Quebec's Nelmar adds 3-layer film line
TERREBONNE, QUEBEC — Nelmar Security Packaging Systems Inc. will install its second blown film production line in February.
The Terrebonne firm has chosen a three-layer Varex line supplied by Windmoeller & Hoelscher Corp. of Lincoln, R.I. The installation is part of a C$9 million (US$7.3 million) capital expenditure that also includes upgrading of Nelmar's bag-making operations in its 150,000-square-foot facility.
``We need the extra film capacity,'' said Nelmar President and Chief Executive Officer Neil Freder in a telephone interview. ``We've sold out our existing line.''
Nelmar specializes in patented, tamper-evident systems for the safe transfer of currency, checks and other valuables. Customers for its various types of bags include banks, retailers and armored-car companies.
Nelmar installed its first blown film extrusion system in early 2007. That model also was a W&H Varex line. The current line includes Optifil P3 gauge control and Filmatic S dual surface winder with reverse winding capability. The Filmatic S winder is W&H's 200th installation of its kind worldwide.
Nelmar mainly uses polyolefins in its constructions. The business employs 150 and was founded in 1984 by Freder, who owns the company with two partners.
Freder said his firm also has an ambitious capital expenditure program for 2010, when it will invest C$10 million (US$8.1 million) or more in a new extrusion line and printing press.
Pouch supplier Oliver buys Pa. converter
GRAND RAPIDS, MICH. — Lid, roll-stock and pouch supplier Oliver Medical Packaging LLC of Grand Rapids has acquired sterile-grade converter Tolas Healthcare Packaging Inc. of Feasterville-Trevose, Pa.
The Dec. 31 deal was announced by Milwaukee-based private equity firm Mason Wells, which bought Oliver in 2007 from its fourth-generation owners and operators. Terms of the Tolas acquisition were not disclosed.
``Mason Wells is excited to bring together two leaders in the health-care packaging industry,'' Managing Director Greg Myers said in a news release. ``Oliver and Tolas are both known for outstanding quality, customer service and innovation.''
In a separate release, Jerry Bennish, Oliver's president and chief executive officer, said the acquisition increases his firm's presence in the market, broadens its product line, and expands its coating and manufacturing operations. The integration of the businesses has begun, he said.
``We're looking forward to building on the strength of both organizations,'' Bennish said. ``Combining both hot-melt and water-based adhesive technologies will provide a wide range of solutions from a single source.''
According to its Web site, Tolas converts medical-grade DuPont Tyvek, reinforced and surgical kraft papers, laminated and coextruded films, and multilayer foil constructions for lid and pouch applications. The company has plants in Feasterville-Trevose and Hamilton, Ohio.
Oliver has manufacturing operations in Grand Rapids and Venray, the Netherlands, plus a sales office in Suzhou, China.
Film converter Vins adds 10-color press
BRADFORD, ONTARIO — Film converter and printer Vins Plastics Ltd. will install a new, 10-color printing press in its Bradford headquarters facility.
Vins will spend a total of C$3.5 million (US$3 million) on the Windmoeller & Hoelscher printing press, building renovation and accessories, Vins President Jamie Vins said in a telephone interview. The press is scheduled to arrive at the factory Jan. 19.
Vins Plastics evaluated printing presses for more than a year before choosing the Primaflex CM model supplied by Windmoeller & Hoelscher Corp. of Lincoln, R.I. The press's Easy-Set automatic impression setting capabilities, Easy-Reg register setting, simple operation and competitive pricing figured in the decision, Jamie Vins stated in a news release.
Vins Plastics offers various printing services, including lithographic printing, and soon will offer flexographic printing. The firm does extrusion laminating and coating, pouch and vacuum bag making, production of shrink sleeves and other converting technologies for food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and industrial markets.
Family-owned Vins Plastics employs about 50.