Author: Ellis Fowler

Continuing on our deep dive in the Power Adhesives Commercial Team, this month we’re focusing on Charlotte Hills, our Account Manager for the USA & Strategic Accounts. Since joining the business back in early 2023, Charlotte has been an integral part of the sales team, progressing through the business into the role she’s in today. You can read more about Charlotte’s journey and her thoughts on the business below:

Background & Journey

1. How did your journey with Power Adhesives begin?

My journey began in January 2023 as a Sales Support Coordinator working with our US based customers. I was responsible for the entering of all US orders and planning and arranging the shipping of stock to the US to fulfil these orders.

2. What made you choose to stay with the company for so long?

I appreciate that the company supports progression and has continually supported me throughout my different roles. I get to work amongst lovely colleagues, we all really support each other every day.

3. How has your role evolved over the years?

I began as a Sales Support Coordinator for the US before moving into an Internal Sales role where I covered the UK, US and the Nordics. I eventually moved into my role now as an Account Manager for USA and Strategic Accounts.

4. How would you describe the company culture in three words?

Collaborative, Agile, Evolving

Innovation & Leadership

5. What’s one innovation or project you’ve worked on that you’re most proud of?

In my new role I am proud of my work on developing and extending our Private Label portfolio. Customers have been able to strengthen and widen their own product ranges by putting their trust in our products to carry their brand.

6. How does Power Adhesives stay ahead in the industry?

We spend a lot of time with our customers listening to feedback on their markets. This gives us insight into areas to expand, and ways in which our hotmelt systems can provide new solutions. We look into niche applications where our adhesive is integral in the final product, and we provide the full system with compatible applicators that work with every grade.

7. How have you seen technology or processes change since you started?

A lot has changed since I started! To name a few we have seen several new adhesives and applicators launched, a full biodegradable range, and integration of a new CRM system and data platforms that help us all day to day. We have come away from a lot of manual processes, and several areas have become significantly more streamlined.

People & Teamwork

8. What do you enjoy most about working with your team?

There is a really lovely sense of collaboration between us all. Everyone gets on so well, we all know that we can rely on each other for support whenever needed. There is no such thing as a silly question!

9. Are there any mentors or colleagues who have had a big impact on your career?

I am thankful that a lot of colleagues at Power Adhesives have had a positive impact on my career. A lot of growth came from my time in the Sales Support team and from my manager at the time, Joanna Mallinson. I was always encouraged to develop and was given training to allow me to progress to where I am now.

Future

10. Where do you see Power Adhesives heading in the next 5–10 years?

I see us growing even further into new markets and becoming a well-known name globally.

When manufacturers are looking for a bonding solution that gives a near-instant hold and offers larger surface coverage, their initial thoughts are to look for an aerosol spray solution. For years, these options have provided a convenient and, on the surface, cheap solution to their issue.

However, over the past few years, scrutiny has increased around these adhesives, due to their impact on the environment, and the hazards they pose to workers if not used correctly. As these concerns continue to grow, manufacturers are beginning to rethink what they actually need from a spray adhesive. Rather than prioritising convenience alone, there is a clear shift towards solutions that offer greater control, improved safety, and reduced environmental impact – without compromising on performance.

This is where sprayable hot melt systems, such as the Tecbond spray range, are changing the way people approach their bonding tasks.

The drawback of aerosol spray adhesives

• Health and Safety Risks – Although there is a major focus on the respiratory problems inhaling solvents can cause, this isn’t the only health and safety issue around solvent-based adhesive systems. Many people can experience skin and eye irritation when exposed to airborne solvents. They’re also highly flammable, and can combust when exposed to direct sunlight or increased room temperatures, so careful control of storage and working environment is required.
• Environmental Impact – The volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) present in solvents are a huge contributor to air pollution, with evidence of both water contamination and soil pollution in scenarios where solvent-based products aren’t disposed of correctly.
• Cost Inefficiencies – Although the initial cost outlay seems minimal when assessed per can of adhesive, most jobs will take several cans of adhesive to complete, which soon adds up, along with the associated disposal costs. Alongside this, many solvent-based adhesives are colourless when applied, leading to overspray and waste product.
• Inconsistent application – Coupled with the overspray, many spray cans will experience changes in pressure and output dependant on how the adhesive is applied. This can lead to heavy patches and uneven coatings.

