A customer-centric export growth strategy
Because of CMD Corp.’s reputation for quality, speed and dedicated service, customers in both established and emerging international economies are using CMD equipment; the company currently has equipment installations in 42 countries on six continents. Much of CMD’s recent growth can be attributed to new international business—an increase in exports of 66 percent since 2013. Expansion to Southern Europe, the Middle East and Central America is new within the last three years.
To achieve this international expansion, CMD has taken advantage of the WEDC’s International Market Access Grant Program, using the funds toward development of foreign-language product information and marketing materials, as well as trade show exhibits. As part of growing its international sales, CMD has adopted a market-focused culture, incorporating the voice of the customer into its product development. For example, the design of the company’s 1270GDS Drawtape Machine incorporates technology advancements and a reduced footprint to meet the needs of international markets, resulting in lower international shipping costs and easier installation and setup. CMD was recognized for its achievements in export growth as part of the 2017 Wisconsin Governor’s Export Achievement Awards.
Machinery for plastic bags and packages
CMD designs, manufactures and services high-performance converting machinery for the production of plastic bags, pouches and flexible packaging. CMD has recently diversified into the energy sector, offering reliable compressed natural gas (CNG) fueling equipment and comprehensive service plans. CMD’s core business is in the industry of processing and converting plastic films. Its technology is sold to companies that convert plastic film into bags, pouches and flexible packaging and wind plastic film for sheeting. Examples of products that come off its machines include food and beverage pouches, sterile medical device packaging and all varieties of retail trash bags and industrial can liners.
CMD’s 125,000-square-foot campus in Appleton employs nearly 200 people—up 46 percent since 2013, with additional hires planned in the near future, both domestically and internationally. The company has been named among the Best Places to Work in the Plastics Industry by Plastics News for three consecutive years.
(May 2017)
