Wayne, Penn.-based TekniPlex Consumer Products announced Tuesday it plans to incorporate a new manufacturing facility in Ohio as part of its operations.
The facility is expected to start operations in early 2024 and will increase the company’s capacity and capabilities regarding molded fiber products, including high-performance egg cartons.
“The new facility will combine TekniPlex’s fiber capabilities with technology platforms obtained through our recent strategic acquisitions,” TekniPlex Consumer Products CEO Eldon Schaffer said. “Molded fiber is a renewable bio-based material derived from 100% natural, typically recycled paper and cardboard fibers, making it highly attractive to brands seeking to expand their bio-based packaging offerings. TekniPlex Consumer Products’ growth in this area exemplifies our materials diverse mindset, including capabilities to provide fresh foods companies with a broad range of packing and packaging solutions to help stand out in supermarket perimeters.”
The 200,000-square-foot plant will be the company’s eighth in specialty molded fiber solutions and is the latest acquisition amid a molded fiber market push, now comprising $350 million in investments for the company. In a little over a year, TekniPlex has acquired molded fiber solutions companies Keyes Packaging Group of Wenatchee, Wash.; Fibro Corporation of Tacoma, Wash.; and EMATEC, which has five fiber manufacturing plants in Mexico.
“We are excited to continue to bring new technology with our specialty molded fiber solutions expansion including our high-performance egg carton, which provides superior egg protection to our customers, reducing food waste and cost,” Jay Arnold, vice president & general manager of Tekiplex’s fiber business, said.