SUN Automation Group Celebrates 40 Years Of Corrugated Leadership

Glen Arm, Maryland based SUN Automation Group announced its 40th anniversary, marking four decades of innovation and industry leadership in corrugated manufacturing technology.

Since its founding in 1985, SUN has been a driving force in the industry, dedicated to providing cutting-edge technologies and unmatched customer support to corrugated box manufacturers worldwide.

Founded by industry pioneers Lou Sardella and Pat O’Connor, SUN Automation Group was built on a vision of customer-driven innovation, high-quality manufacturing, and unmatched service.

What began as a small startup in Baltimore County has since grown into a global organization with a reputation for pioneering advancements in corrugated production. Over the past four decades, SUN’s solutions have been installed in over 20,000 facilities in over 70 countries.

“While the industry has evolved significantly over the decades, our mission remains the same: to provide the most advanced, reliable, and value-driven solutions for corrugated manufacturers,” said Chris Kyger, President of SUN Automation Group.

“Our team’s dedication to innovation and customer success has allowed us to grow and adapt alongside our customers.”
For four decades, SUN has pushed the boundaries of corrugated technology, state-of-the-art equipment engineering, and digital solutions, including Helios, the first IIoT predictive analytics platform for the corrugated industry, and the SUN625 HD, an advanced Rotary Die Cutter designed to enhance productivity and profitability.

“The legacy of innovation that began with our founders still drives us today, inspiring us to look even further ahead,” said Greg Jones, Executive Vice President of SUN Automation Group.

“We remain committed to developing solutions that meet evolving industry challenges, ensuring our customers remain competitive in a rapidly changing market. With that said, our main differentiator has been and will continue to be our dedication to responsiveness and commitment to service. SUN customers have grown accustomed to that reliability and dependability, and we expect nothing less.”

As part of its commitment to its employees and industry resilience, SUN Automation Group also distinguishes itself through its Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Established in 2003, the ESOP ensures that 100 percent of the company’s stock is held in trust for employees as a qualified retirement plan.

This unique structure directly aligns the company’s success with its employees, fostering a culture of ownership, accountability, and long-term growth.

“At SUN, our employees are more than just team members — they are owners,” said Kyger.

“The ESOP reflects our commitment to our people, ensuring every employee benefits from the company’s continued success. Studies have shown that ESOP companies grow faster and build greater retirement security for their employees, and SUN Automation is proud to be a part of that legacy.”

SUN Automation Group’s 40-year legacy is built on its unwavering dedication to continuous improvement, strong industry partnerships, and customer-driven service. As the company moves forward, it remains committed to delivering new technologies and solutions that empower customers worldwide.