Action Packaging Expands Operations in Woodstock, Adding Jobs

Action Packaging has announced plans to relocate its operations to Woodstock, Illinois, following the approval of a redevelopment agreement by the Woodstock City Council on August 19, 2023. The company, which specializes in packaging solutions for the health care, industrial, and food service sectors, will establish its new facility at 1191 Lake Avenue.

The agreement stipulates that Action Packaging must create at least 35 new jobs to qualify for reimbursement incentives from the city. According to Woodstock Economic Development Director Jessica Erickson, the company aims to exceed this target, although it opted for a conservative commitment of 35 jobs due to risk considerations. The company anticipates starting with 40 employees and plans to expand its workforce significantly in the coming years.

During the council meeting, Sean Cwynar, President of Action Packaging, expressed enthusiasm about the move, noting that the company has been based in DuPage County for the past 45 years, with its headquarters in Woodstock. “This is a big move for us,” he stated, adding that he is “confident” that the employee count will eventually reach 100 or more.

Haley Cwynar, the company’s CEO and owner, highlighted the importance of local support in their decision to relocate. “Our team is extremely happy to have found our forever home in Woodstock,” she remarked. Support from local officials, including Mayor Mike Turner and Mark Piekos, Executive Director of the McHenry County Economic Development Corporation, played a critical role in Action Packaging’s choice to invest in the community.

As part of the incentive package, the city will reimburse Action Packaging for 17% of eligible project costs, capped at $1.2 million, through a tax-increment financing district. Eligible expenses include acquisition, necessary repairs, and substantial renovations. The overall investment by Action Packaging is estimated at $7 million, which encompasses $6.6 million for property acquisition, $300,000 for hard construction costs, and $100,000 for soft costs. Additionally, the company is pursuing $1.5 million in funding for environmental remediation to address existing contamination and facilitate redevelopment.

The project is required to be completed by December 31, 2023, and Action Packaging must maintain at least 35 net new full-time equivalent jobs. Compliance will be monitored through annual job count certifications as per the agreement, which is set to last until December 31, 2042, or until the reimbursement cap is reached.

City officials noted that Action Packaging’s relocation is a positive development for Woodstock’s business landscape. The company has achieved recognition in the industry, being named one of the 50 fastest-growing privately held companies in the Chicago area by Crain’s Chicago Business and making the Inc. 5000 list as one of the fastest-growing companies in the United States for 2024 and 2025.

Piekos praised the investment, emphasizing the strength of the regional manufacturing sector. He stated, “Their decision affirms the talent, connectivity, and business-friendly environment that McHenry County offers.” Local officials are optimistic that this move will not only create new jobs but will also invigorate the local economy, reinforcing Woodstock’s commitment to being a premier destination for businesses, residents, and visitors alike.