Compiled by Juli Case We make bandage rolls for a local customer and need to get them sterilized. Where can I have them irradiated? Contract electron beam irradiation services are commonly used to sterilize bandages and other medical devices; the technology uses accelerated electrons that destroy bacteria and other contaminants. We located a service provider, [...]

Compiled by Juli Case My company will be moving our awning shop to a new location. How should I zone my shop? The answer to your question is going to depend on two things: (1) what kind of work is done in your shop, and (2) what your city has to say about it. First, [...]

By Lynn Keillor The purpose of the IFF Innovation Award is to inspire companies from all over the world not only to come up with great ideas, but to make them happen. The program is designed to recognize and promote the successes of these companies, and use their experiences as a means to encourage innovation [...]

By Lynn Keillor Many people talk about a dream business or a dream career. Debra Aperfine can honestly say that her business and product lines are the direct result of a dream. One morning in 2001, Aperfine’s young daughter recounted a vivid dream about a magical raincoat that changed colors as it got wet. Intrigued [...]

By Jeffrey Rasmussen The U.S. tarpaulin (tarp) and truck cover market entails a very diverse set of applications. Flatbed trailer truck covers are often used to secure heavy cargo, such as lumber and steel; roll-up truck covers or tarps are usually used on dump trucks to secure heavy loads, such as dirt and gravel. Some [...]

While much of the law doesn’t go into effect until 2014, there are some immediate ramifications. By Carol Brzozowski It’s said that small businesses—defined as companies with no more than 100 employees—are the backbone of the United States economy. Production of specialty fabrics products, often requiring very specialized or custom work, certainly exemplifies that statement. [...]

An epic voyage highlights the environmental problems of plastic bottles—and some possible solutions. By Marie O’Mahony Australian billionaire James Packer’s $30 million Z Sydney cruiser (replacing his $50 million Z Ellerston super yacht, sold last year) is an impressive sight as it glides through the waters of Sydney Harbor. On July 26, 2010, a very [...]