SPG Opens Guadalajara Plant to Scale AI Server Crating

Specialized Packaging Group (SPG), a North American provider of sustainable protective packaging solutions, has opened a new manufacturing facility in Guadalajara, positioning the site as a regional hub for “high-complex” packaging used to move sensitive, high-value technology equipment such as data center servers for the fast-growing AI market.

“AI is one of the fastest-growing sectors in technology, and our customers need reliable solutions to transport sensitive and high-value equipment. Our team developed a crate solution that meets rigorous requirements, allowing customers to transport critical servers efficiently, securely and sustainably,” says Paul Budsworth, CEO, SPG.

The new Guadalajara operation spans 4,645m² and is designed to expand SPG’s capacity for engineered crate solutions that meet strict transport requirements for advanced tech hardware. SPG said the facility will help it respond faster to customer demand in Mexico’s tech ecosystem while supporting service coverage across North America.

A key feature of the Guadalajara facility is its integration into SPG’s closed-loop recycling model. Under the program, packaging materials used to ship servers are recovered, recycled, and reintegrated into future production, which SPG says reduces waste and minimizes environmental impact. 

SPG frames the investment as both an operational expansion and a sustainability play for the data center supply chain, highlighting circular material practices alongside manufacturing capability. “This expansion underscores our commitment to innovation, customer service and closed-loop recycling practices. Through this investment, we are able to better serve our customers in the data center sector while creating new opportunities for growth and collaboration in Guadalajara,” says Budsworth.

The Guadalajara launch follows SPG’s move to expand in northern Mexico through the acquisition of the Monterrey-based assets of ArkPack de Mexico in July 2025. ArkPack specializes in custom-designed corrugated packaging and foam fabrication, serving end markets including technology, automotive, and general industrial products, MBN reports.

At the time, SPG said the ArkPack addition strengthened its ability to deliver tailored packaging solutions across North America and expanded a workforce that SPG put at more than 1,500 employees. SPG also said ArkPack would maintain existing operations in Tijuana and Juarez. SPG is backed by Altamont Capital Partners, and the ArkPack deal was described as the ninth portfolio addition since Altamont’s investment in 2020. 

Guadalajara is seeing significant investment driven by the logistics sector. Industrial demand in Guadalajara reached 71,000m2 during 3Q25, fueled largely by logistics companies such as Amazon, Foxconn, and Estrodex, reports MBN. The market’s performance was driven primarily by the logistics sector, which continues to serve as one of the strongest engines of industrial activity in the region. These three companies accounted for nearly 80% of total transactions, as they expanded operations in the area to strengthen distribution and light manufacturing capabilities. The companies are leveraging Guadalajara’s strategic location within the Bajio–Occidente industrial corridor, a key hub for supply chain and trade connectivity.