North Carolina is home to a vibrant plastic manufacturing sector. This industry includes manufacturers focusing on injection molding, polymer production, and sustainable materials. Companies produce everything from packaging solutions and automotive components to medical products and recycled plastics. As sustainability becomes a pressing concern, many manufacturers are adopting eco-friendly practices, innovation to meet changing consumer demands, and government regulations. Additionally, technological advancements in polymer engineering are accelerating the development of high-performance materials, indicating the industry’s growth potential and responsiveness to market trends.


The companies showcased in this list represent a wide range of sizes and specializations. They include established firms like Mitsubishi Chemical America and newcomers such as PolyQuest, Inc. Each company operates primarily within North Carolina and focuses on various plastic sectors, namely packaging, automotive, and medical manufacturing. Notably, many were founded in the last few decades, indicating a growing interest in plastic production in this region. Employee count varies from small teams to larger workforces, demonstrating varying operational scales and capabilities.


Continue reading to discover the top plastic manufacturing companies in North Carolina.


Top 20 Plastic Manufacturing Companies in North Carolina


1. Mitsubishi Chemical America


Mitsubishi Chemical America, founded in 2017 and based in Charlotte, North Carolina, operates as a private chemical manufacturer. The company specializes in a wide array of materials and products, including battery materials, electronic materials, and notably, films and sheets. These products cater to various industries such as automotive, medical, and packaging, addressing specific manufacturing needs. With a workforce of approximately 1,838 employees, Mitsubishi Chemical America is dedicated to providing innovative solutions and maintaining high standards in product quality. Their offerings include barrier films, colored films, and surface modified films, which are crucial for applications ranging from packaging to medical uses. The company emphasizes sustainability and innovation, striving to meet the evolving demands of the market while ensuring environmental responsibility.


2. Polymershapes

  • Website: polymershapes.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 77%, Canada 12%, Mexico 6%, Other 4%
  • Latest funding: November 2016
  • Founded year: 1946
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • LinkedIn: polymershapes

Polymershapes, headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a prominent plastic manufacturer and distributor that has been operational since 1946. The company specializes in a wide range of plastic products and services, catering to various industries including aerospace, automotive, and construction. Their extensive product line features cut-to-size plastics, plastic fabrication, and recycling services, which are designed to meet specific application needs and comply with regulatory standards. With a workforce of approximately 607 employees, Polymershapes operates over 80 locations across the Americas, ensuring they can provide timely service and support to their customers. The company is committed to maintaining high-quality standards, as evidenced by their certifications in ISO9001:2015 and AS9100, which are particularly important for their aerospace clients. Polymershapes also emphasizes sustainability through its recycling services, helping clients manage waste effectively while reducing environmental impact.


3. PolyQuest, Inc.

  • Website: polyquest.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Wilmington, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2000
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: polyquest-inc

PolyQuest, Inc., based in Wilmington, North Carolina, is a private company founded in 2000. It specializes in the manufacturing and distribution of thermoplastic resins, including polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), and their recycled counterparts. The company serves a variety of industries, notably packaging and textiles, providing high-quality materials that meet the demands of modern applications. PolyQuest is particularly focused on sustainability, operating recycling facilities that process post-consumer PET into high-quality rPET flake and resin. This commitment to recycling not only supports environmental goals but also positions the company as a valuable partner in the supply chain for companies seeking sustainable materials. With a workforce of around 102 employees, PolyQuest continues to innovate and adapt to the evolving needs of the plastic manufacturing sector.


4. Envision Plastics

  • Website: envisionplastics.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Reidsville, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Latest funding: June 2014
  • Founded year: 2001
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: envision-plastics

Envision Plastics, based in Reidsville, North Carolina, is a recycling and manufacturing company that specializes in sustainable plastic solutions. Founded in 2001, the company has carved out a niche in producing high-quality recycled HDPE plastics and post-consumer resin products. Their offerings cater primarily to businesses in the food, beverage, and personal care industries. Envision Plastics is committed to sustainability, employing innovative recycling processes that not only reduce waste but also create valuable products from post-consumer materials. The company has produced nearly 1.5 billion pounds of recycled resin, showcasing its significant impact on the market. In 2014, Envision Plastics was acquired by Altium Packaging, which has further solidified its position in the industry. Their product lines include EcoPrime®, OceanBound Plastic, and PRISMA®, each designed to meet the growing demand for environmentally friendly packaging solutions.


