PolyOne buys composites processor

Glasforms manufactures advanced composite products using processes including pultrusion, continuous filament winding, and continuous resin transfer molding (CRTM) for sandwich panels. Applications encompass the electrical and telecom, energy, transportation, healthcare, and security and defense markets. End products include applications for endoscopy wands, wind turbine blade stiffening components, commercial truck floors and railcar doors for light-weighting, composite utility poles to replace wood and metal, earthquake-proof bridge decks, and specialized rods used in the production of oil and gas.

"Our acquisition of Glasforms marks yet another important milestone in PolyOne's transformation, as we further broaden our specialty solutions portfolio to include these new and adjacent technologies and applications," said Stephen D. Newlin, chairman, president and CEO, PolyOne. "As with past acquisitions, we will utilize an "invest-to-grow" strategy and leverage PolyOne's strengths to further enhance the consistent and strong track record of innovation, performance and growth that Glasforms has achieved in its remarkable history."

The company will continue to operate from its Birmingham, AL campus, which includes six buildings and ample capacity for future expansion. The company employs approximately 300 associates, and its founder and president, Peter Pfaff, will continue in his leadership role along with other members of the Glasforms management team.

"When I started Glasforms, it was with a commitment to innovation, quality, growth and unparalleled value to our customers," said Pfaff. "I'm so proud of how our team has delivered and am extremely excited that we will take it to the next level by joining PolyOne. As PolyOne's proven strategy is now Glasforms's roadmap, it will increase our ability to help customers succeed by collaborating to deliver innovative solutions and unprecedented service in our industry."

Glasforms will integrate as part of PolyOne's Specialty platform, under the direction of Craig Nikrant, senior vice president and president, Global Specialty Engineered Materials. "We're thrilled to have Glasforms join our team. I look forward to working closely with Peter and welcoming all Glasforms associates to our growing global team," said Mr. Nikrant. "The shared knowledge and best practices between our Specialty businesses provide numerous opportunities for us to innovate, grow and help our customers succeed. Our entry into advanced composites with Glasforms constitutes a clear and immediate foundation from which PolyOne can build in the future."