Company Overview
HarperLove, established in 1978, stands as a pivotal entity in the chemical manufacturing industry, particularly focusing on performance additives, specialty adhesives, and wet-strength resins for the corrugated packaging sector. Operating as a privately-held company, HarperLove is synonymous with delivering comprehensive technical services along with its product offerings. The firm's approach is oriented towards sustaining environmental practices by reducing waste and improving the operational efficiency of its clients.
Location and Size
HarperLove is headquartered at 11101 Westlake Drive, Charlotte, NC 28273, U.S. The company employs a workforce of between 51-200 employees, establishing a significant online presence with 1,527 followers on LinkedIn.
Management and Leadership
At the helm of HarperLove's leadership is Kenny Messer, the Chief Executive Officer, who brings over 15 years of senior leadership experience in the chemical industry. His background is fortified with roles at prominent companies such as Arkema and Milliken Chemical, complemented by a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Chemistry from Western Carolina University and business studies from Duke University's Fuqua School of Business.
The management team also includes Heather Hutchison, serving as the Director of Human Resources, and Augusto Cavallini as Vice President of International Sales. The executive leadership is focused on steering the company's strategic growth within the industry under the ownership of HBM Holdings, which took over HarperLove in January 2020.
Business Operations
HarperLove emphasizes adept development and manufacturing of adhesives and additives specifically tailored for the corrugated board industry. The company's solutions are reliant on extensive technical services that amplify operational and financial performance for its clientele, aligning with HarperLove's commitment to sustainability and efficiency.
Product and Service Offering
The diverse product portfolio of HarperLove includes BoardLok®, designed to boost corrugator speeds and improve bonding capabilities over various substrate grades. The company's array of services, including technical applications support, control systems audits, and process and personnel training, underscores its Total Cost of Ownership value proposition.
Market and Industry Position
Positioned as a leader in adhesive manufacturing, HarperLove is strategically placed to drive packaging performance on a global scale through robust adhesive solutions. Historical investments, such as those from Graycliff Partners in 2014, underscore its market viability and growth potential. The company fosters a culture centered on teamwork, sustainability, and innovation.
Further information can be accessed via HarperLove's [official website](http://www.harperlove.com) and their LinkedIn [profile](https://www.linkedin.com/company/harperlove.com).
Competitor Profiling
Understanding HarperLove's stance in the competitive landscape entails examining key competitors within the adhesive industry. Herein, we profile major contenders and their market strategies.
Key Competitors
Palmetto Adhesives
Located in Greenville, SC, Palmetto Adhesives has broadened its operations across North America with sites in NJ, CA, and PA. The company specializes in both water-based and hot melt adhesives, serving industries including packaging, paper converting, and non-woven materials. Founded in 1995 by Tom and Tim Wilson, Palmetto emphasizes a customer-first service approach, having grown into a nationally recognized supplier.
Master Bond
Based in Hackensack, NJ, Master Bond is celebrated for its advanced adhesive technologies. With a portfolio exceeding 3,000 grades of adhesives, the company specializes in epoxies, silicones, and UV-curable products. Master Bond’s offerings are noted for superior performance and compliance with rigorous industrial standards.
American Chemical
A respected player in chemical manufacturing with a specialty focus, American Chemical operates globally despite being headquartered in Montevideo, Uruguay. The company has a prominent market presence across North America and other regions.
ICL Group
Operating as a global specialty minerals company, ICL Group delivers sustainable solutions aimed at agricultural and industrial sectors. Its robust R&D and logistical capabilities reinforce its competitive edge, particularly in the specialty chemicals market.
Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile (SQM)
As a formidable competitor in the non-metallic mining sector, SQM focuses on minerals such as lithium and iodine crucial for industrial applications. Its extensive operations span several continents, coupled with strategic partnerships and a comprehensive distribution network.
Strategic Competitor Insights
In a competitive environment with firms like Palmetto Adhesives and Master Bond, HarperLove must continue to emphasize product diversity and rigorous quality standards. Leveraging sustainability and customer-centric strategies offers avenues for HarperLove to expand its market presence alongside industry heavyweights such as ICL and SQM. Through these strategic lenses, HarperLove can further refine its product offerings and extend its operational reach.