What are manufacturers looking for in an alternative?

The three main components most manufacturers are now looking for in an adhesive system are safety, speed, and bond strength. A solvent/VOC free solution is a great thing, but it’s difficult to adopt a different technology if it doesn’t meet the manufacturers time requirements, or bond the same substrates that a current or established solution does.

Moreover, if a solution can speed up processes, while providing the same bonding performance, it’s easier to integrate into the production cycle.

The Tecbond Spray System

Part of the Power Adhesives range of solutions, the Tecbond spray system utilises compressed air, in conjunction with hot melt technology to provide a more user-friendly, eco-conscious and faster alternative to spray cans.

Unlike a regular hot melt tool that dispenses adhesive in a bead, Tec spray tools such as the Tec 6300 and Tec 7300 create a swirl-like pattern that offers greater surface coverage and visibility, without minimising bonding quality.

The system is already widely used in the product assembly and construction industry, where it can be found as a component in mattresses, cushioned furniture, mobility equipment and vehicle interiors to name a few. In recent years, the system has been trialled in the high-pressure laminate industry when adding outer layers to worktops and indoor furnishings.

The key advantages over aerosols

1. Safer for operators

As hot melts are 100% solid material and are VOC-free, there’s are minimal health & safety risks involved. The lack of harmful propellants means operators do not need any respiratory PPE when using the system, nor do businesses need any air extraction equipment to keep their workers safe.

2. More environmentally responsible

Outside of user safety, the absence of VOCs means there’s no air pollution created from the bonding process. Additionally, there is no waste product either, so there’s a much lower risk of any soil or water pollution that’s usually associated with spray can disposal.

3. Cost-Effectiveness

Unlike their solvent-based counterparts, Tecbond hot melts are visible when sprayed, allowing users to accurately control not only the amount of adhesive they’re applying, but where they’re applying it. This greatly reduces overspray and keeps the cost-per-bond down. Despite the initial outlay for equipment and setup, the long-term cost saving when comparing hot melt slugs to aerosol cans is significant.

4. Overall Performance

Despite using less adhesive, Tecbond hot melts will match and even outperform the best solvent-based spray adhesives on almost any common building material. Not only this, but their speed of set is what really sets hot melts apart from other adhesives, particularly solvent-based types that require a “flashing-off” period of several hours. In comparison, Tecbond hot melts will provide a near-instant bond and set within minutes.

The next step in performance bonding

Aerosol spray adhesives are slowly becoming an outdated solution. Although convenient and easy to just grab-and-go, the issues around their safety and waste can not be overlooked by modern manufacturing businesses.

The Tecbond spray system is more than just another alternative, it’s the next step in a more eco-conscious look at bonding. By eliminating the need for propellants, reducing waste, and giving operators greater control, they address many of the long-standing challenges associated with traditional spray cans—without sacrificing performance.

For more information on the Tecbond spray system, contact our sales team or check out our sprayable solutions here.

Next up in our People of Power series we have Carrie Price, one of our Sales Support Coordinators responsible for the UK and bulk adhesive products.

Carrie has been at the business for three years now and in that time, has held several positions within the company, displaying a keen product knowledge and versatility which has been vital in helping the business grow. Read our full interview with her below:

Background & Journey

1.  How did your journey with Power Adhesives begin?

I first Joined Power Adhesives Ltd in 2023 under the role of Sales Support Coordinator, later taking on the role of Lab Technician which has helped to gain further insight into the business and technical aspects of our adhesive, and in 2024 I moved back to the Sales team bringing that knowledge with me.

