D3O impact protection company expands global footprint with new operating base in USA

D3O-impactD3O, the U.K.-based impact protection company, has opened a new operating base in Blacksburg, Va., as part of the company’s expansion in North America.

Located within the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center (VTCRC), a research park for high-technology companies, the new D3O office will serve as the regional hub for sales, marketing and development functions in North America.

Bill Van Mullekom, SVP D3O LLC, said: “This move firmly marks our commitment to delivering the best in impact protection technologies to our customer base across North America.

“Not only will it enable us to work more efficiently with our existing commercial partners but it will also support and facilitate strategic partnerships with independent research and testing institutions across the U.S. as we continue to drive growth through innovation.”

D3O develops groundbreaking impact protection solutions and is a market leader in protective wear and shock absorbing materials. The group currently supplies leading brands in the electronics, sport, motorcycle, industrial workwear, law enforcement and military protection markets.

Applications include protective phone cases for GEAR4, one of the fastest-growing case brands in North America; shock absorbing liners used by Schutt Sports in football, baseball and lacrosse helmets, as well as D3O® TRUST helmet pads used by 3M in military combat helmets.

The latest material development from D3O Lab is a liquid additive that enhances the impact protection properties of thermoplastic rubber (TPR) while maintaining flexibility and comfort. The new D3O iA technology, which launched in September in Indianapolis at the National Safety Congress Expo, primarily will target PPE glove brands in North America to offer back-of-hand protection for oil and gas and construction workers.