Sonoco acquires Plastic Packaging

Global packaging company Sonoco has acquired US-based flexible packaging firm Plastic Packaging (PPI).

PPI specialises in short-run, customised flexible packaging for consumer brands in markets including baked goods, heat sealed chocolate packaging, as well as hard and soft candy. It operates two manufacturing facilities in Hickory and Forest City, North Carolina, with around 170 employees.

Through the acquisition, Sonoco believes additional lamination, wide and narrow web flexographic printing, and pouch and bag forming capabilities will allow the company to better serve its existing customers, while expanding its customer base.

“This acquisition grows our flexible packaging assets in the southeast US, adding short run capabilities that allow us to offer additional specialty and customisation capabilities to our customers,” said Rob Tiede, Sonoco’s senior vice president for global consumer solutions.

“PPI complements Sonoco’s existing technologies and leverages our expertise in flexible packaging, while expanding our customer base in complementary markets.”

PPI expects 2016 sales of around $42 million and operates two manufacturing facilities in Hickory and Forest City, North Carolina, with approximately 170 employees.