November 2024

Black Friday is the day when the holiday shopping frenzy reaches its peak, bringing excitement to consumers and chaos for retailers and manufacturing. While consumers can revel in deep discounts and doorbuster deals, U.S. manufacturers are left with a flurry of benefits and pitfalls. For many, it’s an opportunity to ramp up production and capitalize on the endless desires of US consumers. But for others, it becomes a struggle to meet demand. Here are two of the biggest benefits and struggles for American manufacturers that come from this day of massive demand.

Benefit: Increased Demand and Production Opportunities

Black Friday creates a massive surge in consumer demand, and that directly translates to increases in orders for U.S. manufacturing. Industries producing consumer goods, electronics, apparel, among others tend to be in high demand during holiday shopping.

This spike in demand is important because it allows manufacturers to scale production, increase revenue, and hire temporary workers to meet the demand. These benefits can carry over into the new year to create a great start to the year.

Benefit: Marketing and Visibility Boost for American-Made Goods

In the year 2024, consumers are much more sensitive to where their products are made than ever before. Black Friday serves as an excellent exhibit of quality and value of American-made products amidst discounts. Increased demand for made in the USA is never a bad thing for American makers.

Struggle: Supply Chain Strains and Logistical Challenges

Increased demand in terms of Black Friday can be a double-edged sword. While an increase in business is quite beneficial, it only benefits those suited to meeting the challenge. Those who cannot find themselves in a situation where the rush to fulfill orders creates quality control issues, bottlenecks, and logistical nightmares. In many cases, this leads to delays, back orders, or inflated prices due to manufacturing struggles.

Struggle: Pressure to Compete with Overseas Manufacturers

The pressure to minimize what you spend on products for Black Friday may force some US manufacturers to rely on materials and components from overseas. The overall price of these materials is much cheaper due to lower labor and production costs for these foreign manufacturers. The rapid increase in demand from Black Friday sales can lead to a reliance on such imports to complete orders on time. However, these cheap prices typically mean sacrifices when it comes to product quality.

Need help keeping up with your own customer demand? Reach out to learn how we can help boost production for your manufacturing business. Want to learn more about how online shopping affects manufacturing? Check out our blog about how Prime Day affects supply chains. And remember when you’re doing your own shopping this holiday season, if the deal seems too good to be true check into reviews regarding quality and delivery times before you buy!

The end of the year is a pivotal time for American manufacturing companies. Production ramps up, holidays impact schedules, and stretch goals loom large. Balancing these demands without overloading your team is no small feat. To navigate these challenges effectively, consider combining internal strategies, workforce engagement, and expert solutions like those from FlexTrades, a leader in workforce production solutions for manufacturers across the United States.

What Your Business Can Do Internally

Reprioritize and Refocus
Distinguish between “must-dos” and “nice-to-dos.” By narrowing your focus to the tasks that directly impact your goals, you can allocate resources more effectively. For example, if a project isn’t urgent, consider pushing it to Q1.
Streamline Operations
Evaluate workflows and processes. Are your employees spending time on non-essential tasks? Consider reallocating those duties or simplifying them. Tools like workflow automation and project management software can be game changers.
Leverage Technology
Automation can bridge productivity gaps, especially during periods of increased demand. Consider implementing technology like predictive maintenance tools or robotic process automation for repetitive tasks.
Communicate Goals Clearly
Break down ambitious goals into smaller, attainable milestones. Share progress through visual dashboards or shop floor monitors. This approach not only makes large goals feel manageable but also keeps everyone aligned.
Collaborate with Customers
Open a dialogue with your customers to confirm that production targets align with their current needs. If priorities have shifted, adjust accordingly to avoid overproduction.

How to Engage and Support Your Existing Workforce

Know Your Team’s Workload
Some employees may be doing more than necessary due to perfectionism, while others might be under-challenged. Regular check-ins and task assessments can help balance workloads and boost efficiency.
Offer Flexibility and Incentives
Set a baseline for required overtime and offer incentives for additional hours. Recognize the value of intrinsic motivators (like purpose and mastery) and extrinsic ones (like bonuses or time off).
Involve Leadership
When salaried employees pitch in on the floor, it demonstrates respect and camaraderie. Simple gestures, like bringing lunch for the team or helping with tasks, can energize employees and foster goodwill.
Celebrate Milestones
Acknowledge team achievements, no matter how small. A quick celebration of hitting a production target can boost morale and momentum.
Survey for Insights
Your team often has the best insights into process improvements. Ask what tools, adjustments, or changes would make their work easier and more efficient.

