The late B.T. Hoffmaster founded the company of Hoffmaster in February 1947 for the express purpose of manufacturing paper napkin products. Initially, the company was located on the second floor of an Oshkosh, Wisconsin warehouse. The operation consisted of one standard machine used in the manufacture of printed paper napkins and employed four people. During the 1950s, the company enhanced its reputation and market growth by offering restaurants a complete printed ensemble consisting of placemats, accompanied by matching dinner and cocktail napkins. Another development during this period was the introduction of disposable tablecovers made in decorator colors. To expedite expansion plans and gain other benefits associated with a larger corporation, the company merged in 1970 with the Amstar Corporation. As a wholly owned subsidiary, the company continued to grow and expansion plans were completed in 1972. Scott Paper Company in Philadelphia, PA purchased the company in 1985. This merger was an important step for Scotts growth strategy to build its position in the expanding away-from-home foodservice market. The Foodservice Business of Scott Paper Company. The American Convenience Products (ACP) location produced portion cups, fluted products, and doilies. In March 1995, The Fonda Group, Inc. purchased the Foodservice Division of Scott. Erving Paper Products, Inc., Green Bay, WI, was acquired in July 2004, which positively impacted service levels and product offerings to customers. In February 2004, Hoffmaster was acquired by Solo Cup Company, headquartered in Highland Park, IL. Solo is the nations largest manufacturer of single-use foodservice cups, bowls, plates, cutlery and related items made from plastic, foam and paper. The Foodservice segment operates under the Hoffmaster Foodservice Division name. The Foodservice division continues to be based in Oshkosh, WI. The Consumer segment operates under the Creative/Converting Consumer Division name. In September 2008, Hoffmaster Group, Inc. acquired Brooklace, Inc. and Smith-Lee Co., Inc., both privately held companies with common ownership. Brooklace, Inc. and Smith-Lee Co., Inc. will operate as part of Hoffmaster.