Ardagh Glass Packaging-North America (AGP-North America) has celebrated the 130th anniversary of its Port Allegany, Pa., manufacturing facility.
Originally built in 1896 by Olean Glass, the Port Allegany facility was the first glass factory established in McKean County – and the only one still standing today.
Since that time, the facility has continued to evolve while maintaining its legacy of manufacturing glass packaging for the beer, beverage, food, spirits and wine markets, among other products.
The facility today employs approximately 270 salaried and union-represented hourly employees and serves as an important part of Ardagh's US glass manufacturing network.
It produces approximately 750,000 glass containers each day.
Chris Thornton, Chief Operations Officer for AGP-North America, said: “Celebrating 130 years is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the generations of employees who have contributed their skill, dedication and passion to this production facility and the US glass packaging industry.
"For more than a century, the Port Allegany team has produced glass packaging that consumers trust to protect the quality, freshness and integrity of the products they enjoy every day."
The facility has evolved with advancements in technology, improving efficiency while maintaining rigorous safety and quality standards.
In 2017, the Port Allegany facility became home to Ardagh Glass Packaging's Development Machine that helps brand owners accelerate new product introductions into the market.
The Development Machine can simulate nearly every manufacturing condition, creating glass bottles and jars in a variety of heights, weights and diameters while incorporating the packaging design trends such as distinctive shapes, textures and embossing.
To commemorate the milestone, the Port Allegany facility hosted a series of anniversary activities, including a celebration recognising current employees for their contributions to the plant's success.
It also included a facility tour for members of the community that showcased the glassmaking process and the facility's 130-year legacy in the region.
During the anniversary celebration, Martin Causer, Representative of the 67th District of the House of Representatives of Pennsylvania, presented the Port Allegany facility with a Certificate of Achievement in recognition of its historic milestone.
