Creating jobs in Niagara
July 11, 2008 1:44 PM
McGuinty Government Helps Innovative Packaging Manufacturer Double Workforce
Stanpac Inc., a Smithville based company, will use a $2.85 million provincial government loan to expand its operations within its ice-cream packaging division. New state-of-the-art machinery and equipment will allow the company to compete with large producers in the North American and international markets.
Stanpac's new technology will help reduce the number of steps and the energy used in the ice cream packaging process. The company's new plastic tamper-evident products also offer functional and aesthetic advantages when marketing to consumers. The technology will be available in a wide range of sizes and specifications.
Today's announcement was made through the Advanced Manufacturing Investment Strategy and is part of Ontario's 5 point plan for the economy, which includes strategic investments in innovation, partnerships with businesses, competitive taxes, and investments in skills training and infrastructure.
QUICK FACTS
- The Ontario government will contribute $2.85 million to support Stanpac's immediate investment of $9.5 million. The company's total expansion investment will exceed $18 million.
- Stanpac Inc., founded in 1949 - formerly Standard Cap and Seal - was purchased by its current owner Steve Witt in 1971. Starting his business with a staff of two employees, Mr. Witt has grown the company over the years.
- Known for its innovation, Stanpac is currently working with Kodak on an anticounterfeiting system for the ice wine industry. Stanpac demonstrated the KODAK Traceless System for anticounterfeiting during the Uncorked Grape & Wine Industry Conference & Tradeshow at Niagara College in Niagara-on-the-Lake in May 2008.
- Stanpac's packaging design is well noted within the industry. The company's package design for Hernder Estate Wines was awarded a gold medal at the 2001 Global Packaging Awards.
ontario.ca/economy
"Our government has confidence in Ontario's businesses. We're striving to ensure that companies with the potential for expansion are able to obtain the funding and support to grow strategically."
– Sandra Pupatello
Minister of Economic Development
"This is a success story for the Niagara region. Stanpac's strategic plan to grow and diversify will bring jobs, innovative technology and greater visibility to the local economy."
– Jim Bradley
MPP, St. Catharines
"We're proud the Ontario Government has supported our expansion. Our company's growth in Canada, combined with our presence in the US markets, puts us in a strong competitive position."
– Steve Witt
President, Stanpac Inc.
Communities
