broom, brush & mop feb 2010

February 2010

Broom, Brush & Mop MagazineS E R V I N G T H E I N D U S T R Y S I N C E 1 9 1 2

ABMA ConventionHeads To

Orlando, FL

Company InterviewsWith BrushProducers:

Hill BrushCulicover & ShapiroMilwaukee Dustless

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Import/Export Figures Continue

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Broom, Brush & MopA RANKIN PUBLISHING PUBLICATION February 2010 Volume 100, Number 2

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Clip & return to Broom, Brush & MopP.O. Box 130, Arcola, IL 61910MOVING? MOVING?

PAGE 4 BROOM, BRUSH & MOP February 2010

CALENDAR

ASSOCIATIONSAMERICAN BRUSH MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION

2111 W. Plum St., Aurora, IL 60506 • (630) 631-5217

AMERICAN HARDWARE MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION801 North Plaza Drive, Schaumburg, IL 60173-4977 • (847) 605-1025

FEIBP EUROPEAN BRUSH FEDERATIONP.O. Box 90154, 5000 LG Tilburg, The Netherlands • 00 31 13 5944 678

INTERNATIONAL SANITARY SUPPLY ASSOCIATION7373 N. Lincoln Avenue, Lincolnwood, IL 60646-1799 • (847) 982-0800

INTERNATIONAL HOUSEWARES ASSOCIATION6400 Shafer Court, Suite 650, Rosemont, IL 60018 • (847) 292-4200

Rankin Publishing, Inc.204 E. Main St., P.O. Box 130 • Arcola, Illinois 61910-0130, USAPhone: (217) 268-4959 • Fax: (217) 268-4815 • Website: www.rankinpublishing.com

BROOM, BRUSH & MOP (ISSN 0890-2933) is published monthly at 204 E. Main St.,P.O. Box 130, Arcola, Illinois 61910. Telephone: (217) 268-4959. Subscriptions are $25 in theUnited States; $35 in Canada and Mexico; all others $110. The $110 foreign subscriptionsinclude first class air mail postage. Arrangements can be made for first class postage for theUnited States, Canada and Mexico. Single copies of issues are $2 for subscribers; $5 for non-subscribers, postage extra. The Suppliers Directory issue is $10 per copy.

BROOM, BRUSH & MOP is a monthly trade magazine devoted to news of broom, brushand mop manufacturers and allied industries. It was established in 1912 as the Broom &Broom Corn News. It was entered as second class mail matter Feb. 27, 1912, at the U.S. PostOffice in Arcola, Illinois, under the Act of March 3, 1879.

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FEATURES

CO-PUBLISHERS

Don Rankin [email protected]

Linda [email protected]

EDITOR

Harrell [email protected]

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Rick [email protected]

GRAPHIC/PRODUCTION

Jennie GraceDavid OpdykeRECEPTION

Sandy Pierce

STAFF

FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 3, 2010International Hardware Fair, Cologne, GermanyInformation: 773-326-9928

MARCH 14 - 16, 2010International Home & Housewares Show, Chicago, ILInformation: 847-292-4200

MARCH 17 - 20, 2010ABMA Annual Convention, Orlando, FLInformation: 630-631-5217

APRIL 26 - 29, 2010ISSA/INTERCLEAN®, Amsterdam, The NetherlandsInformation: 847-982-0800

MAY 4 - 6, 2010National Hardware Show, Las Vegas, NVInformation: 203-840-5622

MAY 22 - 25, 2010National Restaurant Association Annual Show, Chicago, ILInformation: 312-853-2525

NOVEMBER 9 - 12, 2010ISSA/INTERCLEAN®, Orlando, FLInformation: 800-225-4772

Tucel Industries Specializes In Innovative Hygienic Cleaning Tools ________________________6

ABMA Annual Convention ______________________18

ABMA Schedule _____________________________19

Brush Manufacturers OptimisticAbout Future Business_________________________24

Import/Export Overview________________________34

October Imports & Exports _____________________36

Broom Corn Dealer Survey _____________________49

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By Rick MullenBroom, Brush & Mop

Associate Editor

Tucel Industries, Inc., of Forestdale, VT, is a leadingmanufacturer of a broad range of innovative hygieniccleaning tools for the foodservice, infection control, sani-

tary maintenance and janitorial market segments.The company’s three foundational priorities are habitat, health

and hygiene. Tucel’s patented manufacturing techniques andbrush and broom products have been revolutionary in the hygien-ic cleaning tools field.

“Tucel offers a complete line of fused brushproducts,” said Tucel President and founderJohn Lewis recently in an interview withBroom, Brush & Mop Magazine. “We offer100 percent recyclable, green and HACCP(Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points)compatible products. Sales are provided to dis-tributors as well as OEM customers.”

Lewis, who is also a chemist, founded thecompany 40 years ago and immediately setabout revolutionizing how hygienic brushes,brooms and other products were made bydeveloping fusion technology. Lewis came upwith the idea of fusing bristles as opposed tostapling and, in 1969, the year prior to the founding of Tucel,received his first patent.

Today, Lewis holds more than 35 U.S. patents for fusing andbrush design products as well as foreign patents. The company

continues its mission of being a leading research-driven manufac-turer that discovers, develops, innovates, manufactures and mar-kets a broad range of high-quality hygienic cleaning tools forhabitat, health and hygiene. Tucel’s products are designed to becost effective and heat, bacteria and chemical resistant as well aseasy to clean.

Tucel divides its product offerings into seven basic categories.They are: Food Prep™; Equip Clean; Special Equip; Floor andWall; Infectious Control; Sanitary Maintenance; and Kits andHandles.

These products are designed and manufactured using FDA-approved raw materials to assure that the end-user’s job is completed quickly and efficientlywith bacteria free surfaces as the end result.

A Green Mission In The Green Mountain State

Vermont gets its nickname, “The GreenMountain State,” from the beautifulGreen Mountain range that runs north

and south for about 250 miles in the middle ofthe state. The Green Mountains, a virtual won-derland for hikers, skiers, nature lovers andvacationers, are a part of the AppalachianMountains that stretch from Canada to Georgia.

In a state with an abundance of greenery and natural beauty,Tucel was “green” from the beginning. It would be many yearsafter Lewis founded Tucel, however, that “green” became thebuzzword for all things deemed environmentally friendly.

John Lewis, founder and president of Tucel Industries, has been instrumental in developing the process of manufacturing hygienic brushes, brooms and other products.

A complete line of fused brush products are available from Tucel.


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BROOM, BRUSH & MOP February 2010

The idea of fusing bristles to brushes in lieu of stapling or othermethods came to Lewis while he was working for a fiber compa-ny prior to founding Tucel.

“I used to visit factories where they would be drilling holes inwood and plastic. Then they would double the fiber and stick it inthe hole,” Lewis said. “I kept thinking about how they were wast-ing a lot of thickness making the brushes as well as doing weirdthings by having to put staples in them — in a toothbrush it iscalled an anchor.”

Lewis wondered if there was a way of making a brush otherthan the “drill and then fill” processes he was observing. Twoideas began to germinate.

“I thought if a fiber tuft could be duplicated, you could put themall on at the same time,” Lewis remembered.

The second part of theequation involved using thesame material for the fibertuft as the material to which itis fused.

“It took me a long time tofigure it all out,” Lewis said.“I also started to build amachine and that took whatseemed to be a longer time tomake it work. As soon as Idid, I kind of revolutionizedthe whole field.”

The material of choicethese days for Tucel’s fusedproducts is polypropylene,which it uses almost exclu-sively. Polypropylene is athermoplastic polymer usedin a wide variety of applica-tions such as plastic parts, reusable containers of various types,laboratory equipment, foodservice, and more.

Polypropylene is often used for food containers, especiallythose that need to be dishwasher safe. The melting point ofpolypropylene is very high compared to many other plastics.Polypropylene is also very easy to dye, and does not soak upwater, making it ideal for useswhere it is constantly subjectedto moisture.

“We use polypropylene 99.9percent of the time,” Lewis said.“It is ‘the world.’ In other words,if you buy a bottle of pills, or ajug of wine, or container of sol-vent — these items are all storedin a polypropylene container.With polypropylene, nothing can get into the container and noth-ing can get out of the container. It is the best substance in whichto store anything.

“If you wash dishes, items made out of polypropylene can neverrust. You can make it wet, and it will take the heat and cold.Polypropylene is made with only carbon and hydrogen. There isno oxygen or chlorine or nitrogen in polypropylene. It is the safestchemistry in the world and you can grind it up and use again. Thisis why we say we have the best green manufacturing operation

than any brush company in the world.”Lewis warns that many times when companies tout their prod-

ucts as ‘green,’ that designation might not tell the whole story.“While a company might say a brush is recyclable, the truth is

a person would have to take the brush apart. The fiber would haveto be separated from the block because the two components wouldbe made from different materials. Then you would have to get ridof the metal. Who is going to do that?” Lewis said.

Other Colors Involved In Being ‘Green’

Lewis started Tucel in Middlebury, VT, just west of theGreen Mountains, with one employee and a picnic table.Tucel remained in Middlebury for 10 years and then

moved several miles south toForestdale, where Lewis pur-chased a factory.

Tucel’s current operation,located on 11 acres, is a45,000 square-foot facility,10,000 square feet of which isa warehouse. The buildingalso houses a completemachine shop and a completemolding and brush machinedepartment.

One of the things Vermontis known for is its colorfulautumns when all the greenleaves turn an array of vividcolors. People travel from allover the world to take advan-tage of this visual treat.

As Lewis’ ideas concerningfused products began to come into fruition, color would also playan important role in Tucel’s green world.

One of the first light bulbs that went off in Lewis’ mind as hegerminated the fusion concept was that the process had the poten-tial to result in products that would be extremely efficient in elim-inating cross-contamination and in controlling infectious disease.

“I started reading articlesabout toothbrushes. Some of thearticles talked about people whohad an oral virus and how theyreinfected themselves as thevirus stayed alive in their tooth-brushes,” Lewis said.

Lewis realized that if both thetoothbrush bristles and the brushitself was made of polypropy-

lene, there would be little or no chance for reinfection to occur.Immediately, Lewis knew his ideas for fused products would be aperfect fit for the foodservice industry.

Lewis was right, and today, with what is now known as itspatented TUCEL® tufting process, the company’s fusion methodsresult in products that are chemically recyclable, withstand allchemical cleaning solvents and compounds and have no places forbacteria and pathogenic substances to collect.

In addition, as an even further-reaching safeguard against cross-

Tucel staff members include, left to right, Operations Manager ChrisCourcelle, Vice President Joanne Raleigh and Customer Service

Representative Tina Bilodeau.

“We are very lean. Everyone of myemployees can do just about any job,

whether it is working on makingbrushes or running the molding

machine or packaging.”

-John Lewis, Tucel Industries

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contamination, especially in the foodservice field, Tucel beganintroducing color-coded products.

“A long time before anyone heard of the ‘green’ movement, andbefore Uncle Sam started emphasizing using only one brush for aparticular task to avoid cross-contamination, we were implement-ing these concepts,” Lewis said. “We are the only ‘true’ greencompany.”

According to Tucel’s Web site,www.tucel.com, there are two typesof brush products for foodservice.They are brushes and brooms thatclean the non-food surfaces inkitchens, in food process plants andin large food, medical and chemicalinstitutions, and those that are useddirectly on food for cleaning and basting cooked and pastry typefoods.

Color-coding is used to distinguish between cleaning tools usedon non-food surfaces, and those used on surfaces in direct contactwith food. The color of the brush filaments is designed to alert theuser to double check the danger of cross-contamination, reducingthe risk of food poisoning.

Associations such as the FDA recommend that brushes andbrooms used directly and indirectly in food preparation be color-coded. The use of color codes helps to prevent cross-contamina-tion. Tucel’s products are color-coded with the following suggest-ed scheme (these are only suggestions under the HACCP regula-tions):n Red: Raw product preparation contact area;n Green: Cleaning produce and fruits;n White: Pasteurization and food contact areas;n Blue: Seafood preparation areas;n Yellow: Non-food contact surface areas; andn Black: Drains and other non-food areas.

“At the Tucel booth during our first ISSA show, we displayedwhite blocks and brushes. We also displayed the same products,but in various colors such as yellow, green, black, blue, etc. We letour customers know they could have all those colors using thesame block,” Lewis said.

With its innovative approach and techniques, Tucel has gone

beyond the janitorial and sanitary maintenance industry’s stan-dards by offering complete color-coded, fused brush and broomconfigurations, bacteria resistant filaments and non-porous mold-ed blocks.

Operating Lean In A Lean Economy

Despite the company’s strong position in the marketplacedue to its high quality, unique and innovative products,the recent economic woes worldwide have had an impact.

“Business this past year has been tough for everyone,” Lewissaid. “With the rising costs of raw materials, manufacturers havehad to raise prices. We have tried to hold the line on our prices. Wehave not had a price increase since 2008, but companies can onlyabsorb so much.

“We are also seeing a trend toward distributors seeking cheaperproducts from sources overseas, thus foregoing quality in manycases.”

Some of Tucel’s former OEM customers, especially larger cor-


At left is ground waste to be remolded into black paintbrush handles. Examples of finished fused paintbrushes from Tucel Industries are shown at right.

“A long time before anyone heard of the ‘green’ movement,and before Uncle Sam started emphasizing using only onebrush for a particular task to avoid cross-contamination,

we were implementing these concepts.”

-John Lewis, Tucel Industries

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porations, have also moved topurchasing products manu-factured overseas, opting forpricing over quality, Lewissaid.

“A positive for us is consis-tently introducing new prod-ucts that are not yet availableoutside the United States,”Lewis said.

Also on the positive sideregarding commerce over-seas, Lewis said Tucel isgrowing with its customers inJapan who are purchasingfoodservice and pharmaceuti-cal cleaning tools.

The Internet has alsohelped Tucel streamline itsoperations as it has eliminatedthe need for some outsidesales representatives.

“We used to have representatives across the United States towhom we paid rep fees,” Lewis said. “We no longer do that. Ifa company does not have a Web site, it runs the risk of going outof business as most everyone relies on the computer today.”

Tucel’s practices, such as just-in-time delivery, and others,have helped customers stay competitive during these recession-

ary times. The company’sability to manufacture highquality products that areeffective and last longer,while using fewer raw mate-rials, has also helped its cus-tomers when it comes topricing.

Employees Are Key To Success

When it comes toTucel’s philosophyconcerning perpet-

uating growth, Lewis points tointroducing new products,increasing sales and continuingto be on the cutting edge ofinnovation. However, none ofthese principles work very wellwithout outstanding employees.

