Real Conversations. Real Automation. Real Momentum.

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Pack Expo East 2026 in Philadelphia delivered exactly what we come to these shows for: meaningful conversations with manufacturers who are serious about improving throughput, reducing labor strain, and building packaging lines that scale.

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From the moment the doors opened, our booth stayed active with operators, engineers, managers, and leadership teams looking for practical automation solutions, not buzzwords. The common thread across nearly every discussion was clear: production demands are rising, labor is tight, and consistency is non-negotiable. The good news? The right equipment choices and line layouts can make a measurable impact fast.

The theme we heard again and again: “We need to do more with less.”

Across food, snack, bakery, nutraceutical, and general CPG applications, manufacturers shared similar pain points:

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• Manual packing and hand-loading creating bottlenecks
• Inconsistent weights and product giveaway impacting margins
• Changeovers taking too long and costing uptime
• End-of-line constraints (case packing / palletizing) limiting total output
• Difficulty finding and keeping labor for repetitive packaging work

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Our team spent the show doing what we love: breaking down these challenges and mapping out the most efficient automation path, whether that means starting with a single packaging station or building toward a complete end-to-end line.

Highlights from the booth: the lineup that drew the crowd

This year, we brought a full range of packaging and automation systems so attendees could see how the pieces fit together in a real production environment.

Robotics & End-of-Line Automation

Automation at the end of the line was one of the biggest topics of the show. Many teams are ready to reduce repetitive manual tasks and improve consistency, especially in case handling and palletizing conversations. Our Cobot System and RoboPacker sparked strong interest as flexible, scalable options for operations looking to take the next step.

Bagging & Primary Packaging

Bagging and portion packaging were constant conversation drivers, especially for operations balancing speed with accuracy. Systems like the RotoBagger, EcoBagger + Auger Filler, and 2 Lane Stick Pack were central to discussions around efficiency, dosing accuracy, and clean, repeatable packaging results.

Weighing, Feeding & System Support

When accuracy and consistency matter, weighing systems become the heartbeat of a packaging line. We spent a lot of time talking through product behavior, ideal hopper sizes, and how the right scale configuration impacts speed and cost control. The 14 Head Scale and EliteWeigh Weigher 24H 0.5L generated strong interest for teams wanting dependable performance across different product types.

VFFS & Packaging Platforms

For teams focused on throughput and uptime, our VFFS and packaging platforms were a key draw. The MarsRapid VFFS, ComboPack Case Former & Bag Inserter, and Pack500 flow wrapper drove great conversations around film handling, seal integrity, changeover simplicity, and building a platform that supports growth.

What happens next

To everyone who visited our booth, thank you. If we didn’t get enough time together on the show floor, we’d love to continue the conversation with a quick line review call. Whether you’re upgrading a single component or planning a full automation roadmap, our team can help you:

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• Confirm the right packaging format and system configuration
• Estimate throughput improvements and labor savings
• Identify bottlenecks and prioritize upgrades by ROI
• Build a phased plan that scales with your production goals

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If you’re ready, reach out and we’ll schedule a follow-up. Contact us today.

Let’s keep the momentum going.

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Booth 1739 | Philadelphia | Feb 17–19, 2026

If you’re heading to Pack Expo East 2026, we’d love to see you. This year, we’re bringing a serious equipment lineup built for real production floors designed to help manufacturers increase throughput, reduce labor strain, improve consistency, and scale with confidence.

Whether you’re upgrading a single station or mapping a full end-to-end line, our team will be onsite to walk through formats, speeds, product handling, and the smartest automation path for your operation.

What we’re bringing to the show

1. Robotics & End-of-Line Automation

PackMaster, Cobot Palletizer is a flexible, cost-effective solution that simplifies palletizing for a wide range of products and case sizes. Capable of handling one or two pallets and medium to heavy loads of up to 60 kg, it adapts easily to varying production needs. Its intuitive HMI system allows for quick programming, testing, and setup, helping save time and boost productivity all within a much smaller footprint than traditional palletizer systems.

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RoboPacker, Robotic Case Packer is a 3-in-1 solution that combines picking, case erecting, and packing within a single compact footprint. Equipped with a vision system for product orientation, an Omron PLC, and a 4-axis robot, it delivers precision and efficiency for a variety of product types. Designed for fast changeovers and seamless integration, this robust system ensures reliable, high-performance operation. Its user-friendly interface and versatile layout allow it to handle multiple product sizes and formats, making it an ideal choice for modern, high-output packaging lines.

