Automated Packaging Expands for Manufacturing of Mailbags and Void-fill Materials

STREETSBORO, OH – March 24, 2010 - Automated Packaging Systems, the world leader in high-reliability packaging systems, has recently expanded its manufacturing operations to handle increased demand for its Autobag® and AirPouch® materials. The company has opened a 72,000 square foot manufacturing, distribution and office facility in Keyser, West Virginia for production of mailbags and void-fill air pillow packing materials.

Production will be divided between Autobag OF3 mailbag materials, made of co-extruded films for the mail order fulfillment market, and AirPouch void-fill packing materials, made of polyethylene for protective packaging applications. The emphasis on eco-friendly packaging materials has been a driving force behind the growth of both these product lines.

New durable mailbags are experiencing a growth in demand because they can reduce the cost of shipping products when compared to traditional cardboard boxes. Bag packaging reduces postage costs, uses less fossil fuel, produces less CO2 emissions, requires less storage space, and yields less solid waste than most other forms of packaging.

The AirPouch void-fill packing materials were recently introduced with new EarthAware™ biodegradable and recycled materials, making them a popular option for air pillow protective packing applications. These new air pillows have several advantages over traditional EPS peanuts and kraft paper, including lower storage costs, lower shipping costs, and cleaner packing. The eco-friendly advantages of these new films are an added incentive for companies to choose these new shipping options.

The new Keyser facility has advanced production, shipping and warehousing capabilities that will help Automated Packaging Systems meet the growing demand for its products and services. The company has installed new converting equipment with advanced technology functionality for world class accuracy, throughput and reliability.

“Automated Packaging Systems extrudes, converts and sells its own bag film materials and systems,” says Tim Braithwaite, Vice President of Plastics Operations, “which gives us a unique advantage to maximize quality controls and streamline operating efficiencies. This new state-of-the-art facility will allow us to have a more comprehensive inventory of bag and pillow materials in stock for faster delivery to our customers,” Braithwaite added.


About Automated Packaging Systems
Automated Packaging Systems has been designing and manufacturing original Autobag®, AirPouch® and SidePouch® systems and products for nearly 50 years. With more than 30,000 packaging systems in operation and a worldwide service organization, Automated Packaging Systems has the experience and support to deliver the ultimate in customer satisfaction. Automated Packaging Systems offers a complete line of baggers, void-fill and protective packaging systems, thermal transfer imprinters, counters, scales, and specialty packaging materials. Complete information is available at the company’s web site.

www.autobag.com
www.airpouch.com

Contact Information

Jeff Kenyon

Vice President

Media II

Contact via E-mail