Success of Ashland's health care plastics seminar spawns multi-city tour

DUBLIN, Ohio – Based on the enthusiastic response from customers attending Ashland Distribution’s first health care plastics seminar, the commercial unit of Ashland Inc. (NYSE: ASH) will soon embark on a multi-city tour to bring the latest information in health care plastics technology to manufacturers serving this thriving industry.

With more than 25 years of medical market plastics expertise, Ashland Distribution brought together specialists from SABIC, Eastman and Alpha Gary to share some of the latest innovations and medical trends for customers in the Southern California area. “The response from customers was overwhelming, so we are rolling this program out to other areas of the country,” said Michael Gilbert, vice president, Plastics, Ashland Distribution.

“I thought it was a very interesting seminar. We always need to stay on top of new materials available out there, especially for the medical industry,” said John Eller, molding project engineering manager, Masimo Corp. Ashland Distribution, long recognized for managing the largest plastics medical product mix in North America, spoke to customers about supporting their operations in Europe and China as well.

“Our portfolio of medical-grade products is global in scope,” added Gilbert. “We have operations, warehouses and technical support in strategic global positions to serve customers around the world. This capability is vital in the medical field where grade and consistency of product is paramount.”

“I was most impressed with Ashland’s interest and intention to work closer with the OEMs directly, and I have no doubt it will be beneficial for all parties,” said Frank Roberson, director, sales and marketing for Marman Industries Inc., who also attended the Southern California meeting.

Upcoming Ashland Distribution health care seminars will be held in the following locations: Chicago, Jan. 20; Boston, March 10; Minneapolis, May 12; Philadelphia, July 14; and Dallas on Sept. 8. To obtain more information about a seminar in your area, please contact your Ashland Distribution representative.

Ashland Distribution is a leading plastics and chemicals distributor in North America. A commercial unit of Ashland Inc., it distributes chemicals, plastics and composite raw materials in North America, as well as plastics in Europe and China. Ashland Distribution also provides environmental services in North America, including hazardous and nonhazardous waste collection, recovery, recycling and disposal services.

Ashland Inc. (NYSE: ASH) provides specialty chemical products, services and solutions for many of the world’s most essential industries. Serving customers in more than 100 countries, it operates through five commercial units: Ashland Aqualon Functional Ingredients, Ashland Hercules Water Technologies, Ashland Performance Materials, Ashland Consumer Markets (Valvoline) and Ashland Distribution. To learn more about Ashland, visit www.ashland.com.

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