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Friday, November 13, 2026Nov 13

Thinking outside of the box: Southern Champion Tray specializes in eco-friendly food trays and specialty boxes

Photography courtesy of Southern Champion Tray / Angel Torres works at Southern Champion Trays Centre South Industrial Park.
Photography courtesy of Southern Champion Tray / Angel Torres works at Southern Champion Trays Centre South Industrial Park.


Since its inception in 1927, Southern Champion Tray has risen to prominence as a leading producer of eco-friendly food trays and specialty boxes, proudly made in Chattanooga.

With a workforce of more than 920 members, the company crafts and dispatches an array of boxes, trays, clamshells, and bowls designed to hold a wide variety of delicious foods–from crispy chicken tenders to irresistible funnel cakes.

With a core commitment to sustainability, the company uses Sustainable Forestry Initiative certified paper and wood products, sourced from both recyclable and compostable origins. The company furthers this commitment through best recycling practices and green energy resources, paper waste is processed through papermaking facilities in the Southern United States and clean energy is embraced through solar panels capable of powering 50 homes a year.

Enhancing its eco-friendly initiatives, Southern Champion Tray’s truck fleet – distinguished by its iconic green and white branding – incorporates the Environmental Protection Agency’s Smart-Way Technology, optimizing efficiency while minimizing fuel usage.