SSI SCHAEFER Shifts Operations to Producing Face Masks as Choice of Civic Duty
MHI member companies are among the leading suppliers in manufacturing and supply chain and with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, many of these companies have been doing amazing things to better the safety of our citizens and the security of our economy.
This week we spoke with MHI member company Schaefer Systems International about their recent mask production initiative and how this is making a difference in the lives of others and in the fight against the spread of COVID-19.
When Schaefer Systems International, Inc., a leader in reusable packaging systems, automation and material handling systems, decided to shift their operating focus to producing face masks for essential employees amid the COVID-19 pandemic, it was a decision of truly wanting to make a difference —not just outside their industry, but also within.
“The entire process of shifting some of our sewing production capabilities took approximately a week,” stated Andy Schumaker, VP of Packaging Solutions for Schaefer Systems International, Inc. “We knew from the beginning that we wanted to help, and the entire team made a huge effort in turning this processing into a reality,” continues Schumaker.
The Packaging Systems Division within SSI SCHAEFER is using its textile dunnage sewing capabilities and leveraging vendor relationships to quickly manufacture masks for clients, retail distribution center employees, and waste collection workers within North America.
Right now the demand is more than SSI SCHAEFER can support, but they continue to help where they can and are producing as many as 1,000 masks per week. “We are making them as fast as possible and we are shipping them to our other facilities, to our customers, and to our partners,” says Sharon Wahrmund, Marketing Director at Schaefer Systems International, Inc.
During these times it is more important than ever for the supply chain and material handling industry to adapt and find creative solutions. “One of the key learnings during the COVID-19 pandemic has been that there has been absolute constant change, and we must change with the market,” states Wahrmund. A lesson many of us across the world is learning rather quickly.
We wish SSI SCHAEFER the best in filling the shortage for face masks and commend their dedication to protecting the safety of supply and material handling workers.
If you are an MHI member company who is also making a positive impact in these times of need, we want to hear from you! Please contact our MHI Membership department with your story.