5. Technimark LLC

  • Website: technimark.com
  • Ownership type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Asheboro, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 73%, Mexico 17%, China 4%, Other 6%
  • Latest funding: June 2021
  • Founded year: 1983
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: technimark

Technimark LLC, based in Asheboro, North Carolina, is a manufacturing company that specializes in high-value injection-molded packaging and components. Established in 1983, Technimark has grown to serve various sectors, including healthcare, consumer packaging, and industrial markets. The company offers a comprehensive range of services, from product design to global distribution, ensuring that their solutions meet stringent quality and regulatory standards. Technimark's facilities are equipped with advanced technology and processes, allowing them to produce innovative and reliable plastic products. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their ambitious goals for 2030 and their recognition as a Silver medalist by EcoVadis. With a workforce of over 1,100 employees and a presence in multiple countries, Technimark is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of its clients while maintaining a focus on quality and efficiency.


6. Southeastern Container

  • Website: secontainer.com
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Enka, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1982
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • LinkedIn: southeastern-container

Southeastern Container, founded in 1982 and based in Enka, North Carolina, is a family-owned manufacturing company that specializes in producing polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles and preforms. The company was established by a group of independent Coca-Cola bottlers aiming to secure a reliable and cost-effective source of PET packaging. Over the years, Southeastern Container has grown to serve over 50 Coca-Cola operations across the United States and Canada, demonstrating its significant role in the beverage packaging industry. The company operates multiple facilities across several states, employing advanced blow molding and injection molding technologies to produce high-quality products. With a strong emphasis on sustainability, Southeastern Container is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and aligning with Coca-Cola's World Without Waste initiative, which aims to enhance recycling efforts and minimize plastic waste. Their innovative approach and dedication to quality make them a notable player in the plastic manufacturing industry.


7. Airspeed LLC

  • Website: airspeedllc.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Hillsborough, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 48%, Vietnam 36%, United Kingdom (UK) 5%, Other 11%
  • Founded year: 1996
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • LinkedIn: airspeed-llc

Airspeed LLC, founded in 1996 and based in Hillsborough, North Carolina, is a manufacturing company that specializes in plastic injection molding, metal fabrication, and cable manufacturing. With a workforce of around 501-1000 employees, the company has established itself as a significant player in the manufacturing sector. Airspeed operates more than 80 injection molding machines, including advanced dual-shot capabilities, allowing them to produce a wide range of plastic components. Their facilities are equipped to handle large single moldings and multi-cavity tools, ensuring they can meet various production needs. The company serves multiple industries, including electronics, automotive, and telecommunications, providing high-quality components and engineering support. Airspeed's operations extend globally, with manufacturing facilities in Asia and the Americas, enabling them to efficiently respond to customer demands. They maintain rigorous quality standards, holding certifications such as ISO 9001 and ISO 14001, which reflect their commitment to quality management and environmental responsibility.


8. United Plastics Corporation

  • Website: unitedplastics.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Mount Airy, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 88%, Chile 12%
  • Founded year: 1947
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: united-plastics-corporation

United Plastics Corporation (UPC), based in Mount Airy, North Carolina, has been a significant player in the plastic manufacturing industry since its inception in 1947. The company specializes in custom vinyl plastics and soundproofing materials, catering to various sectors including construction, automotive, and furniture. UPC is recognized for producing high-quality components that enhance functionality and performance in larger systems, such as doors, windows, and flooring. Over the years, UPC has expanded its offerings to include innovative soundproofing solutions, addressing the growing demand for noise reduction in both residential and commercial applications. The company prides itself on its commitment to American manufacturing, utilizing domestically sourced materials and striving for environmentally friendly practices. With a focus on continuous improvement and quality, UPC has achieved ISO certification, reflecting its adherence to rigorous industry standards. Celebrating 75 years in business in 2021, UPC continues to evolve and meet the needs of its customers while maintaining a strong ethical foundation.


