Dear Readers,

It is time for another interview with one of the participants at the ANM Expo. The featured business is Hayes Tooling & Plastics located in the friendly town of Kansas City, MO. I hope you enjoy learning some new ideas and interesting facts about this business.

How did Hayes Tooling and Plastics, Inc. begin?

 

Hayes Tooling and Plastics, Inc. began in 1954 when Irene and Jim Hayes Sr., started Hayes Tool & Die Co., eventually combining the tool & die capabilities with plastic molding, forming Hayes Tooling and Plastics, Inc. (HTP)

In 1977, HTP initiated bids for government contracts to supply one quart O.D. green canteens, and then expanding to other shapes and types. Presently the company has active contracts to supply many other required military items.

Four years ago, brothers Jim and Don Hayes took over running the family business which includes a complete tool & die facility consisting of CNC milling machines, surface grinders, lathes and EDM, while the molding department performs both processes of plastic injection and blow molding. Jim’s wife Isie is active in the business part time performing office and inside sales duties.

What Makes HTP Special and Different?

 

Hayes has recently been featured in articles written about the company in the “Trade Roots” section of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Olathe Chamber of Commerce, emphasizing the “Made in America” products which are being marketed at home and to other countries. The Army Navy Expo News featured this story in a past edition.

Not only is HTP a custom plastics operation, but they also have a varied line of propriety plastic products which attract worldwide buyers. Examples are the “to specification” military hydration equipment, also outdoor camping and supporting items. HTP is one of only two other operations that produce these overall items in the U.S.. These products have been the backbone of the Hayes operation for years.

One of their newest custom molded items is called “Karnex” which is a plastic container to hold and to dispense tissues in automobiles, schools, etc…

What did you like about the ANM Expo last January?

Jim, Don, and company are very ardent supporters of the Expo. Since the January 2011 show, Jim said they had doubled their customer base and wrote “tons” of orders. They are tapping the market of the many smaller companies who make up the backbone of the Expo.

What are Jim and Isie’s plans for the future?

They would like to start a small army navy store in a little town in Colorado, where there will be more time to just enjoy the sights, people, and swap stories told by all at this type of location.

What is your advice for new entrepreneurs just starting out?

Jim said: “Align yourself with someone who understands the business and has products that excite you.” For HTP that is the ANM Expo.

For more information about Hayes Tooling & Plastics click on:

http://www.hayestoolingandplastics.net

If you would like to be considered for an interview in Spotlight, ANMEXPONEWS, please send me an email to: Deborah@dcastlegrant.com.