LONDON, ON - In the produce industry, flexibility is a prerequisite to a successful partnership. No two companies are alike, and Crawford Packaging’s approach reflects this adaptability, as every grower, packer, and shipper has different products, processes, and priorities.

“We start by understanding a company’s operation and what they’re trying to achieve,” Stuart Jackson, Vice President of Produce Packaging, shared with me. “Our role is to help customers find packaging solutions that protect their product, support operational efficiency, meet sustainability goals, and create a positive experience for the end consumer.”

Stuart emphasized that the company doesn’t simply supply packaging materials. It works closely with customers to find a complete solution, including packaging equipment, automation, technical support, and service.

“What sets us apart is our ability to support customers well beyond the packaging itself. We provide a complete range of high-performance solutions, allowing us to help customers improve their entire packaging operation, not just one part of it,” Stuart added. “Across Canada, the United States, and Mexico, we deliver standardized, high-quality solutions sourced from trusted global partners. Customers can rely on Crawford for consistent product quality, dependable supply, and proven technologies wherever they operate in North America.”

The company’s newest facility in Auburndale, Florida, reflects this commitment to being closer to the growers, packers, and produce operators it serves.

“The facility strengthens our ability to provide responsive local support, maintain reliable product availability, and bring innovative packaging solutions to market faster across key produce-growing regions,” Stuart noted.

Another differentiator is that Crawford Packaging remains closely connected with growers, retailers, and supplier partners to understand how market expectations are changing.

“Whether the focus is sustainability, convenience, shelf appeal, automation, or operational efficiency, we work to identify and introduce solutions that help customers remain competitive,” Stuart said.

For example, one of the biggest challenges is balancing sustainability goals with economic realities.

“There is strong interest in more sustainable packaging solutions from retailers, consumers, and growers, but many alternatives still come at a higher cost. Companies are trying to reduce their environmental impact while also managing margins and protecting product quality. We're also seeing growing demand for convenience. Consumers are looking for more grab-and-go, ready-to-eat, and ready-to-cook options, which creates new packaging requirements around freshness, protection, presentation, and portability,” Stuart explained.

Crawford’s approach is straightforward: help customers evaluate the options available and determine what makes the most sense for their specific application. That may involve recyclable PE stretch films, linerless labels that help reduce waste, paper-based packaging alternatives, or equipment and automation solutions that improve efficiency and reduce material consumption.

“The right answer is rarely the same for every customer. Our job is to help them make informed decisions that balance performance, cost, sustainability, and consumer expectations,” Stuart concluded.

With more than 60 years of packaging experience and operations across North America, Crawford combines local service, consistent supply, global expertise, and practical innovation.