Orbis acquires thermoformer Robinson Industries

Headquartered in Michigan, Robinson manufactures custom pallets, lids and trays, and primarily serves automotive packaging applications.

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Parradee | stock.adobe.com

Orbis Corp., an Oconomowoc, Wisconsin-based manufacturer of reusable plastic packaging, says it has acquired thermoformer Robinson Industries Inc. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Orbis says the move expands its manufacturing capabilities and accelerates its ability to deliver packaging products across global supply chains, adding that Coleman, Michigan-based Robinson will transition to the Orbis brand.

Founded in the 1940s, Robinson brings decades of thermoforming expertise, including single- and twin-sheet thermoforming, sheet extrusion and structural foam injection molding. According to Orbis, the company’s portfolio includes custom pallets, lids and trays, primarily serving automotive packaging applications. Robinson has additional reach into industrial, agricultural and retail supply chain markets.

Orbis says its acquisition includes Robinson’s two manufacturing facilities in Coleman, adding production capacity and strategic proximity to the Detroit automotive hub. Approximately 100 employees are joining the Orbis team.

“Robinson Industries’ legacy of innovation and technical excellence aligns with Orbis’ vision to transform supply chains through reusable packaging,” Orbis President Norm Kukuk says. “By combining our strengths, we will accelerate design innovation, deliver faster solutions and help customers achieve greater sustainability and efficiency.”

Orbis says its customers will gain access to streamlines, end-to-end thermoforming processes, enabling faster design and prototyping, improved quality control and greater innovation across Orbis’ expanded packaging portfolio.

“Robinson shares Orbis’ deep commitment to customers, employees and the communities we serve,” Kukuk says. “This strong cultural alignment will drive a smooth integration and reinforce our shared focus on delivering exceptional value.”