Construction Complete on Intraplás’ First U.S. Manufacturing Facility
From Portugal to Ohio: How Collaboration Delivered Intraplás’ First U.S. Manufacturing Facility
When Intraplás decided to expand into the United States, the company took a major step in advancing its global growth strategy. As a leader in sustainable, food-grade plastic extrusion, Intraplás required more than just a building—they needed a partner to navigate an unfamiliar construction process, deliver a complex manufacturing environment, and help establish a strong operational foothold in North America.
Miller Valentine Construction recently completed Intraplás’ first U.S. manufacturing facility, converting a 100,000-square-foot warehouse in Van Wert, Ohio, into a fully operational production space in just nine months.
Building Confidence in a New Market
For Intraplás Project Manager Jobson Pires, the project represented both opportunity and uncertainty. “This was our first North American plant,” Pires said. “When it comes to a new project in the United States, I was completely new to the process. Miller Valentine gave us all the support we needed.” That support began long before construction, with the MV team helping to evaluate potential buildings, identify risks, and guide early decisions.
“Miller Valentine helped us identify potential risks early and gave us the confidence to move forward,” Pires explained. “They provided clear guidance through the drawing and permitting phases and supported us every step of the way. It was a valuable learning experience, and today I feel much more confident navigating projects in the U.S.” The existing building required extensive upgrades to support advanced extrusion and thermoforming equipment. Miller Valentine executed a full interior fit-out, including chilled water systems, reinforced concrete equipment foundations, structural steel support systems, and upgraded electrical and HVAC infrastructure.
Coordination with equipment deliveries from Europe required flexibility and constant communication. Equipment arrived in phases, and construction sequencing was adjusted to accommodate shipments and installation timelines. “We faced some setbacks, but we overcame them very quickly because the Intraplás team and the Miller Valentine team worked together during implementation,” Pires said. “There was transparency in the relationship from the beginning.” That transparency proved to be a differentiator. “Miller Valentine took the time to understand our requirements. That made us feel very comfortable.”
Despite the complexity, the project was completed on schedule and is now fully operational, supporting Intraplás’ growing presence in North America. Beyond construction, Miller Valentine provided guidance throughout the process, connecting Intraplás with local resources and helping them navigate the unique requirements of building in the United States.
A Foundation for Future Growth
The Van Wert facility now allows Intraplás to expand operations and better serve its North American customers. The company plans to run multiple production shifts and continue strengthening its presence throughout the region. For Intraplás, the project represented more than a construction milestone—it launched a new chapter.
“Miller Valentine made us feel comfortable to advance,” Pires said. “If we have another project, we know we have a partner we can count on.”
Through collaboration, transparency, and a shared commitment to success, the team delivered exactly what Intraplás needed—not just a building, but a strong foundation for long-term growth.
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