From left, Keith West, Donna Erichsen, Ron Gale, Ross Gale and Irem Erdil. With its acquisitions this year, IPP now has 20 process plants in its inventory.
International Process Plants (IPP) had a transformative year in 2024, solidifying its position as the world’s largest seller of used process plants and equipment.
Over the past 12 months, the company has achieved record-breaking growth, expanded its offerings and played a pivotal role in supporting manufacturing industries worldwide. IPP’s used equipment solutions again contributed to the circular economy across the globe in 2024.
IPP’s innovative approach to asset repurposing also delivered unmatched value to its customers and reinforced its reputation as a global leader in sustainability and advancing the circular economy.
This incredible momentum can be attributed to IPP’s commitment to providing cost-effective process plants and equipment solutions for its customers in every corner of the globe. From landmark partnerships with industry giants like BASF to the acquisition of a 190-acre Novartis facility in the UK, IPP has strengthened its role as the industry’s leader delivering the industrial plants customers covet.
“This has been a monumental year for IPP,” said Ron Gale, President of International Process Plants. “Our team’s dedication and expertise have propelled us to new heights, allowing us to deliver extraordinary value to our customers while expanding into new areas of opportunity. We’re not just growing; we’re redefining what’s possible in the process manufacturing industries.”
As 2024 ends, IPP now has more than 110 complete process plants, 20 complete plant sites and over 15,000 equipment systems and major pieces of high-quality, ready-to-ship used process equipment. The company also is currently operating in 15 countries and has built its roster of client relationships to more than 160,000.
Here are some of our highlights from 2024:
Partnership with BASF for relocation of process plants
On May 6, IPP and BASF announced a partnership for IPP to market ammonia, methanol and melamine plants from BASF’s Verbund site in Ludwigshafen, Germany.
The Ludwigshafen site, a cornerstone of BASF’s global operations, is the largest integrated chemical facility in the world, making this partnership a testament to IPP’s ability to handle complex projects on a global scale.
The agreement encompasses the integrated production assets for ammonia (380,000 metric tons/year), methanol (165,000 metric tons/year) and melamine (51,000 metric tons/year). These state-of-the-art facilities are exclusively available by IPP for relocation and sale to qualified buyers seeking to minimize capex and expedite the timing of project execution.
“Our partnership with BASF showcases how we’re able to connect idled plants with organizations that can put them back to work,” said Ross Gale, Vice President of IPP. “It’s a win-win for sustainability and global production capacity.”
Learn more about this partnership
Explore IPP’s used process plants
Acquisition of Novartis UK’s 190-acre Grimsby API manufacturing plant
On January 10, Humber Industrials Ltd., an IPP affiliate, announced its agreement to acquire Novartis UK’s Grimsby site. This 190-acre facility, specializing in active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) manufacturing, has been a critical addition to IPP’s portfolio, strengthening its leadership in the pharmaceutical industry.
The Grimsby API plant is a world-class facility, featuring 500,000 square feet of buildings across three distinct process/manufacturing buildings, containing 90 reaction suites with a total capacity of 900m³. The site includes 17 centrifuges, 26 dryer systems, three milling systems, 10 solvent recovery systems, modern labs and offices, and a wastewater treatment facility. Additionally, it has comprehensive connections for steam, electricity, water, industrial gases and natural gas.
“This deal underscores IPP’s commitment to supporting the onshoring of pharmaceutical production,” said Ron Gale. “The Grimsby site is a cornerstone in our efforts to drive efficiency and innovation in pharma manufacturing.”
Learn more about this opportunity
Gale Process Solutions sells high-quality new equipment from inventory or custom fabricated.
Launch of Gale Process Solutions (GPS)
In March, IPP introduced Gale Process Solutions (GPS), a division specializing in the sale of new process equipment. GPS enables customers to save on capital costs and lead times while benefiting from IPP’s extensive industry expertise.
GPS sells from its inventory and offers custom-fabricated solutions. The company’s new alloy equipment includes reactors, heat exchangers, tanks, filters, dryers, mixers, centrifuges and filter/dryers.
The launch of GPS “signifies our commitment to innovation and differentiation from other equipment suppliers in the market,” said Keith West, global director of equipment sales at IPP Group. “We can deliver quality new process equipment — both custom and standard designs — in world-leading timeframes.”
Acquisition of GEO Specialty Chemicals’ facility in Allentown, PA
On November 22, IPP affiliate North Cedar Crest Redevelopment LLC announced it had acquired GEO Specialty Chemicals’ resin and coatings manufacturing facility, building and real estate in Allentown, Pennsylvania. This strategic purchase marked a significant expansion of IPP’s global inventory, adding another key site to its portfolio of 20 complete plant locations.
The location sits roughly equal distance between Philadelphia and the Port of Newark and is also surrounded by major highways.
