IPEX Opens One of Industry’s 'Most Advanced' Plastics Manufacturing Plants

IPEX announced on Oct. 5 the grand opening of what it’s calling “one of the most advanced plastics manufacturing facilities in the industry” in Pineville, NC. The event was attended by more than 150 people including IPEX employees and leadership team, as well as the global CEO of Aliaxis, which owns IPEX; members of government; and local representatives.

The new 200,000-square-foot state-of-the-art plant features fully electric injection molding machines, proprietary automation, cloud connectivity, and industry-leading health and safety best practices, said IPEX in the news release. The facility will significantly increase IPEX’s US production capability to manufacture fittings for plumbing, electrical, industrial, and municipal applications.

Headquartered in Oakville, ON, IPEX is a leader in thermoplastic piping systems for municipal, industrial, commercial, and residential applications.

“This facility is an important part of our North American growth strategy to expand our US footprint and better serve our customers,” said IPEX CEO Alex Mestres. “I am proud to share that our $200 million investment in this Pineville facility is IPEX’s largest investment to date and is one of the most advanced plastics facilities in the manufacturing industry. Thank you to the IPEX team, local partners, and government for your dedication and support in getting this facility operational.”

IPEX said it has invested in the Pineville area for more than 20 years, starting with an extrusion plant and distribution facility, growing to its current footprint of five manufacturing sites and three distribution centers located across North Carolina. IPEX has created nearly 700 jobs in the region, 150 in this new facility.

With sustainability in mind, the plant is fully climate-controlled, uses energy-efficient lighting, and high-efficiency machines to reduce the use of both electricity and water. A single electric machine uses 30% less power than hydraulic machinery, noted the company. The fully electric injection molding machines reportedly will contribute to approximately $700,000 in operational savings annually.

In addition to the ribbon-cutting ceremony, IPEX presented She Built This City, an organization dedicated to building pathways for youth, women, and marginalized communities in the construction and manufacturing industry, with a donation of $25,000.

“IPEX’s generous donation isn’t just about funds — it’s the key to unlocking a world of opportunity in trades for a passionate cohort of women. Through our workforce development programs, we’re on a purpose-driven journey, training women in carpentry, plumbing, electrical, and painting,” said LaToya Faustin, executive director of She Built This City. “It’s more than just training; it’s about reshaping the industry. We’re not just honored; we’re on fire to amplify the presence of women in trades.”

IPEX also announced that it was awarded a Customized Training Grant from the state of North Carolina due to its continued growth in the Charlotte area. Valued at approximately $345,500, the grant will be used to fund specialized training programs over the next two years by Central Piedmont Community College. The programs will provide IPEX employees with training focused on safety, continuous improvement, mechatronics, polymers, and computers.