CHICAGO—Specialty chemical producer Hallstar Co. has opened a state-of-the-art facility in Suzhou, China.
The Hallstar New Material Science & Technology (Suzhou) Company Ltd. will serve as a research and development and technical support base in the Asia Pacific region, according to a news release.
Hallstar reported that in the near future, sales, service and logistics support also will operate out of the facility.
“Hallstar's major investment in this facility will create an innovation ecosystem crucial to our success. The facility, and the larger technology center, of which it is a part, provides geographic proximity to our customers and as well as access to the latest advances in science and technology in the region,” John Paro, chairman, president and CEO of Hallstar, said in a statement.
Hallstar New Material Science & Technology (Suzhou) Company Ltd. will conduct advanced research for applications in two core markets, Hallstar said. For the beauty and personal care market, this will include sun protection, anti-aging, whitening and new ingredients that mimic the natural functions of the skin. For the industrial additives market, this will include polymer plasticizing, surface enhancement and processing improvements.
A significant portion of the work done at the facility will be based on green and renewable chemistry, Hallstar reported.
In addition, as Hallstar continues to grow across Asia Pacific, it expects the new facility to strengthen its market position further and enable it to better serve the region. Hallstar said that the localization and expansion of its research capabilities is reinforces its commitment to its global growth strategy.