Consumer Goods

Apparel

Plastics used in clothing and footwear are more common than you imagine. Think of flexibility and breathability.

Slip and wear properties are also a factor when looking at applications such as zippers.

With our trusted suppliers, we have materials such as TPE's, TPVs and PA compounds that can be used in shoe soles, a large industry that is growing with the trend of keeping healthy.

Materials that can maintain properties at lower temperatures for ski bindings and much more.

Sustainable material options are also part of our product line.

Applications

• Zippers
• Helmet clips
• Breathable clothing
• Shoe soles
• Ski boots bindings and shell
• Shoe heels

DIY/ Home improvement

We all fancy ourselves as a DIY expert and in this day and age will give anything a go! As a result, we're increasing the demand on these types of applications. From painting to tool handles, tool boxes and power tools.

Applications

• Tool boxes
• Power Tool casing
• Buckets
• Zip ties
• Shelves
• Tool handles

Flooring

Flooring can be made from several different polymers, and can also be compounded with fibres and other fillers or specific additives to give a specific property. Polyvinylchloride (PVC) is a common material used in flooring as its durable and water resistant. Polyethylene (PE) and Polypropylene (PP) are also used for their sound proofing properties and in insulation. There are also plenty of Eco friendly options with sustainable manufacturing processes.

Applications

• Vinyl flooring
• Floor tiles
• Insulation
• Underlay

Furniture

We want the most up-to-date designs and durability. In todays environment we also want to look at sustainabile options. In this instance we would look at materials using Post Industrial Recylate (PIR) and Post Consumer Recylate (PCR).

There are lots of options for use in making furniture depending on our design needs. Polypropylene (PP) and Polyethylene (PE) are often used for outdoor furniture. While our indoor furniture needs to last longer and be more design friendly and so Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is often used for it impact properties.

Flexible and soft touch materials are also used to improve aesthetics and wear.

Applications

• Seats
• Bed springs
• Chair structural parts

Garden tools

The tools and applications used in the garden require the right properties to deal with the harsh environment. Weathering capabilities and resistance to agricultural chemicals is necessary. As well as having a pleasing aesthetic finish. We have solutions from uv resistant Polypropylene (PP) to high wear resistant PA4,6 gears for lawn mowers.

Applications

• Mowers
• Hose adaptors
• Pressure sprayer parts
• Pots
• Garden tools and storage

General

Durability and aesthetics are key in this area of the plastics industry. Materials that are easily colourable allow design flexibility. Consumers are also choosing more sustainable options of which Acumen has many offerings.

Applications

• Packaging
• Toys and games
• Aerosol valves
• Handle grips
• Stationairy

General household

The versatility of plastics means that its being used in a lot of household applications. Whether its because of its cost effectiveness versus other materials, or the range of food contact materials that we can offer. Acumen has the portfolio to match. Impact grades for housings, food grade packaging materials in Polyethylene (PE) or Polypropylene (PP), and abrasion resistant Thermoplastic Polyurethanes (TPU) for castor wheels.

We'll find the right product to fit your needs.

Applications

• Food boxes
• Vacuum cleaner parts
• Kitchen utensils
• Profiles

Kitchen Appliances

As demand for more sophisticated appliances increases, so does the need for more advanced technology.

Applications

• Gears
• Coffee machine parts
• Fridge liners
• Dishwasher parts and displays

Kitchenware

Plastics in our kitchen are everywhere due to it being lightweight and durable.

Our coffee makers and mixers all have plastics casing and components within the electrics using materials such as Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT) or Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) which has higher thermal stability. Chemical resistance is important as we regularly use cleaners to maintain germ free surfaces.

Our containers we use to take our lunch to work or the utensils that we use on the non-stick frying pan can all be made from plastic. Polyethylene (PE) and Polypropylene (PP) are often the material of choice due to being able to mould these with transparency and the moisture resistance.

Applications

• Kitchen appliance covers and cashings
• Storage containers
• Lunchboxes
• Tupperware
• Plates
• Utensils
• Cutlery

Personal Care

Plastics used in bathroom products must resist moisture and chemicals while being cost-effective and easy to process. Polyethylene (PE) and Polypropylene (PP) are widely used for bottles and tubes due to their suitability for blow-moulding. PET-G offers excellent hot/cold resistance, impact strength, and colourability, while PVC is preferred for flexible, water-resistant applications.

For devices such as hair removers, ABS and PC/ABS provide durability, dimensional stability, and colour options. TPEs and TPVs are selected for soft-touch grips and attachments.

Acumen’s broad portfolio enables tailored solutions for the diverse needs of the personal care sector.

Applications

• Toothpaste tubes
• Shampoo bottles
• Cosmetic tubes, mascara tubes, lipstick cases
• Shower curtains
• Cosmetic bags
• Perfume bottles
• Razors and epilators

Sport & Leisure

Plastics play a key role in sports and leisure for their durability, impact resistance, and versatility. Rotomoulded Polyethylene (PE) is widely used in kayaks for its toughness, light weight, and bright colour options. Polycarbonate (PC) is preferred for helmets due to its superior impact resistance.

In leisure applications, nylon is used for clips and fastenings in camping gear, while PVC provides easy-to-clean, chemically resistant seating and grips in gym equipment. Stadium seating is commonly made from PE or PP, and outdoor toys benefit from the same durable properties.

Applications

• Kayaks
• Helmets
• Cycling Helmets
• Straps and buckles on tents
• Seating in stadiums
• Handles and seating in the gym

Toys

Plastics offer durability, design freedom, and bright, attractive colours. ABS is widely used for its impact resistance and colour versatility, including pastels. Polyethylene (PE) and Polypropylene (PP) provide durability, cost-effectiveness, and easy processing.

Elastomers and Polyurethanes can be overmoulded for soft-touch features, supporting sensory development. There is also a growing focus on eco-friendly and sustainable materials, which are included in Acumen’s portfolio.

Applications

• Dice
• Part for toy vehicles including structural body parts and windows
• Blocks and bricks
• Buckets and spades
• Electronic toys (playing music and sounds).