In this episode of the Machinery Minutes podcast:

1. Hoffer Plastics and Rocheleau Tool & Die, both third-generation family-owned plastics businesses, are thriving and remain committed to staying independent and honoring their heritage.
2. The historic HPM brand, known for injection molding machines, has been officially retired by Yizumi, the Chinese firm that acquired its assets in 2011.
3. Blow molding machinery maker Bekum America Corp. has nine new apprentices in its four-year training program — the largest class since the program began in 1994.

What you'll learn in this PMM Insight podcast, with Editor Ron Shinn and Senior Staff Reporter Karen Hanna:  

• Merger and acquisition activity in the plastics industry is slow, but private equity companies are still buying.

• The first step in selling a business might not be the one you expect.

• A buyer's commitment to employees frequently plays a big part in a seller’s decision.

What you'll learn on this episode of the Machinery Minutes podcast:

• Managing mergers and acquisitions: Whether you're buying, selling or keeping your business in the family, we spoke with experts who have tips to ensure the best outcome for all stakeholders.

• Yaskawa America announces expansion: With a $180 million investment, the company will consolidate Illinois and Wisconsin operations in Franklin, Wis., and move its Drives & Motion division headquarters there.

• Kistler system for injection molding: AkvisIO IME 7.0 manages and analyzes data to help processors become more efficient and improve part quality.