How FlexTrades Can Help You Meet Goals

When internal efforts fall short, external expertise can make all the difference. Here’s how FlexTrades can help:

On-Demand Skilled Workforce
FlexTrades provides access to a nationwide pool of skilled tradespeople, from CNC machinists to quality inspectors, who are ready to step in immediately. Whether you’re filling holiday absences or addressing a skills gap, these professionals are fully vetted and prepared to make an impact from day one.
Flexibility and Cost Savings
Hiring full-time staff for short-term needs can strain budgets. FlexTrades allows you to scale your workforce as needed, avoiding the long-term costs of permanent hires while meeting immediate demands.
Support for Specialized Roles
As manufacturing technologies evolve, specialized skills are essential. FlexTrades connects you with workers experienced in both traditional and advanced manufacturing techniques, ensuring you stay competitive.
Reduced Downtime
Don’t let staff shortages or skill gaps stall production. FlexTrades technicians help minimize downtime, ensuring you meet tight deadlines and year-end goals without compromising quality.
Tailored Solutions
Every manufacturing operation is unique. FlexTrades works closely with clients to understand their challenges and customize solutions, whether you need temporary help for entry-level roles or specialized expertise.

Your Path to Success

Meeting stretch goals doesn’t have to stretch your workforce to its limits. By focusing on internal efficiency, engaging your team, and leveraging outside support, you can achieve year-end success while preserving morale and productivity. Partner with FlexTrades today to solve your staffing challenges and hit your goals without compromise. Learn more about how we can help at FlexTrades. With the right balance of strategy, teamwork, and expert support, you’ll be ready to close the year strong and start the next one even stronger.

The end of the year signifies a large jump in demand for manufacturing companies across the world. Unfortunately, some have critical year-end goals that seem out of reach come mid-November and they are unaware of how to avoid the looming penalties. These same companies should know that there are alternatives to traditional recruitment, like FlexTrades, that can be the missing piece to catching up and staying on track for their business objectives.

On-Site Project Success Managers

FlexTrades offers a unique solution to ensure staff productivity and success beyond initial deployment. Our full-time Project Success Managers are on-site wherever our technicians are deployed. These professionals are not only deeply experienced in the technicalities of the roles they oversee, but they’re also skilled leaders who can identify and resolve issues, optimize workflows, and improve overall performance.

Rapid Deployment Model

FlexTrades responds quickly to orders and deploys technicians on-site fast. Last year, we received an urgent request for 37 skilled tradespeople to help a client meet year-end order deadlines and avoid penalties. In just a few days, we deployed CMM inspectors, deburr technicians, machinists, assemblers, and painters. Not only did they succeed in meeting the year-end goals, but the technicians stayed on-site an additional three months, giving the client an extra production boost to start the new year strong.

Quality Over Cost

Traditional staffing companies often focus on filling roles for the lowest bid, which can result in high turnover, lower productivity, and project delays. FlexTrades takes a different approach. We prioritize the quality and fit of technicians to help you reach your goals and ensure long-term success. Our technicians bring significant experience, reducing the time needed for onboarding and training. Technicians of higher quality and better fit save you money and minimize disruptions.

If you’re at risk of missing deadlines or facing penalties, FlexTrades is the partner you need. Our on-site Project Success Managers deliver exceptional oversight, our technicians are deployed rapidly, and their expertise provides lasting cost-saving benefits. Don’t wait to find the missing piece for your operations!

Thanksgiving is a time when families gather to share gratitude and, of course, indulge in a feast that has become a cornerstone of American tradition. Behind the scenes, several major food manufacturers play pivotal roles in bringing those beloved dishes to our tables. Let’s take a closer look at five of these companies and the specialty items they produce that make our Thanksgiving celebrations so memorable.

Kraft Heinz: The Stuffing Masters

When it comes to Thanksgiving, Kraft Heinz is synonymous with Stove Top Stuffing. Introduced in 1972, this convenient stuffing mix has become a staple in many households. The manufacturing process begins with baking loaves of bread, which are then dried and cubed. These bread cubes are mixed with a blend of seasonings and herbs to create the signature flavor. Packaged for convenience, Stove Top Stuffing allows families to enjoy a delicious side dish with minimal preparation. In fact, the Kraft Heinz factory in Dover, Delaware, is a key production site for this iconic product, baking around 200,000 loaves of bread each day to meet the holiday demand.

