Milliken Opens First Chemical Plant in Singapore to Expand Microencapsulation Technology!

Milliken & Company, a leading global innovator in chemicals and materials, has officially opened its first chemical manufacturing facility in Singapore. This strategic investment marks a significant milestone for the company as it aims to address the growing demand for advanced material solutions in Asia, especially in key industries like consumer goods, healthcare, and electronics. The new facility will not only bolster Milliken’s operations in the region but also serve as a center of excellence for its cutting-edge microencapsulation technology.

The inauguration of this state-of-the-art chemical plant is a critical part of Milliken’s broader growth strategy in Asia. As one of the largest hubs for global manufacturing and innovation, Singapore offers a strategic location for the company to tap into the fast-growing demand for sustainable and high-performance materials. Milliken’s decision to establish its first chemical plant in Singapore reflects the company’s commitment to expanding its global footprint and enhancing its ability to meet customer needs with speed and flexibility.

Cindy Boiter, EVP and President of Milliken’s Chemical Business, highlighted that the opening of this new facility marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the company’s journey across Asia. She stated, “Opening this new facility represents the beginning of the next chapter of our journey in Asia.” The plant will allow Milliken to better serve its growing customer base across the region while improving operational efficiency.

Milliken’s new Singapore facility is particularly notable for its advanced capabilities in microencapsulation, a technology that is used to encapsulate ingredients in a protective coating to improve stability, control release, and enhance the performance of various products. The company has made significant strides in expanding its microencapsulation portfolio through its acquisition of Encapsys in 2021, a global leader in microencapsulation with over 70 years of patented technologies.

With the new facility, Milliken aims to offer even more flexibility and speed in addressing customer needs, particularly in industries that require high-performance and precision materials, such as consumer goods, healthcare, and automotive. The addition of advanced microencapsulation technology will further enhance the company’s ability to provide innovative material solutions for a wide range of applications, from fragrances and pharmaceuticals to agricultural chemicals and beyond.

The opening of the new plant is not just an investment in infrastructure; it’s also a statement of Milliken’s long-term commitment to the Asian market. Ed Zhao, SVP and Asia Managing Director at Milliken, emphasized that the new facility was a direct response to the increasing demand for advanced chemical solutions in the region. “This new facility is a testament to our dedication to meet growing demand in this dynamic region,” Zhao said.

The Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) has also welcomed Milliken’s investment. Kelly Lai, Vice President of Chemicals and Materials at EDB, expressed support for the company’s decision to open its plant in Singapore, citing the advanced manufacturing capabilities of the facility and the benefits it will bring to the local chemical ecosystem. “The new plant’s advanced manufacturing capabilities will strengthen our chemicals ecosystem and meet growing customer needs in areas such as consumer goods and healthcare,” said Lai. The EDB continues to collaborate with international companies like Milliken to foster innovation and drive the creation of cutting-edge material solutions.

With its new facility in Singapore, Milliken is not only strengthening its position in the Asia-Pacific region but also continuing to innovate in material science and sustainability. The company’s ongoing investments in technologies like microencapsulation will allow it to meet the evolving needs of its customers while advancing its commitment to environmental stewardship and operational excellence. This move solidifies Milliken’s status as a key player in the global materials industry, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of providing innovative solutions for the world’s most pressing challenges.