“Without our employees, Tucel would not exist,” Lewis said.“They are the very core of our company. All of our employees arelongterm and are somewhat like a small family.”

Tucel currently employs 13 full-time, highly skilled workers.The company’s streamlined management setup does away withunnecessary and oftentimes cumbersome levels of bureaucracy.

The 45,000 square-foot Tucel Industries’ facility includes a 10,000 square-foot warehouse as well as a machine shop

and complete molding/brush machine department.

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“We do not have layers of management. We have only myself,a vice president and an operations manager,” Lewis said. “Theyare the ones who keep the wheels turning in the right direction on

a daily basis.“Joanne Raleigh, who has been with Tucel for 30 years, is our

vice president. She knows all aspects of the company.Operations Manager Chris Courcelle has been with the compa-ny for 12 years and keeps the production floor running. Also,Tina Bilodeau, customer service, has been here for 23 years andhas great relationships with all our customers.”

Cross-training of employees is a big deal at Tucel as it helps thecompany to be flexible, to be quick to react to needs and to meetits goal of running a lean and efficient operation.

“We are very lean. Everyone of my employees can do justabout any job, whether it is working on making brushes or run-ning the molding machine or packaging,” Lewis said. “We havevery, very good workers. They have stuck by us while workingshortened hours, regular hours and overtime when needed.”

With Tucel’s track record of quality and innovation, along witha dedicated and highly skilled work force, Lewis is optimisticabout the company’s future.

“I don’t think anyone can predict what will happen with theeconomy, but we remain positive that we are in the right place andhave the best products to offer,” Lewis said. “We feel very posi-tive about the future as we have always considered ourselves aleader in the industry.”

Contact: Tucel Industries, Inc., 2014 Forestdale Road,Forestdale, VT 05745-0146.

Phone: 802-247-6824; Fax: 802-247-6826.Web site: www.tucel.com.E-mail: [email protected].

John Lewis and Joanne Raleigh are shown at Tucel Industries’company booth during the 2009 ISSA/INTERCLEAN. The annual event helps showcase Tucel’s wide variety of cleaning products.

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The Zahoransky Group Shuttle-system is a fully automated cellto produce brush heads of various sizes and colors 24 hours a day,7 days a week. According to the company, it combines maximumflexibility in production planning with an efficient way to reduceproduction costs.

This technology was the recipient of the FEIBP InnovationAward (European Brushware Federation) in Bristol, UK. Already-installed production cells at various German brush and broommanufacturers enable them to compete against exporters due to

the drop of costs per piece. The complex production

cell consists of a multi-component injection mold-ing machine and an exter-nal demolding and coolingstation made in-house. The connecting element between the threeproduction stations is a six-axes robot, which allows the individualphases of a classic injection molding process to be made synchro-

nously, saving as much as 75 percent incycle time, particularly for thick-walledcomponents. For the process sequence, thisdelivers a simple equation: injection timeequals cycle time from the external coolingand demolding station.

After injection, the robot removes theentire mold block and places it in thecooling station consisting of one coolingrack. At the rack, the robot grips a cooledblock from another rack and swivels it tothe demolding station developed byZahoransky. A second robot takes the fin-ished parts and places these in the storagebox provided. The six-axes robot takesover the empty mold, latches it into theinjection molding machine and reachesfor the newly filled mold at the ejectorside. A new cycle begins.

All subsequent jobs can be different in shape,size and color. For each product, a separate anddistinct software menu for the process parame-ters of every component is stored in the SPCdeveloped by Zahoransky. In-between shots,automated production processes for as many as24 different products, in a maximum of fourcolors, are feasible at the same time.

The standard injection moldingmachine used is equipped with fiveinjection units. Using the four side units,the skin of the component can be injec-tion-molded in different colors. The corematerial is then injected. Cost-effectiverecycled material with added blowingagent is used for this purpose. There areno downtimes during color or moldchanges. Zahoransky says, the unit costsare reduced with this shuttle solution.

This production technique is excellentfor thick-walled parts which are required insmall quantities, but in different sizes andcolors. Beside brush heads, screw driversand plastic shoe soles are ideal examples ofapplication, too.

Visit www.zahoransky-group.com or call630-466-1901 for more information.


Zahoransky’s Shuttle-system Designed To Improve Brush Head Production

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Orlando, FL, is the site for the 93rd Annual AmericanBrush Manufacturers Association Convention. Theevent is scheduled for March 17-20 at the Omni Orlando

Resort at ChampionsGate. The ABMA event is billed as four days of networking, fellow-

ship and information sharing. The theme of this year’s conferenceis “Succeeding in Difficult Times.” The convention will alsoinclude the awarding of the 2010 William Cordes InnovationExcellence Award, the Suppliers Display, divisional meetings,receptions and other key events. (A complete schedule accompa-nies this article.)

Convention Program Highlights

St. Patrick’s Day (Wednesday, March 17) is the first full dayof activities for the ABMA Annual Convention this year.The Convention Committee Breakfast Meeting is scheduled

from 8 to 9:20 a.m., followed by the Public Relations CommitteeMeeting from 9:30 to 10:20 a.m., and then the MembershipCommittee Meeting from 10:30 to 11:50 a.m. All three committeemeetings will be conducted at the St. Andrews Room.

A day earlier, on Tuesday, March 16, the Officers FinanceMeeting will take place from 5 to 6 p.m. in the LegendsBoardroom and will be followed by the 100th Anniversary TaskForce Meeting from 7 to 9 p.m.

ABMA Convention registration on Wednesday will take placeat the International Foyer from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. A StatisticalCommittee Lunch Meeting is set for noon to 12:50 p.m. to be fol-

lowed by a Safety & Standards Committee Meeting from 1 to 1:50p.m. Both events will be at the St. Andrews Room.

This year’s ABMA Divisional Meetings are also slated onWednesday. The Industrial Maintenance Division Meeting willconvene from 2 to 2:50 p.m.; the Paint Applicator DivisionMeeting from 3 to 3:50 p.m.; and the Broom & Mop DivisionMeeting from 4 to 4:50 p.m. All three of these divisional meetingswill be conducted at the Royal Dublin Room as well as theSuppliers Division Meeting, which is set for 5 to 5:30 p.m.

Technical presentations will be incorporated into this year’s firstthree divisional meetings. Officials from Stainless SteelProducts, of Deer Park, NY, will discuss Improve Fatigue LifeBy Using Stainless Steel Brushing during the IndustrialMaintenance Meeting. Representatives from Fielco Adhesives, ofHuntingdon Valley, PA, will present All Epoxies Are Not TheSame during the Paint Applicator Meeting, while Handles USAofficials, of Arcola, IL, will give a presentation during the Broom& Mop Meeting titled Species/Material Characteristics OfWood/Metal Handles. Division meetings are open to everyonewho attends the convention.

Wednesday evening events include the New Members & FirstTime Attendees Welcoming Reception from 6 to 7 p.m. in the St.Andrews Room. This will be followed by the WelcomingReception from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Golf Course Commons. Dress isbusiness casual for both events.

The main program to start Thursday, March 18, will be theOpening Business Session at the International Ballroom from 8 to8:50 a.m. The event will feature a welcome by ABMA President

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February 2010 BROOM, BRUSH & MOP PAGE 19

5 to 6 p.m. Officers Finance Meeting — Legends Boardroom7 to 9 p.m. 100th Anniversary Task Force Meeting — Legends

8 to 9:20 a.m.Convention Committee Breakfast Meeting — St. Andrews 9:30 to 10:20 a.m.Public Relations Committee Meeting — St. Andrews 10:30 to 11:50 a.m.Membership Committee Meeting — St. Andrews 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.Registration / “Gathering Place” — International FoyerNoon to 12:50 p.m.Statistical Committee Lunch Meeting — St. Andrews1 to 1:50 p.m. Safety & Standards Committee Meeting — St. Andrews2 to 2:50 p.m.Industrial Maintenance Division Meeting& Technical Presentationby Stainless Steel Products — Royal Dublin3 to 3:50 p.m.Paint Applicator Division Meeting& Technical Presentationby Fielco Adhesives — Royal Dublin4 to 4:50 p.m. Broom & Mop Division Meeting& Technical Presentationby Handles USA — Royal Dublin5 to 5:30 p.m.Suppliers Division Meeting — Royal Dublin6 to 7 p.m. New Members & First-Time AttendeesWelcome Reception — St. AndrewsDress: Business Casual7 to 9 p.m. Welcoming Reception — Golf Course CommonsDress: Business Casual

7 to 8:30 a.m.Continental Breakfast — International Ballroom7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Registration / “Gathering Place” — International Foyer8 to 8:50 a.m. Opening Business Session President’s Welcome — International Ballroom

9 to 10:45 a.m. ABMA All-Attendee Educational Institute — International BallroomSpeaker: Sam Richter 11 a.m.Bonus Networking Time / Visit Theme Parks:Enjoy Remainder Of Day11 a.m. to 5 p.m.All Exhibitor Display Setup — International Ballroom5:30 p.m. Dinner on Own

7 to 8:30 a.m.Continental Breakfast — International Ballroom7 to 7:45 a.m.All Exhibitor Display Setup — International Ballroom7:30 a.m. to NoonRegistration / “Gathering Place” — International Foyer

9 to 10:30 a.m.Companion Program — St Andrews B1:30 to 6:30 p.m. Golf Tournament (Shot Gun Start) — National Course7 to 10 p.m.Suppliers’ Reception — Family PoolTheme: Pool PartyDress: Resort Casual, swimwear encouraged. This event includesan area of sandy beach so please consider appropriate footwear.

7:30 to 9 a.m. Continental Breakfast — International Ballroom8:30 to 9:20 a.m.Closing Business Session — International Ballroom9:20 to 9:30 a.m. Innovation Award Presentation — International Ballroom9:30 to 10:30 a.m.ABMA All-Attendee Educational Institute — InternationalBallroomSpeaker: Stephen G. Salley, Esq.11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.Board of Directors Luncheon & Meeting — St. Andrews 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Board of Directors’ Dinner — Trevi Patio

Tuesday, March 16

Wednesday, March 17

Thursday, March 18

Friday, March 19

Saturday, March 20

8 a.m. to NoonABMA Suppliers Display— International Ballroom

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Mark Godfrey, of Felton Brush Inc., Londonderry, NH. Priorto the Business Session, a continental breakfast will be availablein the International Ballroom from 7 to 8:30 a.m. Registration willopen at 7:30 a.m. at the International Foyer and remain until 2p.m.

Following the Business Session there will be an ABMA All-Attendee Educational Institute session from 9 to 10:45 a.m. at theInternational Ballroom. The event features Sam Richter, who willpresent a program titled Know More — Sales Intelligence SecretsTo Win In Any Business Climate.

Richter is a speaker and author of Sales Intelligence. He is anexpert in online information technologies, personal reputationmanagement, marketing and leadership development.

The remainder of Thursday is free for ABMA attendees to net-work and enjoy the various sights/theme parks of Orlando. An All-Exhibitor Display set-up time is slated from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. atthe International Ballroom.

A full day of activities are planned for Friday, March 19, start-ing with a continental breakfast at the International Ballroom from7 to 8:30 a.m. Registration at the International Foyer is scheduledfrom 7:30 a.m. to noon.

The ABMA Suppliers Display will begin at 8 a.m. and run untilnoon at the International Ballroom. This event provides a show-case for ABMA members to see the latest products, ideas andcomponents offered by exhibiting suppliers. In addition, the eventis another opportunity for members to network.

From 9 to 10:30 a.m., meanwhile, the ABMA CompanionProgram will take place at St. Andrews B, featuring aromatherapyand personal spa blends.

The annual ABMA Scramble Golf Tournament is also scheduledfor Friday, taking place from 1:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the NationalCourse at ChampionsGate. This course offers an authentic linkstyle golfing experience, reminiscent of courses found on theBritish Isles. A tournament price includes greens fees, golf cartrental, range balls and prizes. Attendees are asked to make clubrental arrangements directly through the pro shop by calling 407-787-4653. For other tee times call 407-390-6664.

Friday evening’s featured event will be the Suppliers Receptionat the Family Pool area of the resort. The event takes place from 7to 10 p.m. Those attending are urged to be dressed in resort casu-al attire and swimwear is encouraged. The event includes an areaof sandy beach. The “pool party” also includes an old-fashionedcookout, outdoor games and DJ.

The final day of the convention is Saturday, March 20, begin-ning with a continental breakfast at 7:30 a.m. at theInternational Ballroom and followed in the same room by theClosing Business Session and the William Cordes InnovationExcellence Award presentation. This all takes place from 8:30to 9:30 a.m.

After the award presentation, Saturday’s ABMA All-AttendeeEducational Institute is slated from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the samelocation. The speaker will be Stephen G. Salley, Esq., seniorpartner with GenSpring’s Family Enterprise Center andFiduciary Services Group. He will give a presentation titled

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Transition Strategies For Family Held Business. Salley lectures frequent-ly on tax, succession and estate planning as well as fiduciary issues.

From 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. the ABMA Board of Directors’ Luncheon andMeeting is scheduled at the St. Andrews Room. The final event of theABMA Annual Convention will be the Board of Directors’ Dinner from6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Trevi Patio.

Registration, Travel And Entertainment Information

Located at 1500 Masters Boulevard, in ChampionsGate, FL, 33896,the Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate can be found off I-4,exit 58. Travelers should pass through the gates on

ChampionsGate Boulevard, go to the second stoplight and then turn rightonto Masters Boulevard. The hotel is on the left. Phone numbers for theresort are 800-843-6664 (reservations) and 407-390-6664 (local). The faxnumber is 407-390-6600, and the Web site is www.omnihotels.com. Visitwww.abma.org for further information about the ABMA AnnualConvention.

During ABMA events, comfortable and casual dress is appropriate.Daytime attire is casual and sportswear is customary (golf shirts and slacksor shorts for men; slacks, shorts or skirts/dresses for women.) Eveningactivities dictate “nice” informal or daytime business casual attire and mayinclude sport coat for men; pantsuits, slacks, skirts/dresses for women.

Orlando’s average daytime temperatures in March are in the high 70s tolow 80s. Temperatures at night average in the low to mid 50s.

