Global manufacturing and supply network
Having a diversified supply chain for raw materials lessons the likelihood of major disruptions – be they political changes, or natural disasters – from interrupting lead times for the delivery of products.
Furthermore, strong relationships with raw material suppliers around the world, give producers access to the latest innovations in polymer and resin technology, ensuring customers are working with the very latest bonding solutions.
Adhesive customisation
Off-the-shelf products aren’t always suitable for an application, that’s why customers need to have access to custom formulations – adhesives that provide the right balance of adhesion, viscosity, and open time, amongst other desired performance and processing characteristics.
To offer this, adhesive manufacturers should have access to state-of-the-art R&D facilities and an experienced technical team.
Adhesive innovation and development
Hot-melt adhesives are a growing market, with sales forecast to reach $10.1 Bn in 2029, up from 7.1 Bn in 2022; driven largely by demand from the packaging, medical, and non-woven hygiene industries.
Behind this growth are several key trends: A shift to online shopping fuelling the need for e-commerce packaging; a growing middle class – particularly in Asia – helping to drive global consumption; and increased awareness and demand for sustainable products from both consumers and brands.
Partnering with a manufacturer that has a strong history of developing innovative adhesives is a good indication that they will provide cutting-edge bonding products, both today and in the future.
After-sales service
A turnkey-like service to accompany the supply of adhesives ensures any troubleshooting issues are quickly resolved. Technical teams from the manufacturer – or their distribution partners – should be able to support customers, helping them to optimise both production efficiency and product performance.
In particular, adhesive support should help customers with trials, line switchovers, and audits; and involve an understanding of hot melts, applicator equipment, production environment, and product lifespan.
Adhesive testing and reliability
Consistently receiving a product that matches its specifications, on time and in good condition, is as important as the product itself; there is no point trialling and ordering the perfect adhesive for an application, only to receive a defective product.
Quality testing, and more proactive quality assurance policies, help to maintain product quality, as well as shipping and customer service performance levels.
In addition, high levels of consistency can reduce costs and save time, helping manufacturers to focus investment on innovation and customisation, further benefiting the customer.
Certification
Lastly, there are some important quality standards such as ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and the BRCGS Global Food Safety Standard, that provide extra reassurance to customers – they demonstrate a manufacturer’s commitment to quality and continuous improvement.
These standards prove to an adhesive customer’s own network that they are fulfilling the highest standards in their own industry.
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If you are researching adhesive manufactures and would like to discuss your own application and bonding needs, then you can contact us via the website, or send an email to: marketing@beardowadams.com