– As prepared for delivery –
Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen and distinguished guests, thank you for joining us here today as we announce the U.S. Embassy’s Entrepreneur of the Month for August 2015. I would like to thank both Modpack System for opening their fine facilities, and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Prahova and its President Aurelian Gogulescu, for their support and generosity in organizing today’s event. Thank you also to all many members of government and industry who took time out of their busy schedules to join us. Thank you.
The Embassy launched the Entrepreneur of the Month program in January 2015. I am proud that every month we take the time to highlight individuals and companies in Romania. These entrepreneurs have recognized the potential of new or emerging business ideas, and then developed a focused approach with drive and courage to turn that idea into reality. Traveling around Romania, I have seen firsthand that innovation and creativity exists in all segments of the economy. Through this program, the Embassy showcases great local entrepreneurs who are developing products and services across a multitude of industries and regions.
This month the Embassy selects Modpack System, founded here in Prahova by brothers Bogdan and Valentin Malaescu. Some believe that the presence of multinational companies in Romania takes away opportunities from local companies; we believe, and the Malaescu brothers clearly believe, that these firms represent tremendous opportunities for growth. Founded just eight years ago, in 2007, Modpack Systems recognized the need that export-oriented manufacturers would have for top-notch, customized packaging. In order to send their products around the world safely and securely, and thus cement Romania firmly in important, world-wide production networks, these companies were looking for dependable and responsive local partners – Modpack met those needs, and rapidly grew into the company we recognize here today.
It is a testament to the responsive, creative, and effective work that Modpack System provides that so many of their clients are present with us today. They have won the loyalty and recommendations of companies based around the world, among them the major U.S. manufacturers present in Romania like Ford, General Electric, and Timken.
Today, Modpack System is itself a multinational company, with operations in Poland and a joint venture in Prague – Modpack System Czech. Its goal is to reach a top position within the next few years among all of the European companies specializing in manufacturing wooden packaging and other packing services. We applaud their ambition! Standing here in this facility, which represents a major new investment, it is clear to me that Modpack System believes in Romania’s potential and is counting on continued growth. But it is not just the people of Prahova who have benefitted by its success; the company also owns facilities in Cluj Napoca and now employees close to 100 Romanians.
It was a pleasure to come here today, see the Modpack System’s headquarters, and recognize its tremendous achievement. Congratulations.
I would like to pass the microphone to Aurelian Gogulescu, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Prahova.
