Ecopax Inc. (ecopaxinc.com), a leading manufacturer of single-use plates and takeout containers based in the Lehigh Valley, announces the completion of a $3.7 million equipment and facilities expansion that will increase the company’s manufacturing capacity and add 15 new full-time employees.

The new equipment includes one 12-ton thermoformer and one 19-ton extruder, both expected to operate at full capacity by year’s end. Additionally, six new storage silos were installed, near the Easton location’s two existing storage silos, adding to the manufacturer’s storage and production capabilities. This new equipment follows a $2.15 million, 75,000 square foot building expansion completed in 2012.

According to Christina Wong, vice president of operations for Ecopax, the plant expansion, new equipment and storage will increase Ecopax’s manufacturing capacity of single-use food containers and consumer tabletop ware by 50%.

“Although we were founded in 2007, the company really began to grow in 2010 and we have continued to grow rapidly,” Wong says. “Our customizable product line of single-use foam, paper and plastic products are attractive to food service organizations and supermarkets, as well as their customers.”

Wong said Ecopax management has begun interviewing for the 15 new full-time positions, with at least two of those roles being in management. She said she hopes to have filled all 15 positions before the end of the calendar year.