Hello,
We continue to monitor developments concerning COVID-19 (Coronavirus) closely. First and most importantly, we continue to monitor the situation as it begins to spread into the United States and is taking the appropriate actions to continue providing our employees with a safe and healthy working environment. We are actively working with our employees on methods to minimize their exposure and their family member’s exposure to infectious illnesses.
We are asking that all suppliers and clients do not visit our plant until further notice. We are working on rules for when our employees should not report to work. We are actively working with our United States supply base to ensure materials are available with minimal disruption. These actions are evolving and are evaluated daily. We will send updates as circumstances occur and we develop actions that impact our suppliers and clients.
The virus, which was declared an outbreak by the World Health Organization (WHO) last month, originated in Hubei Province, China, but has quickly infected individuals around the globe. Similar to the flu, COVID-19 is spread via droplets of fluid expelled by infected individuals who cough or sneeze. People then catch COVID-19 by touching contaminated surfaces or potentially by being within one meter of a person infected with the virus. The FDA noted in a statement that it was “not aware of any reports at this time of human illnesses that suggest COVID-19 can be transmitted by food or food packaging”.
As you are aware, the entire global supply chain has been impacted due to the COVID-19 outbreak, which has led to large-scale disruption in marine container shipping services. The cross-border nature of the Asian supply chain is resulting in disruptions beyond China as shipping lines call at ports in other countries in the region.
While we are sure there will be challenges, our products, and our raw materials are manufactured in the USA, keeping our logistic capabilities well positioned to work through these challenges. Our company, our employees, and our domestic suppliers all understand the severity of this issue. These are interesting times; times, I am sure we will navigate.
We realize this situation remains very dynamic, as information continues to change day-to-day, and we will continue to provide updates as we learn more and confirm logistics and delivery dates.
We remain committed to providing the superior service and support that our customers have come to expect of our company throughout this situation.
Have questions, do not hesitate – reach out anytime!
Thank you,
Shane Lauterbach
President
Lauterbach Group, Inc.