Leominster manufacturer honored at sixth annual Manufacturing Awards ceremony

SENTINEL & ENTERPRISE – Leominster’s Aaron Industries was honored by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Tuesday at Polar Park in recognition of its innovative and sustainable practices relative to the recycled plastics industry, according to an announcement from the office of state Sen. John Cronin.

“We are thrilled to be honored at this year’s Manufacturing Awards Ceremony and are proud to be a part of the North Central Massachusetts manufacturing community. This recognition has reinvigorated our efforts to continue producing sustainable, quality, recycled products while continuing to foster economic growth in the region,” said Robert Tocci, president of Aaron Industries.

The Leominster-based manufacturer, which has been a fixture in North Central Massachusetts for four decades, is a leader in recycled plastic innovation and one of the largest resin compounders in the Northeast.

“Aaron Industries has been a major catalyst for economic mobility in the district for decades, and continues to serve as a model for manufacturers across the commonwealth. They have continuously implemented thoughtful and innovative manufacturing practices and are a treasured member of the community,” said Cronin, who nominated Aaron Industries for the award.

Aaron Industries, which oversees the production, shipping and receiving of its products, is a member of MassRecylce, a nonprofit coalition focused on reducing and recycling waste products in the environment. It also hold a third-party certification for GreenCircle Certified LLC.

The event, which was held virtually last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, aimed to promote and recognize the work of the state’s top manufacturers. Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development Secretary Michael Kennealy, along with members of the Massachusetts Legislative Manufacturing Caucus, state Sen. Eric Lesser and state Rep. Jeffrey Roy, also offered remarks at the event.

The ceremony marks the start of Manufacturing Month in the Commonwealth, which for the past six years has focused on promoting and aiding the work of manufacturers, as well as fostering cooperation between the industry and lawmakers.

Lawmakers will continue to collaborate with manufacturers throughout the month, with Cronin heading to Mount Wachusett Community College’s Devens Campus for a look at the school’s advanced manufacturing program next Monday.