Illinois hosts a robust food packaging industry that plays a pivotal role in delivering safe, visually appealing food products to consumers. Various companies range from large manufacturers to specialized providers, creating everything from flexible pouches to innovative closures. The shift towards sustainability is reshaping the industry perspective, as businesses increasingly seek eco-friendly packaging options. Furthermore, technological advancements are enhancing efficiency and safety, helping companies meet stringent regulatory requirements. This sector not only ensures food integrity but also adapts to changing consumer preferences, driving trends that are expected to shape its future.

The companies listed here represent a mix of sizes, from small family-owned businesses to extensive private equity-funded firms. Headquarters are primarily located in major cities such as Chicago and Aurora, with founding years spanning from 1922 to 2018. These firms specialize in various packaging solutions, especially for food products, including flexible packaging, contract packing, and sustainable materials, reflecting an acute awareness of market needs and sustainability pressures.

Read on to discover the top food packaging companies in Illinois.

Top 21 Food Packaging Companies in Illinois

1. Berlin Packaging

• Website: berlinpackaging.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 73%, Italy 8%, Canada 5%, Other 14%
• Latest funding: $500.0M, November 2018
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: berlin-packaging

Berlin Packaging, founded in 1998 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a packaging supplier that offers a comprehensive range of packaging solutions. The company serves various industries, including food and beverage, personal care, and cosmetics. They provide services such as design, sourcing, quality assurance, and supply chain management, helping businesses enhance product presentation and streamline operations. With a workforce of approximately 1,460 employees, Berlin Packaging has established a significant presence in the packaging industry. The company has also received substantial funding, amounting to $500 million in November 2018, which underscores its growth and operational capabilities. Their focus on sustainability and innovation further positions them as a relevant player in the food packaging sector.

2. Charter Next Generation

• Website: cnginc.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: May 2021
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: charternextgeneration

Charter Next Generation (CNG), founded in 1998 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a material science company that specializes in innovative packaging solutions across multiple industries, including food, healthcare, and construction. With a workforce of over 794 employees, CNG is dedicated to enhancing product quality and sustainability through advanced materials. In the food packaging sector, CNG provides solutions designed to extend the shelf life of various food products, ensuring freshness and quality from production to consumption. Their offerings include specialized packaging for proteins, bakery items, dairy products, and more, all aimed at reducing waste and improving the consumer experience. CNG's commitment to sustainability is evident in their efforts to develop eco-friendly packaging solutions that meet the evolving demands of the market.

3. Shorr Packaging Corp.

• Website: shorr.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Aurora, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1922
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: shorr-packaging

Shorr Packaging Corp., founded in 1922 and based in Aurora, Illinois, is a packaging solutions provider that specializes in a wide array of products and services. The company offers sustainable packaging, protective packaging, and packaging equipment, catering to various industries, including manufacturing, eCommerce, healthcare, and notably, food packaging. Shorr Packaging is dedicated to helping businesses optimize their packaging processes and supply chain operations. With a workforce of over 500 employees, the company has established a strong presence across the United States, focusing on customer success through innovative solutions and a commitment to quality. Their product offerings include custom corrugated boxes, flexible packaging, and various protective packaging options, all designed to meet the specific needs of their clients in the food sector.

4. Eagle Flexible Packaging

• Website: eagleflexible.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Batavia, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, Nigeria 3%
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: eagle-flexible-packaging

Eagle Flexible Packaging, based in Batavia, Illinois, is a family-owned packaging manufacturer that has been in operation since 1994. The company specializes in flexible packaging solutions tailored for various industries, with a significant emphasis on food packaging. Their product lineup includes roll fed film and a variety of preformed pouches, such as stand-up and shaped pouches, which are designed to enhance the visual appeal and shelf life of food products. Eagle Flexible Packaging serves a wide array of markets, including pet food, coffee, snacks, candy, and frozen foods, demonstrating their versatility within the food sector. The company is also committed to sustainability, offering eco-friendly packaging options that minimize environmental impact. With a workforce of around 75 employees, Eagle Flexible Packaging maintains a strong presence in the U.S. market, sourcing materials domestically to ensure quality and reduce lead times. Their focus on innovation and customer service positions them as a reliable partner for food manufacturers seeking effective packaging solutions.

