Cates Mechanical Corporation was founded in 1969, in Charlotte, NC by Ernest Cates Jr. Ernest made custom packaging machinery out of the back of a hydraulic repair shop. As the business grew, he was forced to move the company into its own, much larger building. It is there that Cates developed its standard lines of carton nesters, the 424 and 928. His son, John Cates, joined him in 1977, and that
same year the 424 was introduced to the fast food carton industry with critical acclaim. As the popularity of the machine grew, its limits were continuously pushed to the breaking point. It was later expanded by eight inches per side to the model W, and then by another six per side inches to the model WW, and then four final inches per side to the model WWW. In total, the machine was expanded by thirty-six inches, to accommodate as many three clamshell cartons, three french fry scoops, or four #250 trays. Now, after being in business for forty-five years, John Cates is joined by his sons Chad, and Justin, who continue the legacy of developing affordable packaging machinery and tooling with ever growing capabilities. As the industry changes to find greener, more durable, more innovative food cartons, Cates Mechanical Corporation changes to develop competitive packaging solutions.