9. Sapona Plastics, LLC

  • Website: saponaplastics.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Asheboro, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2004
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: sapona-plastics

Sapona Plastics, LLC, based in Asheboro, North Carolina, is a manufacturing company that specializes in custom injection molding and assembly services. Established in 2004, the company has grown significantly, now operating 27 molding presses and offering a range of products including lip balm containers, brushes, and buckets. They serve various sectors, including personal care, telecommunications, and automotive, showcasing their ability to adapt to different market needs. Sapona Plastics emphasizes quality and customer satisfaction, operating under ISO certified and cGMP compliant systems. The company also engages in community initiatives and sustainability efforts, reflecting a commitment to both environmental responsibility and local economic development. Their recent investments in energy-efficient machinery highlight their focus on innovation and operational efficiency.


10. Custom Plastic Forming

  • Website: customplasticforming.com
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Salisbury, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1997
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: custom-plastic-forming

Custom Plastic Forming, based in Salisbury, North Carolina, is a family-owned custom plastic manufacturer that has been in operation since 1997. With a workforce of approximately 19 employees, the company specializes in thermoforming services, providing both thin-gauge and heavy-gauge solutions. Their extensive capabilities include design and engineering, 3D printing, toolmaking, CNC routing, and quality management, allowing them to cater to a variety of industries such as automotive, aerospace, and medical. The company prides itself on its personalized approach, working closely with clients to meet their specific needs. Custom Plastic Forming also emphasizes sustainability, recycling 98% of all raw materials that can be recycled. Their facility spans over 217,000 square feet, equipped with state-of-the-art machinery, which supports their comprehensive service offerings from design to fulfillment. The company adheres to ISO 9001 standards and is AS 9100 compliant, ensuring high-quality production processes.


11. Advanced Plastiform, Inc.


Advanced Plastiform, Inc. is a custom plastics manufacturer based in Zebulon, North Carolina, established in 1988. The company specializes in injection molding and thermoforming, providing tailored solutions for a variety of industries, including automotive, medical, and telecommunications. With a workforce of 51 to 200 employees, Advanced Plastiform manages the entire manufacturing process, from initial design and prototyping to final delivery. Their services include advanced plastics engineering, 3D modeling, tooling design, and quality assurance, ensuring that they meet the specific needs of their clients. The company prides itself on its customer-driven approach, focusing on delivering high-quality products with a commitment to on-time delivery and customer satisfaction. Advanced Plastiform has built a reputation for producing precision-engineered plastic parts, making it a notable player in the custom plastics sector.


12. Central Carolina Products Inc


Central Carolina Products Inc, based in Burlington, North Carolina, is a custom injection molding company that has been operational since 1993. With a workforce of 25 employees, the company prides itself on delivering high-quality plastic components and engineering support to various sectors, including automotive, consumer goods, and industrial applications. Their manufacturing capabilities extend beyond injection molding to include assembly and decorative coating, allowing them to provide comprehensive solutions to their clients. Central Carolina Products is ISO 9001:2015 certified, ensuring adherence to rigorous quality standards. The company has received accolades, including being named 'Supplier of the Year' by Lear Corporation three times, reflecting their commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. As a certified minority-owned business, they also contribute to the diversity of the manufacturing sector, enhancing their appeal to clients seeking to partner with inclusive suppliers.


13. Plastic Products, INC.

  • Website: plastic-products.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Kings Mountain, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1968
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: plastic-products-inc.

