DeLauro Congratulates Hamden Manufacturing Firm for Achieving "National Minority Manufacturer of the Year"

DeLauro Congratulates Hamden Manufacturing Firm for Achieving "National Minority Manufacturer of the Year"

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro (Conn.-3) today offered her congratulations to The Specialized Packaging Group of Hamden and its founder Carlton L. Highsmith for being named the National Minority Manufacturer of the Year by The Minority Business Development Agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce. The Specialized Packaging Group, established by Highsmith, an African American, is one of the first and the largest minority carton manufacturing firms in the nation. In its 23 years of history, the company has grown from a $450,000 operation to a $130 million enterprise, with 11 sites, including plants in Georgia, Kansas and North Carolina, and a workforce of 500.

"Carl Highsmith's innovation and pioneering spirit has opened the doors to other minority-owned firms in the packaging industry and made a tremendous impact on the Hamden community," said DeLauro. "It its 23 years in business, The Specialized Packaging Group has made significant contributions to Connecticut manufacturing, which is an important part of our state's history and economic viability. I also applaud this business's commitment to civic duty by mentoring and educating young people and contributing to various nonprofit organizations. It is not surprising that they achieved National Minority Manufacturer of the Year."

The Specialized Packaging Group designs and manufactures paperboard packaging for some of the world's most recognizable brands, including Tide, Colgate, Puffs, Green Giant, Crest, Clorox, Pillsbury and Ziploc. The company also provides financial support for numerous nonprofit organizations and is committed to mentoring and education.

http://www.house.gov/delauro/press/2005/September/manufacturer_award_09_15_05.html