ABMA Adds New Feature For Convention

Amember’s literature drop off table will be added for the ABMAAnnual Convention. The table will be set up at the registration areaand is for the use of any ABMA member who wishes to display

company literature for others to peruse. “The ABMA convention is adding the literature drop off table for 2010

as an extra member benefit,” ABMA Convention Committee Chair IanMoss of Static Faction, Salem, MA, said. “The idea for the literature tablewas generated by an existing ABMA member from a comment on a 2009evaluation form.”

Members may bring their literature to the registration area for placementor may send literature ahead of time to ABMA headquarters before March1, 2010. ABMA reserves the right to determine which literature may bedisplayed.

For additional information, contact ABMA at 2111 Plum St., Suite 274,Aurora, IL 60506. Phone: 630-631-5217;

Fax: 866-837-8450; E-mail: [email protected]; Web site: www.abma.org.

Innovation Award Candidates

One of the following candidates will be presented with the WilliamCordes Innovation Excellence Award during an award ceremo-ny scheduled for 9:20 a.m. on Saturday, March 20 at the

International Ballroom. This will be part of the ABMA Closing BusinessSession.

The award, which recognizes innovation of manufactured products, com-ponents or services in the broom, brush, mop and roller industries, is namedafter William Cordes, who served as the first ABMA president from 1917-1928. This award serves as a reminder that all new and exciting endeavorshave beginnings that connect with real people.

All of the following products will be on display during the 93rd ABMAAnnual Convention. The 2010 candidates are:

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Zahoransky AG Shuttle System— Fully Automatic Mold Injection Cell For Broom And Brush Bodies

The Zahoransky ShuttleSystem is a fully automat-ed cell to produce mold-injected parts 24 hours, 7days a week. It combinesmaximum flexibility inproduction planning withan efficient way to reduceproduction costs, accord-ing to the company. The high flexibility of the shuttle system low-ers lead times and reduces stock inventory which, in the case ofusing conventional mold injection units, must be maintained toavoid expensive changeovers from one product to another.

The system runs 3 to 4 process cycles (injection, cooling, ejec-tion, sorting) parallel instead of successively. It allows the produc-tion of up to 17 samples of different shapes and colors at the sametime and in any order. Production planning software controls theproduct and allows for production as put into the ERP system(amount, priority). The system uses standardized molds to givemaximum flexibility and to eliminate any change-over times, thecompany said.

The shuttle system is designed to reduce overall cycle times by50 to 80 percent, save operator costs by 33 percent and reducespace requirements. The system is flexible and enables the user toproduce plastic parts just-in-time and on demand. Costs per piececan be reduced dramatically, according to Zahoransky.

Shur-Line Deck Pads And Paint Pads With DuPont Teflon® Coating

Designed to be faster than a brush andsmoother than a roller, Shur-Line DeckPads and Paint Pads with Teflon® coatingare designed for exterior and interiorprojects. According to the company, thecoating allows easy cleanup as paint willnot adhere to the surface, even after dry-ing.

The Teflon coated pads allow for smoother coverage with moreconsistent load release and no pooling when compared to non-Teflon coated pads. The fibers remain soft for reuse and the padsare tear resistant. The 9-inch size also covers more area.

Wooster Alpha™ Brush The new Wooster Alpha™ professional

paintbrush features Micro Tip™ technologyto produce a fine finish. According to thecompany, several years of development andanalysis took place before this line wasintroduced. Lab tests have proven that eachstyle of Alpha paints at least 30 percent far-ther than brushes of equal size.

The company said Micro Tip filamentsvirtually eliminate brushmarks. Painters were enlisted to try Alpha

in the field. Designed to carry more paint at the end of the brush,Alpha releases a larger amount of paint to the surface, accordingto Wooster, without needing to push as hard. This allows coatingsto flow evenly to the working surface and avoid dripping. Theproduct also cleans quickly and easily.

Wooster Alpha brushes are made for use with all paints and areavailable in angle sash, Shortcut®, thin angle sash, flat sash, var-nish, semi-oval and wall styles. Each brush has a stainless steelferrule and a sealed maple wood handle.

ScreenKleen™ From Linzer ProductsThe ScreenKleen™ helps

users clean window and doorscreens without the need forthe screens to be removed.Specially formulated andpatented micro-dirt technology penetrates each mesh of screen,removing dirt, grime and allergens. The user fills a bucket or pailwith clean water and mild detergent. He/she then submerges theScreenKleen into the soapy water and uses a ScreenKleensqueegee (included) to remove excess water. He/she rolls theScreenKleen gently over the entire surface of the window or doorscreen, and then uses a dry clean cloth to wipe water off the screen.

Shur-Line Eco Applicators™Shur-Line has introduced eco products

made from recycled and renewablematerials. The handles of Shur-Line’snew eco brushes are 100 percent bam-boo, a renewable material. The bristlesare 100 percent recycled polyester andthe metal ferrule that holds the bristlesin place is made from recycled alu-minum. Also, the packaging is madefrom 100 percent recycled material. These brushes are suitablefor use with all paints and provide one-coat coverage, accord-ing to the company.

Meanwhile, Shur-Line’s new eco roller covers are made of 100percent recycled materials and the packaging is biodegradable.The premium roller covers work with all paints and stains andalso provide one-coat coverage. All eco paint products can becleaned after use, allowing them to be reused.

Malish Corporation’s Diamabrush™Diamabrush™ is a diamond abrasive

floor preparation system for concretefloor polishing, mastic removal andhardwood floor prep. The DiamabrushSystem is comprised of four differenttools (one each for concrete, polymer,hardwood prep and mastic removal),each designed to be used on standard low pressure commercialcleaning machines including single discs, walk-behind autoscrubbers and ride-on auto scrubbers. According to the compa-ny, Diamabrush™ is designed to rejuvenate concrete and hard-wood floors.

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To better serve you• 8-colorPrinting

Available

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By Harrell KerkhoffBroom, Brush & Mop Editor

People who are associated with the brushindustry are often quick to point out thatbrush varieties and applications seem

endless. Brushes can be found in many differenttypes of machinery as well as those designedfor cleaning by hand.

Broom, Brush & Mop Magazinerecently discussed the health of thehousehold, utility, foodservice andother brush segments with represen-tatives from four companies special-

izing in brush production.Although challenges with

many North American andglobal economies remain,these representatives said

they are optimistic about thefuture of their businesses and

the U.S. brush industry as a whole.

Afamily-owned company startedin the United Kingdom in 1922,The Hill Brush Company

Ltd., has since expanded to now operate aU.S. subsidiary in Baltimore, MD.

Hill Brush has come a long way since theearly days of producing handmade brushes. It

now uses some of the most advanced brush-making machinery available. The company

employs approximately 115 people, manufac-tures over 3 million brushes per annum

and sells to over 1,000 customers inover 30 countries worldwide under the“Salmon Products” logo.

Hill Brush now manufactures itshygienic (foodservice) brush prod-ucts for industry and its Champion

Brush range of equestrian products inBaltimore and distributes nationally.

According to Hill Brush U.S. National SalesDirector Jim Sokaitis, throughout its lifetime, the

main objective of the business has been to providecustomers with high quality brushes at reasonableprices. This could not be achieved without thehard work and conscientiousness of its workforce,some of whom are part of the third generation offamilies to be employed by the company.

Despite today’s sluggish economy in manyareas of the world, Sokaitis said Hill Brush con-tinues to experience sales success due to its focuson product quality.

“We are seeing a lot of quality concerns outthere among customer groups. Many have beenbuying lower quality brushes from othersources for awhile and they are now interestedin using brush products that will last longer,”he said. “With the current economy, they don’twant to keep spending money on brushes thatdon’t last.

“We also focus on brush innovation, such asintroducing products that are infused with anti-microbial technology to help prevent the spread-ing of bacteria from one room to the next. This isespecially important for the foodservice industry,where people are also looking for brushes thatfeature bristles that won’t fall out of the block.They don’t want these bristles to enter machineryand eventually into food products.”

With this focus, Hill Brush uses technologythat allows brush holes to be filled with resin,keeping bristles tightly in place.

“Thishasbeenverybeneficialforourcustomers,”Sokaitis said. “Besides the equestrian industry, ourcompanyhasheavilyfocusedonthejanitorial, food-serviceandindustrialbrushsegments.Wetaketheseareas very seriously by making high-end productsthat are also cost-competitive. This focus hasallowed us to make great inroads.

“We have found many people today are willingto pay for a brush that will last twice as longcompared to a cheaper item. Hill Brush isanswering this need, whether it’s bristles that stayin place, anti-microbial features, etc.”

Product innovation also continues to play a keyrole among other product categories for HillBrush. One of the company’s latest products is ascoop that can detect metal filaments. Thescoop's magnetic finish attracts these filamentsand prevents them from entering a food source.

Another benefit for Hill Brush is its ability tomaintain smaller production runs for customers.

“As with any manufacturer, it’s all about serv-icing the customer and keeping up with innova-tion,” Sokaitis said.


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When interviewed in mid-January, he added that business hasstarted to pick up after a slow period with the U.S. economy.

“The key is getting people to try our products. We do thatthrough a quality sales force. These are Hill Brush people who areout there demonstrating products and helping solve problems,”Sokaitis said. “Problem solving is a crucial element. We help peo-ple solve whatever issues they may have. That is what we do.

“Hill Brush has sales people across the country who are callingon customers. Our company’s owners also get involved, such aswelcoming new clients.”

Hill Brush products are mainly sold through distributionsources. Some of these distributors have clients that are consid-ered major companies in the United States.

“It’s a good feeling when a major company recognizes who weare and uses products made by Hill Brush,” Sokaitis said. “Again,we are a family-owned company that strives to service customers.We think our capabilities with innovation and product quality alsoset us apart, and we try to be as competitive in price as possible.”

To help meet these goals, Hill Brush officials place a strongemphasis on production automation.

“We do virtually all of our manufacturing in-house. This meanswe must be involved with cutting-edge technology when it comesto brush production. Part of that is being able to infuse brusheswith anti-microbial properties,” Sokaitis said. “Our brushes arealso 100 percent solid. They can’t be broken by a person’s hands.This is just one of the features that we incorporate.”

As a new year and decade have arrived, he added company offi-cials are very optimistic about what the future has in store for Hill

Brush and the industry as a whole. “We feel Hill Brush is not only a leader in Europe, it’s also becom-

ing a leader in the United States. It’s all about having a winning com-bination of employees and products,” Sokaitis said. “As far as thebrush industry itself is concerned, I don’t see it ever going away. It’spretty safe to say there will always be a need for brushes.”

Contact: Hill Brush Inc., 811 Rolyn Ave., Baltimore, MD 21237.

Phone: 410-325-7000; Fax: 410-325-6477.Web site: www.hillbrush.com.

Having celebrated its 80th anniversary in 2009, Culicover &Shapiro, Inc., located in the Long Island community ofNorth Bay Shore, NY, continues to produce high-quality

brush and related products for such segments as janitorial, buildingsupply, industrial and maintenance. The company mainly producesand sells to various distributors such items as floor, radiator, windowand truck wash brushes as well as counter dusters and deck scrubs.

“Our products are mostly found on the East Coast, although wedo ship on a nationwide basis,” Culicover & Shapiro PresidentRichard Shapiro, a third-generation family member at the com-pany, said.

Culicover & Shapiro was started in New York City in 1929 byGershon Shapiro and a business partner by the last name ofCulicover. Not long after the company began, however, Mr.Culicover died.

“The story goes, my grandfather didn’t want to throw out thecompany stationary, so he just kept the name. There hasn’t been a

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Culicover work at our company for 79 or so years. Culicover,however, is an unusual name that people can remember.”

Today, the company is represented by a second and third gener-ation of Shapiro family members. Gershon Shapiro’s son, DavidShapiro, is currently the company’s treasurer, while DavidShapiro’s son, Richard, is president.

“We have grown over the years from a small building in NewYork City to a large facility in Long Island. Our company’s prod-ucts were once all handmade. Now, we have computer-operatedmachinery to make a fuller line of items,” Richard Shapiro said.“We have grown over time, but not as much as some other manu-facturers. However, we enjoy a niche within the brush industrythat works very well.

“One of the better aspects of being a smaller company is thatcustomers can call and get the president of the company on thephone. That is me. I help all types of customers. They can receivea prompt answer, which is one of our biggest advantages.”

The core products at Culicover & Shapiro are standard types ofbrushes. There are new product innovations that the company ispushing as well, such as its Gibraltar Broom. This item features adifferent kind of handle connector where there are no threads inthe block. It’s designed to feature a sturdier connector.

Although some items are still handmade at Culicover &Shapiro, Richard Shapiro said the company relies on automatedmachinery for the production of most of its products.

“Obviously, it’s important to be as efficient and competitive aspossible these days. You need the most up-to-date machinery thatyour company can afford. Competitors, either those in this coun-try or overseas, are becoming more automated as well,” he said.

Keeping up with automation is important for Culicover &Shapiro as the company seeks to maintain and increase businessduring today’s challenging economic times.

“I feel we (as a company) have ridden the slow economy out aswell as anybody. All you can do is your best,” Richard Shapirosaid. “We have done whatever cost-cutting measures possiblewithout changing our customer service focus or the quality of ourproducts. I feel our company runs efficiently. There are, however,factors within the economy that we can’t do anything about.”

He added that staying true to the company’s basic business phi-losophy of providing customers with good products and service ata fair price helps when dealing with today’s challenges, such ashigher taxes and increased insurance costs.

“No one can foretell what the future will truly bring. I hope theworst of the economy is behind us. It’s going to be a long climb toget back to where many companies want to be,” Richard Shapirosaid. “As a country, I feel one problem we have dug ourselves intois that of getting away from U.S. manufacturing. This situation isnot going to turn around over night, but I’m seeing glimmers ofhope. In certain industries, including the brush segment, there arepeople who want to buy more products made in the United States.That is not to say there isn’t a place for imported goods as well.

“Most U.S. manufacturers have a hard time competing on pricealone with foreign producers, so they have to beat these producerson service and by providing faster lead times. As domestic suppli-ers, I think we are all trying to do the same thing in this regard.”

Contact: Culicover & Shapiro, Inc., 220 South Fehr Way, North Bay Shore, NY 11706. Phone: 631-918-4560.

E-mail: [email protected].

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As a longtime brush industry professional, MilwaukeeDustless Brush President Kenneth L. Rakusin said hehas been pleasantly surprised on how well U.S brush com-

panies, as a whole, seem to be doing during the recent slowness ofthe U.S. economy.