Plastic Products, INC., based in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, has been a staple in the plastic manufacturing industry since its inception in 1968. With a workforce of around 30 employees, the company specializes in the production of plastic materials and components, offering services such as custom fabrication and machining. Their modern facilities are strategically located near Charlotte, NC, allowing for efficient distribution and service to a broad customer base. Plastic Products, INC. prides itself on its ability to provide a comprehensive range of plastic solutions, including sheets, rods, and engineered plastics, which are crucial for various industrial applications. The company has archived over one hundred thousand blueprints of part designs, showcasing its extensive experience and technical expertise. Their commitment to quality and customer service has made them a reliable partner for many businesses in the manufacturing sector.


14. Syncot Plastics, LLC

  • Website: syncot.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Belmont, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: syncot-plastics-inc

Syncot Plastics, LLC, founded in 1995 and located in Belmont, North Carolina, operates a substantial 200,000 square foot facility dedicated to recycling plastics. The company specializes in collecting, processing, and selling a wide range of plastic materials, including nylon, polystyrene, polypropylene, and various other synthetics. Syncot has expanded its operations significantly, now featuring eight recycling lines to meet the growing demand for recycled materials. Their services include toll processing, scrap collection, and the development of closed-loop recycling programs for businesses. Syncot's commitment to quality is evident in their rigorous testing processes, ensuring that all products meet specific standards before reaching customers. They cater primarily to manufacturing industries seeking sustainable waste management solutions, positioning themselves as a key player in the recycling segment of the plastics industry.


15. Gentry Plastics, Inc

  • Website: gentryplastics.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Gastonia, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2002
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: gentry-plastics-inc

Gentry Plastics, Inc. is a plastic parts manufacturer located in Gastonia, North Carolina. Established in 2002, the company specializes in injection molding and offers a variety of services including assembly, sonic welding, and plastic machining. With a 40,000 square foot facility, Gentry Plastics is equipped with 15 injection molding machines capable of handling projects ranging from 55 to 1000 tons. They serve multiple industries, including aerospace, automotive, and electronics, providing high-quality components tailored to specific manufacturing needs. The company prides itself on its customer service and has a dedicated department to manage client projects from concept to production. Gentry Plastics is ISO 9001:2015 certified, reflecting its commitment to quality and continuous improvement in its manufacturing processes.


16. Piedmont Plastics

  • Website: piedmontplastics.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 89%, Canada 10%
  • Founded year: 1968
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • LinkedIn: piedmont-plastics

Piedmont Plastics, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a private company that has been active in the plastic distribution sector since its founding in 1968. With a workforce of approximately 560 employees, the company specializes in the wholesale distribution of plastic sheets, rods, tubes, and films. Piedmont Plastics serves a variety of industries, including marine and industrial sectors, and is known for its commitment to high-quality products and exceptional customer service. The company offers value-added services such as cut-to-size, fabrication, and film conversion, which cater to the specific needs of its clients. With a network of over 55 locations across North America, Piedmont Plastics is well-positioned to meet the demands of its customers efficiently. Their focus on sustainability and recycling further aligns them with contemporary industry practices, enhancing their standing in the plastic manufacturing sector.


17. EnviCor Enterprises LLC

  • Website: envicor.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Smithfield, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2006
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: envicor-enterprises-llc

EnviCor Enterprises LLC, established in 2006 and based in Smithfield, North Carolina, is a manufacturing firm that specializes in rotational molding and related services. The company provides a wide array of offerings, including engineering and design services, foam filling, and logistics support. EnviCor serves various industries, such as agriculture, recreation, and wastewater management, demonstrating its adaptability and responsiveness to market demands. With a workforce of approximately 70 employees and multiple facilities, EnviCor operates six rotational molding machines capable of producing parts up to 12 feet in length. Their focus on quality and customer satisfaction has allowed them to build long-term partnerships with over 50 clients, many of whom have been with the company for more than a decade. EnviCor's commitment to continuous improvement and innovation in manufacturing processes further solidifies its position in the plastic manufacturing sector.


