Family-Owned. 
Future Ready.

For more than 100 years, Arkay has stayed privately owned—trusted by leading brands for packaging made with care, speed, and consistency.

OVER A CENTURY OF PROGRESS

Evolving With Every Era

From hot-metal presses to AI-powered workflows, Arkay has adapted with each generation—bringing new technologies to market while staying rooted in family ownership.

1920s
Founded in 1922 in a Manhattan loft, Arkay built its reputation on color precision, embossing, and die cutting.

By the decade’s end, Arkay pivoted to cosmetics packaging—marrying beauty and durability, and setting up partnerships that would last generations.
1930s
Max Kaneff took sole ownership in 1930, steering Arkay through the Depression with craftsmanship and agility.

Iconic clients like Elizabeth Arden, Helena Rubinstein and AT&T trusted Arkay’s responsiveness—proof that staying close to customers creates resilience.
1940s
A move to Hudson Street in 1941 expanded Arkay’s capacity for premium print and packaging.

New talent and creative growth pushed Arkay into the postwar era as a versatile, high-quality partner.
1950s
Howard T. Kaneff joined in 1951, bringing modern management and quality systems that reshaped the business.

By 1957, Arkay was the first U.S. printer to implement customer-focused QC—cementing its role with prestige beauty brands.
1960s
Innovation defined the ’60s, with custom machinery and a new Hauppauge facility built for color accuracy.

The first U.S. plant with color-corrected lighting, Hauppauge embodied Arkay’s commitment to technical rigor and client trust.
1970s
Early to digital, Arkay introduced computer-aided design and die outlines in the late ’70s.

These tools cut turnaround times and sharpened accuracy, giving Arkay a digital edge heading into the ’80s.
1980s
Arkay modernized with foiling, finishing, and an expanding roster of global beauty brands.

Investments in new techniques boosted shelf impact while keeping production efficient.
1990s
A new Roanoke facility opened in 1996; Mitchell Kaneff became CEO in 1997.

Roanoke consolidated press, finishing, and fulfillment, while Mitchell’s leadership accelerated innovation and growth.
2000s
Arkay pushed creative boundaries with UV curing, combo printing, and specialty finishes.

Advances in coatings and color management elevated brand presence while preparing for greener operations.
2010s
Arkay achieved CarbonNeutral® status, attained certification by FSC® and SFI®, and launched our trademarked and registered Paint on Press®.

Sustainability joined precision as a defining value, capped by EcoVadis Platinum recognition.
2020s
Arkay turned 100 in 2022, welcoming Josh and Maxwell Kaneff to continue the family legacy.

Heritage and innovation now converge: carbon-neutral operations, material efficiency, and new tech for iconic brands worldwide.
You bring the vision.
We bring the execution.

CLOSE TO HOME

Facilities That Scale

Everything is produced in our Roanoke, VA facility—140,000 sq. ft. of purpose-built space, carbon neutral, FSC-certified, and equipped with the latest press, finishing, and QA systems.

FROM DESIGN TO DELIVERY

Two Sites.
One Seamless Flow.

With structure and execution in sync, we keep decisions fast and aligned from day one.

Hauppauge, NY

Design studio and onboarding

Roanoke, VA

End-to-end production under one roof

We make the most of 
every material—and every dollar.

Our People, Our Edge

Arkay is powered by engineers, operators, and strategists who know the press inside out. Many have been with us for decades—and their expertise shows in every run.

Mitchell Kaneff
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

Mitchell, Arkay’s third-generation CEO, began working in the factory when he was in high school, became president and CEO in 1996, and then took over from his father, Howard Kaneff, as Chairman/CEO in 2004. Mitchell – who is also a published author and a musician/producer for his own band – is an accomplished innovator. Honored to be guiding his family company into its second century, he is keeping an eye on his twin sons – Josh Kaneff and Max Kaneff – as possible fourth generation leaders!

Josh Kaneff
account executive

Josh joined Arkay in 2023 as a fourth-generation team member, beginning his journey in the Estimating Department before moving into sales as an Account Executive. In his current role, Josh focuses on onboarding new clients to Arkay’s portfolio, expanding into emerging industries, and building relationships with founders, startups, and corporate companies. Josh brings a fresh perspective to the company, helping modernize Arkay’s digital presence through a new website and streamlined onboarding tools for the sales team.

Max Kaneff
Purchasing and Materials Coordinator

Max Kaneff joined Arkay in 2025 – another fourth-generation team member – and is working with Arkay's procurement team, specifically in Purchasing and Materials Management. Max studied Business Administration at the University of Southern California and has previously worked in financial consulting. Bringing a new perspective to his position, Max is eager to optimize Arkay internally through operational savings and investment in technology, reinforcing Arkay’s strategy as a competitive force in the industry.

