North East-based sustainable packaging manufacturer, iPac Packaging Innovations, has recently completed a major expansion by launching its new BRCGS AA+ food packaging facility in Tanfield, County Durham.
The new site, acquired in July 2022 to accommodate the business’s rapid growth trajectory, represents a critical investment in iPac’s ongoing development. The first phase of the expansion provided additional warehousing for approximately 2,800 pallets. Now, following the completion of phase two, this state-of-the-art facility features four fully operational production lines. This enhancement allows iPac to better serve its existing customers while aggressively pursuing opportunities in new markets, particularly in food and beverage packaging.
Previously, this family-owned business operated solely from Gateshead, UK, specializing in the design and production of sustainable rPET and rPP packaging solutions tailored to the evolving demands of the food and pharmaceutical industries.
This latest expansion comes on the heels of a series of strategic investments that have driven substantial, sustained growth. Since its establishment in 2017, iPac has invested over £10 million in its thermoforming operations, achieving an annual turnover of £21 million and expanding its workforce to over 80 employees. This growth solidifies iPac’s position as a significant player in the sustainable packaging manufacturing market.
The expansion has been bolstered by two investments from Maven-managed regional funds, including a £600,000 contribution from the Finance Durham Fund (FDF), established by Durham County Council and overseen by Business Durham, as well as a £400,000 investment from the North East Development Capital Fund (NEDCF), which is supported by the European Regional Development Fund. Additionally, £250,000 has been secured from the County Durham Growth Fund.
Throughout its seven years of operation, iPac has prioritized R&D investments, enabling the company to deliver innovative product lines such as iZorb and MonoSKIN, along with its food-contact biopolymer, ENViPac.
With an ambitious outlook, the company is poised to further expand into new market segments, forming new partnerships and acquiring clients who will benefit from both of its groundbreaking manufacturing facilities.
Jonny Catto, managing director at iPac, remarked that the completion of the second production site signifies a pivotal milestone in iPac’s dynamic growth journey, stating, “providing significant additional capacity as well as future growth potential, allowing us to further expand our market offering in sustainable recycled thermoformed packaging.”
