BoardConverting Serving the North American Corrugated and Folding Carton Industries for 40 years February 3, 2025 VOL. 41, NO. 5
Gary Brewer Takes Flight In His New Role As AICC Chairman BY ROBERT BITTNER When some of his colleagues learn that Gary Brewer graduated from North Carolina State University’s chemical engineering and pulp and paper science and technology programs, they naturally assume he was a gifted student. Brewer insists that wasn’t really the case. “I wouldn’t say I was a good student,” he says. Still, he knew early on that he wanted to be a chemical engineer, which required a serious education. If he were to succeed academical- ly, he would need to perform better than he had in high school. That meant being single-minded about his goals.
EU Approves Int’l Paper Combination With DS Smith Memphis, Tennessee based International Paper announced that the European Com- mission issued its Phase I clearance of its combination with DS Smith on January 24. The clearance is conditional on International Paper entering into commitments to divest its box plants located in Mortagne, Saint-Amand, and Cabourg (France), Ovar (Portugal) and Bil- bao (Spain). Completion of the divestment is not a condition to the completion of the com- bination. “While we would have preferred to keep the selected locations as part of our portfo- lio, these are attractive sites and we are con- fident we will find a suitable buyer. We are very pleased to have reached this important milestone in our acquisition of DS Smith. This combination will create a global leader in sus- tainable packaging solutions, focused on the attractive and growing North American and EMEA regions,” said Andrew Silvernail, CEO of International Paper. The scheme was ex- pected to become effective on January 31. On April 16, 2024, the boards of Interna- tional Paper and DS Smith announced that they had reached agreement on the terms of
Gary Brewer and his father started Package Crafters in 2003.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 3
“It came down to discipline,” Brewer says. “I had to focus. I couldn’t play club sports, couldn’t be in a fraternity, or do any of that stuff.” So, while his North Carolina State roommates crashed on the couch to watch the television series Miami Vice, “I was at the library almost every night to get away from the distractions,” Brewer recalls. Today, Brewer applies an engineering mindset to his work as a box- maker—President and CEO of Package Crafters in High Point, North Carolina, and Creative Packaging in Savannah, Georgia. And now, his roles expand even further as he begins his term as 2024–2025 AICC chairman. Growing Up “My father was in the textile industry on the finance side,” Brewer says. “If you wanted to get promoted in those days, you had to be will- ing to move. Since it was just me—no siblings—and my mother didn’t CONTINUED ON PAGE 16
WHAT’S INSIDE
6 x x 8 x x 12 x x 26 x x 3 Koenig & Bauer Partners With Rigorous Technology 6 W.H. Leary Partners With Herr Packaging Solutions AICC Announces Keynote Speakers For Spring Meeting 24 Supplier Reports: Part 2
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Koenig & Bauer Announces Partnership With Rigorous
AVERAGE CONTAINERBOARD PRICES The average prices reported are tabulated from prices PAID by various sources throughout the United States the week previous to issue. Prices in some areas of the country may be higher or lower than the tabulated average. The prices tabulated here are intended only for purposes of reference. They do not connote any commitment to sell any material at the indicated average. Transactions may be completed at any time at a price agreed upon by seller and purchaser. REGION 42# Kraft liner 26# Semi-Chem. Medium $ 900.00-925. 00 $ 825. 00 -$850.00 U.S. Average CANADIAN LINERBOARD & MEDIUM The average prices reported are tabulated from prices PAID by various sources throughout Canada. Prices may be higher or lower in various areas of the country. The prices tabulated here are intended only for purposes of reference. They do not connote any commitment to sell any material at the indicated average. Transactions may be completed at any time at a price agreed upon by seller and purchaser. Prices are Canadian $ and per metric ton. 42# Kraft Liner 26# Semi-Chem Medium East $970.00 $960.00 West $1,015.00 $995.00 REGION a recommended all-share combination to be implement- ed by way of a court-sanctioned scheme of arrangement under Part 26 of the Companies Act 2006. The scheme document in connection with the scheme was published and sent by DS Smith to DS Smith shareholders on Sep- tember 11, 2024. The scheme was approved by the requi- site majority of DS Smith shareholders on October 7, 2024. DS Smith shareholders shall receive New International Pa- per shares which will rank equally in all respects with In- ternational Paper shares including the right to receive and retain, in full, dividends and other distributions declared, made or paid by International Paper. EU Approves (CONT’D FROM PAGE 3)
