The story
1963-1975
United Packaging Corporation was founded in 1963 by William H. Shaw, Robert W. Drew, and Richard L. Bailly in Woburn, MA as a manufacturer of protective packaging, primarily for electronics. In 1964, the company expanded operations and moved its factory headquarters to Georgetown, Massachusetts. In 1967, the company changed its name to United Foam Plastics Corporation to reflect a broader market capability.
1976-1983
In 1976, with a focus on foam fabrication, the company started precision molding cross-linked polyethylene foam components for the military, consumer, and industrial markets.
1984-1993
In 1988 UFP Technologies introduced compression molded medical protective packaging using specialized foams. On December 17, 1993 the company completed its IPO and formally changed its name to UFP Technologies, Inc. Acquisitions brought new, highly specialized materials including various foams, films, and fabrics used in a range of medical, military, aerospace, consumer, and automotive applications. Additionally, UFP added molded pulp packaging to its portfolio through the acquisition of Moulded Fibre Technology out of Portland, ME.
1994-2003
UFP's growing medical customer base prompted its investment in cleanroom production starting in 1994. In 2001 the company introduced thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) based pouches and bags as an alternative to foam packaging for the orthopedic implant market. Additional acquisitions expanded its medical foams access and capabilities for a range of applications.
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2004-2013
UFP continued to focus on the medical market, accounting for 50% of its $100 million revenue by 2008. Between 2008 and 2013, UFP made five acquisitions to continue its foam offering to medical clients. In 2013 the company introduced a new product line called FlexShield®, a TPU based packaging solution for medical devices, instruments, and orthopedic implants.
2014-2024
In 2016 UFP expanded operations and relocated its headquarters to Newburyport, Massachusetts. In 2022 UFP Technologies sold Molded Fiber Business to CKF, Inc.
In 2022 Sales exceeded $300 million and the firm opened a new medical manufacturing operation in Tijuana, Mexico. In 2023, UFP Technologies was added to the S&P SmallCap 600 index. Additional MedTech acquisitions expanded UFP's international footprint to 5 countries and added complete device manufacturing capabilities. As of 2024, its MedTech business accounted for over 90% of revenue.
From Wikipedia’s article on UFP Technologies, shared under CC BY-SA 4.0.6