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National Post

Vybond Opens New Corporate Headquarters in Franklin, Kentucky, Honoring a Legacy of Innovation and Community Partnership

Article content FRANKLIN, Ky. — Vybond Group, Inc., a leader in specialty tape manufacturing, officially opened its new corporate headquarters in Franklin, Kentucky, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony that celebrated both a new beginning and a return to its roots. Local leaders, community members, and company executives gathered at the historic manufacturing site, which has produced tape products since 1957. Article content This isn't just about business growth, it's about honoring the people who've made this place special. Article content The newly named Vybond headquarters is more than just an administrative shift—it's a reaffirmation of the company's long-standing connection to Simpson County. 'While we're welcoming a new name, we're also welcoming back old friends,' said Steve Thurmond, President of the Franklin-Simpson Chamber of Commerce, noting that many Vybond leaders, including CEO Mike Hill and COO John Baker, began their Vybond careers at this very site. Article content In his remarks, Hill shared the emotional significance of the moment. 'This is a homecoming. I started here in 1997, and I now have the honor of leading Vybond as it embarks on an exciting new chapter. We are investing over $20 million into new equipment and facility upgrades here in Franklin—this isn't just about business growth, it's about honoring the people who've made this place special.' Article content The plant, relocated initially from Chicago in 1957, has evolved into one of the region's longest-operating industrial facilities. Vybond's continued success is built on deep community ties, multigenerational employee loyalty, and a culture of operational excellence. 'We're on our fourth generation of workers in some families,' said Hill. 'We want to be the premier employer in the region and continue providing opportunities for decades to come.' Article content John Baker, who was named plant manager almost 20 years ago, echoed those sentiments. 'This building has stood for nearly 70 years because of its people. This place helped feed families, raise kids, and support our community. It's more than a factory—it's a part of our lives.' Article content The ceremony included recognition of local leaders and stakeholders who played a pivotal role in making Vybond's headquarters relocation possible, including the Franklin-Simpson Industrial Authority, city and county officials, and long-time community supporters. Mayor Larry Dixon and Simpson County Judge-Executive Mason Barnes both praised the company's commitment to local investment and job creation. Article content 'This facility has offered generations of families the chance to thrive,' said Mayor Dixon. 'We are proud that Vybond chose to continue that legacy here in Franklin.' Article content Judge-Executive Barnes highlighted the cultural and economic impact of Vybond's investment, saying, 'The $20 million investment is impressive, but the investment in people is even more important. It's that commitment that will carry this plant into the next 70 years.' Article content Following the formal remarks, the executive team participated in a ceremonial ribbon cutting, surrounded by hundreds of employees, guests, and community supporters. Article content Vybond operates three facilities across the U.S., with Franklin serving as the company's flagship location. With its expanded leadership team, renewed investment, and deep Kentucky roots, Vybond is poised to lead the specialty tapes industry into a new era of performance, innovation, and partnership. Article content About Vybond Article content Vybond is a leading manufacturer of high-performance pressure-sensitive adhesive tapes and specialty materials. Headquartered in Franklin, Kentucky, with facilities in New York and Rhode Island, Vybond serves a wide range of industries—from construction and medical to aerospace and consumer goods. Now operating independently under Nautic Partners, Vybond is accelerating innovation and expanding global partnerships with a customer-first approach. Article content Article content Article content Article content Article content Contacts Article content