Tulsa-based Greystone Logistics, Inc. has announced the acquisition of Paradigm Plastic Pallets extrusion lines, plastic pallet manufacturing equipment, and reinstating production capabilities in Jasper, IN.
Utilizing a hollow profile extrusion process with the assistance of robotics, the pallets are manufactured, adhering to Greystone’s environmentally friendly principles through the incorporation of recycled plastic in the production. These pallets are an expansion of Greystone’s current plastic injection pallet designs. The equipment is capable of producing pallets ranging in size from 18″ x 18″ to 60″ x 60,” with an extensive range of top and bottom board configurations possible within the welding cells. Unique sizes, such as 48″ x 96,” can be created outside of the cells.
The durability and quality of Paradigm Pallets have been demonstrated through testing and endorsement by some of the world’s largest firms, including Toyota, Honda, Berry Global, Sonoco, and many more. Greystone’s acquisition of Paradigm Plastic Pallets emphasizes its dedication to sustainable practices.
“This acquisition will provide Greystone with access to world-class manufacturing support, a deeply researched and developed product line, an experienced and robust nationwide sales network, and highly respected leadership,” remarked Warren Kruger, Greystone CEO. “We are very excited to be able to add plastic extrusion capability to the Greystone family of pallets and are looking forward to a very bright future for the product line.”
In an interview with Plastics Recycling Update, Kruger stated that Greystone gets a lot of requests for large pallets and custom pallets, that it wasn’t previously able to address. By purchasing the equipment from Paradigm, “this allows us to do some things,” he said. The high cost of mold tooling typically makes it difficult for plastic pallet manufacturers to compete on non-standard sizes. Paradigm’s flexible extrusion and plastic welding process, however, will allow it to address those requests.
Paradigm spent $3 million-plus to install its automated line at the end of 2019 to produce pallets for Toyota, according to the same article, but the outbreak of COVID-19 early in 2020 negatively impacted the company. After Paradigm’s investors instructed Paradigm to liquidate its equipment, Greystone was able to acquire it at a discount. The company will be able to supply the recycled resin necessary to make 100% recycled content plastic pallets.
Greystone is also installing two new injection molding machines at an unnamed partner’s plant in Palmyra, Mo. Each will produce up to 200,000 pallets per year.