PLASKOLITE has grown from producing household items to manufacturing a wide range of thermoplastics serving multiple industries, including signage. Photo courtesy PLASKOLITE via LinkedIn
PLASKOLITE has announced two separate developments in press releases issued in March.
75th-anniversary celebrations
PLASKOLITE, a global manufacturer of engineering thermoplastics, celebrates its 75th anniversary in 2025. Founded in 1950 by U.S. Army veteran Donald G. Dunn, the company once produced household items such as drinking straws and hula-hoops. Now, it manufactures a wide range of thermoplastics serving multiple industries, including signage.
The company will mark the milestone with employee recognition programs, family events, and community engagement initiatives throughout the year. PLASKOLITE employees will collectively volunteer 7,500 hours to local charities as part of the celebrations.
“As we look back on the journey from a handful of employees on City Park Avenue in Columbus to nearly 2,000 worldwide, one thing has remained constant: our people,” said John Szlag, retiring Chief Commercial Officer.
PLASKOLITE President and CEO Michael Gilbert said, “Looking ahead, our ability to lead the industry for another 75 years will be driven by the strength of our people and the commitment to building lasting relationships with our customers.”
Leadership transition
PLASKOLITE has appointed Jud Gibson as chief commercial officer, effective March 3, 2025. Photo courtesy PLASKOLITE
PLASKOLITE has appointed Jud Gibson as chief commercial officer, effective March 3, 2025. Gibson, who brings more than 25 years of experience in the plastics industry, previously led global sales, marketing, and customer development for DSM Engineering Materials.
“Jud has a special talent for building customer-focused teams that drive innovation, secure partnerships, and result in profitable growth,” said Gilbert.
Gibson succeeded Szlag, who retired after nearly 40 years with the company. Szlag has played a key role in PLASKOLITE’s commercial growth and customer relations.
“John has graciously agreed to help us with this transition,” said Gilbert. “He has played a critical role in our success over the past four decades, and he will be sorely missed.”
Gibson received his bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Cincinnati and completed the Executive Development Program at the Wharton School of Business, University of Pennsylvania.
