March 25, 2006

so he could keep the plant running. I think this experience was common in the past.”Baker advises that distributors participate in reverse auctions only if they need to. Even so, “you’re better off spending time with a customer that understands the value of productivity savings, a long-term relationship and working together to reduce manufacturing and […]

their time in the "super green" zone at the center-left of the diagram. Their focus is on cross-departmental communication regarding the thought behind, the nuances and the implications of the customer's strategic plan, business processes and problems. Eagle reps are providing a service that is extremely valuable to the top customer executives. It is a

Kennametal will recognize an estimated $228.6 million pre-tax gain in the quarter ending June 30, 2006, including transaction-related expenses, resulting in an earnings-per-share impact of about $3.25. The company expects to redeploy this capital in the next 12-24 months with strategic initiatives. Kennametal immediately plans to accelerate its manufacturing rationalization opportunities. This investment is expected

Synflex business unit of Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics Corp. The transaction is expected to close by the end of March. Synflex had 2005 sales of about $120 million and makes thermoplastic hoses and tubing for a range of industries, including transportation, beverage dispensing, fluid power and specialty applications.ADI International, The Netherlands, a low voltage and security

Activant Solutions Inc., Austin, TX, (purchased Prophet 21 in September 2005) has signed a definitive agreement to be acquired by private equity investment firms Hellman & Friedman LLC and Thoma Cressey Equity Partners.  The firms will acquire Activant Solutions Holdings Inc and all its subsidiaries from investment funds affiliated with HM Capital Partners LLC, which

Castrol Industrial North America Inc., Naperville, IL, plans to realign its distribution channels to focus on its strengths. The company plans to reduce the number of its suppliers and the industries it serves. Castrol Industrial North America Inc. is part of BP, one of the world’s largest energy companies, and is focused on the manufacturing

Forty-four percent of U.S. manufacturers expect manufacturing to trail the overall economy in 2006, according to the 2006 National Manufacturing Week survey of manufacturers.On the brighter side, National Association of Manufacturers President John Engler said that more than half of the respondents expect to increase capital spending in 2006 and to increase employment, and that