UNITED States technology conglomerate 3M, best-known for innovative products such as Post-it note pads, is expanding operations in Singapore with a new US$200 million (S$272.2 million) plant in Tuas.

The factory will employ 250 workers initially to make thin film coatings.

Used mainly on windows to reduce glare and heat, they also have electronic and automotive uses.

3M, which makes a vast range of products for both consumer and industrial use, has a long relationship with Singapore, which dates back to 1966 when it set up a sales office here.

The company said the new 65,000 sq m plant will be its most advanced thin film coating facility outside the US and will be a centre of excellence for 3M's film coating business in the Asia Pacific region.

The facility is expected to be up and running by the middle of next year, 3M said.

In expanding its operations here, the company envisions that Singapore will become a '3M regional superhub', said Mr John Woodworth, the senior vice-president of corporate supply chain operations.

3M regional superhubs are large production and resource-sharing facilities that are tied to the company's regional growth needs.

They also manufacture products for other 3M businesses.

The Tuas plant will be 3M's second facility in Singapore.

Read the full story in Saturday's edition of The Straits Times.