GREEN BAY – OPTIMA Machinery USA Corporation is celebrating 40 years of operation in the United States this year.
OPTIMA Packaging was founded in Germany in 1922 for precision filling machines, but over the years it has evolved into something more.
Today the company is a global leader in packaging technology and has expanded its reach over to the United States.
The now third generation family-owned business set its sights abroad and started a subsidiary called OPTIMA Machinery in Green Bay in 1985.
Managing Director of OPTIMA Machinery USA Corporation Ulrich Unterriker described their transformation, “Over the last four decades, OPTIMA has evolved from a regional German manufacturer into a global leader in packaging and filling technologies.”
OPTIMA’s day-to-day operations include developing customized packaging for pharmaceuticals, hygiene products and consumer goods while working with over 3,500 employees across the globe.
Unterriker said, “Our holistic approach integrates high-performance machinery with digital services, ensuring that customers receive comprehensive solutions tailored to their needs.”
The products that OPTIMA manufactures are typically in the biotech and pharmaceutical fields, however they do include other fields as well.
“Beyond pharmaceuticals, OPTIMA is a global leader in packaging for consumer goods, nonwoven products and life-science applications,” Unterriker explained. “Our systems handle complex products such as coffee capsules, infant nutrition, wound-care dressings and high-speed hygiene items.”
Employees collaborate in the fields of engineering, service and digital solutions while making products that can help businesses achieve sustainability goals.
“Our mission is to deliver packaging solutions that combine precision, safety and sustainability while fostering trust and responsibility. We aim to lead through innovation, embrace digital transformation and ensure that our actions contribute positively to both industry and the environment,” Unterriker said.
In the past 40 years in the United States and 100 years in Germany, Unterriker mentioned their long term commitment to excellency and partnerships as one of their biggest achievements.
Unterriker noted, “Equally important is our leadership in turnkey pharmaceutical solutions, which has set new standards for efficiency and compliance.”
Additionally, he said that combining traditions and innovation for growth was another major accomplishment.
“Over the last four decades, OPTIMA has evolved from a regional German manufacturer into a global leader in packaging and filling technologies,” Unterriker said.
What started as a small team has transformed into a still increasing workforce with over 200 employees.
When it comes to employee retention, Unterriker said, “Many of our employees have been with us for decades, underscoring the loyalty and expertise that define our culture.”
In recent years, OPTIMA has increased their United States workforce by over 20% and added a site in Puerto Rico in addition to their Raleigh, N.C., location.
“Globally, we have broadened our portfolio from standalone machines to complete turnkey systems for pharmaceuticals, consumer goods, life sciences and hygiene products, supported by advanced digital tools such as virtual commissioning and lifecycle services,” remarked Unterriker.
OPTIMA’s philosophy and priorities lie in the people and the environment.
Unterriker said that they are committed to reducing carbon emissions, optimizing energy efficiency and supporting circular economy principles.
Additionally, they adhere to international standards of environmental concern such as the UN Global Compact and publish sustainability records.
“Our philosophy is summed up in the phrase ‘We care for people.’ This principle guides how we treat our employees, serve our customers and engage with society,” Unterriker said.
Within their communities, OPTIMA organizes family activities, sporting events and volunteering opportunities.
Additionally, they invest in training programs and educating future employees in the communities in which they operate.
OPTIMA has plans to expand the technology center at their new headquarters in hopes to help innovation and customer training.
Unterriker mentioned that OPTIMA wants to continue their strong presence in the United States, even through their new headquarters is in Germany.
“Our new headquarters in Schwäbisch Hall [Germany] was built on the site of a former U.S. military facility, symbolizing a unique connection between our German roots and our strong presence in America,” Unterriker explained.
New service capabilities and digital tools to enhance customer experience will be making their way to the North American sites as well.
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here