Nestlé S.A.: The Pumpkin Pie Purveyors

No Thanksgiving is complete without pumpkin pie, and Nestlé’s Libby’s brand has been a trusted name for over a century. The journey from pumpkin patch to pie involves harvesting specially grown pumpkins, which are then cleaned, peeled, and pureed. This puree is canned and distributed nationwide, providing home bakers with a consistent and high-quality base for their pies. Libby’s works closely with family farms in Morton, Illinois, ensuring that the pumpkins are processed within hours of harvesting to maintain freshness and flavor.

Jennie-O Turkey Store: The Turkey Titans

As one of the leading turkey producers in the United States, Jennie-O Turkey Store ensures that millions of families have a succulent centerpiece for their Thanksgiving meal. The process begins with raising turkeys on farms where they are fed a balanced diet. Once they reach the appropriate size, the turkeys are processed, packaged, and shipped to retailers across the country. Jennie-O offers a variety of products, from whole turkeys to pre-seasoned roasts, catering to different preferences and cooking methods.

Butterball: The Turkey Talk-Line Heroes

Butterball is another heavyweight in the turkey industry, renowned not only for their products but also for their Turkey Talk-Line, a hotline that has been assisting home cooks with turkey preparation since 1981. Butterball’s turkeys are raised on farms and undergo a meticulous process to ensure quality. They offer a range of products, including fresh and frozen whole turkeys, as well as pre-cooked options for those seeking convenience. Their commitment to quality and customer support has made them a trusted name in Thanksgiving celebrations.

Cargill: The Cranberry Sauce Specialists

While Cargill is a global food corporation with a diverse portfolio, their contribution to Thanksgiving often comes in the form of ingredients used in cranberry sauce. Cargill supplies sugar and other components essential for crafting the sweet and tangy sauce that complements the savory dishes on the table. Their extensive supply chain ensures that manufacturers have the necessary ingredients to produce this holiday favorite, highlighting the interconnectedness of the food industry.

Making Memories

As we gather around the table this Thanksgiving, it’s worth appreciating the intricate processes and dedicated efforts of these manufacturers. From the fields where pumpkins and turkeys are raised to the factories where stuffing mix is prepared, each step is a testament to the commitment to quality and tradition. So, as you enjoy your meal, take a moment to acknowledge the journey each dish has taken to become a part of your holiday celebration.

In the ever-evolving landscape of corporate America, a groundbreaking shift is taking place. Companies are increasingly recognizing the value of fostering a work environment where employees feel empowered to bring their authentic selves to the table. This paradigm shift is not only refreshing but also essential for driving innovation, boosting morale, and ultimately achieving business success.

Why Authenticity Matters in the Workplace

For too long, traditional corporate culture has demanded a certain level of conformity, often suppressing individuality and creativity. However, recent studies show that when employees feel comfortable being themselves, they are more engaged, productive, and satisfied with their jobs.

The Benefits of Embracing Your Whole Self

Enhanced Creativity: When employees feel safe sharing their unique perspectives and ideas, it leads to a more innovative and dynamic workplace.
Improved Mental Health: Authentic workplaces reduce stress and anxiety, leading to better mental health outcomes for employees.
Stronger Company Culture: A culture that values diversity and inclusion fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie among employees.
Increased Productivity: Engaged and happy employees are more likely to be productive and committed to their work.
Better Decision-Making: Diverse perspectives lead to more informed and effective decision-making.

A Few Ways FlexTrades Creates an Authentic Workplace

We live out our values: Our company values are deeply integrated into all aspects of our work, influencing everything from the way we design interview questions to our committee initiatives, goal-setting processes, and town hall meetings.
Interactive Committee Events:We encourage employees to share their talents and hobbies through various committee-led initiatives. Recently, several team members showcased their skills in a “Holiday Craft Show,” inspiring others to support colleagues and shop small for holiday gifts. We’ve also hosted mid-day yoga and breathwork sessions to promote wellness in the workplace.
Meyers-Briggs Implementation:Each employee has the opportunity to explore their personality preferences through a Myers-Briggs assessment. This experience not only helps them gain self-awareness but also fosters a more collaborative environment, encourages open communication, and celebrates both differences and similarities.

At our recent Holiday Craft Show, we had eight vendors, including Sales Training Manager Craig, who shared his gift of giving guitar lessons.

