MRPC Buys ETI Inc.

MRPC, a provider of medical device components and assemblies, has acquired ETI Inc., a Largo, Fla.-based firm with expertise in liquid silicone rubber molding.

This is the first acquisition for Butler, Wis.-based MRPC since the 1980s and, according to company leadership, marks a “significant growth stage” for the 91-year-old firm. This acquisition will allow MRPC to continue to meet increased demand for silicone molding, two-material molding, micromolding, medical rubber and thermoplastic molding.

Founded in 1987, ETI specializes in custom liquid injection molding (LIM), works with many companies in the medical industry and complements MRPC’s current offerings. MRPC employs more than 115 people in Wisconsin and ETI employs nearly 25 in Florida. With the addition of the ETI team, MRPC has added 50 highly skilled jobs in the past year, primarily in engineering and manufacturing. The company anticipates adding an additional 10-20 positions in the next two years.

“ETI adds tremendous value to MRPC, starting with the people, who we are excited to add to our expert team,” said Greg Riemer, president of MRPC. “We are also thrilled to bring our customers even more horsepower in liquid silicone molding, while providing the security and convenience of multi-location production facilities.”

ETI will function as a division of MRPC and both companies’ facilities will continue full operation, serving as northern and southern U.S. hubs. The multi-location production capabilities bring a built-in redundancy to MRPC’s manufacturing footprint, enabling business continuity for its customers. Both locations will house engineering and manufacturing services for global customers. Clean rooms and production equipment allow for production of medical components, implantables and subassemblies for healthcare and life-sciences companies.

“We are thrilled to be a part of this growing enterprise, knowing that it brings enhanced capabilities and versatility to our customers,” said ETI General Manager Jim Smith, who will remain as general manager of the Florida location. “The combination of MRPC and ETI, with our shared commitment to excellence and complementary skill sets, creates a strategic advantage and elevates the national profile of both companies.”

MRPC has made several million dollars worth of investments to its facilities in recent years, including the addition of multiple clean rooms. Its most recent clean room, class 100,000, opened this year. Combined, MRPC and ETI have five total clean rooms, from Class 10,000 to 100,000.