Minnesota's food packaging industry plays a critical role in providing durable and innovative packaging solutions tailored for the food sector. Companies in this space range from scalable, family-owned manufacturers to corporate giants, each focusing on various aspects like sustainability, automation, and customization. The demand for more eco-friendly packaging is rising, prompting firms to adapt with bioplastics and recyclable materials. Additionally, automation is a growing trend, employing advanced machinery to enhance efficiency in production lines. As consumer preferences shift, packaging companies must innovate to align with environmental standards while maintaining quality and safety in food distribution.

This list features 22 prominent food packaging companies located in Minnesota, highlighting a mix of influential players across various operational scales. The companies range from 11 to over 1,000 employees and vary in their founding years from 1931 to 2017. Their focus areas include flexible packaging, labeling, automation, and custom solutions catering specifically to the food and beverage industry. With many family-owned firms supplementing corporates, the sector offers a broad array of specialized services meeting both local and national demands.

Continue reading to explore the essential food packaging companies in Minnesota.

Top 22 Food Packaging Companies in Minnesota

1. El Dorado Packaging

• Website: eldoradopackaging.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Rosemount, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: April 2021
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: el-dorado-packaging

El Dorado Packaging, known as ProAmpac, is a packaging manufacturer based in Rosemount, Minnesota, specializing in flexible packaging solutions. Founded in 2014, the company has quickly established itself in the packaging industry, focusing on sectors such as food and beverage, healthcare, and retail. ProAmpac offers a wide range of products, including pouches, bags, and rollstock, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation. Their packaging solutions are designed to enhance product shelf life and improve branding for their clients. ProAmpac also actively engages in sustainability initiatives, providing recyclable and compostable packaging options to meet the growing demand for environmentally friendly solutions. With a workforce of around 30 employees, the company continues to expand its offerings and capabilities in the packaging market.

2. Brookdale Plastics, Inc.

• Website: brookdaleplastics.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Plymouth, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1963
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: brookdale-plastics-inc-

Brookdale Plastics, Inc., operating under the name Placon, is a family-owned packaging manufacturer based in Plymouth, Minnesota. Founded in 1963, the company has carved out a niche in providing innovative packaging solutions tailored for the food, medical, and retail industries. Placon is particularly noted for its commitment to sustainability, integrating eco-friendly practices into its operations. The company offers a range of custom packaging options designed to enhance product presentation and protection, catering primarily to businesses in the B2B sector. Their focus on collaboration with clients ensures that they meet specific packaging needs effectively, making them a relevant player in the food packaging industry.

3. Nextera Packaging

• Website: nexterapackaging.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Saint Paul, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1976
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: nextera-packaging

Nextera Packaging, based in Saint Paul, Minnesota, has been a dedicated provider of food packaging solutions since its inception in 1976. Originally known as Packaging Sales and Service, the company shifted its focus to specialize exclusively in food packaging, allowing it to develop deep expertise in this area. Nextera offers a wide array of products, including custom packaging, eco-friendly materials, and automation equipment designed to enhance efficiency for food processors and packers. Their approach is centered on building strong relationships with clients, ensuring that each customer receives personalized support tailored to their specific packaging needs. With a commitment to sustainability, Nextera is actively involved in providing packaging solutions that not only meet industry standards but also contribute positively to environmental efforts. Their operational model includes a network of distribution centers across the United States, enabling them to serve a broad client base effectively.

4. Douglas Machine Inc.

• Website: douglas-machine.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Alexandria, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 98%, Other 2%
• Latest funding: January 1993
• Founded year: 1964
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: douglas-machine

Douglas Machine Inc., founded in 1964 and based in Alexandria, Minnesota, is a prominent player in the packaging machinery sector. The company specializes in providing innovative solutions tailored for case packing, tray packing, shrink wrapping, and cartoning. With a strong emphasis on serving the food and beverage industry, Douglas Machine Inc. offers machinery designed to enhance production efficiency while minimizing waste. Their product offerings include advanced case and tray packers, shrink wrap systems, and cartoners, all engineered to meet the dynamic demands of food packaging. The company also provides extensive support services, including commissioning, maintenance programs, and remote support, ensuring that their clients can maximize the performance of their packaging systems. As an employee-owned entity, Douglas Machine Inc. fosters a culture of accountability and dedication to customer satisfaction, which is crucial in the competitive landscape of food packaging.

