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Saving the Ocean, One Plastic Bottle At A Time

Published Friday May 15, 2015

Author KATHERINE SANSCRAINTE

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In a world where plastic can be found floating in the ocean, and where 32 million tons of plastic waste is generated annually, sustainable food packing methods are crucial for the planet’s health. One company on the case is Good Start Packaging in Bedford, which distributes certified compostable, sustainable packaging for the food packaging industry.

Originally started in California in 2009, Good Start Packaging relocated to Bedford in 2013 both to be closer to the New England packaging industry and for founder Ken Jacobus to be closer to family. Over the last year, Good Start Packaging has experienced a 47 percent growth in revenue.

Good Start Packaging is a stock distributor of certified compostable, sustainable packaging, with business stretching from coast to coast. “We provide a one stop shop for restaurants and other food service businesses to get all their packaging in one place quickly”. Their clients include restaurants, coffee shops, catering companies, schools, company cafeterias, churches, and even office break rooms. Union Coffee in Milford and Hilltop Café in Wilton are two local clients.

Materials used in the products the company offers are plant-based, created from natural ingredients such as cornstarch and palm leaves, most of which are agriculture by-products. For example bagasse, which is a by-product of sugar cane. Using these products means the company does not take away from the nation’s food storage. “We all can make a difference in the plastic we consume,” Jacobus says.

The company’s growth led to hiring a sales team of three new employees. The company currently represents 12 main manufacturers that together create a total of nearly 700 products. Some examples of their products are cups, plates, and take-out containers.

Jacobus says Good Start Packaging differs from other distributors because it focuses on the success of the businesses that they work with, in addition to their own bottom line. The goal is to accumulate enough revenue so that Jacobus can devote equal time spreading knowledge of sustainable goods and running the business.

Katherine Sanscrainte is a participant in the Young Reporters Project, a partnership between Business NH Magazine and University of NH Manchester.

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