That’s right, PPC is growing—even during a global pandemic. We’re thrilled to introduce Cartonbox, Inc., a folding carton manufacturer with plants in Monterrey, Mexico, and Houston, Texas.
Get to know them by reading this interview with Miguel Bendeck, who runs the company alongside his brother.
PPC: Welcome and thank you for taking the time to tell us about your company! To start, please give us a brief overview of Cartonbox.
MB: Cartonbox was established by my father in 1997, in Monterrey, N.L. Mexico. It started as a small printing shop—an entrepreneurial project my dad took on after 20 years of working in the financial market.
After getting involved, I worked to incorporate the business in 2007, big step in our growth from a small family business. I learned in every operational area until I got to be in charge of the Administration and Finance department. I also got involved more holistically in the business, taking a very important role in the strategic planning of the business which also involves operation and clients. As part of our strategic plan to grow internationally, we expanded our company in the United States in 2017, opening a plant in Houston.
Since its creation, Cartonbox has grown at a rapid pace. Today we have a 150,000 square foot production plant serving different industries like food, automotive, electronics, retail, construction, and toys, among others. Our clients are based mainly in Mexico and the U.S.
PPC: What makes Cartonbox different from other folding carton companies?
MB: We provide high-quality packages at competitive prices. Also, we provide flexibility to our clients, adjusting to each of their needs.
PPC: How do you approach leadership?
MB: For us, leadership is about being of service to others. This applies to both employees and clients; the idea of “service” has been a key factor for the company, especially in growing long-term relationships.
PPC: Describe your company’s culture, core values, mission, etc.
MB: Our core values are compromise, trust, integrity, and respect—which are all ingredients in the idea of service that drives us. We always aim to create packaging that satisfies our customers’ requirements while ensuring the growth of the company and our employees.
PPC: What has been one of the company’s biggest challenges? How did you face or solve it?
MB: Our biggest challenge has been the transition to a Corporation from a small family business. To face it, we hired very talented personnel, focused on teamwork, and planned strategically. We also weren’t afraid of taking risks.
PPC: Why did you join PPC, especially during the uncertain time of a global pandemic?
MB: We consider uncertain times to be the best for opportunities. Like I said, we’ve solved some of our biggest challenges with well-thought-out risk-taking, so even during this time, we decided to double-down on our industry involvement. We’re excited about learning opportunities and meeting our peers—hopefully in person sometime soon.
PPC: How has COVID-19 forced you to change your operations?
MB: Since we serve essential businesses, we have been able to continue operating during this time. We had to quickly pivot, adopting the sanitary measures given by the government to take care of our employees throughout every operating process. As for the administration area, we have been taking advantage of technology like Zoom to continue moving forward and staying safe. We’ve implemented an entire system that allows us to manage the operation remotely. For example, we’re using of cameras in the plant and offices, which keeps us connected to the business without being there physically.
PPC: What is your vision for the future of Cartonbox?
MB: Ultimately, we want to strengthen our presence in the U.S. and capitalize on new opportunities globally. We want to be recognized as leaders in design, development, and innovation of packaging products in the national and international markets.
What makes paperboard different from other packaging options, and why choose paperboard?
MB: There are a lot of benefits of paperboard, we consider the environmental impact the most important.
Any advice to offer others in our industry?
MB: Focus on the people, build a strong team, and don’t be afraid to take risks.
That’s a wrap! Let’s give another warm welcome to Cartonbox, Inc. To learn about all of PPC’s member companies, see the Find a Member feature on our website.
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