US Polycarbonate Manufacturing Gets Major Boost

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In a boost for the North American plastics industry, AmeriLux International and Brett Martin have announced the formation of American Polycarbonate Co. (APC), a joint venture that will establish domestic manufacturing of polycarbonate sheets in Wisconsin.

The new operation will be housed within AmeriLux's recently constructed 500,000-square-foot manufacturing and distribution center in De Pere, WI, with production scheduled to begin in early 2026. The venture combines AmeriLux's distribution and fabrication capabilities with County Antrim, UK–based Brett Martin's six decades of thermoplastic sheet extrusion expertise.



Industry analysts note this partnership addresses growing market demand for reduced lead times and enhanced supply chain resilience for US customers, particularly following recent global logistics disruptions.


"This joint venture marks our commitment to long-term engagement in the US market and a recognition that dedicated local manufacturing and services provide the optimum package for American customers," said Paul Martin, group director of Brett Martin Ltd. "By uniting our technical extrusion expertise with AmeriLux's customer-centric distribution model, we're creating a platform that delivers innovative, high-quality products while upholding shared values.


Growth potential drives project:

Martin told the BBC the US factory had been in the works well before the latest round of tariffs announced by President Donald Trump.

"While tariffs are relevant for any exporter, our motivation was above all driven by long-term market growth potential, the strength of our partnership with Amerilux, and the opportunities we see in North America," he told the BBC.

The partnership brings together two family-founded businesses with complementary strengths. AmeriLux, established in 2004, has built its reputation as a value-adding distributor and fabricator of plastic sheets with logistics capabilities. Brett Martin, founded in 1958 in the UK, has grown into a global leader in thermoplastic manufacturing with particular expertise in polycarbonate extrusion technology.


Kurt Voss, CEO of the AmeriLux Family of Companies, emphasized the strategic importance of the venture.

"This joint venture enhances our ability to supply polycarbonate sheets produced in the United States while reinforcing our commitment to building lasting relationships with customers, employees, and the community.


Focus on polycarbonate sheets:

Initial production will focus on multiwall and corrugated polycarbonate sheets in various gauges and technical specifications. The companies plan to incorporate advanced features such as high-performance glazing for safety and energy efficiency, targeting applications in construction, data processing, agriculture, horticulture, and architecture.


The partners have indicated plans for future expansion beyond the initial product lineup, including R&D collaborations on new product lines to address evolving market needs.


This development represents one of the most significant investments in domestic polycarbonate manufacturing capacity in recent years, potentially reshaping supply dynamics in the North American market. By localizing production, APC aims to offer expedited material delivery, customized solutions, and responsive service backed by the partners' combined eight decades of plastics industry experience.


source : Plastics Today

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