Final answer:
To determine the optimal product mix to maximize contribution, the manager needs to calculate the contribution per unit of time for each product, factoring in the minimum requirement for Product B, and compare these to find the optimal mix. More information on total production time is needed for a precise answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The optimal product mix to maximize contribution for a manager deciding on the mix of products to produce involves calculating the contribution per unit of time for each product and balancing production time with the requirement to produce a minimum of 65 units of Product B. As Product A provides a contribution of $1.75 and Product B offers $2.25, we must allocate available time while ensuring the production of at least 65 units of Product B. We would use the contributions of products A and B to determine how many of each to produce, considering the time constraints for molding, painting, and packing.
If we assume the availability of sufficient time and resources to produce at least 65 units of Product B, we would then calculate if additional units of Product B should be produced or if shifting production capacity to Product A would increase the overall contribution. This requires a comparison of the contribution per minute for each activity to find the optimal mix. We would need more information about the total available production time to provide a precise answer.