food trays

US-based packaging firm Fabri-Kal is to start operations in its new production facility at Burley in Idaho.

The $50m facility is expected to increase the firm’s production capacity for plastics thermoforming with the addition of 100,000ft² of space.

Construction works for the facility started at the end of March.

The firm intends to use the plant for manufacturing packaging products with a renewable and compostable material from plant-based fibre.

The products will be a part of the firm’s existing Greenware product line, which includes renewable drink cups, lids, portion containers and on-the-go boxes.

"The plant opening marks the next step in our company’s leadership position in sustainable packaging."

The product line is based entirely on renewable sources, derived from plants and not petroleum, the firm said.

Fabri-Kal president Mike Roeder said: "The plant opening marks the next step in our company’s leadership position in sustainable packaging and is consistent with our continued commitment to being a responsible corporate citizen.

"Our continued investment in our Greenware line sends a clear message to consumers that we value the environment, our customers, and our people."

Fabri-Kal intends to employ 50 people for the facility, with another 100 people to be employed in the next five years.

The manufacturing facility will be certified for International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and Food Safety System certification (FSSC 22000).

Fabri-Kal Burley facility manager Brian Hackett said: "We’re proud to publicly introduce our new facility in the community of Burley.

"We extend our appreciation to the state of Idaho and local agencies in Burley for their support in developing this project."


Image: The products will be a part of Fabri-Kal’s existing Greenware product line. Photo: courtesy of John Kasawa / FreeDigitalPhotos.net.