Better late than never

摘要

Increasing competition from lower cost producers in Asia is encouraging European intermediate bulk container (IBC) manufacturers to look carefully at their operations. Success appears to be linked to a willingness to investigate new markets and to tailor products to the specific needs of new customers. Despite 2003 being a volatile year for industrial packaging manufacturers, success was high on the agenda from the outset for IBC manufacturer Francis Ward. The company expanded its already comprehensive range of containers by acquiring Bradford-based Bison IBC Systems early in the year. In buying the company, Francis Ward was able to diversify its existing line of containers suitable for hazardous and non-hazardous products into the IBC sector. Managing director Jonathan Wurr believes the move has enlarged the company's prowess in the UK market, and opened up new markets in Europe for its existing products.