5. PPC Flex

• Website: ppcflex.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Buffalo Grove, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 95%, Colombia 5%
• Latest funding: October 2021
• Founded year: 1968
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: ppcflexiblepackaging

PPC Flex, founded in 1968 and based in Buffalo Grove, Illinois, is a packaging manufacturer that specializes in flexible packaging solutions. The company serves various industries, including food, healthcare, and petcare, with a notable emphasis on food packaging. Their product range includes bags, rollstock, reclosable packaging, and cleanroom stock products, all tailored to enhance product preservation and improve consumer experience. PPC Flex is dedicated to providing custom packaging solutions that meet the specific needs of their clients. They also prioritize sustainability, offering eco-friendly packaging options to cater to environmentally conscious consumers. With a workforce of approximately 352 employees, PPC Flex has established itself as a significant player in the flexible packaging sector, particularly in food applications, where they aim to create eye-catching and functional packaging solutions.

6. Assemblies Unlimited, Inc

• Website: assemblies.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Bloomingdale, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1993
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: assemblies-unlimited-inc

Assemblies Unlimited, Inc., founded in 1993 and based in Bloomingdale, Illinois, is a contract packaging company that specializes in providing comprehensive packaging solutions for both food and non-food products. With a workforce of 51-200 employees, the company has established itself in the consumer packaged goods sector. Assemblies Unlimited offers a variety of services, including contract packaging, fulfillment, and secondary packaging. Their food packaging capabilities include pouching, liquid packaging, bottle filling, and seasonal gift sets, among others. The company operates multiple plant locations across the United States, which allows for efficient project management and quick turnaround times for clients. With over 30 years of experience, Assemblies Unlimited has built a reputation for managing custom packaging projects from inception to completion, ensuring that they meet the specific needs of their clients in the food industry.

7. Silgan Closures

• Website: silgancls.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Downers Grove, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 68%, United Kingdom (UK) 9%, Italy 6%, Other 17%
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: silgan-closures

Silgan Closures, founded in 2010 and based in Downers Grove, Illinois, is a family-owned company that specializes in the manufacture of closures for food and beverage packaging. With a workforce of around 574 employees, the company serves a global market, with a significant presence in the United States, the United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, and Poland. Silgan Closures offers a wide array of products, including closures made from plastic, steel, aluminum, and composite materials, catering primarily to food and beverage manufacturers. The company places a strong emphasis on sustainability, striving to create eco-friendly packaging solutions while ensuring product integrity through technical services. Their initiatives, such as the 'Free Closures for a Year' contest, demonstrate their support for emerging brands in the food and beverage sector, further solidifying their role in the industry.

8. Packaging Resources, Inc.

• Website: pripackaging.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Countryside, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: June 2024
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: packagingresourcesinc

Packaging Resources, Inc. (PRI), based in Countryside, Illinois, has been a significant player in the food packaging industry since its inception in 1998. The company specializes in providing innovative packaging solutions tailored for food processors, food service providers, retailers, and restaurants. With a workforce of 22 employees, PRI emphasizes sustainability and aims to reduce food waste through its product offerings. Their portfolio includes snack bags, bag closures, and custom packaging options, all designed to enhance food preservation and presentation. PRI operates through a network of partnerships within the food industry, which strengthens their market position and allows them to deliver cost-effective and creative packaging solutions. Their commitment to environmental responsibility is evident in their focus on green packaging initiatives, making them a relevant player in the evolving food packaging landscape.

