Our History

Born in Providence and built to last.

Admiral Packaging has grown with our community and our customers, delivering value for more than 100 years.

1898

Moses Frank establishes Union Paper & Stationery Co.

Sensing an opportunity to serve the growing business community of Providence, Rhode Island, Moses Frank founded Union Paper Company in 1898 as a supplier of paper and stationery products. Union Paper grew steadily through the early 1900’s, maintaining a commitment to customer service that lives on today.

Moses Frank establishes Union Paper & Stationery Co.

Sensing an opportunity to serve the growing business community of Providence, Rhode Island, Moses Frank founded Union Paper Company in 1898 as a supplier of paper and stationery products. Union Paper grew steadily through the early 1900’s, maintaining a commitment to customer service that lives on today.

Casper & Haskell Frank, second generation join Union Paper

Casper and Haskell create the beginnings of a multi-generational business which will continue beyond a century.

Casper & Haskell Frank, second generation join Union Paper

Casper and Haskell create the beginnings of a multi-generational business which will continue beyond a century.

1905

1954

H Alan “Bud” Frank takes control

Bud, 3rd generation of the Frank family, begins the transition to become a true manufacturer, starting with the purchase of a bag making machine. Union Industries is formed as a division of Union Paper & Stationery Co. Union Industries eventually succeeds Union Paper as the corporate identity.

H Alan “Bud” Frank takes control

Bud, 3rd generation of the Frank family, begins the transition to become a true manufacturer, starting with the purchase of a bag making machine. Union Industries is formed as a division of Union Paper & Stationery Co. Union Industries eventually succeeds Union Paper as the corporate identity.

A new home

Union Industries acquires the historic Oriental Mills Complex that was previously used as a textile factory to spin cotton fabrics. In 2006, the complex was added to the National Register of Historic Places. It continues to serve as the company’s single site of operation and corporate headquarters.

A new home

Union Industries acquires the historic Oriental Mills Complex that was previously used as a textile factory to spin cotton fabrics. In 2006, the complex was added to the National Register of Historic Places. It continues to serve as the company’s single site of operation and corporate headquarters.

1962

1997

Harley Frank ushers in a new era

The 4th leader instills a strong financial mindset to all aspects of the business and invests in high technology manufacturing equipment. During this time the company becomes known for its speed and flexibility as a supplier to well-known brands across the country.

Harley Frank ushers in a new era

The 4th leader instills a strong financial mindset to all aspects of the business and invests in high technology manufacturing equipment. During this time the company becomes known for its speed and flexibility as a supplier to well-known brands across the country.

Name change

Union Industries, Inc. changes its name to Admiral Packaging. The name change reflects its commitment to the flexible packaging market. Union Paper Co. remains a retail division, selling packaging supplies, stationary and business consumables.

Name change

Union Industries, Inc. changes its name to Admiral Packaging. The name change reflects its commitment to the flexible packaging market. Union Paper Co. remains a retail division, selling packaging supplies, stationary and business consumables.

2005

2008

LEAN Revolution

LEAN Manufacturing is adopted as a management strategy to maximize efficiency while eliminating waste. This results in dramatic increases in productivity and space within the historic building that allowed for continued growth.

LEAN Revolution

LEAN Manufacturing is adopted as a management strategy to maximize efficiency while eliminating waste. This results in dramatic increases in productivity and space within the historic building that allowed for continued growth.

Packaging supplies store sold

The company’s retail division, is sold to support the continued growth and commitment to the flexible packaging business.

Packaging supplies store sold

The company’s retail division, is sold to support the continued growth and commitment to the flexible packaging business.

2017

2024

Looking to the future

Arron Carroll becomes president. Joining Admiral in 2017, he injects an engineering mindset into the company, focused on process, employee development and customer connection.

Looking to the future

Arron Carroll becomes president. Joining Admiral in 2017, he injects an engineering mindset into the company, focused on process, employee development and customer connection.