During the 1st quarter of 2011 Beta Steel was presented with a new challenge.  A customer that we forecasted 20-30% of overall volume asked us to increase our participation to over 90%.  They were having issues with their current supply chain.   Lines were going to be shut down, possible layoffs and firings, many scenarios were painted.  A difficult situation to say the least.

Several assessments were necessary in addressing the customer needs.  First, what current customers were going to be affected?  What is our true capacity?   How to secure the quality rod sourcing for supply?  Do we have the infrastructure to support this program?

After several discussions we had decided that our current customers were not going to be affected.  We also decided that new customers we were targeting for 2011 were going to have to be layered in towards the 4th quarter.  That was our only option to move forward on this project.
 
Several of us met with customers for 2011 and presented them with a plan of action for the 4th quarter.  Fortunately, each one understood our issue and actually respected what we were trying to accomplish.  At Beta Steel, we feel it is important to go the extra mile to satisfy a customer’s request in creating partnerships that are sustainable.

With time becoming a factor, we needed to be expedient and agile in launching the program.  We had meetings with sales, production, quality, management and rod suppliers.  We suggested a 30/60/90 day plan of action to this customer.  Through collaboration with our customer we created a plan of attack that was effective for both parties.  The Beta Steel team was then able to go into action knowing it would take a total team effort.  The team included all aspects of the company including field sales, inside sales, production/quality department and the credit department.  Throughout the process we realized, as well as our client, that a partnership between clients and our total team effort result in creating great results from difficult and challenging opportunities.

The result:
We have become the 90% supplier in this case.  We also have a customer that complements our current business as well as given us new knowledge to strengthen our position within the steel rod and wire industry.  

Sensible, intelligent thinking is what creates Agility, Speed, Strength - The Beta Steel Experience.