Premix Group, an electrically conductive plastics manufacturer, has inaugurated its new manufacturing facility in Apple Creek, North Carolina, US.

The development of the facility was backed by a $79m investment from the US Department of Health and Human Services.

It is expected to strengthen the domestic supply chain for crucial diagnostics and other high-impact applications.

The facility will utilise US-sourced raw materials to produce advanced polyethylene- (PE) and polypropylene (PP)-based compounds and concentrates.

These materials are seen as key for extrusion and injection moulding applications, enabling accurate liquid level detection and providing protection against uncontrolled electrostatic discharges.

Such features are essential in diagnostics, chemicals, electronics, industrial packaging, and other high-performance applications.

The Apple Creek plant will offer the US market locally manufactured products with reduced lead times, a smaller carbon footprint, and better supply chain security.

Premix Group CEO Jaakko Aho said: "These materials enable high-precision liquid level sensing in diagnostic testing, and safer handling, transport, and storage by protecting against uncontrolled electrostatic discharges (ESD) - a critical requirement in electronics, industrial packaging, diagnostics, and other high-performance applications.

"Establishing a manufacturing presence in the United States is about more than production - it's about building resilient supply chains and trusted partnerships."

This strategic move expands Premix's global presence, building upon its foundation as a family-owned business established in Finland in 1983.

Premix has production facilities in both Finland and the US, offering material solutions designed to improve safety and operational efficiency.