2. What made you choose to stay with the company for so long?

Ultimately, the company culture and the lovely colleagues that I’ve worked alongside.

3. How has your role evolved over the years?

Moving from Sales, to the Lab, and training in different areas over the years I’ve been at the company have really shaped my role as a whole. I currently manage UK customers and our distribution of specialist HB Fuller products.

4. How would you describe the company culture in three words?

Welcoming, Development, Wellbeing.

Innovation & Leadership

5. What’s one innovation or project you’ve worked on that you’re most proud of?

While in the Lab, working toward developing new adhesive formulations is among one of my proudest moments with the company, alongside successful onboarding of new distributors within the Sales team.

6. How does Power Adhesives stay ahead in the industry?

By continuing to strive for new innovations in hot melt adhesive technology, and maintaining a well-respected brand.

7. How have you seen technology or processes change since you started?

I’ve seen the release of the 3500 applicators, along with the biodegradable range, along with many process changes to improve the business function and day to day.

People & Teamwork

8. What do you enjoy most about working with your team?

I love that we all get along really well, no one sits back to let others take more of the workload. We have a strong sense of support and collaboration as a team, communicate openly, and keep each other motivated.

9. Are there any mentors or colleagues who have had a big impact on your career?

Yes, I’ve been fortunate to have mentors and colleagues at Power Adhesives and previous employers who have challenged me to grow beyond my comfort zone. Their guidance has played a key role in shaping both my overall skillset & confidence.

Future

10. Where do you see Power Adhesives heading in the next 5–10 years?

I can see the company continuing to grow and expand further into specialist applications and new industries, especially as businesses are looking to move away from adhesive that requires PPE. I would love to see the biodegradable adhesive business flourish even further going forward too.

With the spotlight firmly on the life cycle of product packaging and transportation packaging, it is more important than ever that businesses start looking at how they can make sure their own packaging meets the upcoming specifications to avoid being sanctioned.

So what is PPWR?

PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation) is a new law that aims to reduce packaging waste within the EU. The main point of the initiative is that from 2030, all packaging (both product packaging and transport packaging) must be designed for recycling.

Under this law, any component used in a product’s packaging will need to be proven to be either recyclable or compostable. This includes adhesives. Even if the adhesive makes up only a small part of the packaging, can cause contamination in recycling streams and significantly weaken recyclability claims.

Prior to this, the first set of PPWR regulations come into effect from mid-2027, stating that certain packaging formats like fruit stickers and tea bags must be compostable in industrial composting facilities.

This has the potential to be a major problem in the label and envelope manufacturing industries. Pressure-sensitive adhesives are an integral part of their design and under this new law, normal options would result in a non-conformity.

Failure to comply with PPWR regulations could result in sanctions ranging from fines to refusal of product acceptance when shipping to other countries. To find out more about PPWR, check out our PPWR Q&A.

The biodegradable solution

Earlier this year, we expanded our range of biodegradable hot melts for the packaging industry. One of these new additions was Tecbond 902B-PL, a pressure-sensitive adhesive with a low viscosity aimed at manufacturers running high-speed production lines that need a multi-purpose biodegradable alternative.

Its low viscosity, coupled with high tack, means that smaller amounts of adhesive can be applied, without the risk of creep or adhesive failure, cutting down on production costs. Alongside this, Tecbond 902B-PL has good heat resistance when compared to other PSAs, so is suitable for use in warmer environments.

The formulation is also indirect food contact approved, making it ideal for not only food packaging, but also labelling on certain fruits, mainly those with a wax covering or waxy exterior.

Most notably, Tecbond 902B-PL, along with every other Tecbond biodegradable grade, is EN13432 compliant, meaning it classed as “compostable” in industrial composting conditions. To meet the standard, the adhesive needs to biodegrade by at least 90% within six months under these conditions, and disintegrate to a point no there are no visible fragments after 12 weeks. All of this means that when the used packaging enters the correct waste streams, the adhesive will break down at the same rate and under the same conditions as other certified compostable materials in industrial facilities.

