Thermoformed Plastics of New England Launches FaceShield Plus to Protect Frontline Workers

In response to the global shortage of personal protective equipment, Thermoformed Plastics of New England (TPNE), a 17‑year‑old custom thermoformer based in Biddeford, Maine, has unveiled its own line of reusable face shields.

Since March, TPNE has produced more than 1 million PET face shields for hospitals and first‑line agencies across New England and Pennsylvania, and has donated over 16 000 shields to local frontline workers. The company’s new FaceShield Plus features an injection‑molded white polypropylene headband, a white silicone adjustable strap, and 20 replaceable PET shields per headband.

“Our goal was to find a long‑term, cost‑effective solution that would reduce waste,” said founder and general manager Paul Tyson. “By retaining the headband and strap, we can bring the cost of a single use down to just 65 cents, compared with the $3–4 a use that 3‑D‑printed headbands typically require.”

The headband is manufactured by Casco Bay Molding in Sanford, Maine, and is designed to be durable and comfortable for extended wear. Each shield is a PET film that can be swapped out quickly, allowing healthcare professionals to maintain high levels of protection while keeping operating costs low.

TPNE’s initiative demonstrates the company’s commitment to protecting healthcare workers and supporting communities during the COVID‑19 pandemic. By combining advanced thermoforming technology with thoughtful product design, the company is setting a new standard for reusable PPE.