About Assemblies Unlimited

Assemblies Unlimited Inc. was started in 1993 by Randy Shaw, who had the vision to build a national network of contract packaging vendors (copackers) to support packaging services for food and non-food applications, liquid and powder, primary and secondary packaging.   For over 32 years, customer’s large and small have become dependent on Assemblies Unlimited to match them up with the perfect packaging partner based on geography and capability, then manage their project from start to finish.  AUI headquarters are located in Bloomingdale, IL with 2 satellite offices in Irvine, CA and Garden City, NY giving us a national footprint and regional sales support.

As demand for outsourcing increases, Assemblies Unlimited will help you sift through the often confusing process of copacker selection so your success will be guaranteed.  Let us help you manage your packaging project from design to completion and everything in between, including local sourcing of raw packaging materials, inventory control, supply-chain management, back-end logistics, warehousing, and drop shipping of your finished goods.

Our Team

Randy Shaw

Randy Shaw

CEO

Over the last 32 years I have strived to build a culture in our company of unmatched responsiveness, seamless project management and a great customer experience. It is my goal that each customer feels like they can depend on us to execute their custom project to the fullest by being responsive, accessible and good communicators. These are qualities that many companies pursue but few attain. I believe we have assembled the greatest project and supply-chain managers in the packaging business with the number one goal that we meet or exceed our promises to our valued clients. We all love what we do at Assemblies Unlimited and hope you feel our passion for serving you.

Born and raised in Mt. Prospect, IL, I have a Business Management degree from Northern Illinois University. I have sold for several large public companies such as Illinois Tool Works (ITW) and Molex. Subsequently I worked for a large Electronics Rep firm based in Skokie, IL before starting Assemblies Unlimited in 1993.

In my personal time I enjoy golf, church, family and traveling to Naples FL to watch the sunsets.

Justin Dickert

Justin Dickert

President

As President of Assemblies Unlimited, I am proud to lead a dedicated team committed to delivering exceptional contract packaging solutions for businesses of all sizes—from emerging startups to established global brands. With a strong focus on customer service and results, we partner closely with our clients to help them scale efficiently, meet critical deadlines, and bring their products to market with precision and care.

Over the years, we’ve played a pivotal role in launching and supporting some of the biggest names in the industry. Our reputation is built on reliability, flexibility, and a deep understanding of what it takes to thrive in today’s fast-paced marketplace. Whether you’re preparing for your first product launch or managing complex, high-volume packaging needs, we’re here to ensure your success—every step of the way.

William Wilcoxen

William Wilcoxen

Controller

I am a results-driven CPA with over 20 years of experience in comprehensive financial reporting and analysis. My career encompasses roles in both public and corporate accounting, while excelling in areas such as financial statement presentation, mentoring accounting staff, treasury management, and driving operational efficiencies.

I hold a bachelor’s degree in Finance with an Accounting emphasis from Northern Illinois University. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, dining out, and have recently taken up pickleball.

Jim DeKosta

Jim DeKosta

Midwest Sales Manager

Having over 14 years of contract packaging experience with Assemblies Unlimited I bring a deep industry knowledge and a commitment to delivering practical, efficient solutions for clients across a wide range of markets.  I play a key role in ensuring that projects run smoothly from start to finish.  I pride myself on treating your project like it was my own and I go that extra mile to make sure you feel like more than just a client.  I started my career with The Newark Group which was a fully integrated paperboard company based out of NJ where I was the industrial packaging sales manager.  After leaving The Newark Group I spent some time with Rock-Tenn in the same role.  Assemblies Unlimited has allowed me to use my background to provide packaging solutions to my customers for both primary and secondary packaging solutions, including material sourcing and full project management.

Outside of work I enjoy spending time with family and friend while trying new hot spots in Chicago.  I also enjoy working out, playing golf and DIY projects around the house.

David Reifler

David Reifler

Vice President Sales, Eastern Region

Having over 20 years playing in the contract packaging and manufacturing space I bring a wealth of project management and solutions experience to the table. With a dynamic approach, together we will accomplish solutions to your challenges and bring your product to market. From my experience, I’ve learned that in our industry constant communication is integral to a successful program. Flawless execution, speed to market, on time and on budget are the goals and the approach is simple; the customer is king.

Born and raised in New York City I have a degree in Business Management and now live on Long Island with my wife and 3 children. Spending time with family, tennis, golf and following all sports keep me busy.

Ted Raine

Ted Raine

Vice President Sales, Western Region

I have been in the Contract Packaging and Project Management field for over 25 years and have secured many large national contracts for full turnkey services. I enjoy working very closely with clients to assure ease of business and transitions into their Contract Packaging goals. I am also very knowledgeable in Print and packaging applications within Contract Packaging. I am a big picture guy with the aim of helping customers find solutions through every aspect of their product packaging and retail execution.

I graduated from San Diego State University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a minor in Business.

In my free time I enjoy my family, friends and time at my Church and you can always catch me training for my next Hyrox race. I really enjoy fitness and challenging myself to the limits.

Gina Clayton

Gina Clayton

Office Manager

With over 30 years of executive-level administrative experience, I bring a strong foundation in business administration and a deep commitment to customer service that enhances operational efficiency and supports overall organizational success. I’m passionate about creating a welcoming, well-coordinated office environment that serves both our internal teams and valued customers. As one of the first friendly voices you’ll hear when you call our office, I take pride in making a positive first impression—so don’t hesitate to say hello! I hold an MBA in Business Administration from Keller Graduate School of Management and enjoy leveraging my experience to contribute meaningfully to our daily operations.

