Thermoformers Committee Meeting

Golf Tournament

Around Town: Tour Orlando's Amenities for NPE2012 (Bus Tour)

Reception with Golf Awards

Welcome & Attendee Introductions & Updates

Attendees have an opportunity to share background on their plants (locations, heavy or light gauge), business and personal highlights and challenges, as well as their "Issue of the Day."

SPI Update

Bill Carteaux, SPI President

Are You Leaving Money on the Table?
Myth vs. Reality - The R&D Tax Credit

Scott Schmidt, Principal, Black Line Group

The Research and Development (R&D) Tax Credit is tricky, and it's difficult to understand all the rules and regulations. But if implemented correctly, it can prove exceptionally beneficial. Because of its very specialized nature, large numbers of small and mid-size manufacturers are not taking advantage of the R&D Tax Credit. The definition of R&D is much broader than people think. Manufacturers of all kinds, including thermoformers, often believe that they don't have R&D taking place. Even custom thermoformers making products for their customers can have substantial R&D taking place through their "process" development and improvement activities. For companies that have not taken advantage of the R&D Tax Credit in the past, this can potentially mean the reduction of current and future tax liabilities, as well as improved cash flow. This typically equates to savings of many tens of thousands of dollars!

Scott founded Black Line Group, a firm that focuses exclusively on the R&D Tax Credit, in 2003. He has presented information on the R&D Tax Credit for numerous trade associations across the country, and has authored numerous articles on the topic.

Marie Martinko, SPI Director, Industry Affairs - Environment & Health

Alan Gilbert, Gilbert Consulting, LLC

Gilbert is a policy and legislative specialist and attorney with over 5 years experience in Wash. DC. He was previously Sr. VP and Counsel for Federal Affairs at the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) and worked by the Bush Administration as Special Asst. to the President for Domestic Policy (Health), to help lead the White House and Administration's health care agenda.

This portion of the program provides attendees with a rare opportunity to brainstorm and discuss topics of concern with their peers in the industry.