“For what I have been able to tell, U.S. brush companies havebeen able to survive. Yet, when I drive around locally, I see manyretail shops and smaller restaurants that are closed,” Rakusin said.“We are in a very strong industry. Many (brush) companies arefamily held, so people have a lifetime invested. They can’t let thecompany go out of business or falter. And if it’s a very large com-pany, there is usually enough cash to keep moving forward regard-less of what the economy is doing.

“A lot of brush companies have been around for a very longtime and their debt is minimal. This allows them to operate in asuccessful way.”

The history of Milwaukee Dustless Brush dates back over 110years. The company currently produces a complete line of brushand broom products as well as a large selection of squeegees. Thebusiness was purchased in 2005 by Gordon Brush, of Commerce,CA, which is co-owned by Rakusin and Bill Loitz. MilwaukeeDustless Brush maintains its production facility in Delavan, WI.

Among the products manufactured by Milwaukee DustlessBrush are heavy-duty push and upright brooms featuring handleswith a reinforced metal segment to keep them from bending andbreaking. The brush blocks of these brooms feature a metal capwhich also helps prevent breakage, cracking and chipping; whilea swivel feature allows the brooms to be used from two directionswith just a quarter turn of the handle.

“These features make the brooms last two to three times longercompared to competitive items,” Rakusin said. “The company hasalways been known for making the highest quality products. Thebiggest complaint we get from our distributors is that our productslast too long, but that is a nice problem to have.

“Our floor squeegees are made from the same concept, whereeverything is heavier-duty. This includes higher quality rubber anda heavier grade of metal. The squeegees also use the same 3/8-inchnut and bolt feature that our brooms have, which allows them tobe tightened without coming loose, wobbling or splitting.”

Milwaukee Dustless Brush also produces its high-end SpeedyCorn® upright corn brooms designed to outlast similar productsfound in the marketplace. On the brush side, meanwhile, Rakusinestimated that the company produces nearly 500 different itemsincluding utility brushes.

“Our customers are willing to pay a little more up front to get avery long lasting product,” he added. “The other thing we do thatreally helps our business is stocking a vast amount of inventory.Virtually every order we get is shipped the same day we receivethat order or the following day.”

Milwaukee Dustless Brush sells its line of cleaning goods to alarge array of distributors, who then re-sell the items to end-usersfound in such locations as food processing facilities, automobilemanufacturing plants, restaurants and hospitals.

When interviewed in mid-January, Rakusin said that businessfor his company has been improving nicely over the past eight tonine months after a slow period during the first part of 2009.

“We saw a decrease in business early last year (2009) but even-tually realized it was due to the entire economy dropping by somuch. We have found that customers who have our products love

them and don’t want to switch. They know how long these itemswill last,” he explained.

In the last two to three years, officials at Milwaukee DustlessBrush have been busy upgrading the company’s Wisconsin facili-ty with modern CNC equipment, including a fully automaticmachine that makes brooms.

“You put the blocks in one end and get the finished product outthe opposite side,” Rakusin said. “When a company spends moneyon automation and modern equipment, it saves money on mainte-nance and labor. We practice this philosophy by constantly updat-ing our equipment. This also helps us to minimize downtime.”

Another important area of success for Milwaukee DustlessBrush is customer service. Rakusin explained that most customersof a company become upset when there is a long delay in gettinga product, the price of that product goes up dramatically or thereis poor quality involved.

“We have held our pricing for over three years, we haveimproved our inventory by tripling the amount of finished goodsthat are available, and we continue to provide quality that we feelis unsurpassed in the industry. This is all done in order to keep cus-tomer satisfaction as high as possible,” Rakusin said. “We havebuilt a system that eliminates complaints. There is a cost for that,and we use funds for the warehouse to have our products on theshelf. We feel this is a good use of our money as we want our cus-tomers to be supplied as quickly as possible.”

As 2010 continues to progress, there are other challenges mostU.S. companies must address in order to remain profitable.Rakusin stated that one concern many business owners haveregards possible changes with the country’s health care system.

“The cost of health care has been an issue for a long time andcontinues to be a problem. We don’t know how this is all going toplay out,” he said. “There is also the hope that the economy willexperience an uptick soon, but I don’t think anybody knows forsure when this will take place. The one positive is there remains aplentiful supply of labor right now.”

Despite the constant ups and downs of the business world,Rakusin is sure of one thing — the need for such cleaning itemsand brushes, brooms, mops and squeegees is not going away.

“There will always be dirt, dust and debris that must be dealtwith. As American manufacturers, however, it’s important toinvest in modern equipment and keep costs low in order to main-tain U.S. production,” Rakusin said.

Keeping up with current events in the brush and broom indus-tries is also vital. To help with this, Rakusin remains very involvedwith the American Brush Manufacturers Association and hasserved in the past as ABMA president.

“I’m looking forward to attending the ABMA AnnualConvention in Orlando (March 17-20) and hope there will be anice turnout like last year,” he said. “It’s important to learn whatis taking place within the industry, such as finding out about newmachinery options, vendors and/or materials.

“Since there is so much buying and selling that takes placebetween brush companies, networking opportunities make it easi-er for us in this industry to conduct business.”

Contact: Milwaukee Dustless Brush, 1632 Hobbs Dr., Delavan, WI 53115.

Phone: 323-724-7777.E-mail: [email protected]: www.milwaukeedustless.com.

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Focusing on producing commercial and industrial brushesthat either go onto floor cleaning machines or are used inother applications for the janitorial supply business is the

speciality of The Malish Corporation, located in Willoughby,OH.

“These are our strengths, but there are a lot of other productniches and categories that the company is focused on,” TheMalish Corporation President & CEO Jeffrey J. Malish said.“The biggest markets we work with are janitorial/sanitary andfoodservice.”

The Malish Corporation’s history dates to 1946 and today man-ufactures products in both Ohio and China.

“It really depends on the market that we are servicing as well asthe volume when deciding where an item is made,” Malishexplained. “If it’s a higher volume item, we will typically manu-facture it overseas and export the product to the appropriate coun-try. If it’s a lower volume item, we will produce it here in theUnited States.”

Regarding overall business for his company, Malish said theimpact of the recent sluggish U.S. economy has been felt, but thathe feels The Malish Corporation has fared better than most.

“Our business was down somewhat in 2009, but not to theextent of what we have seen with some other companies. We arelooking for a very strong 2010 and were able to gain new cus-tomers throughout the past year (in 2009),” Malish said. “We feel2010, with our broader customer base, will feature some verygood growth.”

Customers who purchase products made by The MalishCorporation include original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) aswell as janitorial supply and foodservice distributors. Meanwhile,the type of end-users found with the company’s various productsis extensive.

“A lot of times, these end-users are either contract cleaners —those outside people hired to clean a facility on a regular basis —or the general in-house maintenance staff of a facility. They can befound working in such places as hospitals, restaurants, schools,etc.,” Malish explained. “Everybody is trying to introduce prod-ucts that reduce labor. In the cleaning business, labor is usually thelargest cost driver. Anything that can reduce labor is critical. Also,green products are becoming very popular. Being able to cleanwith fewer chemicals is now important for many people.”

In an effort to better meet the changing needs of customers, offi-cials of The Malish Corporation continue to focus on new productdevelopment.

For example, the company is currently promoting its newDiamabrush™ diamond abrasive floor preparation system forconcrete floor polishing, mastic removal and hardwood floor prep.The Diamabrush System is comprised of four different tools (oneeach for concrete, polymer, hardwood prep and mastic removal),each designed to be used on standard low pressure commercialcleaning machines including single discs, walk-behind auto scrub-bers and ride-on auto scrubbers. The focus of Diamabrush™ is torejuvenate concrete and hardwood floors.

This product has been recognized by industry peers as it is oneof the finalists for the ABMA William Cordes InnovationExcellence Award. This award recognizes innovation of manufac-tured products, components or services in the broom, brush, mopand roller industries. The award winner will be announced duringthe upcoming ABMA Annual Convention in Orlando.

Staying focused on customer service is another key element tolong-term success, according to Malish.

“I feel customer service is one of our company’s main strengths.There is a lot of seniority in our customer service department.Many of these people have been here for 10 to 30 years. Theyknow our customers very well and are able to educate these peo-ple on their true needs,” Malish said. “Sometimes a customer willnot order the right amount or forget to order a certain item. Ourcustomer service people are known for their ability to help cus-tomers with these issues. The objective is to know a customer’sbusiness, inside and out.

“The other service area we focus on very heavily is deliveryperformance. Our on-time deliveries in 2009 averaged over 99.5percent. This means customers received their products when theyneeded them. We do not miss deliveries. That is critical.”

Keeping up with production automation is also important, espe-cially when trying to keep labor costs low while manufacturing inthe United States. Malish feels equipment manufacturers in thebrush, broom and mop industries are doing a good job with pro-ducing machines that go faster and reduce setup times.

“This has always been very critical. Investing in new equipmentis important when doing business in the United States. Even ourfacility in China is using state-of-the-art equipment, allowing us toproduce better quality products compared to other methods foundin lower-cost nations,” Malish said.

He added it’s important to remember that when a softening ofthe economy takes place, this makes competitors very hungry andoften drives the selling price of products down.

“More people are willing to drop their prices to garner addition-al business. Pricing is an issue, and it’s now global competitionthat we are dealing with. It’s not just friendly U.S. competitors,”Malish said. “I think everybody in our industry is facing this samechallenge.

“There is also a lot of uncertainty as far as what our federal gov-ernment is going to do with such issues as health care. Certaincosts may increase over the next few years that may make it moredifficult to be competitive in the United States.”

Despite these ongoing challenges, Malish remains optimisticabout the future health of his company.

“We have positioned ourselves very well as far as being a highquality, highly-engineered products manufacturer while also remain-ing competitive on pricing,” he explained. “We feel very confidentabout the future. I believe the companies that focus on the globaleconomy will be the most successful. If a company is strictly focus-ing on just one given market, this may be a bit more challenging.”

According to Malish, being able to successfully work withinniche markets can also help a company prosper during competi-tive times.

“Niches are harder for competitors to penetrate. (The MalishCorporation) has a lot of niche markets that it services. We alsoimplement strategic planning and have goals which are veryattainable,” he said. “Because of these factors, I see ongoinggrowth for the company taking place within the next few years.It’s going to be a challenging year (in 2010), but businesses can besuccessful if they focus and plan accordingly.”

Contact: The Malish Corporation, 4260 Hamann Parkway,Willoughby, OH 44094. Phone: 440-951-5356.

E-mail: [email protected] Site: www.malish.com.

BBM.Feb.x 2/8/10 10:00 AM

BBM.Feb.x 2/8/10 10:00 AM


By Rick MullenBroom, Brush & Mop

Associate Editor

U.S. government trade figures for the first 10 months of 2009indicate raw material imports were up in one of the two categoriesoutlined in this issue, compared to the first 10 months of 2008.Figures for metal handles prior to March 2009 are not availablefor comparison. For October 2009, raw material imports weredown in both categories outlined, other than metal handles, com-pared to October 2008.

Import totals for the first 10 months of 2009 were down in bothof the finished goods categories outlined from the same time peri-od in 2008. Also, in October 2009, both categories outlinedrecorded decreases, compared to October 2008.

RAW MATERIAL IMPORTSBroom And Mop Handles

The import total of broom and mop handles during October2009 was 1.8 million, down about 25 percent from 2.4 millionbroom and mop handles imported in October 2008. During thefirst 10 months of 2009, 17 million broom and mop handles wereimported, compared to 25.8 million for the first 10 months of2008, down about 34 percent.

During the first 10 months of 2009, the United States imported6.1 million handles from Brazil and 4.7 million from Honduras.

The average price per handle for October 2009 was 55 cents,down about 24 percent from 72 cents for October 2008. The aver-age price for the first 10 months of 2009 was 68 cents, the sameas the average price for the first 10 months of 2008.

Brush BacksOctober 2009 imports of brush backs totaled 114,649, down

about 15 percent from the October 2008 total of 135,225 brushbacks. During the first 10 months of 2009, 2.4 million brush backswere imported, an increase of about 20 percent over the total forthe first 10 months of 2008 of 2 million.

The United States imported 1.3 million brush backs fromCanada during the first 10 months of 2009.

The average price per brush back was 48 cents during October2009, up about 17 percent from the average price for October2008 of 41 cents. For the first 10 months of 2009, the averageprice per brush back was 44 cents, down about 35 percent fromthe average price of 68 cents for the first 10 months of 2008.

Metal HandlesImports of metal handles during October 2009 totaled 2.1 mil-

lion, up from the September 2009 total of 1.8 million. During thefirst 10 months of 2009, 25.1 million metal handles were imported.

The United States imported 12.2 million metal handles fromItaly and 10 million from China during the first 10 months of 2009.

The average price per handle for October 2009 was 63 cents,down from the previous month’s average price of 71 cents. Theaverage price for the first 10 months of 2009 was 63 cents.

FINISHED GOODS IMPORTSBrooms Of Broom Corn

Valued At Less Than 96 CentsThe United States imported 7,872 brooms of broom corn valued

at less than 96 cents per broom during October 2009, compared to22,368 in October 2008, a decrease of about 65 percent. Duringthe first 10 months of 2009, 122,568 brooms of broom corn wereimported, down about 41 percent from 206,862 imported duringthe first 10 months of 2008.

Mexico shipped 115,368 brooms of broom corn to the UnitedStates during the first 10 months of 2009.

The average price per broom for October 2009 was 74cents, up slightly from 72 cents for October 2008. The aver-age price per broom for the first 10 months of 2009 was 76cents, up from the average price for the first 10 months of2008 of 73 cents.

Brooms Of Broom CornValued At More Than 96 Cents

The United States imported 728,706 brooms of broom corn val-ued at more than 96 cents per broom during October 2009, com-pared to 756,802 in October 2008, down about 4 percent. Duringthe first 10 months of 2009, 7.3 million brooms of broom cornwere imported, down slightly from 7.4 million imported duringthe first 10 months of 2008.

Mexico shipped 6.8 million brooms of broom corn to the UnitedStates during the first 10 months of 2009.

The average price per broom for October 2009 was $2.33, thesame as the average price for October 2008. The average price perbroom for the first 10 months of 2009 was $2.45, up about 7 per-cent from $2.29 for the first 10 months of 2008.

EXPORTSExport totals for the first 10 months of 2009 were down in both

categories outlined, compared to the first 10 months of 2008. InOctober 2009, one of the two categories reported an increase inexports, compared to October 2008.

ToothbrushesU.S. companies exported 7.9 million toothbrushes during

October 2009, down about 43 percent from 13.9 million exportedduring October 2008. Toothbrush exports for the first 10 monthsof 2009 were 74.3 million, down about 51 percent from 151.1 mil-lion recorded for the first 10 months of 2008.