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2. Bagging & Primary Packaging

RotoBagger, Rotary Premade Pouch Machine is ideal for mid-to high-speed production in demanding 24/7 environments. Specifically designed for premade pouching applications, this machine delivers packaging speeds of 40–90 bags per minute (BPM), with Duplex and higher-speed models available to meet increased throughput needs.

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EcoBagger Mini, Linear Premade Pouch Machine + EliteFill, Auger Filler is a compact, servo-driven pre-made pouch machine built for powders and granular products needing accurate dosing and clean fills. Engineered for efficiency and reliability, this durable system delivers consistent performance with quick changeovers. Its intuitive, user-friendly design makes operation simple while providing the flexibility to package products in multiple sizes and formats.

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SP200, 2 Lane Stick Pack is a compact, entry-level stick pack machine designed for small to mid-sized production environments. It can be configured with auger, granular, or liquid fillers to handle both solid and liquid products. With up to 5 lanes and a maximum film web width of 8" (210mm), it’s ideal for tight spaces thanks to its minimal footprint, even in height.

3. Weighing, Feeding & Support Equipment

EliteWeigh, 14H Multihead Weigher delivers exceptional accuracy and speed with robust stainless steel construction. Featuring precision german load cells, tool-free maintenance, and versatile integration with various packaging machines, it's ideal for precise weighing and packaging of diverse products from granules to fragile items.

4. VFFS & Wrapping Equipment

MarsRapid, VFFS is a continuous motion, ultra-high-speed vertical form fill seal machine engineered for large-volume packaging. Designed to achieve up to 200 cycles per minute, it delivers exceptional throughput without compromising reliability or consistency. Built for efficiency, the Mars Rapid integrates seamlessly with weighers and fillers, ensuring smooth operation across a variety of applications. Its user-friendly interface and quick-changeover design provide the flexibility to handle multiple product sizes and formats, making it the ideal solution for high-output packaging environments.

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MarsCompak, VFFS is a compact vertical form fill seal machine designed for pillow, stand-up, zippered, and gusset pouches. Capable of producing up to 80 bags per minute, it offers a versatile solution for both food and non-food applications. Engineered for reliability and efficiency, this robust system ensures consistent performance while keeping operations streamlined. With its user-friendly controls and rapid changeover design, the MarsCompak integrates seamlessly with filling systems and provides the flexibility to package a wide range of product sizes and formats.

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Pack500, Flow Wrapper is a large-format flow wrapper supporting products up to 20” wide. Designed for high-speed lines and large products. Specifically designed for optimal performance, this robust system ensures reliability and efficiency. Featuring user-friendly operation, it facilitates seamless integration and rapid changeovers, providing versatility for various product sizes and formats.

Let’s talk about your line

Bring your product, your bag format, and your target speed we’ll help you map the best system configuration and show what it looks like in the real world. 📞 Give us a call toll-free at 1-866-339-3407 or tell us a little more about your goals here. We look forward to getting started and building the future of packaging automation together.

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📍Visit PLAN IT PACKAGING at Booth 1739

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‍Happy New Year from Plan It Packaging!

As we step confidently into 2026, we’re taking a moment to reflect on an incredible year behind us. 2025 was a defining year for Plan It Packaging, one filled with growth, innovation, customer collaboration, and major milestones across North America. None of it would have been possible without the trust of our partners, customers, and team members who continue to push packaging automation forward.

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From launching next-generation equipment to expanding our footprint and connecting face-to-face with manufacturers across the continent, 2025 reinforced our mission: to engineer reliable automated packaging solutions that drive efficiency, productivity, and long-term growth.

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And we’re just getting started. ‍

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Growing Coast to Coast: Expanding Our Team & Support Network

In 2025, we continued to grow our teams across the United States from Tampa to Las Vegas strengthening our ability to support customers wherever their operations are located in North America.

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This expansion allows us to:

• Deliver faster lead times

• Provide in-field technician support

• Offer hands-on service from project kickoff through long-term production

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Every step of our process is designed to empower our customers, and that commitment won’t slow down in 2026. Our growing team ensures that when you invest in automation, you’re backed by people who understand your goals and your production challenges.

A Big Year for Robotics: Introducing PackMaster™

Automation and robotics were front and center in 2025, highlighted by the launch of our second-generation PackMaster™ Cobot Palletizer.

