As businesses throughout the world adjust to evolving policies regarding operations and work schedules in response to the Corona virus pandemic, the USA’s Glass Packaging Institute is asking local, state and federal policymakers to continue classifying glass food and beverage manufacturing production as an ‘essential’ industry in their Covid-19-related rules and operational restrictions, or to make clear that such operations continue as ‘essential’.

A recent Nielsen report found consumer purchases of a variety of core grocery store pantry items increased by up to 80% through the end of February 2020. The GPI emphasises that lass bottle and jar production is essential to meet this continued and growing consumer demand, as grocery and similar outlets remain open, viable purchasing outlets for consumers. The USA’s glass container industry produces over 25 billion food and beverage containers in support of its customer base.

“Our country’s glass container manufacturing companies and their supply chain partners, along with their dedicated and valued employees, remain committed to meeting their customers’ demand for glass bottles and jars” commented Scott DeFife, GPI President. “We are asking officials and policymakers from all levels of government to ensure that glass container manufacturing, our connected supply chains in the food and beverage supply industry be classified as essential and operate as scheduled to meet demand.”

Mr DeFife added that glass manufacturing operations are essential, employee safety is a priority and the proper steps necessary to adjust operations to address the Covid-19 guidance is being taken. “Our member companies will continue to take appropriate action for their employees’ safety, closely following guidance issued by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).”

www.gpi.org