The United States shipped 27.1 million toothbrushes to Canadaand 17.5 million to Mexico during the first 10 months of 2009.

The average price per toothbrush for October 2009 was 77cents, up about 45 percent from the October 2008 average price of53 cents. The average price for the first 10 months of 2009 was 75cents, up about 108 percent from the average price of 36 cents forthe first 10 months of 2008.

Artist BrushesThe United States exported 640,396 artist brushes in October

2009, up about 9 percent from the total of 588,999 exported inOctober 2008. During the first 10 months of 2009, 6.6 millionartist brushes were exported, about an 8 percent decrease from 7.2million exported during the first 10 months of 2008.

Canada received 3.4 million artist brushes from the UnitedStates during the first 10 months of 2009.

The average price per artist brush for October 2009 was $3.35,down about 13 percent from the average price for October 2008 of$3.85. The average price for the first 10 months of 2009 was$3.34, down from $3.46 for the first 10 months of 2008.

Imports, Exports Generally Down After 10 Months

BBM.Feb.x 2/8/10 10:00 AM

BBM.Feb.x 2/8/10 10:00 AM

Domestic Merchandise1404902000 Broomcorn (Sorghum Vulgare Var. Technicum)Used Primarily In Brooms Or In Brushes, Whether or Not

In Hanks or BundlesOctober Year To Date

Country Net Q/Ton Value Net Q/Ton ValueMexico 16 58,590Denmark 1 3,434Ireland 1 4,379 4 16,241France 5 17,280 17 58,058Fr Germ 1 4,262 1 4,262Malaysa 1 3,530TOTAL 7 25,921 40 144,115

9603100000 Brooms & Brushes, Consisting of Twigs or OtherVegetable Materials Bound Together, With or Without Handles

October Year To DateCountry Net Q/Dozen Value Net Q/Dozen ValueCanada 2,758 86,055 24,049 801,145Mexico 154 11,123 2,104 113,623Guatmal 24 4,530Belize 1,108 40,124Salvadr 361 8,573C Rica 121 3,987Panama 825 30,446Bermuda 308 11,864 1,044 38,321

Bahamas 2,649 154,353Jamaica 310 9,924Antigua 12 2,549S Lucia 120 2,784Barbado 387 6,505Trinid 1,082 37,324N Antil 12 3,550Venez 120 3,211 120 3,211Ecuador 18 2,915Peru 17 5,025Chile 85 59,303 85 59,303Brazil 13 12,434Uruguay 91 7,114Argent 426 12,168Finland 17 5,172Denmark 150 4,940 622 25,053U King 375 21,286 6,545 283,740Ireland 1,278 73,810France 92 17,280 1,438 114,680Fr Germ 1,750 20,580 1,965 27,316Poland 419 17,300Italy 2,846 97,658Croatia 24 12,229Greece 189 6,685Turkey 57 4,130Iraq 59 20,448Israel 41 3,840S Arab 36 3,228 883 73,876Arab Em 40 3,821 50 7,074Afghan 12 5,762India 50 2,850Malaysa 3 2,945Singapr 39 10,212Phil R 52 4,816


Royal Paint Roller

Royal Paint Roller — a name known in the industry for over35 years for top quality products, fine service and competitive prices.

Manufacturer of paint rollers in ALL SIZES—from Slim Jim to Jumbo 21⁄4”I.D. in VARIETY OF FABRICS—including lambskin, kodel, lambswool,synthetic blends & “Lint Free” woven line.

Also a complete line of frames, trays, paint brushes & painting accessories forthe professional and Do-It-Yourself markets.

Specializing in private labeling at competitive prices.

ROYAL PAINT ROLLER248 Wyandanch Avenue

West Babylon, N.Y. 11704Tel: (631) 643-8012 • Fax: (631) 253-9428

EXPORTSOctober Exports By Country

BBM.Feb.x 2/8/10 10:00 AM

BBM.Feb.x 2/8/10 10:00 AM

China 7,695 261,600Kor Rep 352 20,022Hg Kong 3,061 91,950Taiwan 4 2,724 39 5,294Japan 75 4,905 4,276 125,539Austral 276 28,276Libya 503 16,575Nigeria 4 9,500Angola 10 3,690Rep Saf 891 32,393TOTAL 5,947 250,320 68,674 2,754,343

9603210000 ToothbrushesOctober Year To Date

Country Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueCanada 2,998,488 1,618,344 27,074,063 18,406,903Mexico 1,672,374 586,237 17,474,986 6,808,701Guatmal 6,912 5,691 8,999 9,093Belize 107,712 32,457 222,315 91,500Salvadr 43,767 31,541 137,881 93,519Hondura 3,456 2,848Nicarag 5,184 4,272C Rica 10,368 8,535 33,720 23,012Panama 137,851 74,515Jamaica 11,580 3,853 39,785 30,180Cayman 666 6,085Haiti 22,224 10,690Dom Rep 58,536 17,282 437,351 235,383Antigua 15,840 21,291 444,194 273,886Barbado 9,552 2,955 35,402 31,942Trinid 19,872 8,227 260,464 282,519N Antil 43,235 44,034Aruba 7,415 6,537Colomb 24,009 34,286 150,147 139,821

Venez 41,496 43,268 414,402 209,239Guyana 10,440 9,180Surinam 529 6,115Ecuador 294 3,007 137,421 59,552Peru 208,800 83,863Chile 40,516 21,738 378,339 204,844Brazil 337,749 179,801 1,626,950 786,414Paragua 219 9,136 1,202 19,191Uruguay 6,245 38,710Argent 34,515 104,279 941,155 629,113Iceland 7,680 6,816 10,560 16,341Sweden 912 4,026 5,408 39,739Denmark 2,111 18,644 8,957 44,462U King 81,296 466,777 195,796 1,051,488Ireland 432,000 126,546 2,187,405 2,431,648Nethlds 41,233 328,010 3,000,847 4,514,217Belgium 6,931 6,971Luxmbrg 278 2,849France 281 2,880 1,444,615 742,411Fr Germ 80,297 765,164 1,630,302 4,206,003Austria 5,580 6,294Czech 1,163 11,899Hungary 214 2,969 4,894 5,875Switzld 24,059 17,677Lithuan 247 2,526Poland 3,096 2,509Russia 1,308 11,424 1,308 11,424Spain 439 4,487 405,456 185,284Italy 10,799 62,537 99,251 131,454Bulgar 908 4,449Turkey 350 5,532 350 5,532Lebanon 3,083 31,548Israel 9,250 57,098Kuwait 144,927 66,640S Arab 12,840 12,457Qatar 2,000 12,500Arab Em 18,056 91,979India 140,832 270,950 678,240 1,347,205Thailnd 237,348 125,630Vietnam 207,330 106,200Malaysa 7,152 16,858Singapr 1,150,928 554,398Phil R 12,069 11,898China 206,359 258,993 643,142 1,681,593Kor Rep 1,036,023 412,325 5,892,796 2,591,352Hg Kong 35,783 40,327 1,230,030 814,785Taiwan 63,727 67,445 1,318,012 645,542Japan 70,184 321,045 1,410,230 4,331,359Austral 208,080 139,435 2,056,370 1,194,280N Zeal 1,772 11,958Moroc 168 6,090Nigeria 360 3,681Rep Saf 10,368 3,648TOTAL 7,853,707 6,048,260 74,348,703 55,781,412

9603290000 Shaving Brushes, Hairbrushes, Nail Brushes,Eyelash Brushes & Other Toilet Brushes For Use on the Person

October Year To DateCountry Net Q/No. Value Net Q./No. ValueCanada 310,742 345,080 2,551,463 2,517,462Mexico 978,078 402,237 3,442,587 3,371,022Salvadr 418 6,352C Rica 8,421 21,966Panama 9,062 12,485Bermuda 336 6,553Bahamas 1,540 12,271 6,328 23,548Jamaica 1,721 8,749Dom Rep 3,408 40,070Barbado 172 6,377Trinid 3,216 15,021 17,362 155,445


• Galvanized & tinned wire for brush - broom - mop production

• Processed Broom Corn & Yucca

• Wood Broom - Mop - Brush Handles

• Craft Broom Corn And Supplies

• Other Materials - Broom Twine,Broom Nails, Mop Hardware

Supplier of Raw Materials to Manufacture Brooms,Mops, and Brushes

P.O. Box 14634 • Greensboro, NC 27415

336-273-3609 800-213-9224 Fax: 336-378-6047

E-mail: [email protected]

We ship by pup or truck load direct from Mexico, or LTL/ UPS from our Greensboro warehouse.

BBM.Feb.x 2/8/10 10:00 AM

BROOM CAPS BRUSH and HANDLE FERRULES

MANUFACTURING INCORPORATEDP.O. Box 6505 Wolcott, CT 06716 Phone 203-879-1481

February 2010 BROOM, BRUSH & MOP PAGE 39

Aruba 2,496 4,524Colomb 41,850 8,872 113,150 233,123Venez 1,362 19,853Guyana 720 6,661 1,296 12,283Ecuador 288 4,176 29,114 49,471Peru 3,756 23,629Chile 1,596 14,592 9,532 39,400Brazil 60,000 20,000 238,059 165,032Uruguay 430 4,666 430 4,666Argent 1,374 21,838Norway 1,098 10,040Finland 10,430 13,769Denmark 117 2,691U King 8,595 55,442 86,644 543,749Ireland 13 2,995 6,802 34,070Nethlds 10,256 110,769 32,493 284,448Belgium 16,031 136,228France 5,860 55,120 49,134 410,980Fr Germ 21,510 22,467 74,382 297,847Czech 226 11,712Hungary 504 4,608Switzld 1,017 9,300Poland 938 8,575Spain 9,412 91,213Italy 819 7,491 8,069 59,890Turkey 10,094 15,192Cyprus 2,638 24,128Lebanon 1,404 3,383Iraq 1,097 11,498S Arab 1,985 22,856Arab Em 15 2,655 15,148 190,712India 1,009 12,250Pakistn 100 3,000 7,736 15,813Thailnd 2,891 26,435 15,395 131,699Malaysa 858 3,605 858 3,605Singapr 272 3,462 1,566 14,144Indnsia 1,703 11,140Phil R 30 5,400 85,155 69,168China 10,141 92,736 240,622 1,209,818Kor Rep 330 14,760 7,198 55,200Hg Kong 5,374 49,145 382,180 722,820Taiwan 30 5,550Japan 1,920 27,637 455,836 551,705Austral 1,442 9,858 17,013 166,080N Zeal 443 4,048 1,566 15,965Rep Saf 430 13,404 1,885 45,445TOTAL 1,469,759 1,344,005 7,991,262 11,961,139

9603300000 Artists Brushes, Writing Brushes and Similar Brushesfor the Application of Cosmetics

October Year To DateCountry Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueCanada 340,800 820,626 3,431,076 8,346,373Mexico 43,473 161,219 434,736 1,836,157Salvadr 3,312 8,348Hondura 76 4,284 3,592 11,229Nicarag 3,552 3,817C Rica 6,129 39,165Panama 17,654 67,747Bahamas 5,488 7,386Jamaica 1,255 4,629Cayman 3,184 17,846Dom Rep 48,469 64,379Barbado 3,279 3,908Trinid 2,578 2,872 2,578 2,872Aruba 1,920 3,010Colomb 828 10,438 39,809 120,391Venez 8,118 29,952 24,753 59,712Ecuador 11,860 81,020 22,263 109,850Peru 1,871 9,232Bolivia 174 7,490Chile 2,500 8,551Brazil 10,062 43,127Paragua 1,051 3,878 1,051 3,878Uruguay 4,324 77,753Sweden 3,418 12,611Norway 340 6,240 121,209 454,749Finland 3,867 15,943 17,025 73,280Denmark 3,252 12,000U King 63,137 379,646 394,303 2,546,578Ireland 5,344 19,715 64,888 221,245Nethlds 181,985 677,001Belgium 32,747 120,826France 32,411 123,591 206,207 967,252Fr Germ 10,314 43,554 86,491 339,322Austria 2,434 8,980 11,176 41,233Czech 1,355 5,000Slovak 1,599 5,900Switzld 2,530 9,335 16,368 70,402Estonia 4,911 17,033Poland 6,284 23,186Russia 18,401 72,942Italy 9,610 37,227 63,607 248,651Greece 51,584 190,326Bulgar 5,024 18,538Turkey 12,548 23,125Lebanon 909 12,631Israel 1,246 3,376 6,689 23,436S Arab 5,760 7,819Arab Em 7,091 26,163 25,766 183,651Oman 157 3,211

BBM.Feb.x 2/8/10 10:00 AM


India 20,878 77,031Thailnd 1,753 13,457 28,485 104,491Vietnam 5,111 35,590Malaysa 799 2,949Singapr 1,928 7,115 9,445 53,993Indnsia 2,809 10,363Phil R 11,632 42,917China 13,255 41,254 373,628 1,152,887Kor Rep 98,344 773,288Hg Kong 8,811 32,510 98,241 376,864Taiwan 14,684 59,775Japan 24,384 93,318 126,281 519,769Austral 42,095 155,320 292,181 1,115,946N Zeal 1,062 12,924 3,074 21,049Tokelau 1,357 5,008Moroc 21,941 80,956Algeria 17,630 68,717Ivy Cst 6,183 111,186Ghana 1,200 4,115Nigeria 21,930 80,914Rep Saf 1,328 6,809TOTAL 640,396 2,143,957 6,573,855 21,933,415

9603402000 Paint RollersOctober Year To Date

Country Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueCanada 278,929 771,716 2,065,601 7,052,403Mexico 26,827 29,178 1,134,084 2,179,689Salvadr 100 8,995C Rica 2,009 53,012Panama 10,310 29,854Bermuda 20,478 47,446Bahamas 2,816 4,591 5,140 11,209Jamaica 10,270 30,013Dom Rep 1,600 25,000 104,892 218,006B Virgn 3,804 4,720S Lucia 200 3,900Trinid 1,152 2,880 1,790 14,075Aruba 175 3,067Colomb 6,005 35,187Venez 113,127 171,662Ecuador 3,432 12,279Peru 7,660 8,009Brazil 9,163 45,837Argent 169 2,970 1,362 21,234Finland 10,334 22,544U King 374 6,564 3,071 24,463Ireland 150 6,374Nethlds 560 2,808France 197 3,452Fr Germ 3,534 5,555 32,244 61,278Austria 177 3,100Italy 170 7,493Croatia 322 5,655Slvenia 3,560 8,414Turkey 507 8,900Israel 9,400 29,061Jordan 190 3,562S Arab 1,528 44,441Arab Em 5,929 23,081Pakistn 35,000 29,475Singapr 29 3,835Indnsia 796 3,598China 11,681 37,586Kor Rep 388 15,681Hg Kong 52,300 43,214 279,512 289,914Japan 2,888 12,229Austral 8,500 37,000 28,495 259,916N Zeal 4,836 24,071Marshal 706 3,405Fiji 14,228 30,194

