The automotive industry has grown in North Alabama, with the additions of Mazda Toyota Manufacturing in 2021, Polaris Manufacturing in 2016 and Toyota Motor Manufacturing in 2003. As a result, the landscape of automotive suppliers in the northern part of the state also has expanded.
For example, Asahi Kasei Plastics North America Inc. is a leading manufacturer of innovative, high-performance, engineered polymers and chemically coupled polypropylene resins, which operates a manufacturing facility in Athens, near Huntsville. The company is part of the global Asahi Kasei Group based in Tokyo, which also has a manufacturing facility in Fowlerville, Michigan.
In November 2025, the Alabama Automotive Manufacturers Association (AAMA) recognized Asahi Kasei with one of its annual supplier awards. Asahi Kasei was named the 2025 Supplier of the Year in the Small Manufacturer category. Recognized for its outstanding performance in 2025, the company was highlighted for its contributions to the state’s automotive industry and its manufacturing excellence.
“Our Alabama location supports the company’s strategy to expand its presence in the southern United States and provide close, responsive support to customers in the region,” says Phani Nagaraj, president, Asahi Kasei Plastics North America Inc. “Alabama’s strong manufacturing base — particularly in the automotive and industrial sectors — and its skilled workforce make it an ideal location to support customers and long-term growth.”
Deep Automotive Experience
Asahi Kasei entered the North American resin compounding market through acquisition in 2000. However, the company has “a much longer history as a global chemicals manufacturer, with decades of experience in petrochemicals, polymer development and resin compounding,” Nagaraj says.
More than 350 staff members are currently employed in North America, providing materials used across the automotive industry, including interior, exterior, under-the-hood and electrical applications, among others, Nagaraj says. At the Alabama facility, the company specifically provides coloring, compounding and sales of performance plastics.
Asahi Kasei’s clients include a wide range of automotive customers across the entire supply chain, from original equipment manufacturers to Tier 1 suppliers.
When asked why his organization might have been selected for the AAMA award, Nagaraj says he believes the recognition reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to quality, reliability and customer partnership.
“The company focuses on delivering consistent product performance, technical expertise and responsive service, while working closely with customers to support evolving market needs,” he says. “In addition, APNA places a strong emphasis on its employees through internal engagement and recognition programs. Our people and community play a significant role in the company’s success, which is reflected in its multiple recognitions as one of Plastics News’ Best Places to Work.”
Planning for the Future
Looking ahead, Asahi Kasei does not have specific infrastructure changes in the works, but the company will “continue to invest in its people, processes and capabilities to support customers in North America,” Nagaraj says. “While specific plans vary by market and customer need, the company remains focused on operational excellence, employee development and long-term growth, including continued support for its Alabama operations.”
Nancy Mann Jackson is a Madison-based freelance contributor to Business Alabama.
This article appears in the March 2026 issue of Business Alabama.
