Courted by other out-of-state communities, Akron Polymer Systems made the decision to stay in Akron and be part of the growing Bio Medical Corridor being developed. The corridor is a 500-plus acre area of land designated by Mayor Plusquellic in 2006 to create a strategic location where centers of knowledge, research, development and innovation can flourish. The Bio Medical Corridor is also an area of technology-based economic development opportunities for Akron.

"Today’s groundbreaking by Akron Polymer Systems, in the heart of the ‘corridor’, takes us one more step toward advancing the regional and global impact we can have on the world," said Plusquellic. "We are thrilled they chose to remain in Akron."

APS has quickly become a nationally recognized business by expanding the application range of polymers and creating advanced materials that enable new technologies such as flexible displays and electronics. As a result, APS had outgrown its space on Gilchrist Road and was approached by communities in South Carolina and within Ohio about relocating. The company determined that staying in Ohio was critical to its continued growth because of Ohio’s polymer research talent pool and dedication to innovation.

"Being focused on innovation, it is important that we have access to the top people in polymer science and engineering," said Frank Harris, president and CEO of APS, and "being located in Ohio, with its leading universities and support for innovation, has been key to our success." Additionally, remaining in Akron was important, Harris said, to build upon APS’ relationship with The University of Akron (UA).

APS has an agreement with the City of Akron to lease roughly .88 acres comprised of the 44, 56, and 62 allotments on North Summit Street including a building on 62 North Summit Street to construct a new office, lab and production facility. APS has secured a low interest loan from the Ohio Department of Development to finance the construction.

The company plans to transfer at least 12 employees to the new facility when it opens in 2010.  APS also plans to hire 41 new employees within five years. 

Akron Polymer Systems will redevelop the existing building at 62 North Summit and construct a 9,700 square foot expansion. Campbell Construction designed the expansion and is managing the construction project. The City will provide two dozen parking spaces for the new facility. The estimated value of the completed project will be over $3 million.

About Akron Polymer Systems - APS was established in 2002, by Dr. Frank W. Harris, UA Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Polymer Science, and Dr. Stephen Z. D. Cheng, Dean of the UA College of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering. Akron Polymer Systems is a materials development firm focused on creating new and novel materials for the next generation of information display, aerospace, alternative energy, and biomedical devices.   APS works both collaboratively with commercial partners and institutions to co-develop new polymer materials and develops materials through independent research efforts.                   

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