Avient Expands in Latin America with New PFAS-Free Packaging Solution

Specialty materials company Avient has launched its Hiformer™ non-PFAS process aid with integrated antioxidant in Latin America, targeting regional manufacturers of film packaging. This strategic move addresses tightening regulatory restrictions on PFAS chemicals and represents a deliberate expansion of the company's portfolio beyond its core North American markets. The launch raises questions about its potential to meaningfully accelerate growth in the region.

The company's latest operational results present a nuanced picture. While profitability metrics showed strength, top-line performance was softer than anticipated.
* Adjusted Earnings Per Share (EPS): Increased by 7.7% year-over-year in the third quarter. Excluding currency effects, the growth was 4.5%.
* Revenue: Came in at $807 million, which fell short of consensus analyst estimates.
* Adjusted EBITDA Margin: Improved by 60 basis points to 16.5%, driven by disciplined cost management and a strategic shift toward higher-margin segments, including healthcare and defense.
* Debt Reduction: Management highlighted a $100 million reduction in net debt during the quarter. The firm has set a target to lower its total debt by $150 million throughout fiscal 2025.

Strategic Product Launch

The introduction of Hiformer is aimed specifically at producers of polyethylene and polypropylene films who require non-fluorinated additives. The liquid formulation allows for precise dosing, typically between 0.1% and 0.5%. In the extrusion process, it reduces friction, melt fracture, and die build-up. By offering this product, Avient is tackling two key challenges for local processors simultaneously: meeting evolving regulatory demands and solving practical production inefficiencies.

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Technology and Regional Growth Strategy

The Hiformer technology platform merges non-PFAS processing aids with antioxidants and holds FDA compliance, enhancing its appeal for regional film producers. In the near term, the Latin American expansion alone was insufficient to offset broader revenue declines. Looking ahead, however, this product offering is positioned to bolster Avient's presence in high-growth industrial segments outside North America and simplify the supply chain for manufacturers of complex films.

The company's forward-looking strategy is clear. Avient intends to support its financial results by focusing on debt reduction—targeting that $150 million decrease in 2025—while banking on demand growth in the healthcare and defense sectors and the market adoption of Hiformer in Latin America.