SOMIC Packaging hosts Minnesota open house

summary

Invergrove Heights, Minn., October 8, 2025 – SOMIC Packaging, Inc. held an open house at its new North American headquarters in suburban Minneapolis on September 25, welcoming more than 120 guests from around the world. The crowd was treated to speeches from local and business officials, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony and tour of the gleaming facility with machinery demonstrations.


One machine that caught everyone’s attention was the new 434 SuperFlex. SOMIC’s most innovative final packaging machine to date was given an early preview to guests ahead of the next generation’s official introduction at PACK Expo Las Vegas in a few days.


SOMIC Packaging CEO Peter Fox set the tone for the program by thanking everyone involved as part of his opening remarks. He said he had never heard of SOMIC when he was first introduced to the company 11 years ago. Between traveling to Germany and opening a North American office in Chicago, he understood that a commitment to excellence is part of the company’s DNA, and explains why the sun never sets on SOMIC.


“The passion, pride and craftsmanship I witnessed was tangible. I discovered SOMIC’s DNA,” he explained. “It starts with the fundamental pursuit of perfection. No product in this world is 100% perfect, but the pursuit of perfection is at the heart of our SOMIC DNA.”


After expressing his gratitude for SOMIC’s deep passion for innovation and service, Mr. Fox introduced Patrick Bonnetsmuller, Chairman of SOMIC Verpackungsmaschinen GmbH & Co. Mr. Bonnetsmuller spoke of the new, spacious headquarters with plenty of natural light and said it was a wonderful day of celebration. This was followed by remarks from James Cholet, president of the Minnesota chapter of the German American Chamber of Commerce, and Brenda Dietrich, mayor of Inver Grove Heights.


SOMIC Group CEO Dr. Gerhard Huber spoke about the company’s commitment to operating its U.S. operations and investing in the future. Chief Operating Officer Tim Haas spoke to customers in the room and provided further information about future plans. Mr. Fox then returned to the podium and gave his final address.


“This is so we can be the leader in providing our customers with the best and most efficient way to automate their packaging operations. This will make them more competitive and efficient in the marketplace, and when they succeed, we succeed,” Fox said. “That’s why we’re proud to say SOMIC is engineered to perform. And now, it’s made in the USA.”


Visitors began touring the 48,000-square-foot building, which opens in October 2024 and is located 10 minutes from the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. In addition to the 434 SuperFlex, we also saw demonstrations of a variety of machines, including the 434 with CORAS® matching and grouping technology. All North American machinery and equipment is currently assembled in Minnesota, as Fox explained in an interview with local ABC television station.


A catered lunch was then served outdoors on a picture perfect day. Some guests then traveled to nearby Stillwater for evening dinner and entertainment.

About Somic Packaging Co., Ltd.

With over 50 years of experience, Minnesota-based SOMIC Packaging, Inc. provides design support for cartons, retail and wraparound cases. Many international packaging brands use SOMIC’s advanced mechatronics systems to collate, group, and pack open trays, wraparound cases, trays with covers or lid inserts, and paperboard cartons. The parts and service department is responsible for all equipment installation, training, etc.