Plants: PPG to invest US$380 mn in aerospace coatings/sealants facility in US; Kraton to close Ohio site, exit dimer and polyamides lines

PPG has announced that it will invest US$380 million to build a new aerospace coatings and sealants manufacturing facility in Shelby, N.C, US. Construction on the 62-acre site, which will initially include manufacturing and warehousing units, is set to commence in October 2025 and is expected to be completed in the first half of 2027.

The 198,000-sq-ft facility will enable the company to continue meeting the growing demands of the aerospace industry. It will employ more than 110 people and produce the full line of PPG’s aerospace coatings and sealants. The additional capacity of this new plant, combined with nearby transport links that improve supply chain and shipping logistics, will help improve service levels for customers.

“PPG’s investment in this new manufacturing facility demonstrates the significant demand growth for our world-class technologies and our continued commitment to serving our aerospace customers,” said Tim Knavish, PPG chairman and chief executive officer. “By modernising and digitising our facilities, PPG will continue to embody our purpose - to protect and beautify the world - while contributing to the growth and innovation of the aerospace sector.”

"We look forward to expanding our aerospace manufacturing footprint with this new facility," said Sam Millikin, PPG vice president, global aerospace.

He added, "This investment not only underscores our commitment to the aerospace industry and providing high-quality products, but also positions us to respond more effectively to growing market needs. The Shelby, N.C. location will play a crucial role in enhancing our operational efficiency and supporting our customers. We appreciate our continued partnership with Governor Stein, local, state and federal representatives and the Shelby community as we increase our production capabilities in this region.”

In other news, specialty polymers firm Kraton Corporation will close its Dover, Ohio, manufacturing site, resulting in the loss of 91 jobs. and transition away from the dimer and polyamides business lines. It added that the closing of the plant is “solely an economic decision”.

"Our strategy is clear: focus where we have the greatest impact and drive the most value," said Minco van Breevoort, President, Kraton Pine Chemicals. "By streamlining operations, we can direct investments toward core pine chemical assets and innovation. Our crude tall oil refinery rates will not be impacted by this decision. We will have greater ability to support our customers with tall oil fatty acid supply."

With operations across multiple continents and a diverse portfolio of solutions, Kraton adds it will continue to leverage the strength and flexibility of its global footprint to adapt quickly to market shifts and customer needs.

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