PolyOne Corporation has announced that it expects to begin local production of specialty engineered materials at its existing facility in Pune, India in January 2017. The new capability enables PolyOne to more broadly support customers and increase their speed to market through PolyOne’s expansive portfolio of high-performance solutions and services.

Initial production will include specialty engineered polymer materials used in high performance applications that have the need for flame retardant properties, high strength and durability, stiffness, chemical resistance, or weatherability. In addition, PolyOne has hired sales and technical resources based in India with expertise in specialty engineered materials to increase speed to market and collaborate with in-country customers.

PolyOne opened a new facility in Pune in 2014 initially focused on the production of colorant and additives to serve end markets such as transportation, electronics & electrical, healthcare, wire & cable, and packaging.  Specialty engineered materials manufacturing capability is currently being installed within the facility, and production trials begin later this year.

“PolyOne continues to build upon our strong reputation in India for collaborating and innovating with our local and multi-national customers,” said Craig Nikrant, president, Specialty Engineered Materials, PolyOne. “We’re excited and proud to have furthered our commitment to customers in India, through local production of our leading specialty engineered materials and strengthened by sales and technical support personnel.”

Vikas Vij , managing director for PolyOne in India, added, “India remains a region of growth for manufacturers and consumers, and by enhancing speed to market, it gives our customers a competitive advantage. We’re proud to be their materials and service provider as we innovate and grow together for the future.”