Pratt Industries has expanded its Texas-based operations with the start-up of new, $28 million full-line box plant in Fort Worth.

The 328,000 sq. ft. facility is one of the most modern box factories in North America, anchored by a 110" BHS corrugator and multiple finishing machines.

"The Fort Worth plant uses a fully automated material handling system including pre-feeders, computerized smart cars and conveyor systems," said Pratt CEO Brian McPheely.

Division President Mike Tansey added: "This will give customers the best Pratt has to offer and allow us to better service the needs of our expanding market in the region."

Pratt closed its nearby Grand Prairie sheet plant before start-up, and all employees were relocated to the Fort Worth facility. The new site will eventually employ140 people.

Pratt, whose other Texas box factories include Dallas, Houston and San Antonio, also has recycling operation in nearby Denton.

Pratt is America's 6th largest paper and packaging company with 3500 green-collar workers in more than 20 states.