The Society of Chemical Manufacturers and Affiliates (SOCMA) announced that an increasing number of specialty chemical manufacturers and service providers are turning to the association for networking opportunities and expert advice on international trade issues. On July 12, SOCMA’s Board of Governors approved six companies for membership, many of whom are looking to build business connections at numerous SOCMA events around the country.

“SOCMA is delighted to welcome these six companies into its ranks, which brings the total number of new members this year to 13,” said Dr. Larry Brotherton, chairman of SOCMA’s Board of Governors and president of Ortec Inc. “SOCMA offers a wide range of face-to-face events and online networking opportunities, which provides members access to thousands of individuals in hundreds of member companies.

“Additionally, SOCMA has made international trade among its top priorities for the past 90 years and is pleased companies continue to turn to us for our expertise on this issue.”

“Trade policy issues are highly important to our company and the reason why we joined SOCMA,” said Beniamino Pettenon, president of Fila Industria Chimica Spa. “The association promotes fair and favorable trade policies that allow companies to produce, import and export goods competitively. We are eager to participate in discussions on current trade policies.”

Alpha Resins, Detroit, MI – Alpha Resins mold and core chemically-bonded resin systems include unique cold-box, no-bake and heat-cured technology to provide unmatched sand and casting performance. Their Zealign bio-based cold box and no-bake resin systems can reduce hazardous air pollutants and volatile organic compounds.

Cabka North America, St. Louis, MO – Cabka North America manufactures plastic pallets from both recycled and virgin thermoplastic materials. It produces light-weight one-way pallets, durable multi-use pallets, antistatic pallets and offers its plastic pallets in many sizes and with various load capacities. CABKA plastic pallets are found in more than 40 countries worldwide.

Everchem Specialty Chemicals, Media, PA – Everchem Specialty Chemicals is a leading supplier to a broad range of markets in the specialty chemical industry and is divided into two divisions, Everchem Urethanes and Everchem Fluids. Everchem also works to help the environment by finding alternate uses for distressed chemicals such as obsolete inventory, accidental blends and side, bottom and waste streams.

Fila Industria Chimica Spa, San Martino di Lupari, Italy – Fila offers a wide range of surface-care products designed to provide high performance, while protecting the natural characteristics of marble, granite, natural stone, porcelain stoneware, terracotta and wood. Products span from pre-grouting protectors, detergents and sealants to after-care maintenance and stain removal solutions. Established in 1943, Fila is a global, eco-focused company that combines the traditional values of a family-run firm with innovative product development. Its products are recommended by more than 180 floor manufacturers throughout the world.

Foresight Science & Technology Inc, Providence, RI – Foresight Science and Technology was founded in 1980 to accelerate the movement of socially beneficial inventions from universities, research institutes and laboratories, hospitals, companies and government agencies and foundations funding R&D. Today, Foresight Science & Technology works with 500-800 customers each year, providing data for decisions and advice and recommendations on which inventions to pursue and how to get them into market profitably. The company has three primary product families: consulting, deal-making and web services actively engaged in the following industries: biomedical/biotech, agriculture/aquaculture/forestry, energy/environment, chemicals/materials, information technology/software, education, manufacturing, infrastructure, defense/security/transportation/aerospace.

West Virginia Development Office, Charleston, WV – The West Virginia Development Office is involved in economic development activity, business recruitment, expansion and promotion for the state. It also provides research and technical support, including competitiveness studies, analysis and a variety of data that will lead to job creation and retention and community improvement.

For more information on the benefits of membership, visit www.ChooseSOCMA.com.