Global Packaging Partners with RichmondCC on Customized Training

March 26, 2024 – Global Packaging signed a customized training project valued at nearly $100,000 with Richmond Community College that will support the company’s plans to install two new extrusion lines in 2024.

Global Packaging is investing $20 million in equipment and related parts for the two new extrusion lines. The project also includes a building expansion, three new silos, installation of a retention pond and the addition of laser-guided forklifts.

The new lines, the first being installed in April and the second in September, involve highly complex new technology that will present a tremendous learning curve for operators and maintenance personnel who must meet the precise product tolerances.

“The partnership with RichmondCC has been an important aspect in the training programs and personnel development with new and current employees.  It has been implemental in the growth at Global Packaging from 6 employees in 2011 to 85 in 2024.  We look forward to the continued partnership as we continue to grow in the future,” said Kevin Stephens, general manager of Global Packaging’s Hamlet facility.  

Global Packaging CFO Mike Frost, Vice President of Manufacturing Peter Lehman and Vice President of Operations Pat Maginnis traveled from the company’s headquarters in Oaks, Pa., to meet with leaders from RichmondCC and sign off on the customized training project.

RichmondCC will assist in providing the technical skills training on the new equipment. The project will also include training in leadership, continuous improvement and safety.

This is the fourth customized training project that Global Packaging has collaborated with RichmondCC to receive state funding for expanding existing businesses and industries in North Carolina.

"We have a great partnership with Global Packaging, and we look forward to working with them on their ongoing investment in this community and bringing more employment opportunities to Richmond County,” said Dr. Dale McInnis, president of Richmond Community College.

Global Packaging began operations in Richmond County in January 2011 when it purchased a former Georgia Pacific facility in Hamlet that had ceased operations.  It has become a leading North American printing and converting company providing high-quality flexography, polybags, roll stock, laminated film and extruded film.

One of the newest products for this facility is the plastic covering that surrounds the non-woven meat absorbency pad used in packaging raw meat products.

The Hamlet facility currently employs 80 full-time employees. Earlier this year, the company held a hiring event supported by RichmondCC that brought in over 200 applications and resulted in 15 new hires to support the expansion plans.