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This solution quickly gained traction with:

• Customers completing existing packaging lines

• First-time automation buyers stepping into robotics for the first time

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With its small footprint design, PackMaster™ proved to be a game-changer for facilities with limited or evolving floor space making it one of the most competitive palletizing solutions on the market. For manufacturers exploring automation for the first time, we make the journey approachable and transparent. For more information on what it’s like to automate with us as a first-time buyer, take a look at what you can expect.

Trade Shows, Technology & Face-to-Face Connections

Pack Expo Southeast – Atlanta

In March, our team headed to Pack Expo Southeast in Atlanta, showcasing a powerful lineup of automation solutions, including:

• ComboPack, Bag-in-Box System

• EcoBagger & RotoBagger, Premade Pouch Machines

• MarsRapid, High-Speed VFFS

• RoboPacker, Robotic Case Packer

• PackMaster, Cobot Palletizer

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Meeting new and familiar faces made this show a memorable one and set the tone for a busy year ahead.

Customer Success Stories That Stood Out in 2025

Custom projects were a major highlight this year and a true testament to what’s possible with the right automation partner.

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High-Speed Gummy Packaging at 500 PPM

One standout project featured customers packaging a variety of gummy candies at speeds up to 500 PPM using a complete line of MarsRapid VFFS machines paired with 24H EliteWeigh Multi-Head Weighers.

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Robotic Case Packing for Clamshell Dates

Another favorite was a Fully Automated Robotic Case Packer / Tray Packer for Clamshells, running dates at 70 PPM with precision and consistency.

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Sweet Connections at Sweets & Snacks – Indianapolis

In May, we brought automation to the Sweets & Snacks Expo Supplier Showcase in Indianapolis, connecting with snack manufacturers and sweets enthusiasts while showcasing our flow wrapper machine.

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These conversations continue to fuel new ideas, new partnerships, and new solutions tailored to the evolving snack market.

More FATs, More Collaboration, More Results

With more Factory Acceptance Tests (FATs) running out of our Tampa facility, we strengthened in-person collaboration with customers during the build and testing phases.

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One great example: customers moving away from hand-counting gummies and embracing the EcoBagger Mini + EliteCount system. A food-grade conveyor smoothly guides gummies into the lightning-fast EliteCount counter, allowing exact portions of 1, 10, 20, or 40 pieces, all while packaging at up to 20 PPM.

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This is automation that delivers speed, accuracy, and confidence.

Bakery & Beyond: A Strong Finish to 2025

IBIE – Las Vegas

In September, we connected with the bakery industry at the International Baking Exposition (IBIE) in Las Vegas, bringing:

• Pack Series Flow Wrappers

• ComboPack Bag-in-Box System

• EcoBagger & RotoBagger Premade Pouch Machines

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Pack Expo Las Vegas

Just weeks later, we returned to Las Vegas for Pack Expo, showcasing one of our most comprehensive lineups ever:

• Pack Series Flow Wrappers (Pack500, Pack600 & Pack1000HS)

• PackMaster Cobot Palletizer

• Mars Series VFFS (MarsRapid & MarsCompak)

• ComboPack Bag-in-Box

• RoboPacker Robotic Case Packer

• RotoBagger Rotary Premade Pouch

• 14H & 24H EliteWeigh Multihead Weighers

• EcoBagger Premade Pouch & EliteFill Auger Powder Filling

• Stick SP200 2-Lane Stick Pack Machine

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With many projects starting right on the show floor, it was an incredible way to close out the year and build momentum heading into 2026.

Looking Ahead: Automation with Purpose in 2026

As new projects take off at the end of 2025 and into early 2026, we’re excited to partner with manufacturers ready to invest in automation with purpose backed by industry knowledge, superior solutions, and exceptional customer support.

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Here’s to a bright, productive, and prosperous New Year.

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📞 Give us a call toll-free at 1-866-339-3407 or tell us a little more about your goals here. We look forward to getting started and building the future of packaging automation together.  

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Plan It Packaging, a provider of tailored packaging automation solutions, is proud to announce its participation at this year’s PACK EXPO Las Vegas, where it will unveil two groundbreaking technologies poised to transform the packaging landscape: the Mars Rapid vertical form fill and seal (VFFS) series and the PackMaster™ collaborative robot palletizer.

Designed with speed, precision, and adaptability in mind, the Mars Rapid VFFS represents the future of vertical bagging. Engineered for continuous motion and equipped with high-speed servo and PLC controls, the Mars Rapid delivers unmatched throughput across both food and non-food vertical packaging sectors. From snacks and powders to sticky candies and granular goods, Mars Rapid ensures clean seals, consistent fills, and washdown-ready construction for effortless sanitation in demanding production environments.

