Bear Iron Works – Weekly Operations Summary August 4, 2025

1. Safety

  • No safety issues reported this week.
  • Safety rewards for July are in progress and will be announced next week.

2. Product Quality & Engineering Updates

  • A design issue was identified on the Papa Grizzly Rock Screen model: the current hook design lacks adequate gap, allowing rocks to wedge and jam the screen.
    • Redesign is being planned, focusing on the 3” screen models.
    • Internal team will collaborate on future builds to address this improvement.
  • Field performance feedback: A Papa Grizzly unit is withstanding oversized material use in Moab and performing well under heavy-duty conditions.

3. Production, Equipment & Inventory

  • Photo & Video Documentation:
    • Product visuals are being expanded. All media will be stored in organized, product-specific folders for internal and marketing use.
    • The 2-yard bedding box is gaining popularity for its compact design and utility in tight workspaces.
  • C&T Plasma Table:
    • Shipping has been paid; awaiting shipment confirmation.
    • Some attachment plate CAD drawings are incomplete and will be redrawn to match current fabrication needs.
  • Fulcrum ERP Workaround:
    • A temporary manual entry method is in use while a new value feature is under development.
  • Bird Deterrent Strategies:
    • The team is evaluating high-quality netting and other solutions to manage ongoing bird issues under facility awnings without causing harm.

4. Team & Sales Updates

  • Sales Performance:
    • July sales surpassed break-even point
  • Lead Generation & Attribution:
    • Outreach via CDOT mailing lists generated strong leads, including interest from regional infrastructure projects.
    • Direct product deliveries and printed brochures are helping to strengthen sales relationships.
  • Quoting Best Practices:
    • All quotes must include accurate shipping charges, especially for custom items that override presets.
    • Ongoing training is underway to ensure accurate quoting.
  • SKU Structure & File Management:
    • SKUs follow a standardized format:
      [Product Line][Model Number]-[Top/Bottom Dimensions][Color][Modifier]
    • Shared folders are organized by product family prefix (e.g., B1 for 1 CY Bedding Box).
    • All new products are to be added to the R&D folder and assigned a SKU before moving to active production.

5. Project Updates

  • Roll-Off Concrete Washout Tub:
    • Drawings are underway; final design pending due to drafter availability.
  • Engineered Trench Box:
    • Design is moving forward; engineering not required unless exceeding 20 feet in depth.
    • Team is evaluating the long-term potential of trench box rentals as an additional revenue stream.

6. Miscellaneous Notes

  • A Mama Grizzly Rock Screen with a 1” screen was allocated for marketing purposes. Billing and shipping logistics are being finalized.
  • Team members may support an upcoming mine site project; materials for trench box installation are prepped.
  • Bird deterrent strategies discussed include motion-sensor owls, reflective devices, and improved lighting to discourage nesting.
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