Dallas, Texas based Koenig & Bauer (US) announced a new partnership with Rigorous Technology of Williston, Vermont, to provide its unique palletizer robot for the cor- rugated and folding carton markets to use in conjunction with Koenig & Bauer’s line of folder gluers. “We’re excited to work with Koenig & Bauer in 2025 to bring the BOB palletizer to the corrugated and folding carton markets,” says Diane Abruzzini Riggs, COO and co-founder of Rigorous Technology. “We are committed to our partnership with Koenig & Bauer to help its corrugat- ed and folding carton customers become more efficient and stay competitive with advanced, user-friendly robotic solutions that take the guesswork out of automation. BOB will give these manufacturers a fast ROI, automate their palletizing process, reduce labor issues, and improve turn- around to market with greater speed and accuracy.” The BOB robotic palletizer works with all types of box- es, pallets, layer patterns, and stack patterns with or with- out an auto packer. “By offering this amazing new palletizer robot along with our popular folder gluers, we are confident that cus- tomers will see an immediate increase in efficiency, pro- ductivity, and ROI,” says Tom Fitzgerald, Director of Post Press and Corrugated Products at Koenig & Bauer (US).
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W.H. Leary Partners With Herr Packaging Solutions
comes to Leary with an extensive knowledge of the fold- ing carton industry and different folder-gluer technologies. Combining that expertise with Leary’s innovations in glu- ing, quality assurance and data, creates a powerful syner- gy that will benefit the entire folding carton market.” Rohrer Corporation Joins Paperboard Packaging Council Wadsworth, Ohio, based Rohrer Corporation is excited to announce its new membership in the Paperboard Pack- aging Council (PPC). For 95 years, the PPC has been a leading folding carton trade association in North America, dedicating itself to member benefits and strengthening the capabilities of converters of paperboard packaging and their suppliers. Joining PPC demonstrates Rohrer’s commitment to its mission: facilitate customer success with the industry’s most innovative and sustainable packaging solution and deliver value with pride, passion, and performance. This comes following Rohrer’s recent launch of its new sustainable product line: EcoVolve that represents its com- mitment to evolving packaging with sustainable product innovation and reduce waste and natural resource con- sumption. EcoVolve-30 is the first series launch in this new line and features blister board with a high perform- CONTINUED ON PAGE 8
Tinley Park, Illinois based W. H. Leary Company has con- firmed a strategic agreement with Doug Herr of Herr Pack- aging Solutions of Guilford, Connecticut. Herr will help
Leary grow its market share in both folding carton and corrugated mar- kets in North America. Through this collaboration, Leary is poised to continue delivering cut- ting-edge technologies, superior service, and unparalleled support to its existing customers while expand- ing into new market opportunities.
Doug Herr
“Herr’s 48 years of industry experience will help Leary gain an even better understanding of where the market is headed and how we can leverage our product offerings in an even better way,” says Kevin Leary, President, and CEO, W. H. Leary Company. “It is a great pleasure to finally join forces,” Herr said, “sharing our mutual philosophies of focusing 100 percent on our customers and their goals. Working together with an organization which offers not only a reputable sales team, but also strong, reliable technical and service sup- port is paramount.” Jeff Bates, Sales Director North America adds, “Doug
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Rohrer Joins PPC (CONT’D FROM PAGE 6)
ing blend of virgin and 30 percent post-consumer recycled (PCR) fiber. “We are thrilled to join the Paperboard Packaging Coun- cil and align ourselves with an organization that drives inno- vation, sustainability, and growth in the paperboard pack- aging industry,” said Scott Sumser, SVP Sales, Marketing & Innovation at Rohrer. “PPC’s wealth of resources, from market insights and benchmarking to advocacy and train- ing, will empower Rohrer to better serve our customers and strengthen our commitment to sustainable and responsible packaging solutions. Together, we can continue to lead the way in delivering value-added products like EcoVolve-30 that meet evolving market demands and environmental ex- pectations.” “Rohrer is proud to join the Paperboard Packaging Council, an organization that plays a vital role in advanc- ing our industry. This membership is a testament to our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and delivering exceptional value to our customers,” said Ed Steele, Presi- dent-Print Solutions at Rohrer. “By partnering with the PPC, we are gaining access to invaluable insights, resources, and networks that will enable us to strengthen our posi- tion in the folding carton and rigid box markets. Together, we can champion responsible business practices, develop sustainable packaging solutions, and drive the future of pa- perboard packaging forward.”
