Chamber names Manufacturer of the Year finalists

Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce will name the honoree at an annual awards luncheon at noon Dec. 12 at University Plaza Hotel.

This year’s finalists are:

• Aaron’s Automotive Products Inc., a remanufacturer of automotive drivetrain products, led locally by General Manager Bill Berry and employing 280;

• Jarden Plastic Solutions – also a finalist last year – a supplier of plastic and manufacturing solutions for home use, led locally by Plant Manager Herb Dankert and employing 73; and

• Springfield Workshop Inc., a not-for-profit workshop for people with disabilities, led locally by General Manager Ray McMenamy and employing 258.

Nominees were evaluated on business stability and growth; employee development; product development and sustainability; environmental, health and safety performance; and community involvement.

Ozarks Coca-Cola/Dr Pepper Bottling Co. was the 2006 Manufacturer of the Year.

Tickets to the luncheon are $25 and can be purchased at www.springfieldchamber.com.

This story originally appeared in SBJ’s Nov. 14 free e-news Daily Update. Click here to register.