Trelleborg Acquires Aero-Plastics to Boost Aerospace Division

Trelleborg Sealing Solutions has acquired Aero-Plastics Inc., an 80-year-old specialist manufacturer of aircraft interior components based in Renton, WA. The deal, valued at approximately 150 million SEK ($15.3 million), was finalized on April 10.

Aero-Plastics enhances Trelleborg's aerospace portfolio with its expertise in precision injection molding, thermoforming, and machining of high-performance polymers. The specialization in window reveal and blind assemblies includes solutions featuring assembly, engraving, and specialized painted coatings.

"This acquisition strengthens our position in thermoplastics and interiors while generating favorable synergies," said Gordon Roper, president, Trelleborg Sealing Solutions Business Unit, Global Aerospace. "Aero-Plastics' focus on long-term customer relationships aligns perfectly with our business principles."

Strategic aerospace investments

The acquisition marks Trelleborg's third major aerospace sector investment in recent months. Earlier in 2024, the company acquired Magee Plastics, another US-based thermoplastic solutions provider. Additionally, Trelleborg said it is developing a new state-of-the-art production facility in Morocco, scheduled to open later this year.

Industry analysts note this acquisition comes amid significant growth in the global aerospace sector, which is expected to maintain its upward trajectory for several years. Integration has already begun, with Aero-Plastics employees joining Trelleborg during a ceremony at the Renton facility in April, the company noted.

Earlier this year, Trelleborg also finalized the acquisition of CRC Distribution, a Robertsdale, AL–based distributor of polymer seals and services for hydraulics, hydropower, oil and gas, and fluid power applications.

"CRC serves small hydraulic cylinder original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and maintenance repair operations (MROs)," Heather Castleman, business unit president, Industrial Americas, said in a statement at the time. "While we previously relied on distributors to address these market needs, we can now directly serve these hydraulic cylinder OEM and MRO customers."

Strategic European expansion

In a separate transaction, Trelleborg Industrial Solutions has acquired Sico Gesellschaft für Siliconverarbeitung mbH and its Czech joint venture, Sico Silicone, strengthening its European silicone manufacturing capabilities. The deal includes full ownership of Sico Silicone; Trelleborg previously held a 50% stake since 2016.

The Germany-based Sico, with facilities in Witten and Velké Poříčí, Czech Republic, reported sales of approximately SEK 280 million ($28.5 million) in 2024. The company specializes in engineered silicone products, including tubes, hoses, and profiles for various sectors such as food and beverage, healthcare, automotive, and construction.

"This acquisition enhances our European silicone manufacturing footprint and broadens our high-quality solutions portfolio," said Jean Paul Mindermann, president of Trelleborg Industrial Solutions. The strategic move aligns with Trelleborg's growth strategy of strengthening its position in complementary market segments.

The integration of Sico's operations, particularly its expertise in extruded and molded silicone rubber products, is expected to create new opportunities in key industrial markets. The company said the transaction has been completed, and operations are already being consolidated.