Alliance Rubber Co.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, American manufacturing lost almost 6 million jobs between 2000 and 2010.

But Hot Springs- based Alliance Rubber Co. — the world’s largest manufacturer of organizational rubber bands, wraps, and straps — continues to provide competitive job opportunities to individuals in the Hot Springs community, and has since 1944.

Many people do not realize that the majority of rubber bands they find at places like Wal- Mart and Office Depot are manufactured right here in Hot Springs. In fact, Alliance produces 14- 15 million pounds of rubber bands each year. The current president, Bonnie Swayze, credits the success of 2,100 SKUs of products sold through dealers in 34 countries to a dedicated staff of associates — some have been with the company more than 30 years. Of its 150 associates, 60 percent have more than five years’ tenure.

Members of the company share a dedication to family values and a personalized approach to business. After almost a century, Alliance is still a family owned business with a rich and distinctive American heritage. What started as a simple, practical and reliable solution for everyday life has been transformed by Alliance team members into a comprehensive assortment of products designed for “Holding Your World Together.” It is that attitude each employee has toward quality and the passion each employee brings to innovation that distinguishes the Alliance brand.

Ninety- four percent of Alliance sales are of Americanmade products. Consumers who select these products enjoy fresher stock, faster service, better fill- rate and consistent top quality. Products made by Alliance also comply with standards for Buy American set- asides in conjunction with U. S. government purchases. For the last three years, Alliance has encouraged Americans to pledge to spend $ 1 a day on American- made goods, to help create one million additional U. S. jobs.

Currently, Alliance has several positions in Hot Springs it is seeking to fill. Alliance works hard to increase employee satisfaction, recognizing outstanding contributions and striving to provide a culture where people have the opportunity to excel. For instance, each month an employee is honored for outstanding performance through the MVP program. As part of the distinction, employees receive a designated parking space, get their name engraved on a commemorative plaque, receive a gift from the Human Resources Department, and qualify for a $ 1,000 bonus, which is presented to one of the 12 MVPs randomly selected at the end of the year.

Alliance offers a competitive benefits package that includes medical, dental, life insurance, 401k, vacation and bonus plans. It is dedicated to continuing education and also offers an education reimbursement program. Additionally, Alliance has a strong history of promotion from within the company. For information on job opportunities, visit http:// www. rubberband. com.

Those who are not currently seeking employment may be interested in another Alliance giveaway. Now through May 31, when consumers make the pledge to “Band Together. Buy American.” on Alliance’s Facebook page by spending $ 1 a day on American- made goods, they are automatically registered for a chance to win a prize trip for four to a United States National Park of the winner’s choice.

As Hot Springs residents know, the pure, odorless and tasteless waters flowing from hot springs at Hot Springs National Park have been enjoyed by both bathers and drinkers for centuries. These springs were considered so valuable that in 1832, Congress designated them a reservation, technically making it the first national park in the United States.

Whether or not the winner chooses Hot Springs National Park for his or her trip, this “Band Together. Buy American.” contest demonstrates how Alliance is doing its part to promote U. S. jobs within its community and encouraging similar efforts nationwide.