FEBRUARY 2024
They need to be resourced enough so that they can do their job well, because I think in the market that's coming, that is going to be critical.”
Brindley's insights extended to legislative impacts, specifically mentioning California Bill AB 1760, which affects the management of proprietary pallets. He emphasized the need for fairness and respect among rental companies and recyclers alike and the critical role of recyclers in ensuring the return of proprietary pallets.
“I'm not taking sides on this,” he said. “I have written great things about PECO and CHEP and recyclers and all of it, I just want everyone to play fair and respect each other to be fair competitors. And at the end for recyclers to be paid what they're worth.”
Concluding his speech, Brindley offered advice for navigating the current economic downturn, emphasizing cash flow management, strategic investments in technology, and the importance of positioning for an eventual market upswing. "A downturn is a perfect time to position your company to be ready for the upswing," Brindley advised.
“If one or two pieces of machinery are going to position you for where you need to be in the future, what are you waiting for?” he said, noting that once the market starts to rebound, you might be a year out on machinery delivery, and as a result, you won’t be ready to prosper from the upturn. He encouraged attendees to look beyond immediate challenges and prepare for future opportunities.
Bellows and Gruenberg also offered more in-depth sessions on their topics during breakout groups. All in all, speakers provided useful and actionable insights to help attendees profitably navigate their companies into the future. WPM
Dr. Bill Bellow, speaking at the 2024 WPA Annual Meeting held in Rancho Mirage, California.