Edmonton, Alta., Dec. 1, 2022 — Polykar, an innovative, world-class manufacturer of sustainable packaging solutions, today officially opened its new 50,000-square-foot state-of-the-art plant in Edmonton, Alta. The event marked the completion of the construction process, which began in July of 2021.
Approximately 200 guests, including local officials, community members, suppliers, customers and employees, joined the festivities, which included a guided tour of the new facility. The plant, located in the city’s Discovery Business Park, complements the company’s Montreal facility and is designed to serve Polykar customers in Western Canada and parts of the U.S.
Flanked at the ceremony by Amarjeet Sohi, Mayor of Edmonton, and Deputy Premier Kaycee Madu, Polykar President and CEO Amir Karim said the plant’s opening was a watershed moment for the company.
“This puts Edmonton squarely at the forefront in terms of creating value-added products from the raw materials made in Alberta,” said Karim. “It includes a cutting-edge recycling facility, positioning the company to actively participate in Alberta’s efforts to divert plastic waste from landfills. It has also created 50 new jobs, a number we expect to grow to 70 within the next two years.”
Production has recently begun in the new plant which will house an industry-leading centre of excellence for the development and commercialization of flexible and compostable packaging. With state-of-the-art robotics and automation, the new plant is one of the most modern and innovative of its type in North America.
“I know I speak on behalf of the entire Edmonton Polykar team when I say that we are excited to be a part of the company’s expansion into Western Canada and look forward to serving customers with the same high-quality products that have always been Polykar’s hallmark,” said Doug Clavier, Plant Manager.
“This is a great day for Edmonton and for Alberta,” declared Deputy Premier Kaycee Madu. “This facility aligns perfectly with this government’s efforts to create a cluster of manufacturers that add to the value of our exports, diversify our economy and create meaningful, sustainable employment in this province. Congratulations on this achievement.”
Edmonton Mayor Amarjeet Sohi added his thanks on behalf of the city. “By bringing us this strong addition to our region’s manufacturing sector, it is my hope that Polykar’s success will attract other quality companies who are looking for opportunities to expand and grow. It is especially fitting as Polykar is an innovator when it comes to creating products that are 100 per cent recyclable or compostable.”
On the occasion of Polykar’s expansion into Alberta, the company took the opportunity to announce that it has purchased an additional 1½ acres just north of the plant to underscore its confidence in Edmonton as a key contributor to the company’s future growth plans.
“As I stated when we broke ground for this facility 15 months ago, we selected Edmonton and Alberta as the ideal location for our second Canadian plant for its dynamism, its openness to the manufacturing sector, and most importantly, because of its highly qualified, skilled and diverse labour force,” said Karim.
“I am pleased to say that we were not disappointed in those expectations,” he continued. “We have been very pleased with the workforce we have recruited, and we know they will contribute to the company’s success.”
“We’re thrilled to celebrate with Polykar as they reach this exciting milestone. The Edmonton region’s manufacturing sector continues to attract investment because of our regional expertise in advanced manufacturing, access to talent, and strong connections to the global marketplace. We look forward to seeing what comes next for this innovative company,” concluded Malcolm Bruce, Chief Executive Officer of Edmonton Global.
About Polykar
The company began as a family business in 1987. Today, Polykar is an innovative, world-class manufacturer of sustainable packaging solutions in North America and was named as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies in 2021 and in 2022. Our focus areas are: polyethylene film for converters, garbage bags, certified compostable bags and food and industrial flexible packaging. We have also built solid expertise in post-industrial and post-commercial film recycling. Our company values of collaboration, excellence, pride, trust and sustainability define our people and our service to our clients. www.polykar.com
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