are cured through an LTG oven. In addition, the Operator will be responsible for monitoring of the coater film weights and registration of various coatings. This is an hourly non-exempt position subject to overtime and reports to the Lithography Supervisor. This person should have good mechanical and problem-solving skills.

Email responses must include Coater Operator in the subject line.



MACHINE OPERATORS

(All Shifts)

Independent Can Company, a manufacturer of metal packaging products in Belcamp, Maryland, (Harford County) is in search of Machine Operators for first and second shifts. Specific can manufacturing experience is not required; however, experience with the operation of manufacturing equipment is necessary. Excellent attendance and ability to work overtime are conditions of employment. As a full-time employee, you will receive overtime pay after eight hours a day with a three-level pay structure.

Email response subject line must include Machine Operator.

For ALL positions:

Resumes without complete salary history will not be considered.
To avoid spam filters, position title must be in the subject line of email responses.
NO AGENCIES OR SEARCH FIRMS ACCEPTED.

Fax resume with complete salary history to: Human Resources Manager (410) 272-6494 OR, email hrdept@independentcan.com, (position title must be in subject line), OR Mail to P.O. Box 370, 1300 Brass Mill Road, Belcamp, MD 21017

Compensation package includes, vacation, paid holidays, medical/dental coverage, profit sharing and 401k options. To be successful in this position the candidate must understand, accept and be committed to our employee-developed Company Values. These values are Fairness, Flexibility, being Customer, Market, and Improvement Driven, Dedicated, Responsible and consistent Teamwork.
Equal Opportunity Employer - M/F/D/V - Drug-Free and Smoke-Free Workplace

http://westernspecialty.com/employment/