Chamber Member Highlight: Transcendia

By Miriam Gridley, Chamber Intern

You have probably seen advertising signs at McDonald’s. Or, perhaps felt a soft touch, matte-covered book. Surprisingly, these are just some of the products made locally by Transcendia. In addition, they also make lamination films for packets used for sterile, surgical instruments. The special film that covers the holograph in passports for India and Pakistan is also provided by Transcendia. They serve many different markets. In fact, there are twenty plants across the world: seventeen for manufacturing, and three for distribution.

The Transcendia plant, located in Richmond, was established in 1931. In fact, it was one of the first film converters and distributors. Their focus was food packaging wraps, but during the 60’s, and 70’s there were shortages in those areas. So, they got into extrusion. In the 80’s they started investing in the sheet extrusion market. By the 90’s they bought a liquid coating line, which is the soft touch, matte feel on books. In 2010 Jordan Group purchased Transcendia Transal Wrap, then it was sold again in 2017 to Golden Sacks. Finally, it has grown into what it is today, Transcendia.

Cody Cohoon, site manager, is very organized and thoroughly enjoys what he does. He has been with Transcendia for quite some time working as an operations manager, production manager, and supervisor. With valuable experience, he knows the importance of teamwork. In total, there are one hundred and twenty-nine people employed at Transcendia. Fifty have been there for ten years. One of Cody’s favorite things about Transcendia is the people. He is very personable with all the employees, knowing every person by name. Cody has worked hard to transform the culture and has created a positive environment. Cody does many things for the benefit of his employees, including a monthly giveaway for perfect attendance and organizing events for his employees and their families.

Cody grew up in Ohio and currently lives in Tip City, Ohio. Although he lives and was raised in the North, his heart is in the South where he was born, and where all his family resides. He married his high school sweetheart, Samantha, and they have two children together, Kingsley and Keegan. He says that the coolest thing in his life is being called Dad. Before coming to Transcendia, he owned his own concrete business.

Professionally, Cody has a strategic plan that will benefit Transcendia. He wants to reinvest in Richmond, add to their current site, add a packaging leader, and add new technology. He has a goal to give his employees sixteen paid hours a year to volunteer in the community. Cody chose to be a part of the Chamber because he wants to invest in the people and invest in this great community. He is eager for Transcendia to evolve, learn, and grow as a business through being a Chamber member. Also, it gives his employees opportunities to get outside of work and involved in the community. Cody’s favorite thing about the Chamber, so far, is the overall number of events and community involvement.

The Richmond Transcendia Plant is located at 300 Industrial Pkwy.