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PACK EXPO (CONT’D FROM PAGE 8)
in a relaxed atmosphere. A show badge is required. Young Professionals Networking reception—Young pro- fessionals are invited to Wild Leap Atlanta for an engag- ing evening of networking and learning. Meet emerging industry leaders, exchange ideas, and foster professional relationships in this dynamic setting. RSVP required. Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network reception—Empowers women in the industry. Join influen- tial leaders driving progress and innovation, and collab- orate on advancing diversity and inclusion in packaging. Vision 2030—Explore the future of packaging and pro- cessing in these immersive forums designed to facilitate conversation and build business strategy. Industry vision- aries will discuss emerging trends, sustainability, and tech- nological advancements shaping the industry for the next
decade. Register in advance. Association Partner Pavilion reception—Connect with
industry leaders from top packaging and processing associations and organizations on the show floor over light refreshments. “PACK EXPO Southeast 2025 is a unique platform bringing together the packaging and processing industry,” says Laura Thompson, Vice President, Trade Shows at PMMI. “Our networking events, like the Taste of Atlanta and the PPWLN re- ceptions, provide the perfect environment for professionals to connect, exchange ideas, and shape the future of packaging and processing. This show is an essential destination for those looking to advance their careers and drive industry progress.” Register now for $30 (early bird pricing through February 14). For more information on the show and events, visit www.pack- exposoutheast.com. FBA Sets Data Submission Deadline For March 14 The Fibre Box Association (FBA) an- nounced the approaching March 14 dead- line for data submissions. The deadlines are set to ensure the publication of reports in April/May 2025 as recommended by the FBA Executive Committee. Data includes occupational injuries and illnesses (OII), North American Industrial Classification System (NAICS), Sheet Plant Operating Ratio Survey (SPOR), and Key Performance Indicators Survey (KPI). To submit data, visit fibrebox.org . For more information, contact FBA’s Director of Admin. & Data Services, George DiVe- nere, at gdivenere@fibrebox.org or (847) 364-9638.
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AICC Announces Keynote, Industry Speakers For Spring Meeting In Bonita Springs, Florida AICC, The Independent Packaging Association, unveiled an exceptional lineup of keynote and industry speakers for its upcoming Spring Meet- ing, April 30 to May 2, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point in Bo- nita Springs, Florida. This year’s event promises to deliver invaluable in- sights and inspiration from some of the most influential figures in global business, leadership, and the packaging sector. Keynote Highlights Peter Goodman, a celebrated economics correspondent and best- selling author renowned for his deep understanding of globalization, will
bring his extensive expertise to the stage. As a New York Times correspondent, Goodman has chroni- cled significant economic shifts and their impacts on industries and markets worldwide. He is the author of three books, including the recently released, “How The World Ran Out Of Everything: Inside the Global Supply Chain,” and the best-selling, “Davos Man: How the Billionaires Devoured the World.” Over the course of three de-
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cades in journalism, he has covered some of the most momentous eco- nomic transformations and upheavals. He has reported from more than 50 countries, including stints in China and the UK, and in conflict zones such as Iraq, Cambodia, Sudan, and East Timor. Goodman appears fre- quently on major broadcast outlets. John Foley, former lead solo pilot of the Blue Angels and a world-re- nowned leadership expert, will share his unique perspective on preci-
sion, teamwork, and peak performance. Foley’s distinguished career includes global advisory roles to top corporations, entrepreneurial ventures, and notable accomplishments as a naval aviator and collegiate athlete. Foley is a Fellow at the Stanford Graduate School of Business and a Six-Time winner of Top Ten Carrier Pilot Award. He was part of the first US team to fly in Moscow with Russian demonstration
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teams and to fly in other Eastern Block countries. He did actual flying in the movie, “Top Gun” from the carrier deck of the U.S.S. Enterprise. He is a two-year letterman for Navy Football, played in the Liberty Bowl vs. Ohio State, and in the Garden State Bowl vs. Houston, and was the last person to intercept Ohio State star quarterback Art Schliester. Industry Insights Diane Wolf, CEO of Carlisle Container Company, will speak about her unconventional path to leading a key player in the packaging industry. Under her leadership, Carlisle has embraced digital printing technology and has been recognized as a certified Woman Owned Business, setting new standards in the sector George Staphos, Managing Director at Bank of America Merrill Lynch, brings over three decades of equity research experience in the packag- ing and paper sectors. Staphos, a member of the Institutional Investor Hall of Fame, will provide an economic update crucial for understanding current and future market dynamics Matt Morgan, Partner at Barnes & Thornburg LLP, will offer a legislative update on the new administration’s impact on small businesses. With his CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
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AICC Announces (CONT’D FROM PAGE 12)
Questions about the AICC 2025 Spring Meeting can be directed to Cindy Huber, AICC Director of Conventions & Meetings, at chuber@aiccbox.org or (703) 836-2422 or Laura Mihalick, Senior Meeting Manager, at lmihalick@aic- cbox.org or (703) 836-2422.
