Top 11 Plastics Consultants, Professional Services, & Consulting Firms
Plastic, as a versatile and omnipresent material, has transformed industries and everyday life. However, its use and management pose significant environmental and strategic challenges, necessitating expert guidance. In this landscape, plastics consultants and consulting firms have emerged as pivotal players, offering tailored solutions for sustainable development and innovative use.
The Value of Top Plastics Consultants and Consulting Firms
In the realm of plastics, consultants and consulting firms provide critical insights into sustainable practices, helping companies navigate the complex terrain of environmental responsibility while maintaining profitability. These experts blend technical knowledge with a deep understanding of market trends to offer strategies that align with both ecological and economic goals.
On top of that, consultants in this field play a crucial role in innovation and regulatory compliance. As industries face stricter regulations and consumer demands for eco-friendly products, consultants guide their clients through the development of new materials and processes. This not only ensures compliance but also fosters innovation, opening doors to new markets and opportunities.
Choosing the Right Plastics Consultant or Firm for Your Needs
Selecting an appropriate consultant or consulting firm is a critical decision that can significantly impact your project's success. First, it's essential to consider the specific expertise and experience needed. A consultant specializing in polymer science might be ideal for material innovation, whereas one with a background in environmental policy could be better suited for sustainability projects.
Additionally, the consultant's approach to problem-solving and their ability to integrate into your organizational culture should be considered. A collaborative and adaptable consultant who understands your business's unique challenges and goals can provide more tailored and effective solutions.
In this article, we’ll look at 11 of the best plastics consultants and consulting firms out there to help you narrow down your search.
TL;DR Top 11 Plastics Consultants & Consulting Firms
Alpha Apex Group: Alpha Apex Group stands out as a top-tier plastics consultancy, providing comprehensive expertise from sustainable material selection to regulatory compliance. Empowering clients for success, they excel in guiding businesses through the dynamic landscape of the plastics industry.
Phantom Plastics: Phantom Plastics, led by Dr. Chris DeArmitt, offers expert polymer and plastics consulting with rapid, innovative solutions for industry challenges, specializing in custom formulations and widely recognized for their efficiency and scientific expertise.
Intertek Polymers and Plastics Consultancy: Intertek provides comprehensive polymers and plastics consultancy, excelling in regulatory knowledge, advanced testing capabilities, and global reach, ideal for businesses seeking expert guidance in polymers and plastics compliance and performance.
Coast Systems: Coast Systems is a global leader in mold management for the plastics industry, offering extensive project management, maintenance, engineering consulting, and quality management services, with a focus on compliance and industry standards.
Smithers: Smithers, with over a century of combined industry experience, offers end-to-end rubber and plastics consultancy, encompassing raw material selection, analysis, troubleshooting, and performance evaluations, with a strong global laboratory network.
Silvey's Plastic Consulting: Led by Steven Silvey, this consultancy specializes in educational and problem-solving approaches to plastic manufacturing, offering on-machine training and technical assistance, and excelling in enhancing plastic part manufacturing processes and profitability.
Alpha Apex Group, Leaders in Plastics Consulting.
Alpha Apex Group distinguishes itself as a leading consultancy in the plastics industry, providing innovative solutions and strategic insights to businesses facing the challenges of sustainability, technological advancement, and market dynamics. Their expertise spans the entire plastics value chain, from raw material selection and product design to manufacturing processes and end-of-life management. With a focus on enhancing efficiency, reducing environmental impact, and capitalizing on emerging trends such as bioplastics and recycling technologies, Alpha Apex Group empowers clients to achieve competitive advantages and sustainable growth in the rapidly evolving plastics sector.
Key Services:
Sustainable material selection and design optimization
Process improvement and operational efficiency
Market analysis and strategy development
Recycling technologies and circular economy strategies
Regulatory compliance and environmental stewardship
Innovation and technology integration in plastics manufacturing
Why work with Alpha Apex Group:
Engaging with Alpha Apex Group provides plastics businesses with access to a team of experts dedicated to addressing the unique challenges and opportunities of the industry. Their commitment to sustainability and innovation, coupled with their comprehensive approach to consulting, ensures that clients are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the plastics market. Alpha Apex Group's strategic guidance and tailored solutions position them as a vital partner for companies seeking to excel in the dynamic and increasingly eco-conscious field of plastics.