Outside the office, I’m a competitive bowler and a proud bowling mom who never misses a game – cheering on my son is one of my greatest joys. When I’m not bowling or cheering, you’ll find me spending time with family and friends, or rocking out to my favorite rock ‘n’ roll tunes. Whether it’s quality time with my family or hitting the lanes, I embrace every moment with passion and energy.

Andrea Nelson

Andrea Nelson

AP/AR Specialist

With a background in education and a strong foundation in customer service, I bring a high level of organization and attention to detail in my role as an Accounts Payable/Accounts Receivable Specialist at Assemblies Unlimited. I am committed to accuracy, efficiency, and maintaining smooth financial processes, while continuing to support project management functions as needed.

Outside the workplace, I enjoy running, fostering community connections, traveling, and spending quality time with my family.

Sean Hogan

Sean Hogan

Director of Project Management

I am results-driven and a detail-oriented professional with over 15 years of managerial experience. I strive to optimize operational efficiencies and deliver strategic solutions to complex challenges. I have a proven ability to drive continuous improvement, enhance productivity and ensure high-quality standards in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments.

I graduated from Northern Illinois University with a bachelor’s degree in Business Management. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, snowboarding and playing golf.

Josh Shaw

Josh Shaw

New Business Manager

Working in both sales and project management, I enjoy digging into the fine details of every project and providing our customers with as much real-time information as I can to help them make informed decisions on their projects. I am a big visual person and strive to do everything I can to watch your project come to life and run in the most efficient manner possible.

I graduated from Michigan State University in 2016 with a degree in Supply Chain Management and started my career in the agricultural fertilizer industry before joining Assemblies in 2020.

In my free time I like to play golf, cheer on the Cubs, and try out new restaurants in downtown Chicago.

Tony Petrunic

Tony Petrunic

Project Manager

I am a Project Manager with over 15 years experience who values collaboration, responsiveness, and team building. I believe in an open line of communication between clients, customers, and businesses to get projects completed efficiently. I believe this process directly contributes to the overall customer experience and streamlines expectations. I am experienced in management, team building, professional development, strategic implementation, and company collaboration. Problem solver with hustle DNA, I strive to go above and beyond in every aspect of my life and am willing to go the extra mile to ensure excellence.

I graduated from Northern Illinois University with a bachelor’s degree in Communications. I’m happily married to my beautiful wife since 2009 and am a father of two girls. I look forward to taking my girls on adventures and making them smile. My family and friends come first and I am willing do anything for them no matter what. In my free time enjoy golfing, gaming, biking, and building stuff with my hands.

Dario Zadro

Dario Zadro

CTO / IT Director

I oversee all our technology systems to keep operations running smoothly. My role encompasses cloud systems, cybersecurity, virtualization, web development, and digital marketing to ensure our team has the reliable systems they need to focus on what they do best.

I’ve spent over two decades in tech, and I’m passionate about building secure, scalable solutions that support business growth. Whether it’s implementing new cloud infrastructure, enhancing our cybersecurity, or developing innovative web solutions, I work behind the scenes to make sure technology never gets in the way of productivity.

When I’m not managing our IT systems, I enjoy exploring emerging technologies, going to the gym, and spending time with my family.

More About Assemblies Unlimited

Assemblies Unlimited has become the “go-to” source for any company looking for the perfect contract packaging, contract filling, or manual assembly partner.   Every project is unique and so is each copacker.  There is not a “one size fits all” solution, but with Assembly Unlimited’s experience working with over 300 copackers across the US,  you can depend on us to find the perfect contract packaging solution.  We serve key markets in the East, Midwest, and West with multiple packaging plant locations, each with a unique capability and equipment list.  These copacking facilities are supported by the Assemblies Unlimited regional offices/design centers strategically located in Irvine, CA (west), Bloomingdale, IL (midwest), and Garden City, NY (east).

Our Core Values

  1. That we prove to be the most flexible and response outsource solution for our customers requiring contract packaging, contract filling, and hand assembly.
  2. That honesty and integrity are the foothold of all customer and supplier relationships.
  3. That we are superior communicators with our customers by providing real-time answers and proper follow-thru on all requests.
  4. That we are actively engaged with each project and will be accountable for its success.
  5. That our reputation is built on a commitment to live up to promises that are made.
  6. That the value of our supplier relationships are equal to the value of our customer relationships.
  7. That we strive to build the strongest and most reliable supplier network in order to meet the high demands by our customers on quality, price, and delivery.
  8. That as project managers, we are innovative and resourceful in meeting the unique needs of each opportunity in a way that benefits the customer.
  9. That our goals for growing business are not based on short term successes but rather on long term friendships.
  10. That we realize that God owns all that we have and all that we are so we agree to be great stewards of all the financial resources he has entrusted to us.

Plant certifications include AIB, SQF, IFS, GFSI, NSF, Organic, Halal and Kosher.

Assemblies Unlimited has successfully supported custom packaging projects for many industries for primary and secondary packaging, liquid and dry, food, and non-food.  These industries include food, retail, snack, confectionery, gummies, dietary supplements, industrial, chemical, houseware, printing, seasonal gifts, consumer electronics, and more.

Our service proposition is that we are flexible, nimble and responsive, and work within tight deadlines that our customers require.  Our experience since 1993 allows us to tap into the latest packaging trends, utilize the most sustainable products, and provide turnkey packaging solutions that other packaging companies simply cannot. We welcome you to read our News & Press for additional information.

Contact us today at sales@assemblies.com or request a packaging quote.

We look forward to working with you!