Walter Shiels
Chief Operating Officer

Walt began his career at Arkay at a young age and has now been with the company – in various key positions – for over 47 years. During this time, he developed and cultivated a unique skill set by working directly in all areas of manufacturing, planning, estimating, and sales. With his focus on the application of advanced, new-to-market materials and techniques for point of purchase, high performance, and sustainable outer packaging, Walt is a respected innovator, always looking for the next challenge!

Brian Hopkins
Corporate Vice President of Operations

Brian became an Arkay employee in 1981 and proceeded to work his way up the ranks, becoming Corporate Vice President of Operations in 2000. In that role, he regulates and oversees Arkay’s manufacturing facility in Roanoke, as well as Arkay’s design studio in Hauppauge, NY. A dedicated team member, Brian can be found everywhere in the company, from checking out equipment in the Roanoke facility, to welcoming customers in the Hauppauge design studio!

Ruth Rugoff
Chief Communications Officer

Ruth started working at Arkay in 2008 as Executive Assistant to CEO Mitchell Kaneff. Over the years she accepted numerous additional responsibilities, progressing through a variety of promotions to become Chief Communications Officer. Look for Ruth’s postings and press releases on various social media platforms from Arkay’s website to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn – and anywhere else she can advance and publicize this amazing company she loves and is so proud to work for!

Michael Dercksen
Chief Financial Officer

Michael, who joined Arkay in 2023 and is based in Arkay’s Roanoke facility, has worked in several industries spanning four continents and brings a wide breadth of expertise and knowledge to the organization. Above all, he prides himself on being a strategic partner to the management team and is responsible for overseeing all financial strategies and deliverables. Michael’s mantra is “Every action taken by an employee has a financial impact at the end of the day, so let’s maximize the outcome!” He is excited and proud to be part of a company so rich in history and experience.

John Sheridan
General Manager, Roanoke Division

John joined the Arkay Team in 2006, bringing 25 years of manufacturing experience with him. Prior to becoming the General Manager of the Roanoke Division, John was the Corporate Director of Quality Assurance for Arkay. His dedication and commitment in providing premium products and services to Arkay’s clients remains at the forefront of his efforts. John states: “In an ever-changing world, Arkay has been – and will continue to be – an industry leader by spearheading innovation and addressing the challenges associated with environmental and social stewardship responsibilities. It truly has been a remarkable 100 years and we’re very excited about the future.”

Frank Clark
Director of Planning and Production

Frank Joined the Arkay team in 1988 when he was hired to work in the printing department. Over the years, Frank worked his way up to becoming Arkay’s Scheduler and now – in Arkay’s 100th year – he is proud to have been promoted to Director of Planning and Production. Frank is excited in his new role and looks forward to the challenges and opportunities waiting for him as Arkay enters its second century.

Michael Sanctuary
Finishing Director

With over 33 years of experience in the folding carton packaging and printing industry, Mike’s career has been grounded in values that he began developing through decades of martial arts training, teaching him focus, integrity, resilience, and discipline — qualities that shaped his leadership style. Currently Arkay’s Finishing Director in our Roanoke facility, he remains passionate about fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement. Whether leading teams through complex challenges or raising his dogs with patience and care, Mike brings the same commitment and purpose to all aspects of his life, personally and professionally.

Ryan Scott
Director of Print Management

Ryan joined Arkay in 2023, proudly continuing his family's legacy as a third-generation professional in the printing industry. With over 25 years of experience in Maryland and Virginia, he brings a wealth of expertise and a strong commitment to the craft. Ryan is dedicated to the values of quality and constant enhancement. He enjoys working with a wide variety of clients and takes pride in training, coaching, and developing employees. His passion and leadership make him a valuable asset to the Arkay team.

John Humphries
Prepress Manager

John started at Arkay in 2009 as a Prepress Operator building layouts and making printing plates. In 2023 he became Prepress Manager with a focus on color quality and consistency. He is a G7 expert, bringing over 20 years of color management and brand management to the table. John’s favorite part about working at Arkay is the innovative Paint on Press® process: In real time, in collaboration with the customer in house, John loves how Arkay pushes the envelope, using cutting edge inks, coatings, and creative finishing solutions to create a true work of art!

Robin Rivera
Human Resources Manager

Robin began her journey with Arkay in 2015 as a part-time Administrative Assistant to the Human Resources Manager and proudly stepped into the manager role in 2023. Over the years, she’s worked hard to foster the open-door culture that defines Arkay’s HR team today – one where communication, trust, and collaboration thrive. Robin’s office is always open, and she truly enjoys spending time on the production floor learning about every aspect of our work – from printing and die cutting to gluing and from some of the most talented craftspeople in the business. Robin is excited for what the future holds – and grateful to be part of Arkay’s continued growth and success!

Trusted by Icons

Chosen by the world’s leading brands, decade after decade.

Chosen by the world’s leading brands,
decade after decade.