2. Phantom Plastics
Phantom Plastics specializes in polymers and plastics consulting, offering custom solutions for challenges in the polymer and plastic industry. Their expertise is sought after by major companies like HP, Apple, Exxon, P&G, iRobot, and Disney. Led by Chris DeArmitt PhD, the President of Phantom Plastics, the firm is recognized for delivering world-class solutions rapidly, applicable across various stages of product development or for specific issues.
Dr. DeArmitt's approach is based on his extensive knowledge as a PhD chemist, allowing him to intelligently design new materials, leading to significant time and cost savings for clients. His 30 years of industry experience enable him to solve complex problems and enhance product performance, even for companies with substantial in-house expertise.
Phantom Plastics specializes in addressing issues with thermoplastics like PE, PP, PVC, PET, or nylon, and is known for creating custom formulations tailored to client needs. The firm's reputation is bolstered by its coverage in major media outlets like CBS 60 Minutes, BBC, and Sky News.
Key service
Problem-solving with breakthrough solutions
Innovation in products and materials
Training in plastics
Keynote speaking, particularly on dispelling myths about plastics and the environment
Strategy development for R&D portfolios
Advisory services including expert witness roles, due diligence, and technical advisory board participation
Why Work with Phantom Plastics
Phantom Plastics stands out for its rapid, innovative solutions to complex polymer and plastic industry challenges, underpinned by the deep scientific expertise and extensive industry experience of Dr. Chris DeArmitt.
3. Intertek Polymers and Plastics Consultancy
Intertek is a renowned leader in the polymers and plastics industry, providing extensive consultancy services designed to support various sectors, including automotive, construction, electronics, and packaging. Intertek stands out for its ability to offer in-depth analysis, recipe development, regulatory advice, processing, and impurity identification tailored to unique business requirements.
Key Services
Barrier and Permeation Properties Analysis
Flexural Tests
Regulatory Services
REACH, SVHC, RoHS Compliance
Analytical Services for New Polymer Registration
Contamination Analysis
Degradation and Weathering Studies
Deformulation Services
Why Work with Intertek
Intertek's comprehensive approach to polymer consultancy, combining detailed regulatory knowledge with advanced testing capabilities and global reach, positions them as an ideal partner for businesses seeking expert guidance in the complex world of polymers and plastics. Their expertise is not only in delivering quality and performance but also in ensuring compliance with the intricate regulatory landscape of the industry.
4. Coast Systems
Coast Systems is a global leader in mold management solutions for the plastics manufacturing industry, offering expert project management, asset management, maintenance management, and engineering consulting services.
Key Services
Project Management and Engineering Consulting: Including industry compliance, inspection and assessment, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Lean Six Sigma, design and process FMEA, 5S implementation, and plant systems infrastructure
On-Site Accountability and Program Management: Total program management, product and process design, assistance with equipment and asset selection, project planning, training in Stage Gate Management process, and application of cost tracking metrics
Industry Compliance and Quality Management: Emphasis on GMP, ISO, FDA, Lean Six Sigma, Design and Process FMEAs, DMAIC Process, quality management systems, and various molding systems including injection, blow, and compression molding
Why Work with Coast Systems
Coast Systems excels in providing comprehensive support to the plastics industry with their vast experience and specialized skill sets, alongside an emphasis on quality, accountability, and compliance with industry standards.
5. Smithers
Smithers is a renowned expert in the field of rubber and plastics, boasting over 100 years of combined industry experience among its technical polymer consultants. The company offers comprehensive support throughout the product development process, including raw material selection, analysis, rapid-response troubleshooting, and field performance evaluations.
Key Services
Raw material selection, evaluation, and analysis
Design evaluation
Chemical analysis
Processing support
Expert witness and litigation support
Product benchmarking and comparison
Physical properties analysis
Performance analysis
Import and material sourcing support
Why Work with Smithers
Smithers distinguishes itself with its century-long combined expertise in rubber and plastics, offering end-to-end consultancy services. From materials testing and R&D support to expert legal testimony, their extensive service range and global laboratory network provide comprehensive solutions for a wide range of industries.
6. Silvey's Plastic Consulting
Silvey's Plastic Consulting, helmed by Steven Silvey, is a comprehensive consultancy service in the plastic manufacturing industry. Bringing over thirty years of rich experience, Steven Silvey has held various roles such as plastics molder, process engineer, engineering manager, technical service engineer, and business owner.
The core strength of Silvey's Plastic Consulting lies in its educational and problem-solving approach, focusing on seminars, on-machine training, and troubleshooting in plastic manufacturing. The firm's commitment is towards enhancing clients' understanding of plastic processes and material characteristics, ultimately aiming to improve their plastic part manufacturing and increase profits.
