"Our growth has always been driven by research, innovation, and listening carefully to what growers need," says Jacob Tsonakis, Founder & CEO of Ina Plastics. "We started with thermoformed pots and recycling plastics, but our vision has always been about providing durable, efficient systems that make cultivation both productive and sustainable."
Founded in 1984, Ina Plastics began with a simple but ambitious goal: to develop smart, sustainable plastic products for the greenhouse and horticulture industries. Over time, that goal has grown into a global mission.
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From Athens to the world
Headquartered in Athens, Greece, located at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Ina Plastics serves growers operating in vastly different climates and conditions. The company also operates a regional hub, Ina Insumos Agrícolas, in Mexico to support Central and Latin American markets. Today, its products reach more than 20 countries, including the United States, South Africa, Spain, and Turkey.
"This location has made us adaptable," Jacob explains. "We work closely with growers across diverse crop types and climate zones. Whether in the Mediterranean or Latin America, our goal is to provide practical, well-engineered solutions backed by long-term support."
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Turning challenges into opportunities
The horticultural sector is currently navigating the need to reduce plastic waste, rising energy and material costs, and the global drive toward environmentally responsible practices. "Growers are expected to produce more with fewer resources. That's where we see an opportunity to make a real difference."
One of Ina Plastics' flagship innovations is the Double Tray System (DTS), a patented propagation technology introduced in 2010 that has transformed nursery operations around the world. "The DTS was designed in collaboration with growers who wanted a system that supports strong root development, reduces waste, and saves time," he says.
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Efficiency and sustainability combined
The Double Tray System (DTS) consists of two interlocking trays, a top and a bottom, that form a rigid, reusable unit designed to optimize plant propagation. It is used across a wide range of crops, from vegetables and flowers to forestry seedlings, offering growers a durable and efficient alternative to traditional EPS and injection trays. The system delivers measurable advantages, including 30% lower cost per use, 20% higher plant density per square meter, and up to 12% faster plant growth. Growers also report germination rates reaching as high as 96%, with the added benefit of chemical-free cleaning and nearly complete recyclability.
According to Jacob, "Growers have reported saving up to 90% of storage space and achieving higher uniformity in their seedlings."
Now adopted by growers in more than 20 countries, the DTS continues to evolve as Ina Plastics collaborates with cultivators worldwide to tailor designs for different crops and growing conditions. "Every season we work with growers to refine the system," he adds. "Their experience directly influences our next generation of products."
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A diverse portfolio for every growing stage
Beyond the DTS, Ina Plastics offers a full range of products designed to support every stage of plant production. Their propagation trays are available in multiple configurations and cell sizes, optimized for specific crops and climates. Plastic pots and carrying trays, produced under the company's Verum Ecoplastics brand, are made entirely from recycled materials and can be fully recycled again after use.
The company also develops hydroponic solutions, including troughs and gutters designed for efficient drainage and compatibility with automated growing systems. "Our goal is to help growers build systems that are efficient, scalable, and sustainable from the ground up."
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Including sustainability into the design
"We see responsible production as essential to the future of agriculture," he emphasizes. "That means using recycled materials, engineering for longevity, and supporting circular production models."
Most of the company's trays and pots are made with recycled plastics, and their production processes are designed to minimize waste and energy use. The DTS itself contributes to sustainability by reducing the need for single-use trays and lowering transplant losses.
Overcoming industry challenges
Like many manufacturers, Ina Plastics has faced recent hurdles such as supply chain disruptions and rising raw material costs. Yet, the company has responded by strengthening its internal capabilities. "We chose to invest in efficiency rather than compromise quality. We've expanded our logistics and recycling operations and now keep over one million DTS trays and 1.5 million pots in stock."
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New thermoforming machinery has also enabled the company to scale production quickly and sustainably. "The lesson for us has been clear: stay close to the growers, understand their pain points, and innovate with purpose," he notes.
The company's next step involves expanding the DTS line to new crop types and propagation systems through collaborations with international growers. "We're constantly learning from our partners," Jacob says. "Our upcoming DTS configurations are designed to meet the needs of crops that are just beginning to take off in CEA markets."
For more information:
Ina-Plastics
Thanos Tsonakis
[email protected]
ina-plastics.com
