ATP Adhesives launches North American arm with US$70M investment in eco-friendly facility

USA – ATP Adhesives has unveiled its new North American division, ATP North America, to cater to manufacturers in the US and Canada through solvent-free adhesive technologies and on-site product development. 

The company is committing US$70 million to construct its inaugural solvent-free manufacturing plant in Columbia, South Carolina, a move set to generate 130 jobs in the region.

Spanning 127,000 square feet, the facility in West Columbia will commence operations in July 2026. 

This development brings ATP’s established solvent-free adhesive tapes, known for high performance in Europe and Asia, directly to North American markets. 

The plant will produce tapes tailored for various applications, enabling manufacturers to cut costs while enhancing sustainability through reduced chemical use and streamlined sourcing.

Dirk Henke, managing director and the newly appointed US leader for ATP North America, described the expansion as a key step to speed up the company’s US presence. 

He noted that combining German and Swiss engineering with local production in South Carolina would deliver quicker lead times, a more reliable supply chain, and hands-on support from initial trials to full-scale implementation using solvent-free systems.

The proximity of the plant to end-users allows for rapid response times and closer partnerships on custom solutions. 

ATP anticipates that this setup will help optimize inventory based on actual demand, minimizing waste and excess stock. 

For customers, the facility offers access to the company’s worldwide knowledge through domestic channels, speeding up innovation cycles and ensuring steady supply from an onshore base.

In a statement, Daniel Heini, CEO of ATP Adhesives, called the launch a significant achievement in the firm’s international expansion. 

He said the North American hub in Columbia would deliver the same level of innovation and dependability to US clients that ATP provides elsewhere.

Recent industry data shows solvent-free adhesives can lower volatile organic compound emissions by up to 90% compared to traditional options, aiding compliance with stricter environmental regulations across North America. 

ATP’s focus on these technologies supports broader efforts to replace solvent-based materials, which often contribute to higher carbon footprints during production and application.

By localizing manufacturing, ATP addresses supply chain vulnerabilities exposed in recent years, such as those from global disruptions. 

The South Carolina site, strategically located near major industrial corridors, will facilitate just-in-time delivery and collaborative R&D, helping packaging firms meet sustainability targets without compromising efficiency.

As production ramps up, the facility promises to inject economic vitality into the local community while advancing eco-conscious practices in the adhesives market. 

Manufacturers eyeing reduced environmental impact now have a dedicated US partner for solvent-free innovations, paving the way for more resilient and green supply networks.

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