“This acquisition strengthens our ability to provide ready-to-go solutions for manufacturers across the globe,” said Ron Gale. “By expanding our inventory with high-quality assets like the Allentown facility, we’re helping our customers save time and capital.”
ASME ‘R’ Stamp certification for Eastover facility
In September, IPP’s Universal Glasteel Equipment (UGE) division achieved the prestigious ASME ‘R’ Stamp certification for its Eastover, South Carolina, facility. This milestone allows UGE to perform pressure vessel alterations and repairs directly in North America, significantly reducing turnaround times for its glass-lined equipment customers.
“This certification is a game-changer for our North American clients,” said Ross Gale. “With the ability to handle alterations and repairs locally, we’re providing faster, more cost-effective solutions while maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety.”
This recognition highlights UGE’s dedication to delivering unmatched service and bolsters IPP’s overall commitment to operational excellence.
Rebranding and new website launch
In July, IPP unveiled a redesigned website and comprehensive rebranding initiative aimed at improving customer experience. The new platform incorporates cutting-edge AI tools and provides better access to every piece of equipment in IPP’s inventory, making it easier for customers to find the solutions they need.
“We’re constantly looking for ways to better serve our customers,” said Ross Gale. “This rebranding is about more than aesthetics; it’s about functionality and accessibility that align with our clients’ needs.”
The IPP team has 47 years of experience repurposing idled assets, always putting the safety and well-being of our team members, our clients and the environment at the forefront. That’s why customers come back for their process plant and equipment solutions.
Earning ISN RAVS Plus® Designation
In August, IPP was awarded the prestigious RAVS Plus® designation from the International Suppliers Network (ISN). This recognition highlights IPP’s excellence in safe and sustainable plant and equipment decommissioning, reaffirming its industry leadership.
“Our team’s commitment to safety and sustainability is second to none,” said Ron Gale. “This designation is a testament to the standards we uphold on every project.”
Expansion of Porcupine Processor technology
In April, IPP’s Gale Process Solutions (GPS) division reintroduced the proprietary Porcupine Processor technology, offering an innovative drying solution for the chemical, pharmaceutical, food and person care product industries.
Known for its exceptional durability, heat transfer, efficiency and versatility, the new Porcupine Processor is designed to handle a wide range of materials, including highly viscous substances, making it a preferred choice for complex drying applications.
“The Porcupine Processor is a perfect example of how GPS combines innovation with proven reliability to deliver unmatched performance,” said Ross Gale, President of GPS. “Its reintroduction allows us to provide customers with a powerful tool for optimizing their production processes.”
This move reinforces IPP’s commitment to offering advanced solutions that save time, reduce costs, and enhance operational efficiency for its global clients.
Learn more about new Porcupine Processors
Growth with Lomazzo facility expansion
In June, IPP expanded its European footprint with its acquisition of a Henkel detergent manufacturing plant in Lomazzo, Italy. IPP is seeking buyers for the manufacturing assets while the land is slated for redevelopment into a mixed-use residential and commercial estate. All of the equipment and machinery will be resold for reuse, while the remaining materials will be recycled.
The plant, situated on a sprawling 10.7-acre parcel between Milan and Lake Como, Italy, presents a prime opportunity for transformation into a vibrant mixed-use residential and commercial estate. Gale expressed enthusiasm for the project, noting the picturesque surroundings and promising potential of the site.
“This expansion strengthens our position in Europe and allows us to better serve our customers with quicker turnaround times and enhanced support,” said Ross Gale. “Lomazzo is a cornerstone of our European operations and a testament to IPP’s ongoing growth.”
With this development, IPP continues to provide seamless, localized service to its global client base, emphasizing speed, reliability, and innovation.
Read more about this deal
Another relocation success story
When Basic Chemical Industries (BCI) in Saudi Arabia idled two plants, IPP’s team responsibly dismantled and relocated the facilities.
When Basic Chemical Industries (BCI) in Saudi Arabia idled its 90TPD and 30TPD Chlor alkali plants, the company faced a challenge: how to responsibly have these plants dismantled, relocated and reused as BCI commissioned its new Chlor alkali plant.
That’s where IPP stepped in. The plants were relocated to a new project site in Türkiye, saving the IPP customer 70% of the cost of new equipment and engineering and cutting the project time in half.
“BCI would not hesitate to recommend IPP to any other company looking to sell any of their idled plants for responsible dismantling, relocation, and reuse of process plants. IPP’s team worked diligently in executing the project and we were pleased with their performance,” said Ala’ Al-Shaikh, CEO at BCI, highlighting IPP’s expertise in purchasing, dismantling and relocating used plants.
A year to remember and more coming in 2025
From strategic acquisitions to groundbreaking partnerships, the supply of new glass-lined and alloy equipment, and a redefined digital presence, 2024 has been a banner year for International Process Plants. With unmatched expertise, a focus on sustainability, and a commitment to innovation, IPP is well-positioned to help its customers and partners achieve their strategic initiatives into the new year and beyond.
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