Feb. 24: Mack Molding invests | Pending tariffs | Americhem stake changes hands

Mack Group has announced a $3.5 million investment in its molding and prototype businesses to support new projects and meet the rising demand for nearshoring. The investment includes new Milacron presses, automation systems, and CNC technology upgrades at Mack Prototype. The company is also improving its energy efficiency with a modernized heat pump system. As more manufacturers look to bring production back to North America, Mack sees growth opportunities across industrial, medical, and defense sectors.

Read the story by Sarah Kominek here

The 25 percent tariffs on imported steel and aluminum, set to take effect on March 12, have raised concerns among U.S. mold makers. The American Mold Builders Association (AMBA) is warning about potential price hikes, supply chain disruptions, and competitive disadvantages. While the Chinese market may absorb some tariff costs, U.S. manufacturers and consumers are likely to face higher prices. The uncertainty surrounding additional tariffs on Canada and Mexico is also adding pressure to an already strained industry.

Read the story by Catherine Kavanaugh here

Pritzker Private Capital has acquired a majority stake in Americhem, a specialty plastics compounder, for an undisclosed sum. Americhem, which has been family-owned for decades, will now have additional financial backing for expansion and acquisitions. CEO John Richard called the deal a "bold step toward global sustainable growth." This move aligns with PPC's broader strategy of investing in high-performance materials and packaging industries.

Read the story by Frank Esposito here

Packaging manufacturer Pregis LLC has announced plans to close its Pomona, California, facility, impacting 45 employees. The company cited network optimization and cost reductions as key reasons for the closure. While Pregis is offering affected workers jobs at its Visalia, California plant, the 200-mile distance between locations may limit relocation options. The closure comes as businesses continue to streamline operations in response to high operational costs in California.

Read the story by Jim Johnson here

Recycled PET manufacturer Circularix LLC is making major expansion moves, including doubling capacity at its Hatfield, Pennsylvania, facility and launching a new Ocala, Florida, plant. Once complete, these expansions will bring Circularix’s total PET recycling capacity to 165 million pounds per year, tripling its current output. The company is also planning future locations in Texas and the West Coast, aiming to meet growing demand for sustainable, food-grade recycled plastics.

Read the story by Jim Johnson here