5. Delkor Systems

• Website: delkorsystems.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1973
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: delkorsystems

Delkor Systems, Inc. is a family-owned packaging machinery manufacturer based in St. Paul, Minnesota, established in 1973. The company specializes in advanced case packing and cartoning solutions, primarily catering to the food and beverage industry. Delkor Systems focuses on enhancing packaging efficiency through automation, offering a variety of machinery including formers, packers, closers, and palletizers. Their equipment is designed to handle a wide range of products, from dairy and bakery items to frozen foods and snacks. Delkor also provides aftermarket services, ensuring ongoing support for their clients. With a workforce of over 200 employees, Delkor has built a reputation for innovation in packaging technology, continuously improving their machinery to meet the evolving needs of the food sector.

6. OlymPak Printing & Packaging

• Website: olympak.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: olympak-printing-%26-packaging

OlymPak Printing & Packaging, founded in 2002 and based in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, is a private company that specializes in custom print and packaging solutions. With a workforce of approximately 52 employees, OlymPak serves various sectors, prominently including food and beverage. The company offers a range of products designed to enhance brand visibility and meet industry standards, such as clam shell boxes, folding cartons, and kraft paper packaging. OlymPak also provides kitting and assembly services, which streamline the packaging process for their clients. Their commitment to quality is reflected in their certifications, including SQF Level 3 and USDA, ensuring compliance with stringent food safety regulations. OlymPak's focus on innovative design and efficient production processes makes them a notable entity in the food packaging sector.

7. Meyers

• Website: meyers.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1949
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: meyers

Meyers, based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a family-owned packaging manufacturer founded in 1949. The company specializes in sustainable packaging solutions and printing services, catering primarily to the food and beverage and health and beauty sectors. Meyers produces a range of products, including folding cartons and custom labels, which are crucial for effective product presentation and branding. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their use of eco-friendly materials and innovative design practices, helping brands enhance their market presence while reducing environmental impact. Meyers has established long-term relationships with various clients, including notable brands, and emphasizes a personalized approach to service, ensuring that they meet the unique needs of each customer.

8. Gamer Packaging, Inc.

• Website: gamerpackaging.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: gamer-packaging-inc-

Gamer Packaging, Inc., based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, has been a family-owned business since its founding in 1987. The company specializes in custom packaging solutions tailored for various industries, with a significant focus on food and beverage packaging. They offer a comprehensive suite of services, including packaging design, sourcing, quality assurance, and logistics management. Gamer Packaging caters to a wide array of food products, from craft beer and spirits to kombucha and functional beverages. Their commitment to building strong relationships with clients and suppliers ensures that they meet the specific needs of their customers while maintaining high standards of quality. With a dedicated team of professionals, Gamer Packaging aims to enhance brand visibility and product integrity through innovative packaging solutions.

9. TechniPac

• Website: technipacinc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Le Sueur, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: technipac-inc

TechniPac Incorporated, founded in 2001 and based in Le Sueur, Minnesota, is a packaging solutions provider that specializes in flexible packaging. The company offers a variety of services, including pouching, slitting, and innovative packaging designs tailored to meet the needs of their clients. TechniPac primarily serves businesses in the food industry, as well as pet care and lawn and garden sectors, focusing on effective packaging solutions that enhance product safety and marketability. Their product range includes stand-up pouches, shaped pouches, and specialized designs like the E-Z Pour Side-Lok® and Pressure-Lok® systems. With a commitment to innovation, TechniPac aims to solve complex packaging challenges, making them a valuable partner for companies looking to improve their packaging strategies.

10. SOMIC Packaging - USA

• Website: somic.us
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1974
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: somic-america

SOMIC Packaging - USA, based in Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota, is a private company that has been manufacturing packaging machinery since 1974. The company specializes in providing innovative packaging solutions tailored for various industries, with a significant focus on food packaging. Their product offerings include advanced packaging machines, collating systems, and product handling solutions, specifically designed for food items such as coffee, tea, confectionery, and snacks. SOMIC Packaging is committed to delivering efficient and reliable machinery that ensures safe transportation and attractive presentation of food products. The company operates primarily in North America and is part of a larger international network, with its headquarters in Germany. Their emphasis on sustainability and operational longevity further enhances their appeal in the food packaging market.

11. Mgs

• Website: mgsmachine.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Maple Grove, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 93%, India 2%, Brazil 2%, Other 2%
• Latest funding: September 2017
• Founded year: 1979
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: mgs-machine

MGS Machine Corporation, founded in 1979 and based in Maple Grove, Minnesota, is a packaging automation company that designs and manufactures innovative solutions for various industries, including food and pharmaceuticals. With a workforce of approximately 788 employees, MGS focuses on optimizing packaging processes through advanced technology and consultancy services. Their offerings include equipment modernization, maintenance services, and production support, ensuring that clients achieve high efficiency and product integrity. MGS's machinery is adept at handling nested and delicate packaging at high speeds, catering specifically to the food sector's needs. The company became part of the Coesia Group in 2017, which has provided it with a robust platform for growth and innovation in packaging solutions. MGS's commitment to customer satisfaction and its expertise in packaging automation make it a significant player in the food packaging industry.

