Polymer Logistics, a global leader in retail-ready reusable packaging, announced today that Paul Pederson has joined the North American leadership team as Vice President of Protein & Dairy Supply Chain and Food Safety, effective January 23, 2017.

In his new role, Paul is responsible for commercial development of protein and dairy applications of the innovative retail-ready reusable platforms offered by Polymer Logistics. He will also lead food safety, regulatory compliance, safety, technical services, and quality across all operations. He reports to Fred Heptinstall, CEO Polymer Logistics North America.

“We are very excited to have a professional of Paul’s caliber join our leadership team,” said Heptinstall. “Our recent innovations in reusable packaging for meat have been very well-received, and we expect demand to accelerate in this, and other, perimeter categories. Paul’s knowledge of the RPC industry, forward-thinking approach to product and system design and implementation, and his relationships across all sectors of the supply chain make him the ideal choice to lead this key initiative.”

Pederson’s career experience spans reusable transport packaging systems, grocery retail, and state regulatory agencies. He has worked at IFCO Systems, Associated Food Stores and the Utah Departments of Agriculture and Health. A passionate advocate for the RPC industry, Paul is the Chair of the Food & Beverage Committee for the Reusable Packaging Association (RPA) and led development of the Association’s RPC best practices guidelines and HACCP, Food Safety Surveillance, and Quality Monitoring programs. He holds a Master of Science degree in both Food Science & Technology and International Food Law from Michigan State University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Organismal Microbiology and Bacteriology from Portland State University.

About Polymer Logistics: Polymer Logistics is a global leader in Retail-Ready Reusable Packaging. Working closely with manufacturers, suppliers, growers, packers, and retailers alike, Polymer Logistics provides world-class plastic container and pallet pooling services to ensure cost-effective logistics solutions and maximum in-store product availability. The industry innovator, Polymer Logistics pioneered the design and commercialization of wood grain RPCs and display units, which bring an upscale look to stores and drive incremental sales and shopper engagement. The complete range of Polymer Logistics returnable transport, storage and display products can be found at polymerlogistics.com.