Businesses continue to face unprecedented economic challenges because of COVID 19. In the meantime, opportunistic partnerships and crossover marketing are a growing trend. Making the shift, of course, requires some deep consideration because of the mechanics and transformations involved.
Re-purposing Production Lines Where It Matters
Nobody knows how fast or slow the global economy will rebound post-COVID 19. With financial commitments and obligations to meet, business operators can’t afford to stay idle or shutter indefinitely. Finding alternative markets for business beats vacation mode because it is an avenue to recoup some losses and avoid bankruptcy. The shortage of essential personal protective equipment or PPEs has prompted the CDC to allow cloth face coverings in public settings.
Furthermore, heads of states are planning their reopening strategy, which will significantly drive up demands for face masks. Essential businesses will need these personal protective face masks for their workers as well. Although the industry looks fruitful now, entrepreneurs looking to exploit the economic downturn must consider several variables. Some things to analyze are the environment, anticipated capacity projection, labor, equipment, raw materials, and production process. Manufacturing fabric face masks is the least costly opportunistic business transformation model, especially for brands already in the apparel decorating sector. Also, it is comparatively straightforward and involves minor remodeling of production lines as opposed to manufacturing advanced equipment.
What are the gains of re-purposing production lines to facilitate new product development, for example, PPEs? Although the prospect of a business continuing in this niche after the pandemic is subjective, it may be a worthwhile growth strategy. Besides opening a gateway to growth opportunities in new markets, there is a potential for businesses to improve their reputation and generate steady revenue.
Problems Businesses Re-purposing Production for Cloth Mask Manufacturing Face
The CDC has strict guidelines on how to make quality cloth face masks. It is something businesses switching to this industry should examine before diving into manufacturing. The most challenging part of the process is getting the required certification and finding quality suppliers to source raw materials. Most businesses that have transitioned successfully found the design and production phase moderately seamless.
Cloth face coverings must have secure ear loops or ties. Another requirement of the CDC is that it has multiple layers of fabric and filter insert slots. Also, CDC officials recommend using durable, breathable material that does not restrict breathing or deteriorate quickly.
Five-Step Process for Rapid Effective Repurposing of Business Production Lines
Any business looking to manufacture fabric face masks to protect people against COVID 19 must consider this five-step approach. It is wise to review existing models, define requirements, draft product blueprint, establish a supply chain, begin product development, and scale production.
- Review current solutions: Learn what others in the industry are doing. The situation warrants reviewing the necessary certifications, performance standards, labor requirements, resources, production processing solutions, and environmental conditioning needs.
- Define requirements: Highlight the problem.
- Design prototype: Outline a solution to correct the problem.
- Product development: Test the efficacy of the recommended solution. Consider high-automation solutions and specialists to yield satisfactory outcomes.
- Scale production: Remedy the problem. Consider follow-up assessments to evaluate the effectiveness and employ sufficient resources for a fast turnaround. Raise capital, acquire assets, and launch the manufacturing site.