12. International Packaging Incorporated

• Website: internationalpackaging.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1972
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: internationalpackagingincorporated

International Packaging Incorporated, based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, has been a key player in the packaging industry since its founding in 1972. The company specializes in providing comprehensive packaging solutions, including design, print production, and fulfillment services. With a workforce of around 23 employees, International Packaging caters primarily to businesses in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) and pharmaceutical sectors. Their offerings include promotional and traditional packaging, subscription boxes, kitting and assembly, and warehousing and distribution. Notably, the company is SQF certified and FDA compliant, ensuring that their packaging meets stringent food safety standards. This commitment to quality and safety is crucial for their clients in the food industry. Additionally, International Packaging emphasizes sustainability, utilizing environmentally friendly materials and processes in their operations. This focus not only supports their clients' sustainability goals but also positions them favorably in a market increasingly concerned with environmental impact.

13. Bedford Industries

• Website: bedford.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Worthington, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, Australia 3%
• Latest funding: March 2020
• Founded year: 1966
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: bedford-industries-inc

Bedford Industries, Inc., based in Worthington, Minnesota, has been a player in the packaging manufacturing sector since its founding in 1966. The company specializes in innovative bag closures and unique packaging solutions tailored for various industries, including bakery, produce, coffee, and medical. With a workforce of approximately 176 employees, Bedford Industries emphasizes quality manufacturing and customer service, ensuring that their products enhance visibility and usability for clients. Their product offerings include twist ties, tags, and bag clips, which are crucial for food packaging. Bedford is committed to adhering to high food safety standards, holding certifications such as ISO 9001:2015 and BRC Global Standard for Packaging and Packaging Materials. This dedication to quality and safety positions them as a relevant player in the food packaging industry.

14. FlexPak Services

• Website: flexpakservices.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Vadnais Heights, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: lasersharp-flexpak-services-llc

FlexPak Services, founded in 2008 and based in Vadnais Heights, Minnesota, is a private company that specializes in flexible packaging innovations and manufacturing services. With a team of around 20 employees, FlexPak has carved out a niche in the packaging industry by offering advanced solutions that cater primarily to brand owners and converters. Their product offerings include PrimeVent®, designed for coffee packaging, and PrimePeel®, which provides easy-open functionality for various food items. The company also provides laser converting services, enhancing packaging quality and convenience. FlexPak's commitment to innovation is evident in their partnerships and sponsorships, such as their involvement with the Golden Bean coffee roasting competition. Their facility is SQF certified, ensuring that their operations meet high standards for food safety and quality. This focus on quality and innovation positions FlexPak as a relevant player in the food packaging sector.

15. Lofton Label & Packaging

• Website: loftonlabel.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: October 2023
• Founded year: 1980
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: lofton-label

Lofton Label & Packaging, founded in 1980 and based in Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota, is a packaging solutions provider that specializes in label printing and flexible packaging. The company serves a variety of industries, with a notable emphasis on food and beverage, health and beauty, and nutraceuticals. Lofton offers a comprehensive range of products, including custom labels, flexible packaging films, and packaging engineering services. Their in-house team of packaging engineers collaborates closely with clients to develop innovative solutions tailored to specific product needs. With a workforce of around 44 employees, Lofton has built a solid reputation for delivering high-quality packaging solutions that enhance product presentation and functionality. They have not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational status.

16. Midwest Co-Pack

• Website: midwest-copack.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Winona, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: midwest-co-pack

Midwest Co-Pack LLC, founded in 2017 and based in Winona, Minnesota, is a family-owned co-packing company that specializes in food manufacturing and packaging services. The company offers a range of services including bulk bagging, cartoning, boxing, and fulfillment, primarily catering to innovative food companies. With the capacity to bag up to 150,000 pounds daily, Midwest Co-Pack is equipped to handle significant production demands. They are a certified food process manufacturer, adhering to FDA regulations and maintaining certifications such as GMPs, HACCP, and USDA Organic. This commitment to quality ensures that they meet the rigorous standards required in the food industry. The company has a strong focus on collaboration, treating clients as partners and actively seeking ways to enhance product quality and reduce costs. Their facilities are designed to accommodate a variety of food products, including organic gummies and other specialty items, showcasing their versatility in the food packaging sector.