Rep Saf 176,758 124,999TOTAL 376,201 928,668 4,123,258 11,040,126

9603404020 Paint PadsOctober Year To Date

Country Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueMexico 17,822 40,393 70,961 166,156Hondura 131 3,865 151 7,265Panama 336 2,768Dom Rep 120 3,720Grenada 3,083 21,882Barbado 60 2,910Aruba 121 8,260Martinq 876 6,215 876 6,215Colomb 2,684 19,056Venez 3,084 21,889 3,084 21,889Peru 5,855 41,560Chile 87 2,981Brazil 2,117 10,427U King 480 3,199 752 12,320France 212 5,945 247 10,445Israel 2,000 16,857Arab Em 1,576 11,190Malaysa 545 3,869 545 3,869China 8,079 57,353Kor Rep 649 4,608Hg Kong 7,371 52,326 11,316 80,326Taiwan 13,624 17,711Japan 820 3,200 9,589 33,050Austral 34,527 83,159 46,843 218,260Rep Saf 6,452 45,800TOTAL 65,868 224,060 191,207 826,878

9603404050 Paint, Distemper, Varnish or Similar Brushes(Except Brushes of 9603.30)

October Year To DateCountry Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueCanada 56,727 524,284 377,026 4,869,188Mexico 918 18,636 9,522 121,391Guatmal 948 19,662 6,343 95,111Hondura 456 8,812 2,198 43,967Nicarag 755 13,579C Rica 4,084 80,148Panama 1,132 27,291 11,331 159,089Bermuda 1,209 15,756 8,280 114,169Bahamas 182 3,771 15,515 331,506Jamaica 1,357 28,138Turk Is 78 7,820Cayman 138 2,855 6,873 67,367Haiti 126 2,608 126 2,608Dom Rep 121 2,520 4,704 52,208Anglla 246 5,093B Virgn 484 11,475Antigua 3,777 45,229Monsrat 1,019 27,909S Lucia 885 20,141S Vn Gr 498 10,334 498 10,334Grenada 1,611 33,406Barbado 551 24,261Trinid 218 4,522 5,990 84,449N Antil 533 10,950Colomb 1,000 4,780 6,179 99,907Venez 2,720 40,356Guyana 175 3,636Surinam 151 2,661Ecuador 1,902 49,779Peru 70 7,620 1,428 37,806Chile 6,162 127,917Brazil 13,296 516,809Argent 465 15,142

BBM.Feb.x 2/8/10 10:00 AM

February 2010� BROOM, BRUSH & MOP PAGE 41

Sweden 1,040 13,000 7,545 115,244Norway 422 11,327Finland 461 9,562Denmark 1,528 7,343 17,249 70,816U King 7,819 181,195 81,333 1,259,826Ireland 1,404 12,461 10,252 88,529Nethlds 14,335 321,394 153,985 3,158,262Belgium 17,587 366,613France 5,615 81,777Fr Germ 3,578 22,100 10,390 138,538Czech 489 11,215Lithuan 92 4,505 233 7,435Poland 108 6,383 6,236 109,542Russia 615 7,257Ukraine 1,226 4,819Spain 1,320 7,426Italy 217 12,835 772 24,341Croatia 156 3,234Greece 1,149 66,196Turkey 483 10,010Cyprus 129 2,679Lebanon 719 15,818Israel 4,368 90,604 9,309 178,846Kuwait 2,937 21,142S Arab 711 14,742Arab Em 6,146 90,682Afghan 171 3,548Thailnd 3,838 38,459Vietnam 374 7,752 1,693 35,112Singapr 802 16,347 8,417 80,385Phil R 28 6,581China 502 11,040 6,382 111,892

Kor Rep 4,385 92,425Hg Kong 1,782 28,823 2,849 90,559Taiwan 850 3,410Japan 7,998 94,182Austral 138 2,858 9,467 130,795N Zeal 2,999 24,701 5,517 87,078Eq Guin 98 2,780Ivy Cst 969 20,104Nigeria 750 6,525Rep Saf 1,329 27,566Namibia 120 3,099 120 3,099TOTAL 104,949 1,419,891 888,594 13,863,927

9603900000 Hand-Operated Mechanical Floor Sweepers,Not Motorized, Mops & Feather Dusters; Prepared Knots & Tufts

for Broom or Brush Making, NESOIOctober Year To Date

Country Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueCanada 281,433 2,568,672 2,508,473 23,558,820Mexico 64,488 848,420 611,068 7,712,788Guatmal 100 3,000 820 8,434Salvadr 241 3,910 941 15,259Hondura 4,428 71,820Nicarag 178 2,886 178 2,886C Rica 2,600 9,481 5,659 40,978Panama 235 6,656 12,347 197,226Bermuda 1,056 3,570 2,694 18,447Bahamas 3,155 51,273Jamaica 244 3,962Haiti 247 4,000Dom Rep 238 3,853 6,272 46,643B Virgn 152 3,314St K N 1,073 17,410

BBM.Feb.x 2/8/10 10:00 AM


Double LipSpur DrillsDrills For Plastics

Special Half-Round andSpoon Drills

Often CopiedBut NEVER EqualledStandard Sizes Normally In Stock For Rapid DeliveryFor Availability And Pricing Contact Our Parts Dept.

TEL: 630.232.2460 • FAX: 630.232.2016EMAIL: [email protected]

Carlson Drills

S Vn Gr 83 2,877Barbado 1,476 9,890Trinid 3,756 33,550N Antil 3,896 45,009Aruba 221 3,580Colomb 9,644 101,012Venez 478 7,750 7,849 100,845Ecuador 560 3,740 35,974 578,142Peru 9,076 138,287Bolivia 215 3,480Chile 1,745 26,192 28,422 376,864Brazil 16,305 248,126Uruguay 116 2,601Argent 2,760 28,730Sweden 1,293 20,119Norway 860 12,329Finland 3,317 58,479Denmark 4,337 31,495U King 4,521 68,947 87,531 1,017,567Ireland 698 11,328 4,510 73,677Nethlds 4,135 33,217 39,567 342,175Belgium 597 15,343 20,583 207,925Luxmbrg 213 3,455 213 3,455France 884 2,965 10,812 155,761Fr Germ 1,021 13,723 28,470 445,373Czech 792 12,849 792 12,849Slovak 341 5,524Switzld 987 14,926 5,592 91,165Estonia 369 5,988Lithuan 902 12,806Poland 2,592 53,170Russia 1,400 12,601 6,717 90,730Ukraine 203 3,140Georgia 420 6,804

Kazakhs 497 8,072Spain 1,948 32,467Italy 2,339 32,191 10,616 128,190Greece 186 3,021 1,013 11,772Romania 1,541 25,000Lebanon 720 4,688 1,192 12,340Iraq 8,298 132,194Israel 291 4,714 2,329 42,907Jordan 400 3,220Kuwait 1,744 9,698S Arab 5,447 58,026Qatar 675 11,829Arab Em 330 11,926 11,522 180,870Bahrain 215 3,485India 40 3,092 850 15,438Pakistn 356 5,782Thailnd 1,751 38,294Malaysa 658 8,595Singapr 10 2,520 1,202 43,849Indnsia 5,643 77,559Phil R 285 4,628Maldive 14,875 92,960China 1,227 22,740 19,270 382,302Kor Rep 1,390 22,943 20,446 204,866Hg Kong 5,546 89,947 13,778 205,906Taiwan 3,242 15,862 11,850 162,233Japan 3,215 49,157 50,375 497,230Austral 6,074 58,825 77,395 761,766N Zeal 4,085 37,413 11,979 86,717Moroc 135 2,624Angola 1,499 25,195Djibuti 546 8,850Uganda 150 3,338Rep Saf 813 13,337TOTAL 397,295 4,036,523 3,778,258 39,378,323

BBM.Feb.x 2/8/10 10:00 AM


Brush Manufacturers

STAPLE SET MANUFACTURERCUSTOM SHAPES: Wheel–Cylinder–Strip–DiscALL MEDIUMS: Wood–Plastic–Metal–Leather

Short Run and Private LabelSEND US YOUR SPECIALS

YOUNG & SWARTZ, INC.CHERRY & SPRUCE STS. • BUFFALO, N.Y. 14204

PHONE 852-2171 AREA CODE 716FAX (716) 852-5652

0502100000 Pigs’, Hogs’ or Boars’ Bristlesand Hair and Waste Thereof

October Year To DateCountry Net Q/KG Value Net Q/KG ValueFr Germ 7 3,891 59 7,190Thailnd 155 11,524China 26,901 111,789 272,364 2,201,868Hg Kong 2,212 24,071TOTAL 26,908 115,680 274,790 2,244,653

0502900000 Badger Hair and OtherBrushmaking Hair and Waste ThereofOctober Year To Date

Country Net Q/KG Value Net Q/KG ValueMexico 168 5,082 2,568 7,722Paragua 12,987 141,848U King 2 3,361 490 46,534Fr Germ 2,414 122,168Italy 62 3,008Thailnd 1,665 84,917China 24 3,462 20,727 360,217Japan 413 13,062TOTAL 194 11,905 41,326 779,476

0511993300 Horsehair and Horsehair Waste, Whether or NotPut Up As A Layer With or Without Supporting Material

October Year To DateCountry Net Q/KG Value Net Q/KG ValueFr Germ 700 10,981China 6,651 93,935 135,702 1,420,137TOTAL 6,651 93,935 136,402 1,431,118

1404903000 Istle Used Primarily In Brooms or In Brushes,Whether or Not In Hanks or BundlesOctober Year To Date

Country Net Q/KG Value Net Q/KG ValueMexico 27,981 135,748 353,484 1,748,943TOTAL 27,981 135,748 353,484 1,748,943

4417002000 Broom and Mop Handles, 1.9 CM or More InDiameter and 97 CM or More In Length, Of Wood

October Year To DateCountry Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueMexico 2,500 2,526 62,350 29,362

Hondura 486,744 193,561 4,747,777 2,212,020Colomb 30,024 12,605 97,686 59,303Brazil 518,143 378,608 6,161,256 5,332,822Argent 27,950 19,286 56,750 36,396Spain 80,680 38,890 193,384 90,649India 10,896 3,704Sri Lka 7,200 8,070 187,600 213,192Vietnam 100,644 92,051Malaysa 51,200 37,835 204,600 186,982Indnsia 162,728 177,043 2,022,295 1,797,524China 413,141 101,625 3,072,925 1,484,694Hg Kong 27,500 16,050 27,500 16,050Taiwan 33,000 36,190Egypt 20,000 5,000TOTAL 1,807,810 986,099 16,998,663 11,595,939

4417004000 Paint Brush and Paint Roller Handles, Of WoodOctober Year To Date

Country Net Q/Variable Value Net Q/Variable ValueGuatmal 17,581Fr Germ 15,069Czech 13,736 68,267Poland 134,754Italy 323,548 3,666,487India 97,234Indnsia 146,011 818,108China 148,193 2,650,799Taiwan 10,446TOTAL 631,488 7,478,745

4417006000 Brush Backs, Of WoodOctober Year To Date

Country Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueCanada 99,059 37,302 1,303,930 503,321Hondura 166,864 68,537Brazil 52,675 68,380Sri Lka 15,590 18,094 253,211 212,560Indnsia 145,448 72,463China 441,162 98,226Hg Kong 25,000 16,944TOTAL 114,649 55,396 2,388,290 1,040,431

4417008010 Tool Handles of WoodOctober Year To Date

Country Net Q/Variable Value Net Q/Variable ValueCanada 51,159Mexico 11,859 98,530Salvadr 24,924C Rica 24,283Colomb 6,328Brazil 142,256 2,612,582

IMPORTSBroom and Brush

October Imports By Country

BBM.Feb.x 2/8/10 10:00 AM


Paragua 31,818Nethlds 5,533Poland 30,568Spain 18,514India 5,612 11,117Pakistn 2,340Indnsia 53,868China 53,436 517,084Taiwan 33,979TOTAL 213,163 3,522,627

4417008090 Tools, Tool Bodies, Broom or Brush Bodies,Shoe Lasts and Trees, of Wood

October Year To DateCountry Net Q/Variable Value Net Q/Variable ValueCanada 37,013 647,377Mexico 24,722Hondura 7,543 34,854Nicarag 2,542Colomb 10,305Chile 732,344 5,591,991Brazil 2,381U King 47,950France 6,933 12,318Fr Germ 64,968Austria 5,143Russia 3,194Spain 12,405Italy 12,816 28,926Slvenia 91,015India 106,613 846,557Pakistn 3,459 6,540Sri Lka 108,926 896,918Vietnam 27,280Singapr 3,682Indnsia 36,295 251,037China 202,905 1,916,591Taiwan 90,636Japan 350,459 3,079,563TOTAL 1,605,306 13,698,895

7326908576 Metal Handles For Brooms, Mops, Paint ApplicatorsOctober Year To Date

Country Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueCanada 391 14,456Mexico 12,114 10,242 211,770 82,485C Rica 4 2,929Chile 8,040 3,699Brazil 157,882 57,492Denmark 687 5,446 1,647 14,631Luxmbrg 450 3,272 450 3,272France 78 2,851 78 2,851Fr Germ 55,568 31,788Spain 2,016,900 880,920Italy 802,826 347,101 12,230,211 5,720,949Malaysa 605 7,608China 1,304,996 1,072,960 10,300,821 8,757,844Hg Kong 74,740 58,000Taiwan 23,148 34,273Japan 616 6,142TOTAL 2,121,151 1,441,872 25,082,871 15,679,339

9603100500 Wiskbrooms, of Broom Corn, LT=.96 EA. Prior to Entryor Withdrawal for Consumption of 61,655 Dozen In Calendar Year

October Year To DateCountry Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueMexico 2,688 2,445 8,316 7,747China 7,200 4,757TOTAL 2,688 2,445 15,516 12,504

