Packaging production, commercial print concept

CastlePierce is a diversified package printing business that’s found growth in providing end users ‘commercial print’ support using the latest in-line assets
Packaging production, commercial print concept

CastlePierce has effectively shifted its printing business into packaging over the last 10 years, achieving double-digit growth in more recent years. Explains Tom Castle, CEO and fifth generation owner of the company based in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, ‘We carefully accomplished our growth in packaging and transitioned out of commercial printing, which accounts for less than seven percent of the overall business.

‘We’ve been fortunate in taking our knowledge with the commercial model – where every job is new and different requiring acute attention – and bringing it to the smaller co-packers in this industry. Our customer service team is built to manage smaller accounts in the same way that a commercial business is set up to account for when a job is put out to bid again.’

Business revenue is diversified, split into thirds between labels, cartons and flexibles. Production is allocated to sheet-fed offset or mid-web flexo machinery based on material type, run length and job complexity. Castle says, ‘Our biggest growth is in the flexibles side. We’re seeing products that were packaged in cans with labels or folded boxes moving into a pouch format. The pouch offers more shelf space, is easier to ship, looks nice, provides more billboard space and costs less than a carton.’

Food products and non-food products, even children’s toys have moved into pouches. Even when barrier properties are not a priority, printing on flexible films gives consumers a change they are craving.

Danielle Jerschefske

  • Sustainability columnist