King Plastic Corp., a major producer of calendered and extruded sheet for the marine industry, is moving to a larger facility to accommodate growth.
By mid-August, King Plastic will finish its move from its current location in Venice, Fla., to a 150,000-square-foot plant in North Port, Fla., about 20 miles south. The new building frees space for automated processes and expanded production, said Jeffrey King, vice president and general manager.
Most of the company's production already has moved to the new building. Two production lines were added in Venice earlier this year before being moved to the new operation, King said. The company invested close to $10 million in the new building and equipment, he said.
``We've been very busy for the past 10 years,'' King said. ``If the economy is strong, we could double annual production at the new plant from what we had 12 months ago.''
King Plastic will increase sales 15-20 percent this year, King said. As many as 20 employees could be added by year's end, adding to current employment of 112 people, he said. The firm does not disclose annual sales.
The company also has room to grow at the new location. Less than half of its 98 acres are being used by the operation, which includes a separate, 7,500-square-foot office building.
The company produces heavy, thick sheet made from low density polyethylene, polypropylene and other materials. The sheets can weigh more than 3,500 pounds. King Plastic is known for its King Starboard brand of marine-grade polymer sheet, but it also makes sheet for commercial cutting boards, playground equipment and other products.