Material science and manufacturing technology leader TekniPlex said Tuesday it plans on starting operations for a new manufacturing facility in Ohio by early 2024.
The 200,000 square-foot facility will focus on molded fiber solutions, including high-performance egg cartons. The new technology of the molded fiber facility will allow for stronger, better-quality egg cartons, enhance protection afforded by the packaging.
The facility is the eighth molded fiber facility for the company, which has spent an estimated $350 million in the molded fiber sector. In 14 months, TekniPlex has acquired three companies focused on specialty molded fiber solutions – Keyes Packaging Group of Wenatchee, Wash.; Fibro Corporation of Tacoma, Wash.; and EMATEC, with five fiber manufacturing plants throughout Mexico.
“The new facility will combine TekniPlex’s fiber capabilities with technology platforms obtained through our recent strategic acquisitions,” Eldon Schaffer, CEO of TekniPlex Consumer Products, said. “Molded fiber is a renewable bio-based material derived from 100 percent 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 planned Ohio facility will solidify TekniPlex’s goal of expanding its portfolio in the specialty molded fiber sector, as well as the sustainability-minded material sector. The acquisitions focus on investment in facilities comprised of significant amounts of post-consumer recycled (PCR) content, or composed of recyclable resins like PET. The company recently also expanded its GeoPack product family, addressing material science sustainability.
“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,” said Jay Arnold, Vice President & General Manager of TekniPlex’s Fiber business.