Celebrating its 40th anniversary, Polifoam Ltd. stands as a pioneer in foam manufacturing and the first Japanese-Hungarian joint venture ever established.
Founded in 1984, Polifoam introduced polyethylene foam to Eastern Europe, quickly becoming an industry leader.
“During the past decades, Polifoam became synonymous with foam products, especially sports and hiking mats, in Hungary,” Managing Director Sandor Pluhar said.
Polifoam’s story began when the CEO of Pannonplast, one of Europe’s major plastics converters, visited Japan and discovered an innovative technology not yet available in Eastern Europe: foamed plastic production. During the following negotiations with Furukawa Electric, they planted the seeds for a long-term collaboration. As a result, the Japanese giant not only provided the cutting-edge technology with the necessary know-how and machinery, but also became one of the five founding owners of Polifoam. In 1984, Polifoam became the first Japanese-Hungarian joint venture.
Since 2006, Polifoam has been part of the Trocellen Group, a European leader in foam-based solutions that is also fully owned by the Furukawa Electric Group. “Furukawa’s involvement remains integral,” Pluhar said.
Polifoam’s commitment to innovation and sustainability has kept it at the forefront of the industry. As an International Sustainability and Carbon Certification Plus-certified company, it leads in recycling and bio-based polymers, offering durable, lightweight and water-repellent foam solutions for sports, packaging and industrial applications.
“Our portfolio, including more and more recycled materials, helps us reduce carbon dioxide emissions while delivering high-quality products,” Pluhar said. “From yoga mats to industrial packaging, our products cover every aspect of daily life.”
Our portfolio, including more and more recycled materials, helps us reduce carbon dioxide emissions while delivering high-quality products.
Sandor Pluhar, Managing Director of Polifoam
The company’s success also stems from its dedicated workforce. “Many employees have been here for decades with us,” Pluhar said. “We celebrate their milestones at our annual Samurai Event. Their institutional knowledge and expertise is invaluable.”
Shaping the future with innovative and sustainable foam solutions, Polifoam leads the way in advanced materials that enhance safety, comfort and sustainability across diverse applications. Beyond business success, it highlights the strength of Hungarian-Japanese relations.
“Our collaboration has been fostering innovation and strengthening ties between our countries,” Pluhar said. “Together, we are building a more sustainable future while honoring the values and traditions that brought us together.”
