Sanko Gosei Acquires Molder Cumberland of Opelika

 

Sanko Gosei Technologies USA, the U.S. subsidiary of Japan-based Sanko Gosei Ltd., has completed the acquisition of Cumberland Plastic Systems (CPS), a well-known injection molding manufacturer located in Opelika, Alabama.

For the plastics industry, this transaction marks the ongoing consolidation between automotive and original equipment manufacturers, as global molders seek to expand their U.S. manufacturing footprint, increase large-tonnage capacity, and deepen relationships with Tier 1 and Tier 2 customers in key manufacturing regions, including the Southeast.

Injection molding equipment

Cumberland Plastics Systems (CPS) was founded in 2006 by a group of investors led by John Chuplis, a veteran of the plastics industry. Starting with just two machines and 20,000 square feet of operational space, CPS has grown into a business operating more than 40 injection molding machines across facilities exceeding 200,000 square feet. As a Tier 2 supplier, CPS serves the automotive industry as well as OEM customers in the powersports, lawn and garden equipment, and power tools sectors. The Opelika facility employs approximately 135 people.

Sanko Gosei Ltd., established in Japan in 1940, is a publicly traded global manufacturer specializing in precision plastic components and advanced injection molding technologies. Its U.S. subsidiary, STU, has been operating in Fort Wayne, Indiana, since 2014 and currently employs 430 people.

The expansion of the Opelika plant has increased Sanko Gosei’s domestic production capacity at its second U.S. manufacturing base and strengthened its ability to support customers in the southeastern United States. Building on CPS’s established manufacturing capabilities, workforce, and customer relationships, the company plans to make further investments in large-tonnage injection molding equipment and new production opportunities.

“This is a great match for Cumberland, its customers, and employees,” said John Chuplis, former owner and president of Cumberland Plastic Systems. “We welcome Sanko Gosei to Alabama and are pleased to support their long-term growth plans.” During the ownership transition, Chuplis will continue to provide support to the business.

Opelika Mayor Eddie Smith also welcomed the deal.

Smith said, “We are delighted to welcome Sanko Gosei Technologies USA to Opelika. For many years, John Chuplis and the Cumberland Plastics team have been valued partners in our community. Through this acquisition by Sanko Gosei, the Opelika facility will expand its manufacturing capabilities in the automotive industry and pursue new production opportunities. We look forward to supporting the new team and appreciate their continued investment in our community.”

Laurence Tabner, President and CEO of Sanko Gosei Technologies USA, Inc., stated that this acquisition marks a key milestone in the company’s North American ambitions.

“We believe this acquisition is a significant step in the long-term development of Sanko Gosei’s North American business,” said Tabner. “Cumberland has established a robust manufacturing operation, an experienced workforce, strong customer relationships, and a reputation for delivering high-quality products.”

“Our intention is to build on these strengths by investing in additional manufacturing capacity and creating new opportunities for growth. With our operations in Fort Wayne and now in Opelika, we are better positioned to support existing customers and pursue new business across the United States,” he added.

Tabner said, “We are particularly pleased to welcome Cumberland employees into the Sanko Gosei organization and look forward to working together to establish a successful long-term strategic future for the Opelika operations.”

Expand capacity

Following the merger, the two companies now have a combined fleet of 90 injection molding machines ranging from 100 to 3,500 tons, creating opportunities for technical collaboration and enhanced manufacturing capabilities across both sites.

MBS Advisors, a Massachusetts-based investment banking firm headquartered in Florence and specializing in the plastics sector, initiated this transaction on behalf of Sanko Gosei Technologies USA, Inc.

Sanko Gosei Technologies USA, Inc. is the U.S. manufacturing subsidiary of Sanko Gosei Ltd., a global manufacturer of precision injection-molded plastic components for automotive and industrial customers. The company operates North American manufacturing facilities in Fort Wayne, Indiana; Opelika, Alabama; and Celaya, Mexico, alongside production bases in 11 other countries.