9603104000 Other Brooms, of Broomcorn, LT=.96 EA, Prior to Entry orWithdrawal For Consumption of GT=121,478 Dozen in Calendar Year

October Year To DateMexico 54,456 40,808China 2,520 2,456TOTAL 56,976 43,264

9603105000 Other Brooms, of Broomcorn, LT=.96 EA, at Entry orWithdrawal For Consumption of GT=121,478 Dozen in Calendar Year

October Year To DateCountry Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueMexico 7,872 5,817 115,368 87,954China 7,200 5,020TOTAL 7,872 5,817 122,568 92,974

9603106000 Other Brooms, Of Broomcorn, Valued Over .96 EachOctober Year To Date

Country Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueMexico 708,606 1,664,124 6,821,938 16,882,509Hondura 20,100 36,389 386,700 781,580Fr Germ 3,200 7,910China 42,390 77,739TOTAL 728,706 1,700,513 7,254,228 17,749,738

9603109000 Brooms & Brushes, Consisting of Twigsor Other Vegetable Materials Bound Together,

With or Without Handles, NESOIOctober Year To Date

Country Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueCanada 388 2,321 5,407 37,248Mexico 10,122 37,087 85,174 174,942Salvadr 22,080 20,139Haiti 600 3,568Colomb 25,208 31,718Nethlds 36 3,883 36 3,883Fr Germ 8 7,013Estonia 2,400 17,042Italy 3,849 21,959Turkey 1,100 4,640Israel 174 5,130India 584 20,784Sri Lka 51,394 109,208 691,061 1,273,577Thailnd 10,460 23,431 92,884 178,765Vietnam 21,200 20,790 139,510 133,469Phil R 7,000 10,293China 42,960 49,988 182,480 368,706Taiwan 1,200 2,401TOTAL 136,560 246,708 1,260,755 2,315,277

9603210000 Toothbrushes, Incl. Dental-Plate BrushesOctober Year To Date

Country Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueCanada 1,453 3,238 73,836 124,381Mexico 904,756 127,191 9,958,801 1,746,479Chile 38,016 9,216Brazil 749,952 198,802 11,769,452 3,337,973Sweden 11,368 8,028 129,768 157,322Denmark 2,220 2,478U King 113,293 66,027Ireland 156,312 98,422 6,554,616 2,484,546Nethlds 152,154 13,982 576,729 59,249France 447 4,287Fr Germ 3,058,281 2,048,895 32,847,567 19,611,474Hungary 3,696 7,930Lichten 630 3,466Switzld 5,625,336 1,190,153 71,091,402 24,302,810Italy 319,620 135,111 1,511,108 734,732Turkey 670 10,261 5,710 13,872Israel 765,896 164,236India 2,162,194 200,592 22,949,172 3,962,277Thailnd 4,938,464 636,624

BBM.Feb.x 2/8/10 10:00 AM

Vietnam 2,138,556 211,169 9,710,013 1,662,038Malaysa 3,451,672 164,306 11,382,102 673,864Indnsia 109,300 8,196 879,016 62,009China 47,530,733 8,840,588 458,207,462 78,072,049Kor Rep 1,225,780 278,379Hg Kong 135,312 119,273 352,736 223,656Taiwan 484,828 164,861 3,607,849 861,284Japan 107,430 60,312 3,440,355 644,474Austral 383,000 56,709N Caldn 93,456 24,162Kenya 3,264 4,176TOTAL 67,099,927 13,603,380 652,615,856 139,992,179

9603294010 Hairbrushes, Valued Not Over .40 EachOctober Year To Date

Country Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValuePoland 13,824 4,460Thailnd 23,040 5,831 77,040 23,086Vietnam 86,112 28,445China 3,369,283 1,033,801 39,347,456 10,392,656Kor Rep 149,030 28,307Hg Kong 642,336 114,622Taiwan 10,080 2,866TOTAL 3,392,323 1,039,632 40,325,878 10,594,442

9603294090 Shaving Brushes, Nail Brushes,Eyelash Brushes & Other Toilet Brushes For Use On The Person,

Valued Not Over .40 EachOctober Year To Date

Country Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueMexico 2,526,300 170,948 36,690,697 3,083,084Nethlds 1,420,000 69,877Belgium 90,000 4,155France 564,364 141,117Fr Germ 2,410,000 549,806 38,955,459 7,018,912Italy 3,023,337 676,119India 220,000 5,293 1,058,580 32,574China 6,609,976 494,794 34,302,329 5,007,063Kor Rep 2,612,000 54,098 12,251,156 315,325Hg Kong 469,000 56,993Taiwan 247,240 56,872TOTAL 14,378,276 1,274,939 129,072,162 16,462,091

9603302000 Artists Brushes, Writing Brushes & Similar Brushes ForApplication Of Cosmetics, Valued Not Over .05 Each

October Year To DateCountry Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueCanada 282,500 9,451Mexico 1,791,000 37,774 5,040,200 86,997U King 500,000 12,337 500,000 12,337Fr Germ 1,354,500 34,169 20,108,500 555,274Italy 1,420,000 13,602 22,552,900 256,327India 1,980,000 27,196China 8,529,328 236,150 105,311,714 2,478,152Kor Rep 3,170,000 81,697 27,105,000 717,725Hg Kong 318,288 6,729 2,292,260 68,563Taiwan 1,478,080 33,329TOTAL 17,083,116 422,458 186,651,154 4,245,351

9603304000 Artists Brushes, Writing Brushes & Similar Brushes ForApplication of Cosmetics, Valued Over .05 But not Over .10 Each

October Year To DateCountry Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueMexico 6,251,297 497,409 53,942,747 4,340,680Dom Rep 33,060 2,874Brazil 384,000 26,986U King 104,000 8,626 104,000 8,626Fr Germ 50,000 3,307 1,232,500 88,813India 33,480 2,498 739,308 60,200Indnsia 261,504 27,476

China 9,468,069 799,240 100,092,777 8,171,989Kor Rep 1,508,400 110,123 5,513,320 372,932Hg Kong 62,000 5,842 652,000 54,486Taiwan 50,000 3,203 1,396,776 95,015TOTAL 17,527,246 1,430,248 164,351,992 13,250,077

9603306000 Artists Brushes, Writing Brushes & Similar Brushes ForApplication Of Cosmetics, Valued Over .10 Each

October Year To DateCountry Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueCanada 377 13,243 5,480 208,136Mexico 11,141,339 1,832,591 101,809,329 16,156,542Dom Rep 258,837 279,160 1,682,198 1,712,913Denmark 220 3,020U King 253,813 418,057 1,642,229 2,497,941Nethlds 5,000 12,734Belgium 55,160 76,219France 53,562 179,189 660,903 2,308,258Fr Germ 51,832 140,793 2,814,421 2,035,615Czech 120 2,267Switzld 25 3,924 662 23,871Spain 17,660 81,471 102,274 503,566Italy 51,100 47,197 234,458 211,871Greece 188 3,707Israel 875 2,761 5,242 14,991India 714,559 292,295 4,619,232 2,020,745Sri Lka 186,990 109,319 1,199,098 675,171Thailnd 271,928 110,805 2,455,632 1,644,436Vietnam 70,200 26,700China 20,496,533 13,539,307 138,755,027 95,091,184Kor Rep 286,974 277,964 2,110,484 2,192,078Hg Kong 278,715 96,029 4,229,831 2,250,442Taiwan 51,000 37,913 1,365,875 483,959Japan 165,585 544,606 2,473,478 7,209,209

P.O. Box 10247 • Detroit, MI 48210(313) 834-7910 • Fax: (313) 834-1178

DORDEN& COMPANY, INC.

ISSAMember

Offering Floor Squeegees and Window Squeegees

YOUR SOURCE,NOT YOUR COMPETITOR

Special Co-manufacturer’sPricing Available

STRATEGIC DISTRIBUTION

PROGRAMS


BBM.Feb.x 2/8/10 10:00 AM


Austral 4,348 19,679Microns 2,240 3,114 2,240 3,114Maurit 38,500 92,783TOTAL 34,283,944 18,009,738 266,341,829 137,481,151

9603402000 Paint RollersOctober Year To Date

Country Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueCanada 24,961 26,965 469,570 446,750Mexico 885,604 372,861 9,775,855 5,571,501Brazil 44,652 32,369U King 32,889 31,023Nethlds 70,770 9,613Fr Germ 348,800 59,876 3,364,591 808,918Austria 800 4,009Czech 25,060 9,777Italy 32,360 44,694Singapr 58,551 12,524China 3,010,937 1,124,566 32,252,620 16,600,232Hg Kong 300,952 58,194Taiwan 15,000 15,525Japan 1,750 6,070 41,750 34,546TOTAL 4,272,052 1,590,338 46,485,420 23,679,675

9603404020 Paint Pads (Other Than Of Subheading 9603.30)October Year To Date

Country Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueCanada 7,000 3,110U King 94,715 59,140Nethlds 1,315 6,600Fr Germ 1,000 2,364Italy 44 7,438Thailnd 5,040 4,119Indnsia 433,440 52,819China 631,514 526,462 9,538,559 6,017,858Taiwan 117,308 928,313TOTAL 631,514 526,462 10,198,421 7,081,761

9603404040 Natural Bristle Brushes, Other Than Brushes OfSubheading 9603.30

October Year To DateCountry Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueCanada 14,295 14,642 14,295 14,642Sweden 100 4,542U King 169,741 137,817Nethlds 642 5,085France 1,340 3,475Fr Germ 1,344 5,214 43,752 37,633Italy 10 3,288 75,810 157,109Turkey 101,874 336,228Israel 12,000 9,423Thailnd 371,664 52,720Vietnam 569,244 75,999Indnsia 2,136,934 322,156 33,404,196 4,980,821China 44,557 25,198 842,650 330,742Taiwan 23,328 7,903 621,574 169,175Japan 1,200 9,887 6,600 56,958TOTAL 2,221,668 388,288 36,235,482 6,372,369

9603404060 Paint, Distemper, Varnish/Similr Brushes Exc Brushesof Subheading 9603.30 NESOI

October Year To DateCountry Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueCanada 2,180 11,067 149,440 191,621Mexico 212 6,069Guatmal 43,317 52,132Brazil 61,948 33,372Sweden 220 14,959 25,331 39,324

U King 720 4,317 103,396 82,306Nethlds 3,918 17,540Fr Germ 11,700 28,476 68,596 216,096Czech 24,000 15,098Switzld 517 2,358Italy 26,112 27,452 51,053 77,207Turkey 10,332 30,236India 30,000 3,381Vietnam 792 3,685 902,852 244,428Singapr 20,250 8,805Indnsia 4,442,791 786,555 35,304,435 5,999,579China 8,379,717 2,897,641 136,083,496 45,723,500Kor Rep 30,000 6,850 216,400 37,030Hg Kong 48,000 7,340 48,000 7,340Taiwan 148,844 60,001 1,965,674 513,908Japan 73,775 25,958 341,651 133,925TOTAL 13,164,851 3,874,301 175,454,818 53,435,255

9603908010 WiskbroomsOctober Year To Date

Country Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueCanada 20,160 10,482Mexico 5,911 10,254Brazil 2,429 30,033China 87,358 45,302 496,761 420,003Taiwan 1,938 6,446Rep Saf 2,784 9,233TOTAL 87,358 45,302 529,983 486,451

9603908020 Upright BroomsOctober Year To Date

Country Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueCanada 496 12,171Mexico 36,109 47,126 453,790 478,797Guatmal 75,872 109,762Salvadr 41,054 39,858Colomb 14,100 11,811 64,020 51,978Brazil 13,116 20,933 260,687 377,620Fr Germ 670 6,848Spain 22,431 85,218Italy 42,348 74,222 258,722 385,215Vietnam 1,600 39,336Phil R 2,750 2,841China 493,404 599,924 5,592,471 6,075,401Hg Kong 11,520 15,366Taiwan 52,452 53,208Japan 100 15,000Egypt 4,488 2,959 35,340 24,094TOTAL 603,565 756,975 6,873,975 7,772,713

9603908030 Push Brooms, 41 CM or Less in WidthOctober Year To Date

Country Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueArgent 7,756 9,636 12,106 22,279Sri Lka 3,636 16,215China 18,504 39,501 72,090 168,896Taiwan 300 2,545 600 5,090TOTAL 26,560 51,682 88,432 212,480

9603908040 Other Brooms, NESOIOctober Year To Date

Country Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueCanada 265,159 531,151 1,490,881 2,256,641Mexico 509,601 533,329 4,158,105 6,976,042Guatmal 20,640 20,358 143,655 142,780Salvadr 66,083 120,562Panama 12,120 21,842 12,120 21,842Dom Rep 1,577 27,278Colomb 33,793 37,270 311,540 374,703Venez 725,793 86,988

BBM.Feb.x 2/8/10 10:00 AM


Brazil 16,742 35,964 218,993 586,238U King 1,476 10,981Czech 62,272 48,565 263,306 224,157Hungary 27,900 8,777Spain 136,778 167,003Italy 30,039 63,388 646,836 1,006,135Israel 3,986 3,257India 13,094 13,821Sri Lka 58,811 139,587 444,192 1,027,065Thailnd 16,500 22,560Vietnam 23,980 22,157 47,790 43,057Indnsia 38,150 38,974China 352,604 474,041 5,684,592 6,582,984Kor Rep 182 2,789Taiwan 15,915 93,751Egypt 3,600 2,904Rep Saf 4,170 15,370TOTAL 1,385,761 1,927,652 14,477,214 19,856,659

9603908050 Brooms, Brushes, Sqeegees, Etc., NESOIOctober Year To Date

Country Net Q/No. Value Net Q/No. ValueCanada 3,018,574 20,548,953Mexico 3,030,151 33,442,214Salvadr 116,796Hondura 1,253,581 14,147,714Panama 9,716Dom Rep 34,546 319,849Colomb 138,801 1,166,580Brazil 137,383 672,752Argent 143,088Sweden 23,492 158,730Finland 10,595Denmark 142,726 1,058,662U King 125,379 852,908Ireland 3,612Nethlds 227,147 1,995,849Belgium 150,718 1,601,240France 6,806 126,886Fr Germ 193,887 2,003,322Austria 2,550 243,588Czech 4,373 241,919Switzld 14,420 245,726Lithuan 30,545Poland 2,534 47,469Russia 4,643Spain 28,526 493,011Portugl 2,290Italy 438,916 5,916,513Serbia 29,056Romania 8,611Turkey 4,200 47,169Syria 3,299Israel 14,379 439,817India 74,267 988,300Pakistn 229,910 3,697,619Sri Lka 220,453 3,466,401Thailnd 535,825 6,536,722Vietnam 47,416 470,175Malaysa 60,557 348,285Singapr 33,662Indnsia 61,179 494,062China 22,307,166 250,167,166Kor Rep 136,440 2,368,283Hg Kong 522,075 4,356,512Taiwan 788,895 9,821,519Japan 73,933 462,677Austral 202,708 1,531,954W Samoa 83,464Egypt 29,282 187,236TOTAL 34,283,195 371,147,159

2009 Crop Shows Validity For Machine Harvestable

Dwarf Broom Corn For the second year in a row, longtime broom corn professional

Dr. Sam Moyer, of Mount Laurel, NJ, has reported that a long-time objective of producing machine harvestable dwarf varieties ofbroom corn has been achieved. He acknowledged that results fromcrops grown in 2009 have been favorable.

