Masterlink Solutions Innovating Masterbatch Procurement

The masterbatch industry is at a pivotal stage, with a growing emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility. Customers now demand not only competitive pricing but also convenience and exceptional service. However, the wider plastics industry has faced challenges in attracting top talent, often losing out to other sectors perceived as more popular or less politicised. Procurement departments, in particular, have been impacted by staff shortages, leading to inefficiencies and missed opportunities for cost savings. Buyers frequently resort to placing repeat orders without a thorough analysis of spending or supplier competitiveness.

Drawing inspiration from the transformative impact of comparison platforms such as Comparethemarket.com on the insurance industry, Masterlink Solutions Ltd was established in 2024. The company was founded by Nick Barber and Chris Bird, who bring over 35 years of experience across multiple market sectors. Their mission is to revolutionise the UK’s masterbatch industry by offering a streamlined, efficient, and customer-focused approach to procurement.

Masterlink Solutions has formed partnerships with six UK-based masterbatch manufacturers, enabling the company to supply a full range of commodity, additive, and colour masterbatches. This comprehensive offering positions Masterlink as a leading supplier capable of meeting diverse customer requirements.

Company Director Chris Bird remarks: “Our first year of business has been one of rapid growth, driven by our commitment to providing exceptional products and outstanding customer service. We cater to trade moulders as well as medium and large organisations, offering technical expertise and a robust network of trusted partners. By simplifying procurement processes, we enable our clients to improve operational efficiency and product quality. Our approach is setting new standards in masterbatch distribution, delivering cost savings, reliability, and consistent quality.”

Over the past year, Masterlink has successfully matched over 1,000 colours, achieving an average cost reduction of more than 15%. A notable project involved rematching 112 colours for a customer who was managing relationships with five different suppliers. This complex arrangement resulted in inconsistent lead times, varying quality, and logistical inefficiencies.

Masterlink consolidated and simplified the supply chain, reducing the colour palette to 81 by eliminating near-duplicates and working closely with supply partners to match colours in quantities ranging from 25kg to 10,000kg. After evaluating colour accuracy, dispersion, and strength, the company presented the customer with annual savings of approximately £105,000—a 22% reduction. By streamlining their procurement, the customer now works exclusively with Masterlink, eliminating the need to manage multiple supplier relationships.

In addition to its core services, Masterlink operates a UK plastics marketplace to facilitate the redistribution of surplus plastic materials. Up to 18% of all plastic products purchased in Europe remain unused due to changes in demand, specifications, or other factors. This platform encourages sustainability by helping organisations reclaim and repurpose unused materials, promoting a circular economy within the plastics industry.

Masterlink Solutions is committed to delivering cost-effective, high-quality masterbatch products while supporting sustainable practices. By prioritising customer satisfaction and operational efficiency, the company aims to be a trusted partner for businesses seeking reliable, innovative, and environmentally conscious solutions.

Read more news from Masterlink Solutions Ltd here.

Masterlink Solutions Ltd
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