Vertical paper honeycomb is a distinct product from expanded honeycomb. Its paper cells stand upright, giving high crush strength at very low weight.
Oct. 26, 2026 - Tricel Honeycomb, a manufacturer of vertical paper honeycomb core and associated panels, based in Gurnee, Illinois, today announced that it has acquired the Verticel™ manufacturing operations, brand, trademark and customer list from Hexacomb, a division of Packaging Corporation of America.
The transaction closed on October 1, 2026.
Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Vertical paper honeycomb is a distinct product from expanded honeycomb. Its paper cells stand upright, giving high crush strength at very low weight. It is a proven core material for the composites industry. Automotive manufacturers use it in thermoformed and Baypreg® load floors and sunroofs. Marine builders use it in composite panels for bulkheads, doors and cabinetry. It also goes into lightweight panels for doors, furniture, staging and risers and displays, and into acoustic, filtration and protective packaging applications.
The combination expands Tricel's production capacity and product range, backed by a dedicated North American manufacturing base.
"Verticel has a long track record and a loyal customer base, and we're proud to carry it forward," said Eric Haas, President and CEO of Tricel Honeycomb. "Bringing Verticel into Tricel combines two established product lines. Our customers get more capacity, broader product options, deeper technical support and a reliable domestic source. As a key supplier to the composites industry, we're committed to keeping that supply chain strong."
Tricel began manufacturing Verticel products immediately upon closing, so customers can keep ordering without interruption. Existing customers will be contacted directly with ordering, contact and logistics details, the company noted.
Tricel Honeycomb is a key supplier to the composites industry, manufacturing vertical paper honeycomb core for panel and component makers across North America.
SOURCE: Tricel Honeycomb