HISTORY

Background

The principals of AGS Technology, Christopher C. Racelis, A. George Staniulis, and Virgis Gudeika have a combined total of over 80 years experience in recycled plastics. Working in the compounding industry, they saw that many injection molders were unfamiliar with recycled plastic compounds and were hesitant in using them for their molding operations, despite their lower cost. Mr. Racelis, Mr. Staniulis, and Mr. Gudeika recognized that an opportunity existed to apply their compounding expertise and create a sustainable competitive advantage in the injection molding industry. Accordingly, in 1995, they founded AGS Technology Inc. to be the low-cost producer of high-quality molded components from proprietary recycled plastics.

Development

From the very beginning, General Motors Corporation took a decided interest in the cost savings that could be realized by purchasing automotive components made from recycled plastics. As a measure of its commitment, GM mentored AGS Technology in the QS-9000 certification process and awarded it substantial business. As its automotive business grew and developed, the company outgrew its facility in Schaumburg, Illinois, which housed both its compounding and molding operations. Thus, in 1999, all raw material preparation functions were transferred to a separate facility in nearby Elk Grove Village, Illinois, while the molding operation has remained in Schaumburg.

Continued Growth

In addition to the automotive industry, the company has expanded its technology to serve the construction, consumer products, and waste water treatment industries as well. The company’s proprietary materials are recognized as meeting the properties of the corresponding virgin resin and have been approved by major OEM’s. Because these materials cost substantially less than virgin, AGS is able to provide its customers significant cost savings on the resultant molded components. This low-cost advantage, coupled with superb quality production, has enabled the company to increase its customer base and thrive even during challenging economic conditions. As evidence of its commitment to continuous improvement and the highest quality standards, AGS received its ISO/TS 16949 certification in 2007.