INEOS acquires WL Plastics

INEOS O&P USA has acquired a company that is reaping the benefits of America’s shale gas boom. It has acquired 100% of the shares of WLP Holding Corp, one of the largest and fastest-growing high density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe manufacturers in North America.

Pipes, which are made from HDPE, don’t leak or rust and, if properly designed and installed, don’t need maintaining for 100 years.

As such, they are in demand from oil and gas producers.

“The growth in HDPE pipe for oil and gas really did explode with the development of shale oil and gas exploration,” said Dennis Seith, CEO of INEOS O&P USA.

But INEOS sees other avenues for growth as US cities grow and need to replace ageing sewage and water systems. “The unique properties of strength, flexibility, weight and durability along with ease of handling make HDPE pipes the perfect choice,” said Dennis.

The Fort Worth, Texas-based company currently produces HDPE pipes at plants in Kentucky, South Dakota, Utah, Texas, and Wyoming with one in Georgia currently being built.

“We are very pleased to have acquired this business,” said Dennis. “It is well-positioned to serve the growing North American pipe market and will complement our existing portfolio of olefins and polymer products.”

Mark Wason, CEO of WL Plastics, said INEOS and WL shared a similar ethos.

“We are both committed to safety, quality, manufacturing excellence and customer service,” he said.

He believed INEOS would help WL Plastics to strengthen its position in the market place.