18. Plastic Solutions, Inc. (PSI)

  • Website: plasticsolutions.net
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Ellenboro, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2002
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: plastic-solutions-inc.

Plastic Solutions, Inc. (PSI), founded in 2002 and based in Ellenboro, North Carolina, operates as a distributor of thermoplastic resins. The company specializes in prime grade materials, including polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene, catering to manufacturers in the plastics industry. PSI prides itself on its ability to provide reliable material supply and technical support, ensuring that production processes run smoothly for its clients. With a workforce of 22 employees, PSI emphasizes flexibility and dependability in its operations. The company has established a network of supply partners to offer a wide range of commodity and specialty resins, adapting to the specific needs of its customers. Their commitment to quality is underscored by their adherence to ISO certification standards, which reinforces their focus on customer satisfaction and traceability in their supply chain. PSI also recognizes the importance of sustainability and actively seeks to align its offerings with the environmental goals of its clients.


19. STI Polymer

  • Website: stipolymer.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Sanford, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2001
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: sti-polymer

STI Polymer, founded in 2001 and based in Sanford, North Carolina, is a private chemical manufacturer that specializes in the development and production of custom polymers. With over 60 years of combined experience in the industry, the company focuses on acrylic and styrene acrylic formulations, primarily for adhesives, paints, and coatings. STI Polymer serves a variety of sectors, including construction and packaging, by providing tailored solutions that meet specific application needs. Their commitment to collaboration with clients fosters innovation and ensures high-quality product delivery. The company prides itself on its research and development capabilities, allowing them to respond quickly to market demands and customer requirements. STI Polymer emphasizes small-batch production, which enables them to cater to unique formulation challenges effectively. Their operational agility and customer-centric approach have established them as a reliable partner in the polymer manufacturing space.


20. Wilbert Plastic Services


Wilbert Plastic Services, based in Belmont, North Carolina, is an industrial plastics manufacturer with a rich history dating back to 1965. The company specializes in injection molding, thermoforming, painting, and assembly services, primarily serving original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in sectors such as automotive and medical. With a workforce of approximately 480 employees, Wilbert operates four manufacturing plants across the United States, where they produce and ship over 400,000 parts daily. Their engineering capabilities are robust, allowing them to provide tailored solutions that enhance product quality and reduce costs for their clients. Wilbert's commitment to innovation is evident in their advanced manufacturing processes and their focus on continuous improvement, ensuring they remain competitive in a dynamic market.



Plastic Manufacturing Insights: Key Companies in North Carolina


CompanyHeadquarterSizeFoundedOwnership
Mitsubishi Chemical AmericaCharlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)1001-50002017Private
PolymershapesCharlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)501-10001946Corporate
PolyQuest, Inc.Wilmington, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2002000Private
Envision PlasticsReidsville, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2002001Corporate
Technimark LLCAsheboro, North Carolina, United States (USA)1001-50001983Private Equity
Southeastern ContainerEnka, North Carolina, United States (USA)201-5001982Family Owned
Airspeed LLCHillsborough, North Carolina, United States (USA)501-10001996Private
United Plastics CorporationMount Airy, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2001947Private
Sapona Plastics, LLCAsheboro, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2002004Private
Custom Plastic FormingSalisbury, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2001997Family Owned
Advanced Plastiform, Inc.Zebulon, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2001988Private
Central Carolina Products IncBurlington, North Carolina, United States (USA)11-501993Private
Plastic Products, INC.Kings Mountain, North Carolina, United States (USA)11-501968Private
Syncot Plastics, LLCBelmont, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2001995Private
Gentry Plastics, IncGastonia, North Carolina, United States (USA)11-502002Private
Piedmont PlasticsCharlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)501-10001968Private
EnviCor Enterprises LLCSmithfield, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2002006Private
Plastic Solutions, Inc. (PSI)Ellenboro, North Carolina, United States (USA)11-502002Private
STI PolymerSanford, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2002001Private
Wilbert Plastic ServicesBelmont, North Carolina, United States (USA)501-10001965Private


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