IPEX Celebrates Grand Opening Of U.S. Flagship Injection Molding Manufacturing Facility
October 16, 2023
IPEX is proud to announce the opening of its new U.S. technological flagship manufacturing facility in Pineville, N.C.
The grand opening event, held at the new injection molding facility, was attended by more than 150 people including IPEX employees and the IPEX leadership team, as well as Aliaxis’ global CEO, members of government and other local representatives.
The new 200,000 sq. ft., state-of-the-art injection molding plant is one of the most advanced plastics manufacturing facilities in the industry, and features fully electric injection molding machines, flexible proprietary automation, cloud connectivity, and fantastic health and safety best practices.
The facility will significantly increase IPEX’s U.S. production capability to manufacture fittings for plumbing, electrical, industrial, and municipal applications.
“This facility is an important part of our North American growth strategy to expand our U.S. footprint and better serve our customers,” said Alex Mestres, Chief Executive Officer, IPEX. “I am proud to share that our $200-million-dollar investment in this Pineville facility is IPEX’s largest investment to date and is one of the most advanced plastics facilities in the manufacturing industry. Thank you to the IPEX team, local partners and government for your dedication and support in getting this facility operational.”
IPEX has invested in the Pineville area for more than 20 years, starting with an extrusion plant and distribution facility, growing to its current footprint of five manufacturing sites and three distribution centers located across North Carolina. IPEX has created nearly 700 jobs in the region, 150 in this new facility.
“The opening of this plant is an exciting moment for the town of Pineville. Congratulations, IPEX, on this exciting project and your continued commitment to strengthening North Carolina’s economic growth in the manufacturing sector,” said The Honorable Jack Edwards, Mayor of Pineville.
In addition to the ribbon cutting event, IPEX presented She Built This City, an organization dedicated to building pathways for youth, women and marginalized communities in the construction and manufacturing industry, with a donation of $25,000.
“IPEX’s generous donation isn’t just about funds; it’s the key to unlocking a world of opportunity in trades for a passionate cohort of women. Through our workforce development programs, we’re on a purpose-driven journey, training women in carpentry, plumbing, electrical, and painting,” said LaToya Faustin, Executive Director, She Built This City. “It’s more than just training; it’s about reshaping the industry. We’re not just honored; we’re on fire to amplify the presence of women in trades.”
Quick Facts
As part of IPEX’s Pineville expansion:
- The injection molding facility’s automation capabilities will enhance technological efficiencies, processes, and advance health & safety practices.
- With sustainability in mind, the plant is fully climate-controlled, uses energy-efficient lighting, and high efficiency machines to reduce the use of both electricity and water – a single electric machine uses 30% less power than hydraulic machinery.
- The facility will include fully electric injection molding machines that will realize around $700K in operational savings per year.
- The new plant layout is equipped to manufacture a range of innovative products and will provide IPEX space for testing and prototyping new products and ideas, keeping customers’ needs top of mind.
- IPEX was awarded a Customized Training Grant from the state of North Carolina due to its continued growth in the Charlotte area. Valued at approximately $345,500, the grant will be used to fund specialized training programs over the next two years by Central Piedmont Community College. The programs will provide IPEX employees with training focused on safety, continuous improvement, mechatronics, polymers, and computers.