9. ACW - Advanced Converting Works

• Website: advancedconvertingworks.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Itasca, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: acw-advanced-converting-works

ACW - Advanced Converting Works, recently rebranded as Flex Pack, is a packaging solutions provider based in Itasca, Illinois. Founded in 2018, the company focuses on flexible packaging, offering products such as spouted pouches and e-commerce mailers. Flex Pack serves various industries, prominently including food and beverage, where their innovative packaging solutions help brands enhance product appeal and sustainability. The company emphasizes a collaborative approach, working closely with clients to address their packaging needs from concept to completion. With a workforce of around 117 employees, Flex Pack is committed to helping brands grow while also prioritizing environmental responsibility. Their operations are supported by a robust infrastructure that allows for both large-scale production and the flexibility to handle unique packaging requests.

10. Millennium Packaging, Inc.

• Website: millpkg.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: South Elgin, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: millennium-packaging-inc-

Millennium Packaging, Inc., founded in 1996 and based in South Elgin, Illinois, is a family-owned B2B industrial packaging company. With a workforce of around 30 employees, the company has established itself as a trusted provider of packaging materials and equipment across various sectors, including food processing, automotive, and healthcare. Millennium Packaging emphasizes innovative and sustainable solutions, aiming to enhance efficiency and minimize waste in packaging processes. Their product offerings include shrink films, stretch films, and protective packaging, with a notable emphasis on biodegradable options. As an authorized Master Distributor for Sealed Air, they provide high-quality packaging solutions that cater specifically to the needs of food processors, ensuring that their clients can meet both operational and sustainability goals.

11. Clear Lam Packaging

• Website: clearlam.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Elk Grove, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $170.0M, June 2017
• Founded year: 1969
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: clear-lam-packaging

Clear Lam Packaging, established in 1969, is a prominent packaging company based in Elk Grove, Illinois. The firm specializes in flexible packaging solutions, particularly for the food and beverage industry. Their product offerings include a variety of packaging formats such as pouches, rollstock, and lidding films, designed to meet the needs of fresh and frozen foods, snacks, and other consumables. Clear Lam is known for its innovative approach, focusing on sustainable packaging options that cater to the growing demand for environmentally friendly solutions. The company has also received significant funding, amounting to $170 million in 2017, which underscores its potential for growth and development in the competitive packaging market.

12. Prairie State Group

• Website: psglabels.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Franklin Park, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: December 2021
• Founded year: 1990
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: prairie-state-group

Prairie State Group is a packaging manufacturer based in Franklin Park, Illinois, established in 1990. The company specializes in flexible packaging solutions, offering a variety of products such as pouches, bags, and rollstock. Their offerings cater primarily to the food and beverage industry, but they also serve healthcare and e-commerce sectors. Prairie State Group emphasizes sustainability in its operations, focusing on creating packaging that not only meets customer needs but also aligns with environmental goals. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational status without external financial backing. Their innovative approach and commitment to quality make them a notable player in the food packaging industry.

13. Bauderer Packaging

• Website: baudererpackaging.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Addison, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: bauderer-packaging

Bauderer Packaging, based in Addison, Illinois, is a private company that specializes in flexible and contract packaging solutions tailored for food products. Founded in 2016, the company has quickly positioned itself as a valuable partner for both established consumer brands and new market entrants. With a focus on high-quality packaging services, Bauderer enhances production capacity while ensuring food safety. Their operations are backed by a modern 200,000 square foot facility equipped with state-of-the-art technology. Bauderer offers a variety of packaging capabilities, including stand-up pouches, sachets, and point-of-purchase displays, catering to the evolving needs of the food industry. The company prides itself on its ability to provide affordable and flexible services without compromising on quality, making it a trusted resource for clients looking to scale their operations efficiently.

14. creative werks

• Website: creative-werks.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Elk Grove, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: creative-werks-llc

Creative Werks, founded in 1999 and based in Elk Grove, Illinois, is a food packaging company that specializes in co-packing and manufacturing services tailored for the food industry. With a workforce of around 248 employees, the company has established itself as a reliable partner for food brands, offering customized solutions that prioritize quality and efficiency. Their operational capabilities include the production of various packaging formats, particularly in dry food packaging, and they have the capacity to handle a wide range of food products, from snack bars to raw materials. Creative Werks also emphasizes innovation through its in-house design firm, Werkshop Design Group, which focuses on sustainable packaging solutions driven by consumer insights. Their facilities span over 1,000,000 square feet, providing ample space for production and ensuring they can meet the demands of their clients effectively. The company maintains rigorous quality control processes and adheres to high safety standards, reinforcing their commitment to protecting client brands throughout the packaging process.

