Gluecom Pafra
Gluecom Pafra operates from Basildon, Essex, as our centre of excellence for dispersion adhesive technology. The site combines large-scale manufacturing with technical facilities supporting customers across packaging, converting, and industrial markets.
The Basildon facility holds ISO 14001 certification for Environmental Management Systems, representing our commitment to sustainable manufacturing practices.
Manufacturing capabilities span water-based PVA and VAE dispersions, pressure-sensitive adhesives, and film lamination systems. The technical team provides application support, product development, and process optimisation.
Recent expansion includes the acquisition of Enterprise Adhesives, further strengthening UK manufacturing capabilities.
Gluecom PAFRA History
Pafra was founded in 1959 by Paul Frankfurther and Max Kochmann in Hackney, East London. Max invented the first self-clearing ball valve applicator and Paul developed the first triacetin-plasticised PVA adhesive.
Growth required larger premises, prompting the move to Basildon in 1963. Continued expansion led to construction of a purpose-built factory completed in 1968, which remains Pafra’s home today.
The business expanded through acquisitions including Adhesives International Ltd, ATS Adhesives Ltd, and most recently Enterprise Adhesives (2025), building probably the widest range of adhesive products in the UK market. Pafra became part of Gluecom in March 2022.
PAFRA Adhesives Products
Gluecom Pafra manufactures comprehensive water-based adhesive systems serving diverse industrial applications. Product portfolio includes PVA and VAE dispersions for packaging and paper converting, permanent and repositionable pressure-sensitive adhesives for label and tape manufacturing, and specialised formulations for film lamination and converting operations.
Manufacturing capabilities span standard formulations alongside custom-developed grades for specific customer requirements. Technical specialists work directly with customers to optimise adhesive performance, troubleshoot applications, and develop new formulations meeting exact specifications.
The Basildon facility’s ISO 14001 certification demonstrates environmental management standards across manufacturing operations. Recent investment in production capacity and the Enterprise Adhesives acquisition expand both manufacturing capabilities and product range, strengthening Gluecom Pafra’s position as a leading UK adhesive manufacturer.
