Prent Corp. announces global expansion of thermoforming capabilities
Medical packaging thermoformer Prent Corp. has announced a number of expansions at its facilities around the world. The company is undergoing plant expansions in Costa Rica, Malaysia and Denmark; in addition, it completed a 50,000-sq.-ft. expansion at its headquarters plant in Janesville, WI, last year, boosting the square footage of that facility to 300,000 square feet. President and CEO Joseph Pregont credits the company's continued expansions and double-digit growth the past decade to "good people who are willing to work hard to improve our quality."

Xpedx gifts $75,000 through the International Paper Foundation
xpedx is presenting grants totaling $75,000 to more than 20 non-profit organizations and schools in the U.S. with funding through the International Paper Foundation. A portion totaling $20,000 has been provided to six greater Cincinnati area organizations on behalf of International Paper and xpedx employees based throughout the Cincinnati area, including IP's Cincinnati Technology Center in Loveland, OH, where xpedx is headquartered. According to xpedx vp Rick Ouellette, "These IP Foundation grants represent one way our xpedx business can give back to communities where we operate and be a great neighbor," Ouellette said. "IP and xpedx employees also recognize the need to volunteer their time and energy in the surrounding communities to help make a difference throughout the Greater Cincinnati area."

Adhesives, packaging firms expand in Ohio
Bioformix, a manufacturer of adhesives, coatings and sealants, is opening a new 24,000-sq.-ft. headquarters and research facility in Clermont County, OH; according to the company, the move will create 43 jobs. Also, Kao USA Inc., a Japanese consumer-package goods manufacturer serving bands such as Ban, Curel and Jergens, has announced it is relocating its headquarters for American operations to the area; it reportedly will create 50 jobs and retain 500 more by investing in a new headquarters and expanding its facility in Spring Grove.

Rohrer Corp. acquires of Hogue Printing Solutions
Blister/skin printed packaging and thermoformer Rohrer Corp. has acquired package printing operation Hogue Printing Solutions, based in Mesa, AZ. President and CEO of Rohrer Scot Adkins states Hogue is an ideal partner for Rohrer Corp., based on the matchup of capabilities, corporate culture, and business philosophy (including green initiatives like making use of botanical inks and recycling around 95 percent of waste). Operations of the Mesa unit will be carried out under the name Rohrer Corp.

Huntsman to speak at NPE2012 opening gala
Former governor and presidential candidate will deliver the keynote address at the formal Opening Gala of the NPE2012 international plastics exposition. In addition to his record of public service, Huntsman worked at the global plastics and chemicals company founded by his father. Scheduled in Orlando on Sunday, April 1, 2012, the Opening Gala will celebrate the 75th anniversary of SPI and the 50th anniversary of the Plastics Hall of Fame. Ten plastics industry leaders will be inducted into the Hall of Fame during the event. On the following day, April 2, the NPE2012 exhibit halls and conferences will open at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando.

RockTenn to present at global packaging and paper conference
James A. Rubright, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of RockTenn, will speak to the investment community on Wed., Feb. 22 at the Credit Suisse Global Paper and Packaging Conference in New York City. The event gives attendees an overview of the industry, discusses financial projections and outlines investment opportunities. The audio presentation will be webcast and can be accessed at www.rocktenn.com under the investors section ; slides from the presentation also will be available on the website.
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