Industry Watch

A quick run-down on the latest supplier news, mergers, expansions, and people.

COMPANIES

Spee-Dee Packaging Machinery expanded its Canadian presence by entering into a partnership with Markham, Ontario-based MD Packaging.

AlliedFlex entered into a multiyear agreement with Robert’s Packaging to continue as the exclusive sales and marketing partner for Robert’s Packaging’s stand-up pouch machinery.

Bosch Packaging Technology changed the company names of its subsidiaries. Sigpack Systems AG, based in Beringen, Switzerland, will become Bosch Packaging Systems AG, and Paal Verpackungsmaschinen GmbH in Remshalden, Germany, will become Bosch Packaging Systems GmbH.

DAK Americas LLC is proceeding with the acquisition of the integrated PET and PTA business of Eastman Chemical Co.

Menasha Packaging Co. announced a $4.2 million planned expansion to its facility in Hartford, WI.

Bill Zito formed Zito Induction Technology Options (ZITO), a packaging consulting service that will concentrate on induction sealing and related issues as well as induction sealing equipment, induction liner recommendations, and closure technology.

Rockwell Automation, Inc. agreed to purchase South Africa-based Hiprom, a process control and automation systems integrator.

Toray Plastics (America) announced a plan to begin construction in the second quarter of 2011 on a $2 million, 446-kW solar photovoltaic field on its 70-acre campus in North Kingstown, RI.

Bway Holding Co. has acquired Phoenix Container, Inc.

DDL announced the expansion of its testing lab in Edison, NJ.

Praxis Packaging has been recognized by the Safety Quality Food Institute and certified under the SQF 2000CM Code as a Level Three, Comprehensive Food Safety and Quality Management System.

PEOPLE

Oystar GmbH formed Oystar North America and chose Barry Shoulders, president of Oystar Packaging Technologies, to lead Oystar North America. Other management positions include: Tom Riggins, sales; Gordon Bonfield, transition officer; Jeff Wierenga, service; and Susan Awadalla, finance.

Cezary Mroz was named director of engineering and development for Morrison Container Handling Solutions.

Louis Weiner joined A+ Secure Packaging, LLC as vice president of sales
and LLC member.

ACHIEVEMENTS

McDowell Label celebrated its 30th year in business with a visit from the Honorable Sam Johnson, member of Congress.

Conveyor setup secrets from top CPG manufacturers
7 proven steps to eliminate downtime and boost packaging line efficiency. Free expert playbook reveals maintenance, sequencing, and handling strategies.
Read More
Conveyor setup secrets from top CPG manufacturers
Annual Outlook Report: Workforce
Hiring remains a major challenge in packaging, with 78% struggling to fill unskilled roles and 84% lacking experienced workers. As automation grows, companies must rethink hiring and training. Download the full report for key insights.
Download Now
Annual Outlook Report: Workforce