Welch Packaging Acquires JaMar Packaging
- Welch P
- May 5
- 3 min read
Expands Presence in Chicagoland Region
Completes 40th Acquisition in 40th Anniversary Year
ELKHART, Indiana, May 5, 2025 – Welch Packaging Group, Inc., a family-owned and operated manufacturer of custom corrugated products, has acquired JaMar Packaging of West Chicago, IL.
Founded in 1979, JaMar Packaging focuses on creating corrugated packaging solutions emphasizing sustainable materials and lean manufacturing programs. JaMar employs Just In Time (JIT), Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) and Kanban practices to efficiently meet customer needs. Owners Jeff Heise and David Maday, along with long-time business associates Julie and Dave Reich, will continue to lead JaMar Packaging and will join Welch Packaging to serve new and existing customers in greater Chicagoland.
“We are delighted to expand our presence in this region and welcome Jeff, David and the Reich’s to our management team, along with the dedicated associates at JaMar,” stated Scott Welch, President and CEO of Welch Packaging. “I have known Jeff for many years and the combination of our businesses will be of great benefit to JaMar customers and their associates. Our expanded capabilities, combined with the experience and commitment of the JaMar team will be a win for customers and the Chicago market. Also, our network of sheet plants will give JaMar associates opportunities to grow.” Welch added, “Our collaboration with JaMar aligns with our mission of acquiring top-tier independent sheet plants with strong leadership teams and integrating them into our family of companies while maintaining their legacy.”
The acquisition of JaMar Packaging represents Welch’s 40th acquisition—which happens to coincide with the company’s 40th anniversary. “We want to be an umbrella or safe ground for businesses who are finding it difficult to compete,” said Welch. “They may have strong relations with their associates, they really care about their customers, and they’ve been active in their community, but they just don’t have a good option. With technology and capital costs being so high, it’s not easy to compete anymore. In that circumstance I want that business owner to see Welch Packaging as a possible lifeline, a way for their legacy to continue.”
Welch Packaging first entered Chicagoland in 1994, and JaMar will become our third sheet plant facility serving this important market. For JaMar customers and associates, this acquisition reinforces Welch’s
commitment to serve customers across a seven-state area with broad capabilities while providing a great associate experience. “We are excited to join the Welch Packaging family of companies,” stated Heise and Maday. “Becoming part of the Welch sheet plant network, backed by their sheet feeder system, will enable us to offer enhanced product capabilities, design resources, and additional services to both existing and new customers, while also providing a strong cause for our team members.”
Specific terms of this agreement were not disclosed.
About JaMar Packaging:Since 1979, JaMar Packaging has provided the Chicagoland area with corrugated packaging by understanding customer requirements, providing excellent customer service and delivering quality packaging.
About Welch Packaging
Celebrating forty years in business, Welch Packaging is a family-owned and led company. The Company is a network of custom corrugated box manufacturers specializing in package design, business solutions and personalized service for our local customers. The business units are supported by our own sheet feeder system. Welch associates are passionate about delivering the Ultimate Corrugated Experience to customers and engaging with the company cause – To Make a Difference! With a purpose-driven family culture focused on growth, Welch has a history of integrating new business partners while preserving their legacy. www.welchpkg.com
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Blair A. (Andy) Rieth
574-575-4275