Today we’d like to introduce you to Richard Cohen.
Richard, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Drawing on my experience in international business, strategy, and technology, I originally founded the company as Distant Village in July 2000. The focus of Distant Village was on fair-trade, handmade artisan packaging.
After noticing that there was a real need in the industry for more sustainable options, we shifted our focus from solely handmade packaging to compostable, recycled, and recycle friendly packaging and labels. The company was re-named Elevate Packaging to reflect this change, and we created PURE Labels as a division of the company dedicated to eco-friendly adhesive labels.
Today Elevate Packaging continues to embrace authentic sustainable resources to create truly innovative packaging that in turn creates memorable brand experiences. Sustainability is the way of the future, and we’re happy to be one of those leading the charge. We strive to change packaging, for good!
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Eco-Friendly products have been gaining in popularity, and of course this is great! But unfortunately, with that comes a few companies who are eager to take advantage of this, and will use misleading sustainability claims on their products (known as “Greenwashing”). This happens in the B2B world as well, and we feel that it’s important for both businesses and customers purchasing in stores to know exactly what they are buying. We love to “use our powers for good” and help companies choose the best authentic sustainable packaging to match their ethics and best represent their brand.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Elevate Packaging, Inc. – what should we know?
Elevate Packaging is dedicated to creating sustainable packaging and labeling solutions for eco-friendly brands. We have been pioneers in sustainable packaging and labels since 2000 – investing in the research and development of sustainable packaging products and bringing those innovations to the businesses that need them.
We consider every aspect of what we do, and use that thinking to create a wide variety of sustainable packaging options: from recycled boxes printed with vegetable based inks, through to packaging manufactured entirely with wind energy. We specialize in holistic compostable packaging solutions – meaning that every element of the packaging is 100% compostable, right down to the adhesive on the label.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
I think that being willing to push forward, not being afraid to try new things and new ideas, has been integral to our success. And of course finding more folks to join our company who are deeply passionate about sustainability and making the world a better place! As we grow we need more talented customer service, sales, marketing, and operations.
Pricing:
- Natural Handmade Hemp Paper Sheets – visit the Distant Village Etsy website
- 100% Compostable Blank Adhesive Labels – visit PureLabels.com
- 100% Compostable Bags and Stand-up Zipper Pouches – visit ElevatePackaging.com
Contact Info:
- Address: Elevate Packaging, Inc,
2010 W. Fulton Street
Suite F-239
Chicago, IL 60612 - Website: http://www.elevatepackaging.com
- Phone: 773 276 4554
- Email: Sales@Elevatepackaging.com
- Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/elevatepackaging
- Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/elevatepackage
Image Credit:
Rebecca Sims
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