Silvey's Plastic Consulting offers a range of services targeting plastic part manufacturers worldwide, including toolmakers, molders, OEMs, and various companies. The consultancy specializes in stepping into roles such as plastics engineer on-site, representative to suppliers or vendors, and reviewing plastic injection parts and processing.
Key Services
Plastic Manufacturing Consulting
On-Machine Training
Problem-solving in Plastic Manufacturing
Scientific Molding Techniques
Technical Assistance and Support
Why Work with Silvey's Plastic Consulting
With Steven Silvey's vast experience and hands-on approach, coupled with a strong focus on education and problem-solving, Silvey's Plastic Consulting stands out as a leader in enhancing and resolving complex challenges in the plastic manufacturing industry. The consultancy's ability to adapt to various roles and its commitment to understanding and improving the plastic part manufacturing process makes it a valuable partner for businesses in this field.
7. AMI Plastics Consulting
AMI Plastics Consulting, established in 1986 as Applied Market Information Ltd (AMI), has evolved into a leading consulting firm in the global plastics industry. Originally set up by a group of expert consultants, AMI has expanded its expertise in market research, intelligence, and data reporting. Over the past 37 years, the company has grown to include services like conferences, exhibitions, and magazines, all underpinned by dedicated industry teams. These teams build strong relationships and possess a deep understanding of client challenges, constantly tracking core markets and technical developments, and building unique databases for customer insights.
In terms of its business approach, AMI focuses on data and downstream markets for polymers. The company gathers data through both bottom-up and top-down approaches, including extensive interviews with primary processors, material suppliers, and compounders. Their market knowledge, experience, contacts, and events facilitate meaningful global conversations and insights, helping clients navigate the competitive environment, foster innovation, and grow their businesses.
Key Services
Mergers and Acquisitions Support
Commercial and Technical Due Diligence
Feasibility Studies
Customized Market Reports and Studies
Training and Educational Services
Access to Comprehensive Market Insights
Why Work with AMI Plastics Consulting
AMI Plastics Consulting's extensive experience and tailored approach make it a valuable partner for businesses in the plastics industry seeking to navigate complex market environments. With its comprehensive services, including detailed market insights and strategic client services, AMI empowers businesses to make informed decisions, reduce risks, and drive growth and innovation.
8. Plastic Expert
Plastic Expert is a consultancy specializing in materials testing and various aspects of plastic consulting. Their expertise encompasses a wide range of services, including analysis, design, and legal consultation, backed by a team of over 100 globally recognized experts.
Their services are particularly notable in legal contexts, where they provide expert witness work for both plaintiffs and defendants in cases related to patent infringement, product liability, personal injury, and more, involving plastic materials and products.
Their client list includes nationally recognized industry leaders such as Pulte Homes, DuPont, Adelphia, Dow Jones, Kimberly Clark, Ford, Marriott, Milliken, Nova Chemicals, Paragon, Sabic, Seyfarth Shaw, The Walsh Group, Hewlett Packard, Volvo, and Walmart, highlighting their widespread trust and credibility in the industry.
Key Services
Analysis, Design, and Legal Consultation
Expert Witness Services
Plastic Part Design and Mold Flow Analysis
Material Selection Consultation
Comprehensive Forensic Analysis Services (Mechanical Strength Testing, Defect Analysis, Degradation Studies, etc.)
Why work with Plastic Expert
Plastic Expert brings together a blend of advanced technical capabilities and extensive industry experience, making them a reliable choice for businesses seeking expert guidance in the complexities of plastic materials and products, from design to legal challenges.
9. PMC Plastics
PMC Plastics, also known as Plastic Molded Concepts (PMC), is a prominent plastic injection molding company specializing in the development of mission-critical parts using engineered resins. Established in 1975 by Larry Floyd, PMC has been a key player in the industry for over four decades. With a strong focus on high-quality, low-cost production, short lead times, and flexibility, PMC has developed and launched more than 10,000 molded plastic products. The company's dedication to meeting customer demands and its competitive edge are rooted in its commitment to continual improvement, ethical practices, and a strong team-oriented approach.
PMC's operations cater to a diverse range of industries, including aerospace & defense, medical plastic injection molding, filtration, electronics, and food & beverage. Their unique approach, known as 'The Plastic Molded Concepts Difference,' emphasizes producing mission-critical parts for these industries, showcasing their ability to address complex and specific industry requirements. This specialization in engineered resins and scientific plastics processing services allows PMC to meet a wide variety of client needs, thereby supporting the development of innovative and reliable plastic products.
