Berry Plastics develops copolyester, breathable medical tapeBerry Plastics develops copolyester, breathable medical tape

"3537A offers a number of key attributes such as breathability and flexibility thus making it ideal for wound care, surgical dressings, incise drapes, and even transdermal overlay applications," said Jill McRobbie, product manager for Berry Plastics.

Specialty films sold to markets such as medical is the fastest growing product sector at Berry Plastics, according to the company's fiscal year 2011 annual 10-K report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Sales were up 12% in 2011 compared to 2012 and accounted for 35% of total net sales.

In a separate move, Berry Plastics is reopening its Madisonville, KY manufacturing facility to increase its production capacity.

Berry acquired the Madisonville (Hopkins County) facility during its acquisition of Rexam's specialty and beverage closures business last year. Earlier this year, the plant was closed and production of products such as prescription containers was redistributed to other rigid closed top manufacturing facilities. When it reopens, the plant will produce rigid open top products.

Employment will be ramped up to 400.  Berry Plastics received tax benefits up to $450,000 through the Kentucky Enterprise Initiative Act, which allows approved companies to recoup Kentucky sales and use tax on construction costs, building fixtures, equipment used in research and development and electronic processing equipment.