Kari-Out Co, the manufacturer, importer and nationwide distributor of paper, aluminum, and recyclable packaging products in the restaurant takeout industry, has confirmed a significant move to bolster its innovative line of sustainable packaging solutions.
The company’s largest investment to date will expand manufacturing capabilities in its Specialty Quality Packaging (SQP) facility in New York, where Kari-Out’s popular Food Trays, Eco Box™ and Eco Earth™ paper food containers are produced.
“State-of-the-art machines with new die-cutting, folding and tray forming technology will allow Kari-Out to double its capacity for paper containers, producing innovative new shapes and sizes to accommodate the changing carry-out industry,” said Dominick Fontana, Head of Operations, Kari-Out.
This investment will also focus on six-color printing inside and outside packaging — to deliver high-quality graphics for Kari-Out’s branded and private label products.
“We’ve seen a considerable increase in demand for our single-slice pizza boxes and closed food containers for hamburgers and hot dogs,” said Kimberly Cassar, Head of Marketing, Kari-Out. “Another area of growth is chicken boxes. The chicken wars across the national chains are real. This key investment will help us better serve this segment. With the incredible growth, the demand of to-go packaging is rising just as quickly, and Kari-Out is working to accommodate that demand by expanding our manufacturing footprint to over 340,000 sq ft this year.”
Significantly, in line with their recent affiliation with the U.S. Composting Council and , the investment underscores Kari-Out’s commitment to a sustainable future. While about 80% of all the food packaging the company makes is paper based, they will increase their output of responsible products like the Eco Earth™ closed container, which is made from 100% recycled board and both recyclable and compostable. Additionally, ramped-up operational efficiency is expected to reduce waste by 5%-10%.