Key Services
Plastic Molding Consulting
Part Design Assistance
Resin Selection
Tooling Design
Design for Manufacturability and Aesthetics
Injection Molding
Insert Molding
Overmolding
Analysis and Troubleshooting of Plastic Defects
Reason to work with PMC Plastics
PMC Plastics stands out for its exceptional commitment to quality, cost-effectiveness, and timely delivery, combined with its ability to innovate and customize in the field of plastic injection molding.
10. Weka Plastics
Weka Plastics is a globally recognized consulting firm in the Plastic Recycling Industry, with over 21 years of experience since its inception in 1996. The company specializes in developing and commercializing plastics recycling technologies, particularly for PET reuse in food-grade applications.
Their goal is to be the world's most trusted advisor in the Plastic Recycling Industry, offering services from setting up new recycling plants to optimizing them, providing counsel to maximize companies' efficiencies, and assisting in expansion and growth.
Key Services
Advising on Post-Consumer Packaging Collection Schemes
Setting up and Optimizing Recycling Plants
Quality System Establishment and Issue Resolution
Personnel Training in GMP and Quality Measurement
Assistance with Injection and Blowing Trials for Food Grade Recycled PET
Conducting Recyclability Studies
Obtaining Health Regulatory Approvals
Marketing Assistance for Recycled Products
Why work with Weka Plastics
Weka Plastics stands out for its extensive experience and global reach in the plastic recycling sector, offering comprehensive services from the development of recycling technologies to the practical aspects of plant operation and quality control.
11. Mathelin Bay Associates LLC
The team at Mathelin Bay Associates LLC comprises plastics industry professionals, each with over 25 years of relevant experience in plastics and plastics consulting. They possess deep knowledge of plastics processing, resin markets, and the intricacies of plastics mergers and acquisitions. This extensive experience allows them to offer valuable insights, particularly when clients are making significant decisions such as multi-million dollar investments or contemplating the purchase of a plastics company.
Mathelin Bay's goal is to assist clients in buying with confidence, leveraging their knowledge and objective expertise to supplement the in-house plastics supply chain and technical resources. Their approach emphasizes not just lowering plastics prices but reducing overall supply chain costs, thus ensuring the most cost-effective outcomes for their clients.
Key Services
Market Research Consulting: Competitive Intelligence, Entry into New Markets
Technical Consulting: Materials Selection, Certification Navigations, New Compounds Development
M&A Consulting: Operational Due Diligence, Post-Acquisition Auditing, Deal Origination
Plastics Resin Consulting: Supply Chain Assessment, Cost Savings Identification, Negotiations
Plastics Packaging Consulting: Supplier Cost Deconstruction, Negotiations, Alternative Technologies
Why Work with Mathelin Bay Associates LLC
Mathelin Bay Associates LLC stands out for its commitment to providing direct access to seasoned experts in the plastics industry. The firm's focus on delivering strategic insights, deep industry knowledge, and a broad range of consulting services makes it a valuable partner for companies seeking to make informed decisions in the plastics industry, enter new markets, or navigate the complexities of acquiring a plastics company. Their expertise in balancing plastics expertise with the cost of engagement ensures that clients receive the best possible outcomes for their investments and strategic initiatives.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Plastics Consultant or Consulting Firm
Let’s explore some of the most important factors to pay attention to during your search for the perfect plastics consultant.
Industry Expertise: Look for consultants who have a deep understanding and experience in the plastics industry, including knowledge of the latest technologies and market trends
Customized Solutions: Ensure the firm offers tailored solutions that meet your specific business needs and challenges in plastics manufacturing or distribution
Sustainability Focus: Given the increasing importance of environmental considerations, find a consultant who can provide guidance on eco-friendly practices and materials in the plastics industry
Client Portfolio: Review the consultant's past and current clients to assess their capability and success in handling projects similar to yours
Cost-Effectiveness: Compare the cost structures of different consultants to ensure you receive valuable expertise at a reasonable price
Innovation and Creativity: Choose a firm that demonstrates innovative thinking and can offer creative solutions to complex problems in the plastics sector
What Plastics Consultant or Consulting Firm Will You Choose?
Whether it’s for streamlining production processes, exploring sustainable materials, or navigating market trends, the right consultancy can provide you with the insights and strategies to stay ahead in the competitive plastics industry. As you consider your options, reflect on how each potential consultant aligns with your business goals and values, and how their expertise can propel your business forward.