On the end-of-line side, Plan It Packaging will also debut the PackMaster™ Cobot Palletizer, the ultimate solution for facilities looking to optimize labor, reduce repetitive strain, and gain flexibility without sacrificing safety. PackMaster™ combines advanced vision systems, AI-driven stacking algorithms, and a compact footprint that integrates easily into existing lines all while remaining fully collaborative and operator-friendly. It’s the perfect intersection of performance and simplicity.

"PACK EXPO International is the stage for packaging innovation, and we’re thrilled to show attendees how the Mars Rapid and PackMaster™ are raising the bar," said Mark Evangelista, CEO of Plan It Packaging. "These systems reflect our commitment to delivering scalable, efficient, and intelligent automation for manufacturers of all sizes."

Attendees can experience live demos of both the Mars Rapid and PackMaster™ systems at Booth SL-15074, where Plan It Packaging’s team of engineers and automation experts will be on hand to discuss customization, ROI strategies, and integration support across a variety of industries.

Plan It Packaging continues to lead the way with complete, turnkey automation from weighing, bagging, wrapping, case packing, and now, to the pallet.

For more information or to schedule a demo at the show, call us at (866) 339-3407 visit www.planitpackaging.com or contact sales@planitpackaging.com.

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What a day! Second day of PACK EXPO Chicago! Our entire team has been working hard and putting on a great show. 

We're here at Pack Expo Chicago 2022, showcasing the latest packaging solutions and forming valuable partnerships within the industry as we strive to stay at the forefront of innovation and collaboration.

Visit us at BOOTH S-2422!

Plan IT Packaging Systems will be moving to a new facility on June 1, 2022 to accommodate the company's rapid growth. We have invested in a much larger facility, located in the heart of Mississauga (10 minutes from Toronto Pearson International Airport). This will provide more space for new employees, assembly, local fabrication and a showroom of high end automated packaging machinery.

Stay tuned for more expansion news in the U.S. and upcoming new team additions. Thank you to all our employees, customers and partners who have supported us and believed in what we do. We are super excited on a bright future ahead!

In a future driven by efficiency and automation, only the strong will survive. At PACK EXPO 2024, PLAN IT Packaging will unveil a vision of innovation and caution, with cobots designed to work seamlessly alongside humans.

Judgment day is fast approaching for businesses that ignore this technological evolution. 

The Rise of the Machines: Cobot Takeover 

As industries worldwide scramble to stay competitive, PLAN IT Packaging emerges as a leader in the vanguard of human-robot collaboration. "Our cobots represent the next phase of the industrial revolution," declares Yasha Shamayeli, Director of Marketing at PLAN IT Packaging. "We are not just creating machines; we are shaping the future of work itself."

Cobots, or collaborative robots, are distinct from their traditional industrial counterparts.

Designed with human interaction in mind, these machines work alongside employees, taking on repetitive or dangerous tasks, while their human counterparts focus on more complex and creative endeavors. At PACK EXPO 2024, PLAN IT Packaging's display will be an exhibition and a declaration: evolve or face extinction.

A Future Forged in Metal and Code

The cobots developed by PLAN IT Packaging are more than mere tools; they embody efficiency and safety in the workplace.

As Mark Evangelista, Director of Sales at PLAN IT Packaging, puts it, "We are entering an era where the distinction between man and machine blurs. Those who embrace this change will thrive; those who don't will be left behind, as the forces of innovation march inexorably forward."

This sentiment is echoed by the very design of the cobots, which prioritizes safety and  adaptability. Equipped with advanced sensors and intuitive programming, these machines can  detect human presence and adjust their operations accordingly, ensuring that the workspace  remains safe and productive.

"Our cobots are designed to integrate seamlessly into existing production lines," Evangelista  explains. "They require minimal modifications, making them ideal solutions for businesses  looking to stay ahead of the curve without disrupting their workflow" (Planit Packaging).

The Judgment of Time

However, for every business that adopts this advanced technology, some will resist, clinging to  outdated practices. For these companies, the consequences are clear. 

"Judgement day is coming for businesses that refuse to adapt," warns Shamayeli. "In a world  where efficiency is king, there is no room for hesitation. The companies that fail to integrate  cobots into their operations will find themselves obsolete, their competitors having outpaced  them in both productivity and innovation."

