Economic recovery comes into focus for ARPM Eagle Elastomer Inc. is based in Peninsula, Ohio. INDIANAPOLIS—As the non-tire industry turns the page on a chaotic 2020, the challenges posed by 2021 remain similar and numerous—but not insurmountable, given the economic tail winds generated in the fourth quarter of last year. The uncertainty brought by the coronavirus pandemic remains top of mind for processors, as does the hiring and retainment of employees. The availability and cost of raw materials also remains a top concern for non-tire elastomer businesses, according to the Association for Rubber Products Manufacturers, based in Indianapolis. Shaul "One of our biggest concerns through all of this has been the struggles some companies are having keeping people employed as well as keeping people safe," said Michael Shaul, president of Granger, Ind.-based QPoly L.L.C., a producer of fluoroelastomers. "It's been such a huge transition, and most people have done a great job making changes and taking the proper steps, but we continue to pray that the people make it through all this without too much suffering."