17. Thiele Technologies

• Website: thieletech.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1931
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: thiele-technologies

Thiele Technologies, a family-owned company based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, has been a key player in the packaging machinery industry since its founding in 1931. As part of BW Flexible Systems, Thiele Technologies specializes in flexible packaging solutions, particularly for the food sector. Their product range includes advanced bag filling equipment, sealing machines, and palletizing systems, designed to enhance efficiency and ensure compliance with food safety standards. The company serves various markets, including food service and agriculture, and is known for its commitment to durability and operational efficiency. With a focus on innovation and customer service, Thiele Technologies continues to adapt to the evolving needs of the food packaging industry.

18. LINDAR Corporation

• Website: lindarcorp.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Baxter, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1993
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: lindar-corporation

LINDAR Corporation, founded in 1993 and based in Baxter, Minnesota, is a private manufacturing company that specializes in thermoforming and plastic products. With a workforce of approximately 73 employees, LINDAR has carved out a niche in producing high-quality, tailored plastic components for various industries, including food service and medical. The company offers a comprehensive range of services, including custom thermoforming, design and engineering consulting, and material sourcing. LINDAR is particularly noted for its food packaging solutions, which include FDA-approved containers designed to improve food safety and freshness. Their innovative Simply Secure tamper-evident bakery containers exemplify their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. LINDAR's expertise in thermoforming allows them to cater to the specific needs of their clients, making them a reliable partner in the food packaging sector.

19. NatureWorks

• Website: natureworksllc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Plymouth, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 86%, Thailand 7%, Netherlands 3%, Other 4%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), $350.0M, May 2024
• Founded year: 1997
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: natureworks-llc

NatureWorks LLC, founded in 1997 and based in Plymouth, Minnesota, is a private company that specializes in bioplastics. The company is known for its production of Ingeo biopolymer, a material derived from renewable resources that serves as a sustainable alternative to conventional plastics. NatureWorks operates manufacturing facilities in the United States and is expanding its operations with a new facility in Thailand, expected to be completed in 2025. The company focuses on various applications, including food serviceware and food and beverage packaging, providing products that are not only functional but also compostable. NatureWorks is committed to sustainable practices, utilizing certified sustainable agriculture for its feedstocks and promoting a circular economy through its products. Recently, the company secured $350 million in funding, indicating strong investor confidence in its growth and sustainability initiatives.

20. Massman Companies

• Website: massmanco.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Alexandria, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1978
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: massman-automation-designs-llc

Massman Companies, founded in 1978 and based in Alexandria, Minnesota, is a private packaging machinery manufacturer. The company specializes in innovative packaging solutions and automation systems tailored for various industries, prominently including food and beverage. With a workforce of approximately 222 employees, Massman Companies has built a reputation for delivering high-quality machinery that enhances production efficiency. Their product offerings include case packers, pouch fillers, liquid filling systems, and shrink wrapping machinery, all designed to meet the specific needs of their clients. Massman Companies has expanded its capabilities through strategic acquisitions, allowing them to provide comprehensive solutions that integrate seamlessly into production lines. Their commitment to customer satisfaction and engineering expertise positions them as a significant player in the food packaging machinery sector.

21. Aagard

• Website: aagard.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Alexandria, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1997
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: the-aagard-group-llc

Aagard, founded in 1997 and based in Alexandria, Minnesota, is a private company that specializes in packaging automation. With a workforce of around 175 employees, Aagard focuses on engineering and manufacturing purpose-built packaging systems tailored to meet the specific needs of its clients. The company serves various sectors, prominently including food and beverage, where they design advanced machinery such as case packers, cartoners, and palletizers. Aagard's solutions aim to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs for their customers. They have a strong commitment to sustainability, integrating eco-friendly practices into their design and manufacturing processes. Aagard has also been recognized for its innovative approaches, having previously ranked on the Inc. 500 list for rapid growth. Their expertise in creating customized packaging solutions positions them as a significant player in the food packaging industry.

22. Viking Plastic Packaging Inc.

• Website: vikingplasticpkg.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Mendota Heights, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1967
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: viking-plastic-packaging-inc-

Viking Plastic Packaging Inc., based in Mendota Heights, Minnesota, has been a player in the packaging industry since its founding in 1967. The company operates as a private entity with a workforce of around 24 employees. It specializes in providing comprehensive packaging solutions, including both equipment and materials, to various sectors, prominently featuring food and beverage. Viking offers a range of services, from the sale of new and used packaging machinery to technical support and maintenance services. Their clientele includes businesses in distribution, e-commerce, and food production, highlighting their commitment to enhancing packaging efficiency and reducing operational costs. With a focus on integrating advanced technology into packaging processes, Viking Plastic Packaging has built a solid reputation for delivering effective solutions tailored to the unique needs of their customers.

Food Packaging Insights: Key Companies in Minnesota

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