Buy Locally, Serve Globally
Our Story:
Strides Toward Excellence
Discover our journey of innovation, dedication, and commitment to excellence in packaging solutions.
Our Journey
1963 – American Sugar Company
Was constructed during 1963 – 46,500sqft
1970 – The Amstar Corporation
In 1970, the American Sugar Company was renamed “The Amstar Corporation”
1984 – Amgraph Packaging, Inc.
Amgraph Packaging founded in 1984 by Kenneth L. Fontaine. Amgraph was among the first converters to implement electron beam curing, and it opted to solely run water-based inks
1991 – MIDAgraphics, Inc.
In 1991 Michelle Fontaine together with her father Ken Fontaine incorporated Midagraphics, Inc. Her mother Maria Fontaine named the business after Michelle “MI” and Dana “DA” her late son, and they slowly replaced a 40 person commercial art department. The new Macs, scanners and thermal printers forged a new direction for them to run a successful high tech prepress services.
2000 Computer to Plate Advancements
In 2000, Midagraphics started supplying files to Amgraph imaged from a Desktop Publishing (DTP) application and output directly to a printing plate
2004 – Kenneth A. Fontaine
In April 2004, Kenneth A. Fontaine became President & CEO of Amgraph Packaging.
2008 – Building Addition & New Presses
After adding onto the facility, rotogravure printing and cold seal lamination presses quickly became a cornerstone of Amgraph’s success.
2010 – EcoChoice
Eco-friendly packaging, whether biodegradable or compostable, is not just good for the planet. As the ranks of environmentally conscious consumers grow, adhering to production practices that foster sustainability is also good for business. By embracing a “cradle-to-cradle” mentality in all aspects of packaging production, companies can give themselves a distinct marketing advantage.
2014 – SQF Level 3 Certification
In November 2014 Amgraph became SQF certified by achieving the highest Safe Quality Foods Certification in the “food packaging manufacturing” sector under the SQF guidelines.
2016 – Fuel Cells
In March 2016, Amgraph installed two fuel cells which provide 100% of the company’s energy, instead of it being drawn from the grid. Plus, the cells produce more than 60% of its domestic and process heat. The environmental impact results in annual reduction of 1,316 metric tons of carbon dioxide and 4,764,000 gallons of water.
2019 – Watertown Facility
In 2019, Amgraph Packaging doubled its capacity with a second manufacturing plant in Watertown, Connecticut. A 140,000-square foot facility on 25 acres on Park Road will be used for printing, laminating, and finishing.
2021 – Building Addition & New Presses
AMGRAPH’s new 8-color offset press increases their capability to create packaging that is both beautiful and sustainable. It allows for superior color reproduction, reduced changeover times, waste reduction, ink savings, and reduced washups.
Our Leadership
Michelle
Fontaine-Calkins
MIDAgraphics President
Ken
Fontaine
Amgraph
CEO/President
Mike
Fontaine
Sr. Process Engineer
Our Vision
We envision a future where Amgraph Packaging is the leader in redefining packaging excellence, setting the industry standard for sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Our vision is to be at the forefront of packaging solutions that are not only efficient and aesthetically superior but also environmentally responsible, contributing to a healthier planet. We aspire to drive transformative change by embracing new technologies and inspiring others through our commitment to quality, community, and the pursuit of excellence.
Our Values
Innovation
We believe in the power of ideas to change the world. Our team is committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, embracing creativity and seeking out new solutions that give our clients a competitive edge.
Quality
Excellence is at the heart of everything we do. We are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards in our products and services, ensuring reliability and superior performance in every project.
Sustainability
Our responsibility to the environment guides our actions. We prioritize eco-friendly practices and materials, striving to reduce our carbon footprint and promote a more sustainable future for generations to come.
Customer Focus
Our clients’ success is our success. We are committed to understanding their needs, delivering personalized solutions, and exceeding expectations to build long-lasting partnerships.
Teamwork
Collaboration drives our innovation. We foster a culture of mutual respect, where diverse perspectives are valued, and collective efforts lead to shared achievements.
Community Engagement
We are invested in the well-being of our community. Through outreach, education, and support of local initiatives, we aim to make a positive impact beyond our industry.
Integrity
Honesty and transparency are the foundations of our relationships. We conduct our business with ethical principles, building trust with our clients, partners, and community through accountability and open communication.
