Softer lands in the Usa

Softer group, one of the world's largest independent compounders with headquarters in Forlì, Italy, announced the start-up of a new operation in the United States. The new branch, based in Lebanon, Tennessee, will be dedicated to the production, development and sale of engineering plastics based on polyamide, polypropylene, thermoplastic elastomers and other advanced solutions for the US market. Initially, the new operation will take up an area of 9,300 sqm with a production capacity of 23,000 tons per year. However Softer is already planning a site enlargement taking it to exceed 23,000 sqm of undercover surface with a production capacity of 68,000 tons per year. The structure and the machinery installed will require a staff of 50 already in the start-up period, who will grow to over 150 in successive times. According to estimates, the initial investment will be 8.8 million euros.
Softer expects to develop a strong presence in the automotive, appliance, construction and electrical markets.
Mark Rodden, who brings more than 15 years of managerial experience in plastics compounding, will serve as managing director of Softer US, claimed: "We are excited to be part of this project that will bring the group to the United States. Softer's product portfolio is one of the most comprehensive in the industry. Softer's experience, financial strength and long-term view will enable us to focus on customers with a one-to-one approach, based on flexible and tailored solutions."
Riccardo Meucci, global commercial director of Softer Group said: "We believe the US market has excellent perspectives for growth. Moreover, the US operation completes our presence in the Americas and complements our presence in Mexico and Brazil."
The debut of Softer US on the American plastics market will take place in October with a presentation at the SPE Automotive Conference in Detroit from October 6 to 9, 2013, while the official launch will be at the K 2013 in Düsseldorf (October 16-23) where the Group's management will be available for meeting clients and journalists.