Sonoco Protective Solutions Expanding in Owosso, Creating 27 Jobs

March 17, 2023

Sonoco Protective Solutions is a subsidiary of Sonoco, a leading provider of consumer protective packaging components and material handling solutions. Sonoco was founded in 1899 and has more than 300 locations worldwide. Sonoco Protective Solutions manufactures protective solutions that prevent damage while also ensuring product integrity, serving customers in the pharmaceuticals, health and beauty care, powdered beverages, electrical, appliance, and automotive industries. The Sonoco Protective Solutions plant is located in the city of Owosso and has 102 full-time employees.

To support new business in Owosso, Sonoco plans to purchase new steam chest molding machines, lease new fork trucks, add air compressors, transition to a newer production data system, and update the boilers in its Owosso plant. The expansion will help meet the demand of current customers and provide the opportunity to secure new customers. The project is expected to generate a total capital investment of $450,000 and create 27 jobs with the support of a $162,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant. Michigan was chosen for the project over competing sites in Indiana, Mississippi, Ohio, Tennessee, and Wisconsin.

“Our Sonoco team is excited to bring new business, equipment, and jobs to our Owosso plant,” said Sonoco Protective Solutions Plant Manager Tom Mims. “The city of Owosso, the county of Shiawassee, and the state of Michigan have all provided outstanding support over the years and continue to foster teamwork and cooperation. Thank you for supporting this grant and helping us bring more jobs to the great state of Michigan.”

Sonoco supports the personal growth and advancements of its employees by offering on-the-job training and cross training that leads to pay increases. The company utilizes Michigan Works! to reach local talent in disadvantaged areas and underrepresented employees and is diligent about offering these individuals training and future advancement opportunities. The project will bring immediate advanced manufacturing jobs with a large and growing manufacturer and could lead to future investment in Michigan.

“Sonoco is a highly successful global company, and we are excited and grateful for their continued commitment to create jobs and investment right here in Owosso and Shiawassee County,” said Shiawassee Economic Development Partnership President/CEO Justin Horvath.

"I am excited to see MEDC’s investment in expanding advanced manufacturing jobs in Shiawassee County,” said State Senator Sam Singh (D-East Lansing). “I look forward to seeing the impact that Sonoco Protective Solution’s expansion will have on the city of Owosso and surrounding communities."

Individuals interested in careers with the company should visit indeed.com and search for Sonoco.