“There are slight genetic differences in some individual varieties,gene pools and hybrids.All have no center stems and do have handles(peduncles) at least 10-inches long, but might vary in how much thetop leaf covers the knuckle,” Dr. Moyer said. “The brush isbright/dark green early, then many colors develop when fully mature.I might have also established an aqua/blue variety. Dr. (Henry)Hadley has sent seeds of a dark green variety that I will maintain.”

Dr. Hadley is well known for his many years of broom cornresearch at the University of Illinois. He has collaborated with Dr.Moyer over the years regarding the development of machine har-vestable dwarf broom corn varieties. One of the goals of this proj-ect has been to develop broom corn that will not require suchlabor-intensive harvesting, a problem with standard broom corn.

Dr. Moyer said weather is now the main performance factor.Planters in Michigan, Wisconsin, North Dakota and Wyomingreported short brush due to cool weather. Planters in Virginia,Oklahoma and Texas had good performance. One in New Yorktried no herbicide and had a weed problem with too much rain.

“Thanks to excessive rain and enough hot days, my 1 1/2 acresyielded 498 pounds (including 10-inch peduncles) of which 272pounds were 18-inches or longer,” Dr. Moyer said. “This couldhave been more if I hadn’t experimented with some low yieldingvarieties. For those who request seed, I will send four kinds inorder to learn which performs better in different environments.”

He noted that limited free seed samples are available.Dr. Moyer also reported experiencing good performance while

planting “no-till” and spraying Roundup® and Bicep® (herbicide)mix two weeks before planting. In an experiment at a small area,seeds not treated with Concep® (herbicide safener) sprouted near-ly as good as treated ones. In another experimental area, Bicep®

was not reapplied after six weeks with no weed problem.“Both experiments might have been (influenced) by constant and

excessive rain. Therefore (the experiments) need replicating,” hesaid. “I also learned the hard way that (certain) seeds are too large forthe radish plate (when planting). The okra plate is needed with mostholes taped shut. I will check seed sizes after cleaning (debeardingand winnowing) and tell about my results when sending seeds.”

He added that broadcasting seeds might not be good due to inad-equate spacing control. Rows might be needed for weed controland using a reaper.

“The big news is a local fabricator completed a reaper attach-ment to a sickle bar mower, but not in time for harvest. It neededsome minor alterations. Details are available,” Dr. Moyer said.

For more information, contact Dr. Moyer at: The Jersey Jerry Broomsquire, 911 Larkspur Place, S.,

Mount Laurel, NJ 08054-4960. Phone: 856-222-0713

E-mail: [email protected] site: www.broomcrafters.com.

BBM.Feb.x 2/8/10 10:00 AM


Zephyr Manufacturing Co.,located in Sedalia, MO, hasannounced the promotion ofR.J. Lindstrom to president.Previous president, JohnLindstrom, retains his posi-tions of chief financial officerand chairman of the board.

Zephyr Manufacturing wasfounded in 1927 and R.J.Lindstrom represents the

fourth generation of family leadership. R.J. Lindstrom graduatedwith honors from Truman State University with a degree in

Business Management and Psychology. He was a manager withEnterprise Rent-a-Car before joining Zephyr.

Since 2008, R.J. Lindstrom has been directly involved in allaspects of manufacturing, operations and sales in preparation forthe duties of president. He will be working closely with Zephyr’sexperienced management team which has over 170 years of indus-try experience.

Zephyr is a broad line manufacturer of janitorial, institutional,industrial, and food service cleaning tools such as mops, brooms,brushes, handles and associated products.

Contact: Zephyr Manufacturing Co., 200 Mitchell Rd., Sedalia, MO 65301. Phone: 800-821-7197.

Web Site: www.zephyrmfg.com.

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The PFERD SG-FLEX can be seen on the PFERD Web sitewww.pferdusa.com by clicking on “Videos.”

PFERD Introduces SG-FLEX Premium Grinding Wheel

BBM.Feb.x 2/8/10 10:00 AM

By Harrell KerkhoffBroom, Brush & Mop Editor

According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, a total of 53short tons of broom corn was imported into the United States dur-ing November 2009. Total value of this import was $163,910, witha cost per ton of $3,093 ($1.55 per pound). All of the month’sbroom corn arrived from Mexico.

November’s broom corn import mark was a bit higher comparedto one year prior, when the government reported 29 short tonsentered the United States during November 2008.

It should be noted that Broom, Brush & Mop has been in theprocess of working with officials from the U.S. Department ofCommerce about the possibility that not all imported broom cornentering the United States as of late is being correctly classifiedand/or counted. However, the publication did receive a letter on Dec.15, 2009, from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s CommodityAnalysis Branch — Foreign Trade Division. The letter states, “Wehave spoken with the importers and brokers involved and have deter-mined that no revisions to the reported statistics are necessary.”

Therefore, according to current government figures, 308 shorttons of broom corn were imported into the United States after thefirst 11 months of 2009. Total value of this import was $841,942,with a cost per ton of $2,734 ($1.37 per pound). In comparison,after the first 11 months of 2008, there were 961 short tons ofbroom corn imported. Total value of this import was $2,501,452,with a cost per ton of $2,603 ($1.30 per pound).

The 2009 import breakdown in short tons by country after 11months is as follows: Mexico, 271 tons; India, 11 tons; SierraLeone, 10 tons; Chile, 9 tons; and the Dominican Republic, 7 tons.

Bart Pelton of PelRay International, LLC, in San Antonio,TX, said that November’s Mexican broom corn import number of53 short tons and the $1.55 per pound figure look to be more accu-

rate compared to past monthly reports. “I still think there is some raw broom corn in the mix, bringing

the price down, but ($1.55 per pound) is more reasonable. The ton-nage figure also matches more closely to what is actually beingimported and used. This is the first time in awhile,” Pelton noted.

There is alsogoodnews to report regarding the late2009broomcornharvest fromtheTorreonregionofMexico.Peltonsaid thisharvestnet-ted a larger quantity of broom corn than expected, by 50 to 100 percent.

“They didn’t get a hard freeze (in the Torreon region) until fair-ly late in the season. Weather was more favorable, and thus thereis now more broom corn available in Cadereyta (for processing)compared to any time in the past 12 months,” Pelton explained.

He added that the larger than expected second crop fromTorreon was a nice surprise.

“Even if prices don’t move down much, at least we know broomcorn will be available. This wasn’t the case last spring. Sometimesthere just wasn’t broom corn available to buy,” Pelton said.“People were also having to substitute sizes.”

When interviewed on January 15, he added that Mexican broomcorn prices have not decreased. However, conditions are morefavorable for a decline to take place in the coming months. This isdue to the extra inventory and the continued slowness of thebroom business in Mexico.

“If there is plenty of inventory still available as we start to getcloser to the next Torreon crop (this coming summer), I feel priceswill come down,” he said.

One obstacle to a possible price decline taking place is therecent strength of the Mexican peso against the U.S. dollar.

“It’s still running stronger compared to most of last year. If thepeso were to weaken some, I think we would start to see broomcorn prices decline,” Pelton said. “It’s also important to rememberthat there are fewer (Mexican) broom corn processors, and they areholding the bulk of the inventory. It’s not as competitive of a mar-ket as it used to be.”

Although the nextlarge Mexican broomcorn harvest will nottake place until thissummer, there isalways some broomcorn grown in theApatzingan region ofMexico. Pelton saidit’s typically a smallcrop, with harvestingusually taking placeduring the middle tolate February.

“In the past fewyears, a typical yieldfrom Apatzingan wasabout 150 to 200 tons.


U.S. Imports 53 Short Tons Of Broom Corn In November

Broom Corn Imports2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 Total CostTons Tons Tons Tons Tons Tons Value Per Ton

January 174 125 61 116 89 14 $47,077 $3,363 ($1.68)

February 113 44 215 90 91 21 $63,921 $3,044 ($1.52)

March 168 77 65 83 41 50 $108,699 $2,174 ($1.09)

April 122 120 56 48 150 11 $27,195 $2,472 ($1.24)

May 167 36 135 172 98 24 $62,849 $2,619 ($1.31)

June 147 65 81 63 65 20 $57,489 $2,874 ($1.44)

July 162 124 160 80 66 23 $67,889 $2,952 ($1.48)

August 183 177 216 80 76 42 $93,296 $2,221 ($1.11)

September 215 124 152 131 133 22 $67,313 $3,060 ($1.53)

October 202 133 184 92 123 28 $82,304 $2,939 ($1.47)

November 194 200 96 160 29 53 $163,910 $3,093 ($1.55)

December 127 164 76 101 17

1,974 1,389 1,497 1,216 978 308 $841,942 $2,734 ($1.37)

BBM.Feb.x 2/8/10 10:00 AM

This crop has been important in recent years as broom corn inven-tories were low,” he said. “This year, however, there should bemore broom corn already available when Apatzingan is harvested.Therefore, this crop won’t need to ‘save the day’ as much.However, it may add more pressure on prices.”

Meanwhile, “stability” remains a key word when discussingyucca fiber, a market that has not seen a lot of change during thepast several months.

“We have entered the time of year when holidays and winterweather can cut into yucca fiber production, but nothing seems tohave much of an impact on prices or supply right now,” Pelton said.

Regarding overall business, he added that conditions in thebroom and other industries seem to be more positive compared tothis time last year, but not as good as two years ago.

Richard Caddy of R.E. Caddy & Co., Inc., in Greensboro,NC, agreed with Pelton that November’s Mexican broom cornimport statistics looked to be better aligned with true activity com-pared to statistics released in the recent past.

“The price is more accurate, but ($1.55 per pound) still seems abit too low,” Caddy said.

He added that as of late, there does seem to be fewer troubles withbroom corn inspections taking place at the U.S.-Mexican border.

“We recently brought in some broom corn where there was nodamage done (to the contents). It’s been a long time since I broughtin a load without at least one broken bale,” Caddy reported.

Caddy was pleased about the possibility of more broom cornbecoming available than expected from the second Torreon crop.

“I have also not had problems with getting certain sizes like whattook place last October through December,” he explained. “The extrabroom corn from the second crop should help us get some of shorterlengths. Meanwhile, the current quality still looks consistent and fair-ly good. No. 1 and No. 2 (broom corn) appears to have been gradedcorrectly. I have not looked at any raw broom corn as of late, but theprocessed broom corn we are seeing is of pretty good quality.”

Caddy does expect the Apatzingan harvest to help the overallMexican broom corn picture.

“Sometimes, there is enough longer material where they canactually export (some of the Apatzingan crop) to the United States.Most of the time it’s only suitable for the Mexican market.”

Caddy has no complaints with the recent status of yucca fiber.He said quality remains good, while pricing did edge up for a timebut has since been steady.

When interviewed in mid-January, Caddy reported as well thatoverall business has been “decent” for the first half of the month.

“People are still not spending much on discretionary items, andto some extent, cleaning supplies are discretionary. It’s importantto remember that the (U.S.) economy is still in pretty tough shapeand the unemployment rate remains high,” Caddy said.

Tim Monahan of The Thomas Monahan Co., in Arcola, IL,said that although recent broom corn import statistics seem to be off,the U.S. broom corn broom industry still appears to remain down.

“The (import) numbers, while they are suspicious and a little biton the low side, are not off by 100 or so tons. It’s more like 20 tonsat times,” he said. “(The monthly statistics) may be missing a loadthat has not been reported or it could be a timing issue.”

Monahan added that even though he has heard that the secondbroom corn harvest from Torreon is somewhat larger than expect-

ed, this increase has not been reflected in the price. “If it’sbigger, (Mexicanbroomcornprocessors)mayeitherbekeep-

ingpricingupbysittingonabiggerinventory,orthe(firstTorreon)cropwas short enough to keep prices at the same level,” he said.

Monahan doesn’t expect the upcoming Apatzingan harvest tomake much of a dent regarding future broom corn pricing.

“They always raise a little bit of broom corn (in Apatzingan), butas far as I know there is no big contracting being done,” he said.

Meanwhile, what little movement that has taken place withyucca fiber as of late is mostly due to activity among Mexicanbroom makers, according to Monahan. He noted that pricingremains unchanged as of the middle of January.


INDEX OF ADVERTISERSABMA ......................................................................48Amerwood ................................................................16Borghi s.pa. ...............................................................11Borghi USA ................................................................9Boucherie USA...........................................................2Caddy & Co., Inc., R.E.............................................38Carlson Tool ............................................................42Chung Thai Brushes Co............................................26Creative Poly, Inc. ....................................................25Crystal Lake..............................................................37Culicover & Shapiro, Inc..........................................42Deco Products Co. ....................................................27Distribuidora Perfect, S.A.........................................28Dorden. .....................................................................45DuPont ......................................................................15Gordon Brush Mfg. Co. Inc......................................29Hahl Filaments............................................................7Jewel Wire Co...........................................................20Jones Companies ......................................................17Keystone Plastics ......................................................12Lemieux Spinning Mill Inc.........................................3Line Manufacturing, Inc. ..........................................39Manufacturers Resource ...........................................13Michigan Brush ........................................................41Mill-Rose Company..................................................35Monahan Co., The Thomas ......................Front CoverMount Joy Wire .........................................Back CoverPaul Marsh Co. .........................................................33PelRay International .................................................51PMM.........................................................................21Rol-Brush Mfg..........................................................41Royal Paint Roller ....................................................36St. Nick Brush Co.....................................................43Stainless Steel Products ............................................31Vonco Products, Inc. .................................................23Young & Swartz........................................................43Zahoransky .................................................................5Zelazoski Wood Products .........................................14

BBM.Feb.x 2/8/10 10:00 AM

BBM.Feb.x 2/8/10 10:00 AM

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