Plastics Manufacturing and Southeast Louisiana
Plastics are essential to modern life, used in packaging, healthcare, construction, automotive parts, electronics and industrial equipment. Louisiana is one of the most important plastics-producing states in the country, thanks to its abundant natural gas resources, petrochemical infrastructure and access to the Mississippi River and Gulf ports. The region surrounding Metairie hosts polymer producers, product manufacturers and innovative companies that transform plastic resins into useful products.
Jefferson Parish also has a special place in plastics history. Modular plastic conveyor belting, now used in factories around the world, was developed by a company based just minutes from Metairie, demonstrating the area's capacity for innovation.
How We Selected These Companies
This list includes resin producers, plastic product manufacturers and packaging companies that serve or influence the Metairie economy. We considered innovation, regional impact, product quality and sustainability initiatives.
The Top 10 Plastic Manufacturers Connected to Metairie
1. Intralox
Intralox, part of the Laitram family of companies in Jefferson Parish, invented modular plastic conveyor belting. Its products are used in food processing, packaging and logistics worldwide, making it one of the most influential plastics manufacturers in the region.
2. Laitram
Laitram, the parent organization of Intralox, combines engineering expertise with plastics and machinery manufacturing. Its innovation culture has created products and jobs that benefit the entire community.
3. Dow
Dow produces polyethylene and other plastics at Louisiana facilities. Its resins are used in packaging, consumer goods and infrastructure products around the world.
4. ExxonMobil Chemical
ExxonMobil's Baton Rouge operations produce polymers used in packaging, automotive components and consumer products. The company is a major contributor to Louisiana's plastics output.
5. Formosa Plastics
Formosa Plastics operates a large facility near Baton Rouge producing PVC and related materials used in pipes, construction products and more.
6. Westlake
Westlake manufactures polyethylene, PVC and building products at Louisiana facilities. Its materials are found in pipes, siding, windows and packaging.
7. Shell Chemicals
Shell's chemical operations in the region produce building blocks used to make plastics and other materials, supporting a broad downstream manufacturing chain.
8. Berry Global
Berry Global is one of the world's largest plastic packaging manufacturers, producing containers, films and closures used by food, beverage and healthcare companies, including businesses throughout the Gulf South.
9. Sealed Air
Sealed Air develops protective and food packaging solutions. Its products help seafood processors and food distributors in the region keep products fresh and safe.
10. Local Injection Molding and Fabrication Shops
Independent plastics fabricators in Jefferson Parish and the New Orleans area provide custom molding, machining and fabrication for marine, industrial and commercial customers, offering quick turnaround and specialized parts.
Why Louisiana Leads in Plastics
Louisiana's natural gas resources provide feedstocks for producing polymers. Its extensive pipeline network, river terminals and deepwater ports enable efficient transport to domestic and international markets. A skilled workforce with experience in chemical and industrial operations supports large-scale production. These advantages attract significant investment and support a broad manufacturing ecosystem.
Applications Across Industries
In southeast Louisiana, plastics serve critical roles in seafood processing, healthcare, construction, marine industries and logistics. Conveyor systems move products efficiently through food plants. PVC piping supports water and drainage infrastructure. Protective packaging helps local food companies ship products nationwide. Marine businesses use durable plastics resistant to saltwater and corrosion.
Sustainability and Recycling
The plastics industry faces increasing pressure to reduce waste and environmental impacts. Companies are investing in recycled content, recyclable designs and advanced recycling technologies. Lightweight packaging reduces transportation emissions. Durable products such as conveyor belts and pipes can provide long service lives, reducing replacement needs. Consumers and businesses in Metairie can support sustainability by participating in recycling programs and choosing products designed for reuse or recycling.
Industry Trends
Manufacturers are adopting automation and data analytics to improve quality and efficiency. Bio-based and recycled plastics are gaining market share. Food safety requirements are driving innovation in hygienic designs. Supply chain resilience has become a priority, encouraging regional sourcing and diversified production.
Choosing a Plastics Manufacturing Partner
Businesses should evaluate material expertise, design support, quality certifications, production capacity and lead times. Ask about sustainability practices and recycled material options. For custom parts, consider prototyping capabilities and engineering collaboration.
Workforce and Career Opportunities
Plastics manufacturing offers rewarding careers for Metairie residents, including process technicians, mold makers, quality inspectors, engineers and maintenance specialists. Local technical colleges provide training in process technology, industrial maintenance and machining that align with industry needs. Many manufacturers offer apprenticeships and tuition support. As automation grows, workers with skills in programming, data analysis and equipment troubleshooting are especially valuable, creating strong long-term career paths in the region.
Final Thoughts
Plastics manufacturing is a vital part of the economy surrounding Metairie, from world-changing innovations developed in Jefferson Parish to large-scale polymer production along the river. These companies support jobs, innovation and essential products used globally. As sustainability and technology continue to reshape the industry, the region is well positioned to lead.