The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) and the Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) have finalized an agreement and, effective January 1, 2026, have come together as a unified organization representing the entire plastics supply chain.
In recent weeks, both Executive Committees voted to approve the final agreement, formally endorsing a recommendation developed by a joint task group charged with evaluating a unified future for the two organizations. The plan brings SPE employees onto the staff of PLASTICS, creates a collaborative governance framework, and establishes a timeline for the next six months to put in place a long-term structure that achieves the shared goals of SPE and PLASTICS. 2026 will be a period of integration as these two storied associations align, work closely together, and maximize value for their members.
âToday marks a significant milestone and an important step forward for the entire plastics industry,â said PLASTICS President and CEO Matt Seaholm. âBy formally aligning PLASTICS and SPE as a unified organization, we are combining deep technical expertise with strong industry leadership to better serve our members and strengthen the plastics value chain. This decision is the result of months of collaboration and underscores our shared commitment to innovation, workforce development, and ensuring plastics continue to deliver meaningful solutions.â
âSPE is excited and proud to announce our formal integration with the Plastics Industry Association,â added Patrick Farrey, Executive Vice President of SPE and Chief Integration Officer. âFor SPE members, this marks a new chapter of opportunity. Our technical expertise and professional development programs will now reach a broader audience, strengthened by the resources, advocacy, and global platform PLASTICS provides. We are âBetter Togetherâ and are well-equipped to continue supporting plastics professionals while advancing the industry as a whole.â
Consistent with the original agreement reached in September:
- SPE will become a division of PLASTICS, governed by an Executive Committee modeled after SPEâs current leadership structure.
- SPE members will retain their membership status, benefits, and professional identity within the new division.
- Patrick Farrey will join PLASTICS as Executive Vice President of SPE and Chief Integration Officer, leading the transition and ensuring continuity for SPE programs, members, and stakeholders.