Chemiplas was founded in December 1976 and has remained under the private control of its New Zealand based shareholders. Chemiplas' four founding shareholders (pictured right) continue to maintain their investment in the Chemiplas Group and play active roles in corporate governance and sales functions within the company. Through a widespread network of contacts and a refined appreciation of the chemical and plastics industries, the shareholders and staff have progressively developed the Chemiplas Group to the point where it is now a multi-million dollar secure and profitable enterprise. Initially, Chemiplas Agencies Limited served as the principal trading entity for the New Zealand operations. Chemiplas NZ was incorporated in March 1987 to become the primary New Zealand resident trading company. Thereafter, Chemiplas Agencies Ltd took on the role of a holding company for the New Zealand and Australian companies. Chemiplas NZ employs some 51 staff. Chemiplas Australia employs some 23 staff.