Ferco Compounding Inc. (Ontario, CA) is one of the two compounders now working with Solegear. "Ferco's core values and long-term commitment to partnerships tie-in well with Solegear's goals for the growth of the bioplastics market," said Ferco president Jennifer Thaw in a release distributed by Solegear. "We're excited to be working with the team over at Solegear. We'll be supporting them with our attention to delivering high quality product and will be looking forward to helping grow the Solegear brand."

The other manufacturing partner is Standridge Color Corp., a supplier of thermoplastic compounds, color concentrates and masterbatches based in Social Circle, GA. Solegear (Vancouver, BC) says it expect to begin manufacturing its materials at both facilities this spring. Processors interested in data sheets on the Solegear materials should contact the company. Last June the supplier announced the commercialization of Polysole, its 100% bio-based and biodegradable plastic, and of the Traverse range of biocomposites. These have a natural content of between 15%-60% and are made using natural fibers - wood, hemp, bamboo and rice husk - and recycled or prime polypropylene, and other traditional thermoplastics.

"We are pleased to announce this milestone and to be able to create partnerships with quality companies that will support Solegear's long term success," said Solegear founder and CEO Toby Reid. "Both manufacturing partners have over 15 years' experience, are high quality operators and continue to be run by their original founders. These new partnerships will help Solegear to deliver significant annual product capacity and to scale out our business with larger volumes."

In an interesting coincidence in the still male-dominated plastics industry, both of the compounders working with Solegear are owned, operated and controlled by women.