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SPEAKER INTERVIEW: Lisa Lehman, Harbour Results Inc
We would like to introduce Lisa Lehman, Business Development Manager, Harbour Results, Inc. She will be speaking at the Injection Molding and Design Expo in September.
Harbour Results (HRI) is a business and operational consulting firm for the manufacturing industry focused on helping small- to medium-sized companies build sound strategies and implement improvements. Through operational and strategic advisory expertise, research and a proprietary assessment program, the company helps optimize a business’s performance.
What do you think sets your company apart from your competitors?
HRI is a leading manufacturing benchmarking resource. The company had collected and analyzed millions of data points from thousands of manufacturing companies on business and operation performance. HRI is the only company with this wealth of data and information, which is used to help companies better understand the marketplace and how they are performing.
Are there any new technology developments that your company in working on?
We have recently completed a study that shares insights on the impact the transition from internal combustion engines to battery electric vehicles (BEV) will have on the supply chain. This first-of-its-kind study has intelligence on market dynamics, regulatory and infrastructure issues, automaker BEV strategies and launch and tooling forecasts. We compiled this research to help automotive suppliers better prepare for the industry’s future.
What are the biggest challenges facing the injection molding industry today, and how can this be overcome?
The unprecedented challenges manufacturing has faced since 2019 has created winners and losers. For small- to medium-sized manufactures, it is a “tale of two cities”. Some companies – the Top Performers - are doing well, while others are struggling. In 2023 several Tier 2 and Tier 3 suppliers have gone out of business, and this will continue. To succeed, companies need to plan for their future and work their plan. They must focus on continuous improvement and making smart investments in technology. Those who are investing in new machines, automation and business intelligence software will be successful.
How do you see the sector developing in the next five to ten years?
The demand for plastics good is expected to continue to grow, however so will the challenges. The growing cost of doing business, regulatory and sustainability concerns and the talent gap will be three areas injection molders will need to successfully address to be able to capitalize on the growth opportunities. Manufacturing technology (software and hardware) already plays a role in injection molding, and we see it significantly expanding over the next 5 – 10 years. In HRI’s 2023 Manufacturing Benchmarking Survey, 72% of top performing plastic processors indicated they already have purchased and are planning more or planning to purchase automation technology for their business.
Don't miss Lisa's panel discussion on 'The Future of moldmaking' at the Injection Molding and Design Expo.