extensive experience in legal and political counsel, Morgan will provide key insights into how federal policies shape the business landscape.
AICC Publishes Digital 50th Anniversary Book
AICC has published a digital 50th Anniversary Book, a special collection capturing the stories, achievements, and enduring spirit of the indepen- dent packaging community. “The book serves as a trib-
Matt Morgan
Diane Wolf
George Staphos
This lineup is designed to empower AICC members with the knowledge and strategies needed to navigate the complexities of the paper packaging industry effectively. Attendees will better understand leadership, economic trends, and legislative changes, enhancing their ability to lead and innovate. Special Early Registration Offer: AICC members are en- couraged to take advantage of an exclusive early bird reg- istration discount available until February 14. This offer af- fords significant savings and ensures participation in what is set to be one of the most enlightening gatherings of the year. For registration details, event schedules, and more in- formation, visit www.AICCbox.org/Meeting .
ute to our history, those that made that history possible, and a reflection of the incred- ible advancements and rela- tionships that have shaped our association,” said AICC Presi- dent Michael D’Angelo. The book, honoring the achievements of past while looking ahead to a bright fu-
ture for the independent, was made possible through the generous support of AICC members Domino and We- stRock. To view the book, visit aiccbox.org/page/50 .
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Gary Brewer (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1)
Industry Introduction After graduating in 1992 with two Bachelor of Science degrees, Brewer left his home state for the first time, tak- ing a position at St. Joe Paper Co., a paper mill in Port St. Joe, Florida. “I started out as a process engineer and believed I would be in management in that segment of the
work outside the home, we moved around a lot. I grew up all over North Carolina.” Brewer’s career interests were shaped early on. Ini- tially, he assumed he’d follow in his father’s footsteps and work in accounting. Then, he discovered chemistry. He didn’t see himself as a chemist in a lab, though. Instead, he leaned toward chemical engineering. And that led him to NC State’s Engineering Department and the related pulp and paper science and technology program. “Paper sci- ence is simply specialized chemical engineering,” he says, “so that was my backdoor into the chemical engineering program.” Just as he knew he didn’t want to be a lab chemist, Brewer also didn’t foresee spending an entire career working as an engineer. “I didn’t want to be in the trenches doing project work or process work all my life,” he says. “I wanted to manage people and processes at a higher level. That was my goal from the start.” Engineering and higher-level process management appealed to Brewer’s technical mindset. “I enjoy solving problems, fixing things, digging into cause and effect,” he says. “The single biggest thing I got out of engineering is understanding how to approach a problem. Give me all the data—all the ifs, ands, or buts—let me analyze them, and then I can help guide you to a conclusion or a decision that needs to be made.”
industry,” he says. “I never imagined the career change to corrugated boxes. But my education, my experience, and my technical knowledge ended up making me attractive to a corrugated box company in North Carolina, which re- cruited me.” That company was Carolina Container. President Paul Ingle needed someone with mill experience to manage the company’s containerboard purchasing. And as it hap- pens, Carolina Container also was where Brewer’s father, CONTINUED ON PAGE 18 Gary Brewer on the floor of his facilty in High Point, N.C.
