Rationalization Charges

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2017

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:



	2017		2016
	(Dollars in thousands)
Metal containers	$	722	$	—
Closures	53		125
Plastic containers	110		946
	$	885	$	1,071

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, 2016	$	945		$	2,426		$	—		$	3,371
Charged to expense	154			80			651			885
Utilized and currency translation	(630		)	(308		)	(651		)	(1,589		)
Balance at March 31, 2017	$	469		$	2,198		$	—		$	2,667

Rationalization reserves as of March 31, 2017 were recorded in our Consolidated Balance Sheets as accrued liabilities and other liabilities of $1.2 million and $1.5 million, respectively. Remaining expenses for our rationalization plans of $2.3 million are expected primarily within the next twelve months. Remaining cash expenditures for our rationalization plans of $5.0 million are expected through 2023.