Recycline – Making a Difference You Can Afford
Over the holidays, I saw a Reuters article about a company called Recycline, a thirteen year old Massachusetts company that makes toothbrushes, bowls and other kitchen products from reused plastics. Recycline has standardized on No. 5 plastic, a plastic not commonly taken by recyclers that is used is yogurt and other food containers.
To get this plastics they rely on unconventional sources, many times coming from supplier partners who could not otherwise readily find recycling outlets for their products. One such partner is for Stoneyfield Farms, who sends then containers collected so that they can be reused. Austin based retailer Whole Foods is also looking to start collection bins for No. 5 plastic so that they can be sent to Recycline for processing.
Perhaps the most impressive thing about Recycline’s products is that they cost no more than products made from conventional sources. This is the goal of all re-manufactured products, to be able to offer products at a comparable cost while providing a positive impact on the environment. They do this through focusing on their core competencies, sales marketing and product development. Design and marketing are done through outsourcing..
Manufacturing has become a business of specialties, which bring economies of scale to their customers. In my opinion, this continues to be the model that is most sustainable for many companies. EMS and ODM companies have become the means by which start-up companies and established OEMs design and manufacture electronic products. Our customers rely on VirTex for electronic design, manufacturing, fulfillment and logistics so they can focus on what they do best.
Other industries such as food processing, pharmaceuticals and now recycled plastic products follow the same model. As manufacturers continue to feel the effects of the economic recession, outsourced manufacturing will continue to be an option for entrepenuers who still have vision and determination.
