Rationalization Charges

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2016

Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]

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:



	2016		2015
	(Dollars in thousands)
Closures	$	125	$	336
Plastic containers	946		389
	$	1,071	$	725

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, 2015	$	3,026		$	268		$	—		$	3,294
Charged to expense	1,008			25			38			1,071
Utilized and currency translation	(2,393		)	(177		)	(38		)	(2,608		)
Balance at March 31, 2016	$	1,641		$	116		$	—		$	1,757

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

Remaining expenses and cash expenditures for our rationalization plans of $9.5 million and $9.2 million, respectively, are expected primarily within the next twelve months.