As it awaits the approval of its recent purchase of plastic storage containers manufacturer ABM Italia (Ormelle / Italy; www.abmitalia.com) – see Plasteurope.com of 09.12.2016 – Keter Plastic (Herzliya / Israel; www.keter.com) is proceeding with its next expansion. The consumer goods giant in mid-January announced plans to acquire a facility in Belen, New Mexico / USA, which it intends to renovate and expand to the tune of USD 36m. A timeline was not disclosed, but eventually the 160,000 m² site will produce patio furniture, outdoor sheds and other products of this kind, for delivery to key US retailers, including Home Depot.

The facility will create up to 175 new jobs, according to a press release issued by the Office of the Governor of the State of New Mexico. Keter’s decision in favour of locating the 21,000 m² plant in Belen was partially based on the site’s rail infrastructure, which will not only allow the company to ship out its product, but also to source the necessary raw materials. The plant will reportedly convert up to 36,000 t/y of material, mostly polymer.

Keter was acquired by UK investor BC Partners (London; www.bcpartners.com) in July last year (see Plasteurope.com of 03.08.2016). At the time, the new owner said it would continue to pursue the company's "ambitious growth strategy."