April 17, 2024

Patriot Converting moves to more efficient former Marsh building

By Savannah Eadens

Even though the former Marsh building is smaller than Patriot Converting’s previous location, the space was found to be better suited for the company. (Jamee A)

Patriot Converting, previously located at 910 N. 18th Ave. E. has moved to the former Marsh building at 1503 N. 13th Ave. E. Patriot has been in the converting industry since 2003. The company’s headquarters are located in Anoka, Minn. Patriot started their operations in Newton in November 2013.

Patriot Converting works with several mills to deliver products to printers. Patriot does precision sheeting, rewinding, guillotine cutting, packaging and delivery. They also equip warehouse rolls and sheets.

Walter G. Anderson, a Newton-based company which produces folding cartons, is one of Patriot’s largest companies to service, and was the main reason for setting up a factory in Newton. Patriot has provided products for Walter G. Anderson since 2003.

“We worked with them (Patriot) for some time trying to find a suitable location,” said Frank Liebl, executive director of the Newton Development Corporation, in a news release. “They signed a short term lease at 910 N. 19th Ave. E. and began their Newton operation. Even though they knew they were pretty much landlocked at the facility, Patriot had customers they needed to service.”

Patriot started moving into the building May 13 and completed the move May 18, said Jerry Ebersole, plant manager.

The 22,000-square foot building has less space than the previous location, but the design of the former Marsh building allows Patriot to operate more efficiently.

“We have the right of first refusal on the surrounding property that we plan to expand to. We’re hoping to move to the surrounding lots, potentially expanding to 25-40,000 square feet,” said Ebersole. “We have plans to break ground in July.”

Patriot is currently still working out of the building on N. 18th Ave. E. until they completely consolidate all of their large machines.

Patriot currently employs 12 people in Newton, and if the expansion takes  place, Patriot Converting will potentially need 10-15 new employees to work the new machines.

“We’re actively working on supporting our customers,” said Michael Stillwell, executive vice president of Patriot Converting. “We’re excited to see what the Newton community has to provide as we grow. We’ve enjoyed the community and what it has to offer.”