American Packaging (APC), a flexible packaging converter in North America, is investing $50m in the first phase of a new satellite facility.
Scheduled to be completed in 2017, Phase 1 of the gravure satellite project includes: 26.3 acres of land, a 170,000-square-foot building, two 10-station gravure presses, ink blending, cylinder storage and finishing equipment -- a project expected to create more than 60 new jobs.
APC is a privately held converter, recognized by Printing Industries of America as a "BEST of the BEST" Workplace in the Americas for six consecutive years. This honor is awarded to companies in the United States and Canada that are the very best places to work based on safety, pay, benefits and environmental standards.
APC specializes in 10-color high-definition flexographic printing, 10-color rotogravure printing, multi-ply extrusion, co-extrusion and adhesive lamination of film, paper and foil. The company effectively supports industries including dry foods, seasoning and mixes, coffee and tea, refrigerated dairy and fresh produce, frozen products, confectionary, medical, personal care, nutraceutical, hard-to-hold products, liquids and other specialty items.
"American Packaging has successfully grown its operation in Columbus, Wisconsin, to be the largest rotogravure printing facility in North America dedicated to flexible packaging," said the company's president and CEO, Peter Schottland. "We continue to see a promising future for rotogravure printing, and chose DeForest as home to our first satellite facility based on location, talented labor pool and the historical success we've enjoyed in Wisconsin."
"American Packaging Corporation's expansion is great news for the Village of DeForest, the region and the entire state," said Lt. Governor Rebecca Kleefisch, who joined company and city officials in announcing the expansion Wednesday. "This investment in Wisconsin is a testament to our state's strong business climate and unmatched workforce."
APC considered expansion opportunities outside Wisconsin before finally deciding to build in DeForest. To help facilitate the project, the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) has authorized APC to receive up to $750,000 in state tax credits over a five-year period. The actual amount of credits the company will earn is contingent upon the company meeting specific job creation and wage level requirements.
The DeForest parcel was pre-certified as development-ready through WEDC's Certified In Wisconsin Program. It is the 16th development project to take place on one of the 15 certified sites throughout the state, which to date have drawn approximately $264 million in investment.
"American Packaging Corporation adds to a growing list of companies drawing upon the unique economic assets found here in Dane County," said Mark Hogan, secretary and CEO of WEDC. "This project results from strong collaboration between local, county, regional and state economic development partners to support business expansion in Wisconsin."
The Village of DeForest is also supporting the project with subsidized land, infrastructure and other incentives.
Village President Judd Blau stated, "There is currently great excitement in DeForest, and we celebrate American Packaging Corporation as a key addition to further the momentum. With APC's historical presence, future growth trend and core values that align with the DeForest community, we look forward to a mutually beneficial partnership."