Tecond 902B-PL has also achieved CHIRA assessment approval, confirming that it is benign within paper recycling streams and has no adverse effects on the pulping or recovery process.

How it works

The Tecbond biodegradable range has been formulated to begin biodegrading in naturally occurring environmental conditions, requiring only UV light, oxygen and heat to begin the biodegradation process. These elements initiate the breakdown of long-chain polymers and from this point onwards, only the continued presence of oxygen is needed to continue the breakdown.

After the long-chain polymers have been broken down, the matter is able to be consumed by micro-organisms in the same way natural waste is, eventually leaving behind non-harmful and non-impactful products, with no microplastics.

With the first set of PPWR regulations coming into effect in mid-2027, it’s more important than ever that manufacturers both understand and explore what options they have for making their packaging fully recyclable or compostable.

Tecbond biodegradable adhesives provide peace of mind by ensuring no compromises in bond strength, while adhering to upcoming legislations so you don’t incur any penalties or loss of business.

To find out more about our range of biodegradable formulations, visit our biodegradable page here: Tecbond Biodegradable.

In our March edition of the the People of Power series, we spoke to Michael Brady, our Business Development Manager for new markets. In this interview, Mike reflected on his two stints with Power Adhesives, and how he feels the business has evolved over time.

Background & Journey

1. How did your journey with Power Adhesives begin?

My journey began in September 2014 with Packaging Aids Ltd (Sister Company), where I worked as a Sales Administrator. I then moved to Power Adhesives, starting in the Warehouse in a Goods In role before joining the Sales Team as a Sales Administrator and supporting external visits. I left the business in 2019 and rejoined in 2023 as Business Development Manager

2. What made you choose to stay with the company for so long?

The opportunity for growth within the business, which is a big part of the reason I returned after my time away. The company values internal promotion and invests in training and developing team members who understand its culture. Many of our managers and directors started in junior roles and have progressed through the company over time.

3. How has your role evolved over the years?

Working across a range of departments has given me valuable insight into how the business operates and has supported me in my current role as Business Development Manager – New Markets (Global).

From order processing, picking and packing, and supporting production lines, to delivering on-site demonstrations and presentations to some of the world’s largest businesses, each experience has helped build a strong understanding of both our products and our customers’ needs.

4. How would you describe the company culture in three words?

Innovative, Reliable and Growth

Innovation & Leadership

5. What’s one innovation or project you’ve worked on that you’re most proud of?

I’m most proud of supporting the commercial team in launching both our biodegradable and bulk adhesives. My contributions to the product range have been key in creating new opportunities and driving growth for the business.

6. How does Power Adhesives stay ahead in the industry?

We are constantly talking to our customers to understand how we can improve their processes and support them in the market. These insights provide valuable feedback and guidance for identifying the next products to focus on in innovation and R&D.

7. How have you seen technology or processes change since you started?

When I returned in 2023, I felt a new energy within the business, particularly around process and technology improvements. This includes our recent introduction of HubSpot, which has improved our customer service, streamlined communication, and improved overall organisation with our customers.

People & Teamwork

8. What do you enjoy most about working with your team?

The Commercial team is full of passionate people who want to help and get involved whenever they can. Everyone cares about their work, which isn’t always easy to find in other companies.

9. Are there any mentors or colleagues who have had a big impact on your career?

I’ve been incredibly lucky to work under a wide range of managers, directors, and team members, and I’ve learnt different things from all of them. However, my biggest mentor would be my dad — an incredibly hard worker who always went above and beyond where he could, doing everything he did for our family.

Future

10. Where do you see Power Adhesives heading in the next 5–10 years?

I see the business growing, with the next generation taking on more responsibility and driving it to new heights

Sprayable hot melts have been around for nearly 20 years, and in that time, they’ve established themselves as a key component in the manufacture of many everyday products.

