Hello again. Thank you for spending a few moments with me so that I can share some recent updates.
For the most part, NAL sales remain reasonably strong. Our customers are reacting to strong consumer demand and working to re-establish normal inventory levels. This resurgence has certainly tested the limits of our manufacturing capacities, leading to long hours and occasional weekend work for NAL Team Members. Thank you for your tireless efforts in helping NAL meet the demand and fulfill customer orders. I’d like to remind you that we have a number of job openings at all facilities so we would appreciate your referrals to help us grow our team. Please go to NAL.com to see the available positions for each facility.
Due to overwhelming demand in many market sectors, and lingering supply constraints brought on by COVID, the auto industry is now experiencing supply disruptions, most notably on certain electronic components. These shortages, along with chronic port congestion, have caused our customers to sporadically cancel shifts and sometimes full production days. This is projected to continue into the summer, which means it is likely that NAL will occasionally cancel shifts as a result of our customers decreasing (and unpredictable) production schedules.
As you know, two different COVID vaccinations have been approved for use in the U.S. You may have already or will soon receive a request from NAL to complete a survey gauging your interest in receiving the vaccine. This is to help local health departments understand vaccine demand from NAL employees. Please note that by indicating your interest in the vaccination, you do not become obligated to receive it. However, like the annual flu vaccine, I encourage you to consider receiving the vaccination to help protect yourself, your loved ones and your co-workers. I believe this vaccination gives us the best chance to slow the spread of the virus and hopefully soon return to some sense of normalcy.
Of course, until direction from the government changes, NAL’s COVID safety protocols currently in place, will remain in effect. Like you, I am tired of wearing a mask and not being able to spend time with family and friends. However, until a significant portion of the population is vaccinated, and the spread of the virus slows dramatically, we simply cannot let down our guard.
On another note, I’d like to let you know that W2s have been mailed and you should soon be receiving them so you can do your taxes.
Thanks again for spending your valuable time with me. As always, I look forward to seeing you in person sometime soon.
-Kirk Gadberry