Circularix launches new rPET facility in Ocala, boosting US recycling capacity

USA – Circularix, a leading US producer of food-grade recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET), has started operations at its new recycling facility in Ocala, Florida. 

The plant, which began production on August 1, 2025, significantly increases the company’s ability to supply high-quality rPET resin to consumer brands meeting growing demand for sustainable packaging.

According to Circularix, the Ocala facility mirrors its existing plant in Hatfield, Pennsylvania, operational since 2023. 

Each site produces 55 million pounds of post-consumer rPET pellets annually, effectively doubling the company’s total output to 110 million pounds per year. 

The rPET is used in packaging for beverages, food, and consumer goods, supporting brands in achieving sustainability goals amid rising demand for recycled materials.

In a statement, Circularix founder and CEO Leon Farahnik said, “We built and commissioned this plant in record time. From landing equipment in mid-March to full production by August 1, this milestone shows our team’s dedication and expertise.” 

The rapid setup highlights Circularix’s commitment to scaling up recycling infrastructure efficiently.

The company is also expanding its Hatfield facility by acquiring adjacent industrial space, a move expected to increase its total production capacity to 165 million pounds annually by the end of 2025. 

This expansion will further support the US circular plastics economy, providing more recycled material to meet market needs.

Farahnik noted that the increased capacity in Florida and planned growth in Pennsylvania will allow Circularix to supply more rPET to its key partners, helping them meet packaging sustainability targets. 

The company’s products are critical for brands facing pressure to incorporate recycled content due to consumer preferences and state regulations.

A recent industry report indicates that the Americas’ rPET market, valued at US$3.14 billion in 2024, is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 6.9% through 2030, driven by demand for eco-friendly packaging. 

Circularix’s expansion aligns with this trend, addressing the need for reliable, high-quality recycled materials.

Looking ahead, Circularix plans to build additional facilities in Texas and West Coast states to create a nationwide network of recycling plants. 

These efforts aim to strengthen the company’s role in the domestic rPET market, ensuring a steady supply of sustainable materials for packaging applications across the US.

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