Timeline Stories

Lean Sigma is introduced to empower employees to make recommendations and find solutions to day-to-day challenges. Today Lean Sigma is incorporated into Tension’s Continuous Improvement program, which drives efficiencies and consistency throughout the organization.

Bert Berkley, Tension Chairman of the Board, uses his broad industry reach to help found the Global Envelope Alliance. The international organization’s mission is to promote the interests of the envelope manufacturing industry to global postal and regulatory bodies, standards organizations, and any other organization critical to the success of the industry throughout the world.

Tension Packaging & Automation acquires Maverick Enterprises, Inc, of Longmont, Colorado. The acquisition made it possible for Tension to expand its product line with additional manufacturing and engineering resources for its automated systems.

With its rich history of adapting to the changing needs of customers, Tension expands its business into the packaging and pharmacy automation market. The Corporation’s long-standing center of excellence in engineering and history creating robust packaging solutions made the move a natural fit to diversify and grow the business.

Tension installs its first 627 W&D machine. Described as “the ultimate direct mail envelope production system,” its features include a five-color and central impression cylinder for high-quality flexographic envelope printing.

Tension launches Tension Envelope Taiwan Corporation to support the needs of its international customers. Today, the operation is the leading envelope manufacturer in Taiwan.

The Company expands its geographic presence, affiliating with family-owned E.S. Wigg & Son in Australia.

Bill Berkley, great-grandson of Tension’s founder, becomes President and CEO. Bert Berkley continues as Chairman of the Board and Mayor Richard “Dick” Berkley remains as Tension’s secretary and treasurer of the corporation.

Tension launches an internal training program and creates a full-time,dedicated corporate trainer position to ensure continuous improvement and drive consistency throughout the organization.