PLASTICS and SPE will merge by end-2025, uniting technical expertise, advocacy, and professional development for the global Plastics Industry.
The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) and the Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) have announced plans to merge, creating a single, comprehensive organization that will represent the full spectrum of the plastics industry. This new entity will encompass everyone from technical experts and engineers to corporate leaders, covering every stage from the molecular level to the marketplace. The merger aims to consolidate the strengths of both organizations, offering a unified platform to better serve members and advance the global plastics sector.
Last week, both organizations’ Boards of Directors approved the recommendation of a dedicated task group that had explored the feasibility and potential benefits of such a merger. Operating under the initiative called “Better Together,” the task group highlighted how the consolidation would strengthen the industry, enhance professional development opportunities, and create a more influential platform for advocacy and engagement.
Matt Seaholm, President and CEO of PLASTICS, called the announcement “a historic day for the plastics industry.” He emphasized that PLASTICS has long been a leader in areas such as sustainability, market intelligence, advocacy, and the NPE trade show. SPE, on the other hand, has a strong legacy in technical education, scientific research, and professional development. “By bringing our organizations together, we’re building a stronger, more connected platform to serve our members and advance the industry,” Seaholm noted.
Patrick Farrey, CEO of SPE, expressed enthusiasm about the merger, framing it as a significant opportunity for SPE members. He stated that SPE’s technical expertise and professional development programs would now have greater reach, bolstered by the extensive resources and global influence of PLASTICS. Farrey highlighted that this combination ensures ongoing support for plastics professionals while simultaneously advancing the industry as a whole.
The merger agreement is scheduled to be finalized by the end of 2025. Following this, SPE will operate as a division of PLASTICS, with full operational integration expected to begin on January 1, 2026. Under the terms of the merger, SPE will retain its distinct membership identity, benefits, and programs within the larger organization, overseen by an Executive Committee modeled on SPE’s existing leadership structure. Patrick Farrey will take on the role of Executive Vice President of SPE and Chief Integration Officer within PLASTICS, guiding the transition and maintaining continuity for SPE’s programs and stakeholders.
Jamie Clark, Chairman of PLASTICS Board of Directors, described the merger as “a transformational moment,” noting that combining the strengths of both organizations will create a powerful engine for workforce development, advocacy, and international engagement. Similarly, Scott Eastman, Ph.D., Chairman of SPE Board of Directors, emphasized that SPE’s core mission of educating, connecting, and empowering professionals will be amplified through this merger, enhancing the visibility and reputation of plastics professionals worldwide.
This strategic alignment of PLASTICS and SPE reflects a forward-looking vision for the industry, fostering collaboration, expanding professional opportunities, and uniting resources to create a stronger, more resilient, and globally impactful organization.
