Emerald Packaging Expands Production Capabilities in Southern California with New Facility

Emerald Packaging Expands Production Capabilities in Southern California

Emerald Packaging, recognized as one of the largest providers of flexible packaging solutions in the produce sector, has made a significant move by establishing a new production facility in Southern California. This strategic expansion is aimed at enhancing the company's operational footprint and better serving its customers in the region.

The newly acquired facility, located in Santa Ana and operated by Blower-Dempsay Corp., represents a landmark acquisition for Emerald Packaging. This marks the first time in its 63-year history that the company has expanded beyond its original facility. The purchase, which includes the flexible packaging assets of Blower-Dempsay, positions Emerald perfectly to cater to produce customers, not just in Southern California, but also in Arizona and northern Mexico.

Pallavi Joyappa, President of Emerald Packaging, expressed excitement about this expansion, noting, "The opportunity to secure manufacturing assets from Pacific Flexible Solutions checked every box for us. This new location aligns well with our commitment to proximity to our key customer base and complements our headquarters in Union City, CA."

Emerald Packaging's decision to grow its headcount from 250 to over 300 employees by the year's end underlines the company's commitment to investment in people and infrastructure. Furthermore, the facility boasts modern printing and processing equipment, including an eight-color, 52-inch wide Windmoeller Hoelscher printing press and two Nordmeccanica laminators, indicating a robust capability to handle increased production demands. Plans for additional machinery, including slitters with advanced capabilities and a second printing press, are already underway.

This expansion not only increases Emerald’s production capacity but also strengthens its logistical capabilities. The Santa Ana facility is strategically located just three hours from the Mexicali border crossing, a significant reduction compared to the previous logistical challenges. This proximity stands to benefit Emerald's customer service and operational efficiency, proving invaluable during potential supply chain disruptions.

Emerald Packaging has long been a leader in the flexible packaging industry, catering to major clients such as Taylor Farms and D'Arrigo California. In recognition of its efforts, the company received the inaugural 2026 Printer of the Year award from the Flexographic Technical Association and two silver awards from the Flexible Packaging Association for its sustainable practices, including its innovative potato bag made from 30% post-consumer recycled resin.

Brad Jordan, President of Blower-Dempsay Corp., shared his enthusiasm about the partnership: "Aligning with Emerald—a family-owned business that shares a similar operational culture and business philosophy—opens up a lot of opportunities. We look forward to capitalizing on the synergies that this collaboration presents."

As Emerald Packaging actively enhances its operational footprint and commitment to sustainability, it sets a high standard not just for its industry but also for family-owned businesses aiming to create lasting impacts in their communities. This expansion marks a significant milestone in Emerald Packaging's ongoing journey to innovate and grow within the flexible packaging market.

For more information about Emerald Packaging and its offerings, visit www.empack.com.