15. Triangle Package Machinery Co.

• Website: trianglepackage.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1923
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: triangle-package-machinery-co-

Triangle Package Machinery Co., based in Chicago, Illinois, is a manufacturer specializing in packaging machinery tailored for the food industry. Established in 1923, the company has built a reputation for providing innovative and sanitary packaging solutions. Their product lineup includes vertical form fill seal (VFFS) baggers, pre-made pouch fillers, bag-in-box cartoners, and multihead weighers, all designed to meet the stringent requirements of food safety. Triangle serves a variety of markets, including seafood, cheese, candy, and more, ensuring that their machinery is equipped to handle diverse food products efficiently. The company prides itself on its customer support, offering aftermarket parts, field service, and training to ensure optimal performance of their equipment. With a focus on quality and reliability, Triangle Package Machinery Co. continues to be a trusted partner for businesses in the food sector.

16. Gateway Packaging Company

• Website: gatewaypackaging.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Granite City, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: May 2018
• Founded year: 1982
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: gateway-packaging-company

Gateway Packaging Company, now operating under the name ProAmpac, was founded in 1982 and is based in Granite City, Illinois. The company specializes in flexible packaging solutions, with a strong emphasis on innovation and sustainability. ProAmpac manufactures a wide range of products, including pouches, bags, rollstock, and labels, catering to various industries such as food and beverage, healthcare, and e-commerce. Their focus on sustainable packaging practices is evident in their ProActive Sustainability line, which aims to reduce environmental impact while maintaining product integrity. ProAmpac's commitment to collaboration and innovation is further highlighted through their Collaboration and Innovation Center, which fosters creative solutions tailored to customer needs. With a workforce of around 70 employees, the company continues to adapt to market demands and trends, ensuring its relevance in the competitive packaging industry.

17. Freund Container & Supply, a division of Berlin Packaging

• Website: freundcontainer.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Lockport, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1938
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: freund-container-%26-supply

Freund Container & Supply, a division of Berlin Packaging, has been a key player in the packaging industry since its founding in 1938. Based in Lockport, Illinois, the company focuses on providing a comprehensive range of packaging solutions, particularly for the food and beverage sectors. They offer an extensive selection of products, including plastic, glass, and metal containers, closures, and dispensing systems. Their services extend beyond mere supply; they also include design, quality control, and supply chain management, ensuring that their clients receive tailored solutions that enhance product presentation and maintain quality. Freund Container & Supply operates with a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction and efficiency, making them a reliable partner for businesses in the food packaging industry.

18. Prime Packaging

• Website: primepkg.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Wood Dale, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1980
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: prime-label-%26-packaging

Prime Packaging, based in Wood Dale, Illinois, has been a player in the packaging industry since its founding in 1980. The company specializes in flexible packaging solutions, offering a variety of products such as shrink sleeves, flexible packaging, and roll-fed labels. These products primarily serve the food, beverage, personal care, and household products sectors. Prime Packaging emphasizes innovation and sustainability, striving to provide packaging options that enhance product appeal while ensuring safety. Their sustainability initiatives include using water-based inks and implementing waste reduction programs, which have significantly decreased their environmental impact. The company collaborates with various partners to deliver effective packaging solutions, showcasing their commitment to quality and customer service.

19. The Visual Pak Companies

• Website: visualpak.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Waukegan, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 98%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 1982
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: visual-pak

The Visual Pak Companies, founded in 1982 and based in Waukegan, Illinois, is a contract packaging and manufacturing firm. With a workforce of around 500 to 1,000 employees, the company specializes in providing a wide array of services, including liquid formulation, design, and logistics solutions. They serve multiple industries, notably personal care and food, offering integrated solutions that streamline product development and distribution. Visual Pak operates over two million square feet of production and distribution space, which allows them to handle large-scale projects efficiently. Their food packaging capabilities include paperboard and secondary packaging, catering to various food products. The company has built a reputation for quality and efficiency, making them a reliable partner for businesses looking to enhance their packaging processes.