How to Create a More Authentic Workplace

Lead by Example: Executives and managers can set the tone by being authentic themselves.
Foster Open Communication: Encourage open and honest dialogue among employees.
Celebrate Differences: Recognize and appreciate the unique qualities of each employee.
Provide Support: Offer resources and training to help employees navigate challenges and develop their skills.
Create Inclusive Policies: Implement policies that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.

By embracing authenticity, companies can create a more positive, productive, and fulfilling work environment for their employees. It’s time to break free from the old-fashioned notion of the corporate “mask” and let our true selves shine—every day.

The Challenge: Meeting Production Demands with Staffing Gaps

In the fast-paced world of pharmaceutical manufacturing, every second counts. Downtime is simply not an option, especially on high-demand third shifts. One of our clients, a pharmaceutical manufacturer, was facing increasing production demands but had a significant staffing gap. They needed a skilled third-shift maintenance technician who could keep their machines running smoothly, but finding qualified talent locally was proving to be a challenge.

The Solution: FlexTrades Steps In

FlexTrades quickly deployed Raymond, a highly experienced Maintenance Technician with a strong background in troubleshooting and adaptability. Raymond seamlessly integrated with the night shift team and ensured that production remained uninterrupted as the client searched for a permanent hire. One evening, upon arriving for his shift, Raymond encountered a significant issue: one of the critical machines was down. The day shift technician had advised a complete teardown, a time-consuming and costly process that would impact production significantly.

The Results: Quick Thinking, Minimal Disruption, and Major Savings

Instead of immediately following the teardown recommendation, Raymond assessed the machine himself. With his advanced troubleshooting skills, he pinpointed the issue within minutes, identifying it as a manageable problem rather than a severe malfunction. Raymond was able to repair the machine in just 20 minutes, avoiding the need for a full teardown and preventing any major disruption. His swift action saved the client considerable time, labor costs, and potential losses.

The Impact of FlexTrades’ Skilled Talent

This success story demonstrates the immense value of having a skilled, adaptable technician on-site who can troubleshoot under pressure and deliver immediate results. FlexTrades takes pride in connecting companies with the talent they need to keep operations running smoothly and efficiently. For our pharmaceutical client, Raymond’s expertise was invaluable, delivering immediate ROI and proving that the right skills at the right time make all the difference.

Need reliable talent for critical shifts? Contact FlexTrades to schedule your free 15-minute workforce consultation and discover how our skilled technicians can support your team.

Why FlexTrades?

FlexTrades specializes in providing skilled technicians who are ready to step into demanding environments and deliver immediate results. Our clients know they can rely on us for rapid response, expert troubleshooting, and adaptable talent who add value from day one.

Ready to minimize downtime and optimize efficiency? Book your free consultation with FlexTrades today and see how we can make a difference in your operations.

FlexTrades provides reliable and timely solutions to meet the urgent maintenance needs of our clients. One such success story involves our collaboration with a global OEM and aftermarket provider facing a critical maintenance challenge.

The Challenge:

The client experienced a sudden disruption in operations due to the unexpected departure of a full-time maintenance technician at one of their Midwest facilities. This loss of expertise threatened to significantly impact production efficiency and lead to costly downtime.

The Solution:

To address this urgent situation, FlexTrades quickly deployed Wesley, a highly skilled Maintenance Technician, to the client’s facility. Wesley’s extensive experience and proven track record in maintenance made him an ideal candidate to provide temporary support.

The Results:

Immediate Response: Wesley’s rapid deployment ensured minimal disruption to the client’s operations, preventing costly downtime.
Cost Savings: Wesley’s expertise in troubleshooting and problem-solving led to significant cost savings of $5,500. By successfully repairing and recalibrating a 40-ton punch press machine, Wesley prevented the need for a costly new computer module.
Technical Expertise: Wesley’s deep understanding of maintenance best practices and his ability to diagnose complex equipment issues demonstrated his value as a strategic asset to the client.

Get in Touch:

FlexTrades’ ability to provide skilled maintenance technicians on demand is a critical advantage for clients facing unexpected challenges. Our commitment to rapid response, technical expertise, and cost-effective solutions makes us the preferred partner for businesses seeking to optimize their maintenance operations and minimize downtime.

Ready to see how FlexTrades can support your facility’s maintenance needs? Book a free 15-minute manufacturing workforce consultation with our team today. Discover how we can provide skilled technicians, minimize downtime, and help you save on operational costs.

The world of manufacturing doesn’t wait, and neither does FlexTrades.

