Revolution acquires Island Plastics

Revolution Sustainable Solutions LLC, Little Rock, Arkansas, has acquired Island Plastics LLC, a Flint, Michigan-based company that produces 100 percent postconsumer recycled linear low-density and low-density polyethylene (LLDPE, LDPE) film-grade resin.

Revolution says the aim of its purchase is to bolster its commitment to sustainable loop solutions and expand its recycling capabilities, particularly in the production of clear food-grade postconsumer resin (PCR) for flexible packaging and other applications.

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Island Plastics operates a mechanical recycling facility dedicated to producing LLDPE and LDPE PCR. Revolution says Island Plastics is the largest film recycling plant in Michigan and has been instrumental in advancing plastic recycling technologies while maintaining stringent quality standards. Revolution adds that Island Plastics’ expertise aligns seamlessly with Revolution’s mission to create and champion sustainable loop solutions that preserve the environment.

In October 2023, Revolution received a letter of no objection (LNO) from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its proprietary mechanical recycling method to produce clear food-grade PCR-LLDPE resin from stretch film. The company says this approval allows the use of up to 100 percent recycled content in food contact applications across a broad range of food types and conditions.

“The partnership represents a significant step forward in our mission to redefine possible for sustainable plastic solutions,” Revolution President and CEO Scott Coleman says. “By integrating Island Plastics’ recycling capabilities and high-quality PCR products, we are poised to enhance our sustainable ecosystem and further contribute to a circular economy. We plan to leverage our recent FDA no objection letter to expand Island Plastics’ PCR offerings to include clear food-grade PCR.”

Revolution says it also expects its acquisition to enhance its capacity to deliver products across various markets, including agriculture, facilities maintenance and consumer goods. The company aims to increase the use of certified recycled content in its products, thereby reducing reliance on virgin materials.

Island Plastics is Revolution’s third acquisition of this year. In late January, it purchased Canada-based agricultural film recycler PolyAg Recycling Ltd., then announced its acquisition of Hudson, Wisconsin-based agricultural and industrial film producer Norflex Inc. in early July.