Ada Jobs Foundation Economic Report

Economic Report - September 2011

Solo Cup Company Celebrates 75 Years!

The company that brings you the iconic red party cup is celebrating 75 years of innovative product developments and foodservice solutions this year.

Widely recognized as an

industry leader in single-use foodservice products, Solo Cup Company has brought creative solutions to

market, from its humble beginnings to its current status as a $1.6 billion international company,

headquartered and making products in America.

"Reaching 75 years of success is a major milestone for any company and this is the perfect opportunity to honor the achievements that have built Solo into an industry leader," said Robert M. Korzenski, President

and CEO, Solo Cup Company. "Solo's reputation for providing thoughtful solutions to tough challenges

stems from the creativity and dedication of employees and customers who push for better alternatives in materials, product benefits, and sustainability."

Solo traces its beginnings to Chicago's south side in 1936, when Leo Hulseman created the "Solo Cup", a simple, conical paper drinking cup designed with improved sanitation and convenience in mind. Today,

most Solo products are still made in the United States and have become iconic symbols in American

culture.

Solo Cup has operated a facility in Ada since 1970, and currently employs approximately 500 people. This facility manufactures a variety of cups, plates, and souffle's that you use every day.

For decades, Solo's products and innovations have been found everywhere in daily life - from your backyard BBQ, to the local coffee house, even the Museum of Modern Art's permanent collection. You've likely used a Solo product already just today. So, next time you are in the plates and cup aisle at the grocery store, buy a Solo Cup, it just might have been made in Ada.

Upcoming Events

Who Wants to Be an Entrepreneur? Workshop

September 30, 2011 - 8:30 am - 6 pm Sheraton Hotel-Reed Center, Midwest City Cost: FREE Learn More or Register.

Oklahoma Conference on Manufacturing

October 5, 2011 7:30 am - 3:30 pm Sheraton Hotel-Reed Center, Midwest City Cost:$125 Learn More or Register.

Governor's Conference on Small Business

October 13-14, 2011 Hard Rock Hotel, Tulsa Cost:$99 before Sept 16, $149 after Sept 16 Learn More or Register.

ExporTech

Sept 28, Oct 26, and Nov 30

ExporTech, an export acceleration workshop for companies organized by the Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance, is looking for Oklahoma-based businesses interested in expanding their products to foreign markets by holding three sessions this upcoming fall of 2011. The agenda is designed to help your company enter or expand to global markets by connecting you with international business experts, developing a peer-reviewed growth plan, and utilizing a unique combination of innovative group sessions.

The cost for the program will be $1,200 per company. The program is limited to eight companies to make sure sufficient time and attention is given to each company's specific challenges. For more information, please contact Jesse Garcia, International Trade Specialist, at 405-815-5213 or via email at Jesse_Garcia@okcommerce.gov.

Tri-CountyOK Community Development Corp - Mutual Self-Help Housing Program

Tri-CountyOK Community Development Corp is currently accepting applications for their Mutual Self-Help Housing Program and our Custom Affordable Building Programs including CAB, CAB Repair, and GreenCAB. Income limits are based on the USDA Rural Development Guaranteed Loan Limits (1-4 person families must make less than $74,050 and 5-8 person families must make less than $97,750). Tri-County's housing programs are available in Coal, Garvin, Hughes, Johnston, Murray, Pontotoc, Pottawatomie, and Seminole Counties. Call or stop by for more information. 580-310-9300. 1306 Arlington, Ada.

Tri-County is a not-for-profit Community Development Corporation which was established in 1994.