La PORTE, Texas–Kuraray will be honored as the 2013 Salute to Industry honoree by the La Porte-Bayshore Chamber of Commerce in September. Kuraray’s two plants in the Bayshore area, SEPTON and EVAL, along with the under-construction Poval plant, have been active in the La Porte and Bayshore community.
“We’re thrilled to have Kuraray as our Salute to Industry honoree due to their longtime support of the local community over the years,” said Jeff Martin, chamber Chairman of the Board. “We appreciate their efforts to be a good neighbor and we recognize their many achievements.”
The award will be presented October 1st at the Salute to Industry Banquet at The Monument Inn. A Salute to Industry golf tournament is scheduled for Sept. 30.
Kuraray has been involved in the La Porte-Bayshore community for over 25 years. Kuraray’s latest capital investment in the La Porte area is the Kuraray Poval plant (polyvinyl alcohol), a green field plant. Awarded the Texas TEF fund from the State of Texas Governor’s Office, the new Kuraray Poval plant in La Porte, Texas, will employ over 100 people and bring millions of dollars in capital investment to the area. Slated for completion in late 2014, the plant will begin commercial operations in early 2015 and is expected to produce 40,000 tons/year in the first phase.
George Avdey, President and CEO of Kuraray America, Inc. commented on the choice for Houston, “Kuraray felt this was an ideal place to establish a beachhead for further expansions. The economic climate, the skilled workforce and the cooperative environment made the Houston area stand out.”
Following business expansion in Japan, Singapore, and Europe (Germany), the expansion in Houston will secure a fourth advantageously situated production base for the group that will be able to meet demands for markets in North America and burgeoning Central and South America.
About the Salute to Industry
The Salute to Industry was founded in 1974 as a way to recognize the industries and their employees who contribute to the economic well-being of the community. Previous winners include NOLTEX (2011) and Air Products (2012). Criteria for Industry of the Year are the following: must be a chamber member and must be involved in the community, chamber and industry groups. In addition, significant internal event, such as an anniversary, expansion, or other milestone or awards are also considered.
About Kuraray
Kuraray is a globally recognized specialty chemical company that creates quality, sustainable solutions that strengthen products from a diverse range of industries.
Kuraray is committed to our customers and is driven to develop products that ensure quality, value while differentiating our customer from competition. Kuraray has offices located around the world, with the corporate headquarters located in Tokyo, Japan. www.kuraray.us.com.
For Media Inquiries, please contact Deborah Kleinen (Deborah.kleinen@kuraray.com).