Global packaging company Elopak opened its first ever U.S. carton converting plant in Little Rock, Arkansas. The state-of-the-art factory costs USD 100 million and will produce Pure-Pak® cartons for liquid dairy products, juices, plant-based drinks, and liquid eggs.
Elopak CEO Thomas Körmendi was joined by local officials for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the factory site in Little Rock.
“Demand for our low-carbon, sustainable cartons in North America has been growing at an unprecedented rate for several years. This new factory will serve both new and existing customers across the United States, reaching millions of Americans every day,” said Körmendi.
“I am sincerely grateful to the whole team at Elopak Americas, as well as local officials, for helping us to deliver this factory on budget and on time. This plant is a cornerstone of our ‘Repackaging tomorrow’ strategy to double revenues by 2030. Today, I am very excited that we have taken a big step towards achieving that goal,” he added.
Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders highlighted Elopak’s investment in the state:
“Arkansas beat out several other states for this project, showing that cutting taxes, investing in education, and building up our workforce is the key to bringing new companies to our state. Thank you to Elopak's leadership for your investment in not only the United States, but in the Natural State,” she said.
After the ribbon-cutting, Elopak hosted guests and media for a reception, featuring speeches by Thomas Körmendi, Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott Jr., Executive Director of Arkansas Economic Development Commission Clint O’Neal, Pulaski County Judge Barry Hyde, Port of Little Rock Chairman Clay McGeorge, and Elopak Americas President Lionel Ettedgui. This was followed by a tour of the new factory.
The company first announced plans to build a U.S. production plant in June 2023 and construction started in March 2024, taking just under a year to complete. In September 2024, Elopak announced it was bringing forward plans to add a second production line at the plant after initial capacity sold out before the factory even opened. This line will be fully operational in 2026 and will contribute a further USD 110 million in annual revenue.
Elopak selected the Port of Little Rock for its new factory owing to the site’s unrivalled connections to road and rail transportation, as well as proximity to the city’s airport. The factory employs 100 people who will create top quality cartons. All carton folding, scoring, packing and loading is 100% automated, improving efficiency and optimizing employee safety. Like all Elopak plants, the factory will use 100% renewable electricity.
“We have built a unique and strong foothold in the North American market. Elopak now has several production plants covering the continent from north to south,” concluded Körmendi.
Clint O’Neal, executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission: “Arkansas is a destination for international companies looking to grow, and we are proud that Elopak has invested in our state. Elopak’s state-of-the-art facility in Little Rock, Arkansas represents a significant investment of $100 million – but more importantly, it’s an endorsement of our state as a business-friendly location where companies can thrive. This grand opening is a cause for celebration, and we look forward to Elopak’s success and the jobs that the facility will create.”
Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott Jr.: “Despite being the smallest city Elopak considered for this investment, they chose Little Rock because we’re a city that thinks big. Our excellent transportation infrastructure, dedicated workforce, and thriving business community provided Elopak with confidence that Little Rock is the right place to call home. We’re grateful to welcome them to the capital city!”
Barry Hyde, Pulaski County Judge: “Pulaski County has supported Elopak on every step of the journey to delivering this state-of-the-art facility. We are certain that Elopak will play an active role in championing Pulaski County around the world.”
Clay McGeorge, Chair, Port of Little Rock: “Elopak selected the Port of Little Rock because of its location and multiple logistical choices; this was a huge win for Little Rock. We have enjoyed watching Elopak complete their $100 million development in just one year. The Port of Little Rock is thrilled to have helped Elopak start manufacturing in the US for the first time and we look forward to supporting them on their journey to doubling revenue by 2030.”
Jay Chesshir, President and CEO of the Little Rock Regional Chamber: “This investment started as a nationwide site selection search and is now coming to life in Little Rock. From completing the initial request for proposal all the way to cutting the ribbon on this new facility today, the Little Rock Regional Chamber team has walked every step with Elopak’s leadership and is committed to supporting them for decades to come.”