PLASTICS and SPE Announce Historic Merger

With their merger, PLASTICS and SPE combine complementary strengths in advocacy, research, and education to better serve the plastics industry.

The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) and the Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) revealed plans to merge, creating a unified organization representing the entire plastics value chain. Both Boards of Directors approved the decision, describing it as a transformational moment for the industry.

You can also read: SPE Joins “Molding Workforce Inclusion” Program as Partner.

Under the banner Better Together, PLASTICS brings leadership in sustainability, market insights, advocacy, and its role as organizer of the NPE trade show. Meanwhile, SPE contributes its legacy in technical education, scientific research, and professional development. The two organizations will build a stronger, more connected platform that advances innovation, workforce development, and global competitiveness.

“This is a historic day for the plastics industry,” said Matt Seaholm, President and CEO of PLASTICS. “By bringing our organizations together, we are creating a stronger, more connected platform to serve our members and advance the industry.”

Patrick Farrey, CEO of SPE, added, “For SPE members, this is about opportunity. Our technical expertise and professional development programs will now reach more people, supported by the resources and global platform PLASTICS brings.”

Timeline and Structure

The organizations plan to finalize the merger by the end of 2025 and begin full operational integration on January 1, 2026. At that point, SPE will become a division of PLASTICS, governed by an Executive Committee modeled after its current structure. SPE members will retain their status, benefits, and identity within the new division.

In addition, Patrick Farrey will serve as Executive Vice President of SPE and Chief Integration Officer at PLASTICS. In this role, he will lead the transition and ensure continuity for SPE’s programs and stakeholders.

A Stronger Platform

Industry leaders emphasized the merger’s complementary strengths. On one hand, PLASTICS will provide global reach, advocacy, and resources. On the other hand, SPE will contribute technical expertise, education, and professional networks. As a result, the organizations will drive sustainability initiatives, advance recycling technologies, and promote circularity across the plastics value chain.

Jamie Clark, Chairman of the PLASTICS Board, called the decision “a powerful engine for workforce development, advocacy, and global engagement.” Likewise, Scott Eastman, Chairman of the SPE Board, said the merger will “amplify our mission and elevate the reputation of plastics professionals worldwide.”

Historic Foundations

Founded in 1937, PLASTICS has long served as the leading voice of the U.S. plastics industry, representing a $551 billion sector and more than one million workers. Through its policy advocacy, educational initiatives, and the NPE trade show, the association has consistently advanced competitiveness and circularity.

By contrast, SPE, founded in 1942, has established itself as a global leader in plastics science and engineering. With over 85,000 members in 84 countries, SPE has promoted innovation through technical journals, professional training, and international conferences. Throughout its history, its mission has been to connect and empower plastics professionals worldwide.

Ultimately, together, PLASTICS and SPE will shape the next era of plastics innovation and strengthen the reputation of the industry across the globe.

For more information please visit Better Together website.