Imagine you’re a production manager in the thick of a high-demand cycle, where every part counts, every minute matters, and there’s no room for downtime. You need skilled, reliable people who don’t just show up… they get to work, making an immediate impact. That’s where FlexTrades comes in, ready to supply highly qualified manufacturing tradespeople who are prepared to keep production moving forward.

FlexTrades: Filling the Gap in Skilled Labor

Let’s face it. Skilled labor shortages are an ongoing challenge for manufacturers across the U.S. But FlexTrades has cracked the code to supply a flexible, skilled workforce that meets the unique needs of each facility. With a deep network of tradespeople trained in various fields like CNC machining, quality inspection, welding, and assembly, FlexTrades doesn’t just provide a warm body on the floor; they deliver expertise. This focus on quality and readiness is why many U.S. manufacturers are choosing FlexTrades as their go-to partner in skilled labor.

Why FlexTrades Works for U.S. Manufacturers

Manufacturing success depends on a reliable workforce, but traditional hiring processes can take too long, especially when production schedules are tight. Here’s how FlexTrades makes an immediate difference:

1. Fast, Tailored Workforce Solutions

FlexTrades understands that every plant, every project, and every production line has its own demands. They don’t just provide people. They supply experts with the right skills, ready to adapt to your specific processes and equipment on day one. Whether it’s specialized CNC operators or maintenance technicians, FlexTrades tailors its approach, delivering a workforce that fits seamlessly into your production flow.

2. Proven, High-Quality Talent Pool

When FlexTrades sends a technician to your facility, you know they’re qualified. These professionals aren’t just skilled. They’re vetted, experienced, and ready to handle everything from complex setups to precision inspections. Each FlexTrades worker has been carefully matched to meet your needs, reducing downtime and increasing productivity from the very start.

3. Cost Efficiency without Compromise

Imagine a solution that allows you to scale labor up or down as production demands change. FlexTrades provides this kind of adaptability without the time or expense of permanent hiring. With on-demand support across the U.S., they empower manufacturers to control labor costs while ensuring production goals are met, especially during peak seasons.

4. Day-One Readiness

FlexTrades’ skilled tradespeople are ready to get to work as soon as they step onto the floor. There’s no lengthy onboarding or extended training period needed. These professionals bring their expertise and reliability from the get-go. When production spikes, you don’t have the luxury of waiting, and with FlexTrades, you don’t have to.

Choosing FlexTrades Means Choosing a Partner in Progress

Working with FlexTrades isn’t just about filling jobs; it’s about building a relationship with a team that’s as invested in your success as you are. Their approach to providing skilled tradespeople goes beyond filling roles. It’s about keeping the gears of American manufacturing turning efficiently, safely, and successfully. For manufacturers who need fast, flexible, and skilled labor solutions, FlexTrades stands as a trusted partner ready to meet any production challenge.

Ready to see how FlexTrades can make a difference in your operations? Reach out today, and let’s keep America’s factories moving.

As the year was winding down, one of our aerospace manufacturing clients faced a daunting challenge. With a critical year-end delivery deadline looming, they were short-handed, unable to meet their customer demand.

Rapid Response Workforce

In a matter of days, FlexTrades mobilized a team of 37 highly skilled professionals, including:

CMM Inspectors: Ensuring precision and accuracy in every component.
Deburr Technicians: Removing sharp edges and burrs for a smooth finish.
Machinists: Crafting intricate metal parts to exact specifications.
Assemblers: Bringing components together to form complete assemblies.
Painters: Applying protective coatings to safeguard against corrosion and wear.

Mission Accomplished; A Partnership Forged

By deploying this skilled workforce, we enabled our client to not only meet their critical deadline but also to extend the engagement for three additional months. This extended partnership provided the extra capacity and expertise they needed to finish the year strong and set the stage for a successful new year.

Our Commitment to Your Success

This story is a testament to our commitment to providing rapid, reliable, and skilled workforce solutions. Whether you’re facing a sudden surge in demand, a project deadline, or a long-term production challenge, we’re here to help.

How We Can Help You?

Rapid Deployment: Quick mobilization of skilled professionals.
Flexible Workforce Solutions: Customized solutions to meet your unique needs.
Experience: Highly skilled and experienced tradespeople.
Dedicated Support: A dedicated team to ensure seamless operations.

Don’t let unexpected challenges derail your business. Contact us today to learn how we can help you achieve your goals.