PolySol Polymers LLC has completed a relocation that brings it closer to some major customers.
The private company, a specialist in plastisols, moved from Niles, Mich., to Farmington, Mo., at the end of 2015, said PolySol co-owner Jason Marler in a phone interview. Farmington is about 60 miles south of St. Louis.
PolySol was founded two years ago as a manufacturer of bulk plastisols, which are specialized vinyl emulsions applied to myriad products in a dipping process to provide durable, elastomeric handgrips or protection coatings. Marler said his company supplies diverse markets, including military, automotive, industrial belting, agriculture and construction. Tool grips, steering wheels and exercise equipment are typical applications.
“We saw an opening in the market, and because of the existing skilled labor force in the area, we were able to act with confidence,” Marler said. “We're poised to see nothing but growth for the next few years.”
PolySol is starting operations in Farmington with a staff of six but Marler predicts the firm's employment will grow to about 17 in the next few years. It is leasing a 20,000-square-foot industrial building and plans to invest $150,000 in its new production site.
Farmington was chosen from 10 relocation options and won out partly due to strong support from local government and development agencies.
“Close proximity to major manufacturing operations creates logistical advantages, and the state's business climate is ranked one of the best in the nation,” said Mike Downing, director of the Missouri Department of Economic Development, in a news release.
Marler and PolySol co-owner Joe Mueller have more than 20 years combined experience in plastisols. Marler comes from the sales side of the business and Mueller's expertise is plastisol chemistry.