Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) prides itself on being not just a corrugated box manufacturer but also an ideas and solutions company. With a long history of excellence in designing, engineering and manufacturing corrugated products, PCA is one of the largest producers of containerboard and corrugated packaging in the United States.
The company has 14,000 employees who work at more than 120 facilities across the country, including 6 containerboard mills and 94 box plants. PCA delivers world-class packaging solutions to customers in a wide variety of industries.
PCA’s product portfolio ranges from conventional shipping containers to retail-ready packaging and displays, all of which are custom-designed and printed to meet customers’ performance and marketing requirements. Its products are used to package, transport, display and promote almost every product in stores and on-line.
“Snack foods, beverages, household appliances — all the things we use in daily life, travel far and wide to reach us intact and ready for use — most of them packed and protected in a corrugated box,” said Tom Hastings, director of national graphics and displays.
Over the years, PCA has continued to invest its resources close to its customers, ensuring that the company is well-aligned with its needs. Most recently, PCA acquired Boise Inc., a paper and packaging company. The acquisition allows PCA to provide its products and expertise to a broader market and better serve its customers.
PCA offers a full-service approach through its design network, which provides detailed specifications and prototypes to help customers visualize their product in the retail environment. PCA design centers have close working relationships with both large and small retailers, giving customers a competitive edge and ultimately helping them sell more product.
“The cornerstone of our business is the strong relationship between our customers and our people,” said Jeff Kaser, vice-president and area general manager at PCA. “We align ourselves with customers looking for long-term partnerships.”
While PCA traces its roots back to the late 1800s, the company was officially formed in 1959. Over the years, the company has continued to grow both organically and through acquisitions. In 2000 it became a standalone, publicly traded company on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “PKG.” The company celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2009, marking a half-century of building relationships based on trust.
PCA is not only focused on its business partnerships, but it also has a firm commitment to supporting programs in communities where its employees live and work. From fixing up playgrounds to supporting local schools, literacy and outreach programs, PCA makes community service a priority.
As a relatively new member of the Snack Food Association (S.F.A.), PCA recognizes the value the S.F.A. provides by offering networking opportunities within the snack food industry.
“S.F.A. allows us to understand our customers’ challenges and opportunities,” said Charlie Kennedy, account manager at PCA. “Also, the educational sessions help us stay up-to-date-on market trends and legislation impacting our customers’ businesses.”
PCA values the relationships that it has developed with the S.F.A. and its members.
“S.F.A. has provided a forum for us to network with our customers and build long-term alliances in the snack food industry,” Mr. Kennedy added.
