Rationalization Charges

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2014

Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]

Note 2. Rationalization Charges

We continually evaluate cost reduction opportunities across each of our businesses, including rationalizations of our existing facilities through plant closings and downsizings. We use a disciplined approach to identify opportunities that generate attractive cash returns. Rationalization charges by business segment for the three months ended March 31 were as follows:



	2014		2013
	(Dollars in thousands)
Metal containers	$	—	$	1,050
Closures	626		—
Plastic containers	962		301
	$	1,588	$	1,351

Activity in reserves for our rationalization plans for the three months ended March 31 was as follows:



	Employee Severance and Benefits			Plant Exit Costs			Non-Cash Asset Write-Down			Total
	(Dollars in thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2013	$	4,116		$	1,418		$	—		$	5,534
Charged to expense	707			1,064			(183		)	1,588
Utilized and currency translation	(1,370		)	(1,182		)	183			(2,369		)
Balance at March 31, 2014	$	3,453		$	1,300		$	—		$	4,753

Rationalization reserves were included in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as accrued liabilities.

Remaining expenses and cash expenditures for our rationalization plans of $3.9 million and $8.7 million, respectively, are expected primarily in 2014.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for restructuring and related activities. Description of restructuring activities such as exit and disposal activities, include facts and circumstances leading to the plan, the expected plan completion date, the major types of costs associated with the plan activities, total expected costs, the accrual balance at the end of the period, and the periods over which the remaining accrual will be settled.

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