Dear Valued Customer,
Teknor Apex’s Supply Chain organization is diligently tracking the impact of the recent resurgence of (COVID-19) in North America and Europe. Through alternate sources and planning, we remain focused on maintaining a positive supply position that supports business continuity.
Our operations teams are focused on keeping up with customer demand and managing longer lead times, while prioritizing our employees’ health and safety. We have strict protocols implemented in our operations globally to contain the virus and protect our employees, communities and customers. Some of these protocols include; mandatory masks, social distancing, micro teams, daily surveys, temperature checks at plant entrances, staggered reporting times, periodic deep cleaning and contact tracing. We are able to report that at this time virus transmission within our work environment has not occurred.
The community spread of COVID-19 has impacted staffing at some of our locations, resulting in extension of our lead times in certain business segments and products. We continue to manage these elements within our control and respond quickly by leveraging our global manufacturing footprint to minimize delays in production times for our customers. We continue to strive to improve extended lead times through additional workforce hires and training.
Logistics networks are also challenged both domestically and internationally, across ocean, over the road and air cargo. The importance of partnership with our logistics providers is paramount and is helping us navigate these challenging times positively, although not without occasional misses on service and with higher costs. The industry is trying to overcome driver shortages and workforce manpower issues across over the road and at the ports. Transit times for vessels have increased significantly and our freight forwarders are helping us pre-book and secure vessel passage to mitigate. Our partnerships are strong and continuously monitored to identify gaps in service to our customers and make improvements.
This pandemic has been a challenge for all and we appreciate the patience and flexibility of our customers. Please be assured that our Customer Service and Sales teams continue to monitor our customer orders and work proactively with anyone impacted by delays.
Sincerely,
Laura Smith
Director, Customer Service & Logistics