A 25-Year Partnership Built on Trust and Innovation

For more than 25 years, the relationship between Pliant and Stryker has exemplified what a true partnership can be. Stepping into account leadership for this collaboration has given me, Jess Getz, a deep appreciation for the history and impact behind it. What began as a traditional supplier–customer relationship has evolved into a long-standing collaboration built on trust, innovation, and continuous improvement.

One of the most impactful aspects of this partnership has been Pliant’s commitment to design-for-manufacturing (DFM) support. Over the years, Pliant’s engineering teams have worked closely with Stryker’s designers to refine concepts, improve manufacturability, and meet the rigorous standards required in medical applications. As I’ve assumed day-to-day account management, I’ve seen how these collaborative discussions—whether early in design or mid-development—drive better outcomes for cost, quality, lead time, and overall performance.

A particularly unique element of this relationship is Pliant’s inclusion on multiple Stryker patents. This recognition underscores how deeply integrated Pliant’s technical contributions have been in the development of key products. These patents represent more than innovation; they reflect decades of shared problem-solving, trust, and collaborative creativity.

As I reflect on this partnership, it’s clear that the Pliant–Stryker relationship serves as a model for long-term strategic collaboration. It goes beyond supply—it’s about shared commitment to advancing medical technology and improving patient outcomes. I’m excited to help carry this partnership forward and build on the strong foundation established over the past 25+ years.