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Gary Brewer (CONT’D FROM PAGE 16)
Brewer says. “We are respected for being a good compa- ny, a responsive company, a fair company. That’s really a big thing for me. It’s also a big thing for me that when I step out into the plant, I can look around at the 75 employees working for me and appreciate the fact that I am responsi- ble for them and their families.
Wayne, was chief financial officer. Brewer spent his days learning the corrugated busi- ness. He also made time to complete an MBA at Wake Forest University in North Carolina. Within a year of grad- uation, he used his newfound knowledge to develop a business plan for a startup sheet plant, which he then pre- sented to lenders. Those efforts paid off. He launched the resulting company, Package Crafters, with his father 20 years ago. As with most startups, the first years were rough. Brew- er credits his wife, Ginny, as being instrumental in getting the company—and their family—off the ground. “When we started the company, she was absolutely key because I didn’t take a paycheck for two years,” he says. “Hers was the only income. We ended up moving in with my parents, freshly married, and trying to start a family and a business. She was with me the whole time. Not only is she my wife, but she’s my best friend.” Crafting A Career Brewer says Package Crafters focuses predominantly on industrial packaging—“brown boxes with a little bit of color, a little bit of POP (point of purchase) display work.” Creative Packaging, a company he acquired in 2015, fo- cuses more on color work and POP displays while produc- ing its fair share of brown boxes. “I’m proud of the reputation we’ve built as a company,”
“I enjoy serving customers—getting the job done, mak- ing them happy, and giving them new ideas, new solutions. That’s probably the engineer in me,” he adds. “A lot of my competitors tell potential customers the same answer be- cause they do the same things for everyone, or they do what every other boxmaker does. That’s fine. If that’s what customers want, I can do that, too. But I’ll also say, ‘Have you thought about this? Have you considered that? Let me show you some other solutions.’” Brewer describes his approach to leadership in his CONTINUED ON PAGE 20 Gary Brewer on the floor of his facilty in High Point, N.C.
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Gary Brewer (CONT’D FROM PAGE 18)
plants as hands off. “I give guardrails; I give advice,” he says. “I’m very open with [listening to people’s thoughts] on how to do something. And if I have an idea that you don’t agree with, speak up.” Traveler, Not Tourist When he is not in one of his companies, Brewer is likely to be in the air. “I’ve had my pilot’s license since I was 21 years old, and I’m an avid pilot,” he says. “Aviation is defi- nitely a passion of mine.”
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In addition, he enjoys running and participating in tri- athlons, restoring cars and houses, and spending time outdoors. “I like to fish a lot,” he says, “and within the last two years, I’ve even gained an interest in turkey hunting.” He also has coached sports, including coaching his three daughters in soccer. Finally, Brewer says, he has a strong interest in experi- encing the world through travel. “When I was really young, I ran across a quote that said, ‘Be a traveler of life, not a tourist,’” he says. “I’ve taken that to heart. I want to experi- ence life, not just pass through it like a tourist. So, if there’s an opportunity to do something new, I embrace it. For in- stance, on a trip to Hawaii last January, my family decided to take surfing lessons, having never surfed before. And it was great. I probably got too confident too quickly—taking on the big waves too soon—but I had a great time doing it. For me, it’s all about the experience.” The Industry And AICC When asked what he sees as the big challenges for the industry and the Association during his chairmanship, Brewer’s first thought won’t surprise anyone. “Labor is al- ways going to remain an issue,” he says. “Beyond that,” he continues, “I think we are going to CONTINUED ON PAGE 22 Brewer and AICC President Mike D’Angelo at Package Crafters.
