For an old firm, new mettle: Starting their own business was too costly. So 2 metallurgists bought one to modernize

Article Abstract:

Metlab Co., a Montgomery Country, PA-based concern, was taken over in September 1998 but two metallurgists who found it too expensive to start a business from scratch. Metlab heats metals in furnaces to strengthen them or recycle them with thermal processes. James Bonybear and Mark Podob still are upgrading equipment around the plant, but long range plans include expanding Metlab's capabilities beyond heating large pieces and quantities. The company is only using 50% of capacity currently. The owners have added contract-management and consulting work to Metlab's services, but they also seek to gain more contracts like the one Metlab has with the Navy.Conybear and Podob seek to boost sales 15%/year and in the next three years would like to grow Metlab to 31 workers. Company profile.

Comment:

Metlab, a heat treating co, undergoing upgrades with new owners, who also seek to expand business, boost sales; co profile

United States, Heat Treating, Metal Heat Treating, Heat treating (Metalworking), Metlab Co.

A tiny company seeks a new way to prod protein into creating drugs

Article Abstract:

Message Pharmaceuticals Inc., based in Charlestown, PA, is a new biotechnology firm testing a way to harness messenger ribonucleic acid (RNA). Through $6.3 million in venture capital, the company is attempting to regulate RNA, which alters production of proteins that control the body's reaction to certain medications. Message intends to create alliances with other companies to develop drugs to treat numerous diseases. Message co-founder, president and CEO Robert Taber said the technology will enable protein production to be activated and shut down to prevent interaction or effects on production of proteins possessing therapeutic values.

Comment:

Is a new biotechnology firm testing a way to harness messenger ribonucleic acid, funded through $6.3 million venture capital

Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences, Genetic Engineering, Pennsylvania, Article, Message Pharmaceuticals Inc.

Dolls with lessons to teach little girls

Article Abstract:

The one-year-old doll-design firm Family Co (Moorestown, NJ) is already projecting $2 million in 1998 sales. Company president Patti Lewis founded Family Co. in March 1997 to make toys that encourage such values as fidelity, compassion, and responsibility. In November 1998, the firm is shipping a new line of 8 dolls to such retailers as FAO Schwartz, Rochelle's Doll Land, and Zany Brainy. The "It's Me! Imagine All My Possibilities" dolls come with a 24-page book about values, and are priced between $40 and $45 at retail. Family Co. will also launch a limited-edition doll called "Kate!" in spring 1999.

Comment:

Family Co (Moorestown, NJ) projects $2 mil in 1998 sales of its values-teaching dolls after only 1 yr in business

New Jersey, Doll and Stuffed Toy Manufacturing, Dolls & Stuffed Animals, Abstract, Toy industry, Family Co.