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It was a reneged agreement to purchase a paper packaging business for food service vendors that started Fischer Paper Products.

Fifty years later, those quiet beginnings in an Antioch industrial area on Ida Avenue evolved into a company marking a half-century as a leading provider in the food packaging industry.

“My grandfather, William Fischer, founded the company in 1972, and I believe he would be in awe if he saw how we have grown,” said third-generation owner, Josh Fischer. “He worked in this industry at a Libertyville facility. He liked paper packaging and food service, and was driven to be a provider.

“A handshake agreement to purchase that facility didn’t materialize, so he founded one in Antioch,” he added.

Fischer Paper Products is the manufacturer and seller of paper-based packaging for food service distribution outlets such as restaurants, ballparks, concession stands, and food processors. A common denominator is handheld food sleeves and wrappers for food that comes with carryout and delivery items such as French fry bags, and “things you have your food wrapped in.”

Josh Fischer said, “The food service industry changes at a rapid rate, and our products align well with the direction that things are going. Packaging becomes an important commodity every year. Trends like off-premises dining have become important over the last few years because of COVID restrictions, so more and more food is eaten on the go. That’s where we come in.”

The company’s steady growth led to the purchase of property at 1301 Gregory Drive, and the creation of a campus that is home to a 175,000-square-foot building for offices and production machinery. The Kenosha, Wisconsin-based Partners In Design Architects patterned the building with an eye toward open space and future expansion. Fischer Paper Products moved into the new facility in late 2020.

“We have a third new production line being installed right now, and when all is said and done there is the capability for 22 production lines in this building,” Fischer said. “Only half the property acreage has been utilized for construction, so we have the ability to expand. It’s also a long-term commitment to the community and our national customer base of restaurants and food chains.”

The company employs 125 people, and Fischer said he views them as extended family, with good relationships and good people making a key foundation for growth and success. Last year, 20 new positions were created, and going forward the goal is to create 20 new positions each year.

“I’m proud of our local workforce — The number of long-term employees … some more than 25 years,” Fischer said. “It was a key factor for staying in Antioch.”

The village of Antioch has likewise taken note of the company’s bench mark achievement, with the Village Board preparing to honor them at an upcoming meeting.

“Fischer Paper, and the Fischer family, have been great corporate residents of the village,” Antioch Mayor Scott Gartner said. “In addition to supplying the restaurant industry across the nation, they are supportive of the Antioch community and offer a great place for local employment.

“We’re excited to join the company in their celebration of 50 years,” the mayor continued. “It’s a significant milestone. The village has worked alongside them, as they have grown into a new facility, and we continue to offer our support while they continue to grow.”

Fischer explained the significance of having the village as a pro-business partner. “In the food service, it’s largely ‘mom and pop’ businesses. Like a paper mill in a small rural town by a river … they’re the main employer in the town. That’s the nature of it … humble, good old-fashioned values, simple stuff. Keep it simple. Think of food service anywhere. It’s small. Personal relationships are what it’s all about.”

Fischer told the secret of what shaped his perspective. “I was a paperboy for the News Sun. They were my first employer for about 3-4 years, back in Grayslake around the fifth or sixth grade. You meet people. You respect the environment.

“For me, it’s about being a good provider,” he said. “Sustainable packaging through paper is a safe and renewable resource, and makes less room for plastics. That’s a good spot to be.”