Our Journey
Gather Packaging was founded by David and Ben Hertzman, owners of Progress Luv2Pak. With nearly 100 years of manufacturing experience and over 40 years of importing from the world’s best packaging companies and manufacturers, our team recognized the need for reshoring premium, locally-made paper bags in North America.
Combining the finest aspects of global paper bag manufacturing with local craftsmanship, Gather Packaging delivers international expertise tailored to the growing demand for onshore production in North America.
Gather Packaging is dedicated to exceptional customer care, top-quality craftsmanship, sustainable practices, and reshoring the manufacturing of high-quality paper bags.
What Sets Us Apart
At Gather Packaging, we’ve combined the best practices, equipment, and knowledge from global paper bag manufacturers, companies and factories to deliver exactly what our clients need. Our approach blends top notch services, efficient manufacturing, and cutting edge equipment into every project.
We offer:
- High-Level Service: Team support throughout all stages of the order process catered to your needs.
- Size Customization: Custom sizes to fit your paper shopping bag size unique requirements.
- Efficient Production: State-of-the-art factory and manufacturing equipment for cost-effective results.
- Attention to Detail: Precision in both conversion and printing for a flawless finish.
- Pre-Production Sampling: Review and approve samples before full-scale production.
Our Team
Ben Hertzman
President
Ben Hertzman, the president of both Progress Luv2Pak and Gather Packaging, has dedicated his career to transforming the packaging industry. Leading these two companies, Ben has built on over 100 years of family heritage at Progress Luv2Pak, driving innovation and excellence in packaging solutions.
Now, as the leader of Gather Packaging, he is pioneering the company’s role as a leading manufacturer of paper bags in North America. With a state-of-the-art factory, he combines local production with cutting-edge technology and sustainable methods. Under Ben's visionary leadership, Gather Packaging continues to uphold its commitment to delivering exceptional service, quality, and eco-friendly packaging solutions.
David Hertzman
Chairman and CEO
David Hertzman, CEO of Progress Luv2Pak, brings over 50 years of experience in retail and packaging to create the company Gather Packaging. For 30 years, he successfully ran a state-of-the-art manufacturing factory, establishing Progress Luv2Pak as a pioneer in high-quality, innovative packaging solutions. His strategic vision and commitment to excellence have been the driving force behind the company’s growth and success. Now, with Gather Packaging, David provides strategic direction to the team led by Ben, focusing on establishing the company as a leading manufacturer of paper bags and services while upholding the highest standards of quality and reliability.
Chirag Agarwal
Director of Operations
Chirag Agarwal is a key member of the Gather Packaging Inc. team, bringing nearly 10 years of experience from Progress Luv2Pak, where he managed some of the largest partners in major packaging programs. At Gather Packaging, an innovative manufacturer of paper bags, he has been instrumental in the factory plant setup and overall operations, contributing to all facets of the business, from sales to operations. Chirag’s collaborative approach and hands-on experience are crucial in shaping future growth strategies, building a strong foundation for the company’s continued success.
Karen Hylton
Director of Procurement
Karen Hylton has been a key part of Progress Luv2Pak for nearly 25 years, contributing significantly to the company's success. She swiftly moved through roles like Sales Support Coordinator, Buyer, Operations Manager, and Procurement Manager. Now, as Director of Procurement, Karen oversees Purchasing, Operations, and Shipping for both Gather Packaging and Progress Luv2Pak. With her extensive experience in the packaging industry, Karen focuses on sourcing, inventory management, logistics, and reporting. Her leadership and vision play a crucial role in optimizing processes at the factory level and driving success for the company as a leading packaging manufacturer.
Lee Moore
Director of Sales & Marketing
Lee is a shopping bag expert with over twenty years of experience in the retail packaging industry at Progress Luv2Pak. He works closely with our team of seasoned Account Executives and diligent Sales Coordinators to offer robust account management services to our esteemed clients. Lee also oversees the Marketing Department responsible for our marketing strategy & communication, business development, web & graphic design, digital marketing, social media, trade shows, and sales tools.
Brenda Kakish
Chief of Staff
Brenda Kakish has been an integral part of the company Progress Luv2Pak and now Gather Packaging for over 25 years. Starting in customer service, she quickly built a reputation for excellence and dedication, working her way up to her current role. As Chief of Staff, Brenda plays a crucial part in supporting the Sales Team and coordinating with all departments, ensuring seamless operations at the company. Her extensive experience is vital to Gather Packaging's ongoing success and commitment to customer service.
Our Departments
Production Department
At Gather Packaging, our Production Team is the backbone of our company's commitment to quality and innovation. As a manufacturer of high-quality paper bags, our skilled Equipment Operators, trained by the top paper bag factories globally, bring exceptional expertise and precision to every production run. Utilizing a state of-the-art factory and committing to waste minimization, our production team ensures maximum efficiently while keeping production cost-effective. Our team follows strict procedures at every stage ensuring our bags consistently meet the highest standards for performance and quality.
Quality Assurance
Quality assurance is central to everything we do at Gather Packaging. At our factory, from raw material testing for thickness and strength to the final stages of manufacturing and construction, our team ensures each paper bag is crafted with the highest standards in mind. Our in-line quality control system monitors every step, including accuracy in printing, converting, and construction. Finished products undergo rigorous lab tests, such as fiber tear and handle strength, to guarantee durability. Before shipment, inspections are conducted to verify measurements, printing quality, and overall performance, ensuring each bag meets the approved specifications. This comprehensive approach ensures we consistently deliver high-quality, sustainable paper bags.
Sales Department
At Gather Packaging, our Sales Department is central to our company's commitment to delivering exceptional customer service and innovative packaging and paper bag solutions. Each client is supported by a dedicated team, including a sales manager, account executive, and sales support staff, ensuring seamless project management from concept to delivery. Our sales team provides comprehensive support throughout the process offering deep industry knowledge, expertise in product development, and proficiency in project management, order processing, and warehousing & logistics services.
Procurement
At Gather Packaging, our Procurement Team is essential to delivering high-quality paper bags. We are committed to sourcing the best materials, ensuring sustainable options and cost-effective solutions that meet each of our customers' unique needs. By prioritizing quality, efficiency, cost effectiveness and sustainability, we ensure our materials align with both budget requirements and environmental goals, providing the best value without sacrificing quality.
Logistics Department
At Gather Packaging, our Logistics Department provides seamless, end-to-end logistics and warehousing solutions tailored to your needs. As a leading packaging company and manufacturer of high-quality paper shopping bags, we specialize in handling timely shipments organizing large scale global distribution. Whether it's shipping full trailer loads to distribution centers or managing pick-and pack services for North American store distribution, we ensure your products are stored securely and delivered on time.
FAQs
Where is Gather Packaging Located?
Gather Packaging operates a domestic factory in Toronto, Canada, serving clients across North America and globally.
What types of packaging does Gather Packaging specialize in?
Gather Packaging specializes in eco-friendly J-cut (Turn Top) and Serrated top paper bags tailored to meet the needs of retail, food service and other industries.
Is Gather Packaging a manufacturer or a supplier of paper bags?
Gather Packaging is a proud manufacturer of paper bags, producing sustainable and high-quality paper bag solutions in our state-of-the-art factory.