This stark message is more than just marketing rhetoric; the data supports the rise of cobots as a  necessary evolution in the industrial landscape.

Businesses that have integrated these collaborative robots into their operations report significant  efficiency and improvement in employee satisfaction. "Our cobots allow workers to focus on  what they do best—thinking, creating, solving problems—while the robots handle the  monotonous tasks," Evangelista states. "This is not just about machines replacing humans; it's about enhancing what humans can achieve by eliminating the drudgery of repetitive  work" (PACK EXPO International).

Witness the Future at PACK EXPO 2024

At PACK EXPO International 2024, PLAN IT Packaging will offer a glimpse into this future. Their booth will feature live demonstrations of cobots in action, showcasing their versatility in tasks ranging from packing and palletizing to more intricate operations such as quality control. But this isn't just a demonstration—it's a challenge.

"Come to our booth and see for yourself," Shamayeli urges. "Experience the future of  automation, and ask yourself whether your business is ready to survive in the coming age of  robotics. The decisions made today will determine whether companies thrive or perish  shortly."

For businesses brave enough to step into the future, PLAN IT Packaging offers more than just technology—it offers a path to success.

"We don't just sell machines," Evangelista emphasizes. "We work with our clients to ensure  that our cobots are tailored to their specific needs, helping them not just survive, but dominate  their industries" (PACK EXPO International).

The Final Countdown

As the countdown to PACK EXPO 2024 continues, businesses are pressured to leap into the  future. The event promises to be the largest of its kind, with over 45,000 attendees and 2,500  exhibitors, and will be the ultimate battleground for industrial innovation.

We are thrilled to announce that PLAN IT Packaging Systems is expanding to Tampa, Florida this summer! As a Canadian-owned company known for our innovative solutions in the packaging industry, this new facility marks a significant milestone in our journey of growth and service excellence.

Why Tampa?

Tampa, with its strategic location and thriving business environment, provides the perfect backdrop for our expansion. This vibrant city not only offers ample opportunities for growth but also allows us to better serve our customers across the United States. The expansion to Tampa ensures that we can continue to deliver our high-quality packaging solutions more efficiently and effectively.

New 35,000 Square Foot Facility

Our brand-new, 35,000 square foot facility in Tampa is more than just an additional space; it's a hub of innovation and excellence. Here's what you can expect:

• Advanced Testing Capabilities: Our new facility will be equipped with state-of-the-art testing areas where our technicians can rigorously test our machines. This ensures that every product we deliver meets the highest standards of quality and reliability.
• Innovation Center: We are committed to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the packaging industry. The innovation center will be a dedicated space for research and development, allowing us to explore new technologies and methods to better serve our customers.
• Faster Solutions: With the additional space and resources, we can expedite our processes, from testing to delivery. This means quicker turnaround times for our customers, ensuring that your packaging needs are met promptly and efficiently.

Commitment to Excellence

At PLAN IT Packaging Systems, our growth is driven by our unwavering commitment to excellence. The new Tampa facility is a testament to our dedication to providing top-notch packaging solutions and our readiness to adapt and expand to meet the evolving needs of our customers.

We can't deny our growth, and this expansion is a significant step in our mission to offer the best to our clients. Whether it's our fragile scales, vertical drop scales, or any of our comprehensive packaging systems, we are here to ensure that you receive solutions that are both innovative and reliable.

Quote from Mark Evangelista, PLAN IT Packaging Sales Director:

"We are thrilled to announce the opening of our new 35,000-square-foot facility in Tampa, FL, as part of our U.S. expansion. Conveniently located just minutes from the airport, this state-of-the-art facility will significantly boost our manufacturing capabilities and strengthen our presence in the Southeast region.

Tampa will be key to expanding the manufacturing and assembling of our VFFS bagging line, and for boosting our case packing and end-of-line solutions capabilities with advanced robotics.

This facility will feature a 5,000-square-foot showroom and system testing center, where customers can test and validate their products with our systems before making a commitment and investment.

We anticipate being fully operational by late November or early December, closing the year on a high note. Tampa is not only a fantastic city but also one of my personal favorites. We look forward to becoming an active part of its thriving business community and tapping into its talented workforce."

Looking Ahead

As we prepare to open our doors in Tampa, we are excited about the new opportunities and possibilities that lie ahead. This expansion is just the beginning, and we are eager to continue growing and innovating to serve you better.

Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the grand opening of our Tampa facility. Thank you for your continued support and trust in PLAN IT Packaging Systems. We look forward to serving you from our second home in Tampa!