Our Story
The story of Durable Packaging International starts in the early 1940’s when the Anders Family embarked on their entrepreneurial journey. Initially, we focused on crafting precision piece parts for local operators. As our operations expanded, we acquired two presses dedicated to fabricating metal-formed products tailored for the retail industry.
Over the years, we experienced substantial growth, prompting our entry into diverse markets. Originating as suppliers to local grocery stores, our trajectory evolved towards mass merchandisers, supermarket chains, wholesalers, distributors, and ultimately, food service and institutional packaging companies.
Today, Durable Packaging stands as a fourth-generation, family-owned and operated enterprise, boasting a workforce of over 1,200 professionals distributed across five strategic locations in the Chicagoland area. Our expansive portfolio encompasses complementary aluminum foil products and paper goods, all meticulously manufactured under one roof in Wheeling, Illinois. The third and fourth-generation family members actively contribute to the company’s success, perpetuating our commitment to excellence.
Our History of Innovations and Growth
1944
The Anders Family begins crafting bespoke piece parts for local operators.
1946
The Family formalizes their business as Industrial Precision Products, establishing a firm foundation by acquiring their inaugural plant in Chicago, Illinois. They strategically invest in state-of-the-art machinery to produce precision metal-formed products.
1950
Under the brand name Industrial Electronics (iE), Industrial Precision Products ventures into the production of antenna mounting hardware, catering specifically to the retail sector.
1953
Commences manufacturing antennas to complement their mounting hardware offerings, delivering a comprehensive solution to their retail clientele.
1967
Rebranding as Dur-Able Electronics, the company diversifies its production line to include video, stereo, and telephone accessories, broadening its scope and market presence.
1971
Launches Dur-O-Peg, a dedicated brand specializing in pegboard accessories, further enhancing their product range and meeting diverse customer needs.
1973
Relocates their office headquarters from Chicago to a spacious facility in Schaumburg, IL, which eventually becomes the central hub for all manufacturing operations.
1975
Initiated the production of stamped aluminum foil bakeware and undergoes a rebranding as Durable Aluminum Company, marking a strategic evolution in their product offerings.
1980
Debuts SingleFoil, an innovative line of individually labeled bakeware, optimizing shelf space and driving heightened sales and profits compared to conventional packaging methods of multiple pans enclosed in clear plastic bags.
1983
Durable invents the revolutionary Handle Roasting Pan, securing a patent for its innovative design and initiates the launch of their HandleWare™ Program. HandleWare™ offers a diverse range of foil bakeware equipped with integrated handles, ensuring effortless lifting and enhanced Durability.
1986
Introduces FantasticFoil, a pioneering division specializing in premium non-stick bakeware.
1993
Durable launched the Clip Pack 2001™ program which revolutionized retail packaging by replacing traditional clear plastic bags. The Clip Pack 2001™ was designed to provide retailers with the latest in space-efficient, visually appealing product displays, setting a new industry standard.
1995
Durable invests in advanced automatic high-performance rewinder machines to efficiently convert master aluminum foil rolls into household rolls. These machines will also be utilized to produce foodservice aluminum foil rolls, enhancing overall production capabilities.
1997
Purchases thermoforming machines to start making plastic dome lids and clear hinged containers.
2001
In 1997, Durable seized an opportunity to enter a new industry by offering their bakeware, foil rolls and foil sheets in bulk sizes for food service, supplying distributors, food processors, and institutional packaging companies.
2004
Relocates their corporate headquarters and manufacturing operations from Schaumburg to a spacious new facility in Wheeling, Illinois
2010
In 2010, Durable made a bold move into the paper category. They acquired machines for sheeting, waxing, and interfolding, which also have printing capabilities. This expansion allows them to add wax paper rolls, freezer paper rolls, parchment paper rolls, interfolded deli paper, printed wax paper, sub wrap, patty paper, and pan liners to their product lineup.
2016
Now that they’ve established their name in the paper industry, Durable saw a need for pinch bottom bags and invests in new state of the art machinery with precise printing capabilities.
2019
Expands their paper line to include butcher and freezer paper rolls.
2025
In 2025, Durable acquires state-of-the-art machinery to produce their latest and greatest product line: Square Bottom Bags. These advanced machines, equipped with printing capabilities, manufacture a variety of paper bags including sandwich bags, carry-out bags, gift bags, and shopping bags. This expansion opens the door for Durable to enter new industries and strengthen their supply chain with existing partners.