In the furniture industry for example, as production demands have increased and designs have evolved, manufacturers have turned to these advanced adhesive technologies to improve efficiency, reduce waste and enhance product quality. From foam bonding to upholstery fixing, Tecbond sprayable hot melts play a vital role in every stage of production.

In this blog, we’ll explore some of the key applications where Tecbond sprayable hot melts have made a significant difference.

Foam-to-Foam bonding

In any piece of furniture that includes cushioning, there will be some form of high-density foam or foam structure designed to provide comfort and support, with enough integrity to hold its shape after a period of use.

These foam pieces can be difficult to bond due to their porous makeup and resistance to compression. In many circumstances, manufacturers would have used water-based adhesives due to the very strong bonds they deliver once fully cured. However, water-based adhesives introduce some unwanted risks that are difficult to tackle. Alongside their very long curing time, if the water doesn’t evaporate properly, there’s a risk of mould growth which can then spread to other parts of the furniture.

Tecbond hot melts on the other hand are not only compromised of 100% solid content, with no evaporation or curing taking place, but they also have a high instant tack and fast setting speeds. Once an initial bond is made, it takes only a few minutes for the bond to be strong enough to enable movement through the production line, speeding up the overall production process.

Foam-to-Structure bonding

Following foam-to-foam bonding, many manufacturers will use the same hot melts to bond the finished cushioning to the structural component that makes up the frame of the furniture. This includes seat bottoms, back supports, and even backing boards for decorative pieces or acoustic paneling.

As with the foam-to-foam bonds, Tecbond spray adhesive will form a final bond much faster than a water or solvent-based alternative. Using the same adhesive for all stages of the process also cuts down on production costs and materials, without compromising on performance.

Alongside wood, Tecbond spray adhesives will also effectively bond foam pieces to almost any building material including metal and most plastics (including polypropylene and polyethylene).

Upholstery Fabrics

Due to their excellent coverage and zero risk of mould growth, hot melts continue to be a common alternative for bonding upholstery fabrics to the finished foam pieces. They also act as a temporary bond on wooden framing prior to stapling or pinning.

Their high initial tack means that manufacturers can rely on a strong temporary bond while they prepare to finish securing the fabric with the necessary fastener.

Our sprayable hot melts have been used to bond fabrics in sofas, armchairs, office seating, and even wheelchairs.

Decorative Laminates

Outside of traditional veneer coverings, a lot of furniture manufacturers have turned to high pressure laminates (HPLs) to provide an easier and more robust alternative for decorative surface covering over unsightly wood substrates such as MDF, particleboard and plywood.

Primarily bonded with a solvent-based contact adhesive, this method isn’t cost-effective as the bonding process requires both surfaces to be covered to achieve a strong bond. With solvent-based adhesives being more than 60% solvent in most cases, the low initial cost of the adhesive is negated by frequency of purchase.

Alongside this, there is a significant disposal cost that comes with the empty canisters. As they contain traces of hazardous material, they require special disposal methods to avoid air pollution and human inhalation, which comes at a cost.

Tecbond spray adhesives are the ideal alternative thanks to their VOC-free composition and high tack, which reduces the amount of adhesive needed to form a strong bond. In many circumstances, users would apply the hot melt to the wooden surface only and then apply the HPL. As 100% of the product is used in the application process, there’s no waste product and no associated disposal costs.

The Overarching Benefits

Tecbond sprayable hot melts offer a more cost-effective, user-friendly and agile alternative to other commonly used products on the market.

Non-toxic and easy to handle they can be used without the need for respiratory PPE or air extraction equipment in factories, while their rapid setting speeds when compared to solvent and water-based options mean products move through the production line faster, increasing production efficiency.

To find out more about the Tecbond spray adhesive range, take a look at our adhesives page that will allow you to sort by your requirements.