Global packaging leader Elopak has inaugurated its inaugural U.S. carton converting plant in Little Rock, Arkansas. This state-of-the-art facility, which represents an investment of USD 100 million, will manufacture Pure-Pak® cartons tailored for liquid dairy products, juices, plant-based beverages, and liquid eggs.
Elopak CEO Thomas Körmendi was joined by local officials at the factory’s ribbon-cutting ceremony in Little Rock.
“Demand for our low-carbon, sustainable cartons in North America has been growing at an unprecedented rate for several years. This new factory will serve both new and existing customers across the United States, reaching millions of Americans every day,” said Körmendi.
“I am sincerely grateful to the whole team at Elopak Americas, as well as local officials, for helping us to deliver this factory on budget and on time. This plant is a cornerstone of our ‘Repackaging tomorrow’ strategy to double revenues by 2030. Today, I am very excited that we have taken a big step towards achieving that goal,” he added.
Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders underscored Elopak’s significant investment in the state:
“Arkansas beat out several other states for this project, showing that cutting taxes, investing in education, and building up our workforce is the key to bringing new companies to our state. Thank you to Elopak’s leadership for your investment in not only the United States, but in the Natural State,” she stated.
Following the ribbon-cutting, Elopak hosted a reception for guests and media, featuring speeches by influential figures such as Thomas Körmendi, Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott Jr., Executive Director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission Clint O’Neal, Pulaski County Judge Barry Hyde, Port of Little Rock Chairman Clay McGeorge, and Elopak Americas President Lionel Ettedgui. The event concluded with a guided tour of the new factory.
Elopak first announced its plans to establish a U.S. production facility in June 2023, with construction commencing in March 2024. Remarkably, the factory took just under a year to complete. In September 2024, Elopak revealed it would accelerate plans to add a second production line at the site, following the rapid sell-out of initial capacity prior to the factory’s opening. This new line, set to be fully operational by 2026, is projected to generate an additional USD 110 million in annual revenue.
Elopak strategically selected the Port of Little Rock for its factory due to its exceptional road and rail connectivity, coupled with proximity to the city’s airport. The facility is projected to employ 100 individuals dedicated to producing high-quality cartons. Notably, all carton folding, scoring, packing, and loading processes are fully automated, enhancing efficiency and optimizing employee safety. Consistent with Elopak’s commitment to sustainability, the factory will utilize 100% renewable electricity.
“We have built a unique and strong foothold in the North American market. Elopak now has several production plants covering the continent from north to south,” concluded Körmendi.
For further details, please visit www.elopak.com or connect with us @Elopak on LinkedIn.
