MIDLAND Acquires Wetoska Packaging Distributors

Acquisition expands MIDLAND's food packaging expertise and nationwide distribution capabilities.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 2:35pm

MIDLAND, a leading provider of packaging, paper, and performance solutions, announced its acquisition of Wetoska Packaging Distributors, a family-owned specialist in food packaging materials and equipment based in Elk Grove Village, Illinois. This acquisition enhances MIDLAND's capabilities in the food sector by combining Wetoska's decades of expertise with MIDLAND's nationwide distribution footprint.

Why it matters

The acquisition aligns with MIDLAND's growth strategy to expand its end-to-end packaging and supply chain solutions, particularly in high-demand food industry markets. This move will allow MIDLAND to better serve food processors and manufacturers across the country, helping to fortify the U.S. food supply chain.

The details

Wetoska's roots trace back to the Tobin-Stahr Company, founded in 1958. In 1964, Tobin-Stahr hired former Chicago Bear Bob Wetoska to sell Dow Chemical's Saran S shrink meat bags to Chicago meat and cheese processors. Bob's efforts helped grow vacuum packaging in the 1970s. In 1987, Bob purchased Tobin-Stahr and renamed it Wetoska Packaging Distributors. Under Bob's leadership, Wetoska delivered innovative food packaging solutions and transformed the food packaging industry. In 2001, Bob passed down the stewardship of the company to his five children.

  • MIDLAND announced the acquisition on April 1, 2026.
  • Wetoska Packaging Distributors was founded in 1958.

The players

MIDLAND

One of the nation's largest independent paper and packaging distributors, serving over 10,000 customers across a diversified set of industries.

Wetoska Packaging Distributors

A family-owned provider of food packaging materials and equipment, serving the food industry for over 60 years.

Bob Wetoska

Former Chicago Bear who purchased Tobin-Stahr in 1987 and renamed it Wetoska Packaging Distributors, leading the company to deliver innovative food packaging solutions.

Steve Wetoska

President of Wetoska Packaging Distributors, continuing the tradition of building innovative packaging products and custom solutions.

Mike Graves

CEO of MIDLAND.

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What they’re saying

“This acquisition not only bolsters our food packaging expertise but also reinforces our dedication to delivering sustainable and efficient solutions that drive customer success.”

— Mike Graves, CEO of MIDLAND

“Joining forces with MIDLAND represents an exciting new chapter for our team and customers. MIDLAND's resources and national reach will enable us to expand our offerings while maintaining the high-touch service our customers have come to expect.”

— Steve Wetoska, President of Wetoska Packaging Distributors

What’s next

MIDLAND and Wetoska Packaging Distributors will work to integrate their operations and expand their combined product and service offerings to better serve food industry customers across the country.

The takeaway

This acquisition strengthens MIDLAND's position in the food packaging market, allowing the company to leverage Wetoska's expertise and family-owned legacy to deliver more innovative and sustainable solutions to food processors and manufacturers nationwide.