20. Teinnovations

• Website: teinnovations.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Aurora, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 93%, Turkey 7%
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: teinnovations-inc

Teinnovations LLC, based in Aurora, Illinois, is a private packaging solutions provider established in 2001. The company specializes in innovative food packaging materials and consulting services tailored for food manufacturers and processors. Their product offerings include films, containers, pouches, and sealing machines, all designed to enhance product safety and extend shelf life. Teinnovations also provides expertise in shelf life evaluation and packaging integrity testing, which are essential for ensuring the quality and safety of food products. With a dedicated team of around 30 employees, Teinnovations has built a reputation for addressing complex packaging challenges, particularly in high-pressure processing (HPP) and ready-to-eat (RTE) food applications. Their commitment to research and development ensures they stay at the forefront of food packaging technology, making them a relevant player in the industry.

21. Accord Carton

• Website: accordcarton.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Alsip, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: September 2023
• Founded year: 1940
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: accord-carton

Accord Carton, based in Alsip, Illinois, is a packaging manufacturer that specializes in folding cartons tailored for the food and beverage industries. Established in 1940, the company has built a reputation for providing high-quality packaging solutions that enhance product presentation and ensure safety. Accord Carton offers a comprehensive range of services, including structural packaging design, high-speed manufacturing, and automated warehousing. Their clientele primarily consists of consumer packaged goods companies that rely on effective packaging to meet market demands. The company is committed to sustainability and quality, holding certifications such as SQF and ISO, which underscore their dedication to food safety standards. Recently, Accord Carton has been recognized for its innovative packaging solutions, winning awards that highlight their expertise in the field. With a workforce that values experience and training, Accord Carton positions itself as a reliable partner in the food packaging industry.

Food Packaging Insights: Key Companies in Illinois

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
Berlin Packaging	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1998	Private Equity
Charter Next Generation	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1998	Private Equity
Shorr Packaging Corp.	Aurora, Illinois, United States (USA)	501-1000	1922	Private
Eagle Flexible Packaging	Batavia, Illinois, United States (USA)	51-200	1994	Family Owned
PPC Flex	Buffalo Grove, Illinois, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1968	Private Equity
Assemblies Unlimited, Inc	Bloomingdale, Illinois, United States (USA)	51-200	1993	Private
Silgan Closures	Downers Grove, Illinois, United States (USA)	1001-5000	2010	Family Owned
Packaging Resources, Inc.	Countryside, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	1998	Corporate
ACW - Advanced Converting Works	Itasca, Illinois, United States (USA)	201-500	2018	Private
Millennium Packaging, Inc.	South Elgin, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	1996	Family Owned
Clear Lam Packaging	Elk Grove, Illinois, United States (USA)	501-1000	1969	Corporate
Prairie State Group	Franklin Park, Illinois, United States (USA)	51-200	1990	Corporate
Bauderer Packaging	Addison, Illinois, United States (USA)	51-200	2016	Private
creative werks	Elk Grove, Illinois, United States (USA)	501-1000	1999	Private
Triangle Package Machinery Co.	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	51-200	1923	Private
Gateway Packaging Company	Granite City, Illinois, United States (USA)	201-500	1982	Corporate
Freund Container & Supply, a division of Berlin Packaging	Lockport, Illinois, United States (USA)	501-1000	1938	Family Owned
Prime Packaging	Wood Dale, Illinois, United States (USA)	51-200	1980	Private
The Visual Pak Companies	Waukegan, Illinois, United States (USA)	501-1000	1982	Private
Teinnovations	Aurora, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	2001	Private
Accord Carton	Alsip, Illinois, United States (USA)	201-500	1940	Private Equity

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