Advanced Blending Solutions

“Through their support, Northern Initiatives has become part of the ABS team. We are building and growing a world class manufacturing center in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan – a place most people don’t expect. Our team is competing and winning on a global scale.”
– Mike Rasner, owner and CEO of Advanced Blending Solutions

Located in Wallace, Michigan, Advanced Blending Solutions (ABS) designs, manufactures, and supplies blending and convey equipment for the plastics industry. The company has grown rapidly from its inception in 2009 led by owner and CEO, Mike Rasner, who is an electrical engineer. With a commitment to “absolute accuracy,” the ABS team includes 85 skilled trade workers and project engineers in Michigan, and sales representatives located in four US regions.  Because the business fills a valuable niche in the industry and has operated at a level of unsurpassed quality, sales have increased by 900% since 2010.

Rasner knew consistent quality products and service would be the key to maintaining ABS’ trajectory. He also knew that gaining ISO 9001:2008 certification would solidify their high standards for the future. The process of preparing for certification involves every aspect of business operations and includes specialized software and new equipment. Thus it is a rigorous and expensive commitment.

In 2015 Northern Initiatives partnered with ABS in their ISO journey by providing a consultant that has helped ABS implement ISO within their facility. After the initial partnership in 2015, the relationship has led to additional projects with ABS and Northern Initiatives.

Businesses can expect a 12-18 month dedicated focus to complete the ISO 9001:2008 certification. ABS is on track to complete certification in the 3rd quarter of 2017 and is already demonstrating significant impacts from certification-related process improvements. ABS has:

-Expanded its employee team from 75 to 85 people in 2016.

-Improved consistency in product quality such that warranty and off quality expense has decreased by 35% from 2015 to 2016.

-Expanded its manufacturing, R&D, and office facilities from 25,000 to 41,000 square feet since 2012 and is further expanding to include an additional 40,000 square feet of manufacturing opening in July 2017.

Rasner states, “Through their support, Northern Initiatives has become part of the ABS team. We are building and growing a world class manufacturing center in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan – a place most people don’t expect. Our team is competing and winning on a global scale.”

ABS anticipates another year of excellence and is on track to increase sales 30% from 2016 to 2017. Mike Rasner is positioning the company to be a major contributor to the local and regional economies as well as a global leader in its field. With the support of Northern Initiatives and a team of experts, this company is on pace for continued growth, expansion, and wide-reaching recognition.