AIR CONVEYING CORPORATION PH: 901-454-5016 FAX: 901-324-7979 e-mail: sales@accfilter.com • www.accfilter.com
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Gary Brewer (CONT’D FROM PAGE 20)
all the entrepreneurial resources they need? At the same time, we must remain relevant for industry veterans be- cause the industry is constantly evolving.” Brewer draws on his aviation background to illustrate AICC’s integral value for the industry. “You wouldn’t just climb into the pilot’s seat of a plane without knowing how to fly, having a flight plan, being prepared for whatever pops up in your flight path,” he points out. “AICC offers the key building blocks to a successful flight: educational coursework, CEO groups, production leadership groups, and the Emerging Leaders group. And the recently formed Foundation for Packaging Education is soon to be the cat- alyst for next-level educational and leadership offerings.” All of these resources work in combination to help AICC members become stronger contributors to the industry, people who are “always leading, whether they’re in direct conversation with someone or just walking the floor.” For Brewer, AICC will always be part of that leader- ship message. “I knew about AICC when I started Pack-
need to address the impact of ongoing consolidation in our market. Larger companies are buying up smaller inde- pendents, while people are aging out of the workforce or selling their companies for various reasons. We’re in this natural cycle of the big people getting bigger, while the smaller people are disappearing. “That’s going to come full circle; it always does,” he says. “So, the industry consolidates, prices rise, and ser- vice may suffer. And that leads to startups sprouting up that promise to deliver what the bigger companies can’t.” Brewer’s insight into that cycle is born of experience. “When I started Package Crafters, industry lead times were, on average, a week out,” he says. “So, to break through, I entered the market with a three-day delivery model. The competitors in my market were not providing that, and it caught a lot of people’s attention. That’s what put me on the map.” Similarly, the next generation of startups will be search- ing for their own competitive advantages, along with the kind of resources, information, and opportunities only AICC can provide. “As leaders within AICC, we need to explore all of the ways we can support these startups with the technical knowledge and resources they’re going to need,” he says. “How do we ensure a good source of cap- ital for those wanting to start up? How do we help them acquire the equipment they need? How do we give them
age Crafters, but I felt like I was too small to join,” he recalls. “I look back on that now and realize it was a total mistake. It’s the organization that the independents in our industry abso- lutely need.” Robert Bittner is a Michigan-based freelance journalist and a frequent contributor to AICC's BoxScore.
Robert Bittner
Serving the North American Corrugated and Folding Carton Industries Since 1985
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SUPPLIER REPORTS 2025 (PART 2) AMTECH SOFTWARE Fort Washington, Pennsylvania: Mark Sekula reports, “Am- tech Software continued to demonstrate its unwavering
ly relied on the Imaginera platform have successfully mi- grated to the cutting-edge EnCore platform, reaping the benefits of enhanced functionality, modern interfaces, and streamlined operations. This migration marks a signif- icant step forward for these businesses, enabling them to leverage the latest technology to improve efficiency and scalability. Amtech’s dedicated team has worked closely with customers to ensure a smooth transition, minimizing disruption and maximizing value. The success of these mi- grations underscores Amtech’s commitment to empower- ing its customers with innovative solutions that meet the evolving demands of the packaging industry. “Amtech Software is at the forefront of innovation in packaging software. Adopting cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) can help power the growth of its customers in the packaging industry while helping them reduce operational costs. By integrating AI into its solutions, Amtech is enabling businesses to make smarter, data-driven decisions, optimize their workflows, and im- prove overall efficiency. Danna Nelson, SVP of Products at Amtech, commented, ‘AI is transforming the way our customers operate by unlocking new levels of productivity and cost savings. At Amtech, we are committed to lever- aging this technology to deliver smarter, more effective solutions that drive sustainable growth for our clients.’ This focus on AI innovation underscores Amtech’s dedication to equipping the packaging industry with the tools needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape. “Looking forward to 2025, the Amtech team is excit- ed about helping its customers continue to realize growth while lowering costs. For its sheet feeder customers, Axi- om will get a technical uplift this year to ensure the longev- ity of this critical solution. “EnCore will be getting a user-interface uplift as well as adopting new uses for AI. On the shop floor, customers have been adopting the newly-uplifted Advanced Plan- ning Board to automate their scheduling and save valu- able time for their planners.” For more information, visit amtechsoftware.com . BAUMER HHS Krefeld, Germany: Ken Robinson reports, “CorrBox Solu- tion is a modular gluing and quality control system for cor-
commitment to the packaging indus- try in 2024 with its recent acquisition of Label Traxx, a leading provider of management software for label con- verters. “This strategic move underscores Amtech’s dedication to offering in- novative, end-to-end solutions tai- lored to the needs of packaging
Mark Sekula
businesses. Chuck Schneider, CEO of Amtech Software, remarked, ‘The acquisition of Label Traxx reflects our mis- sion to empower the packaging industry with cutting-edge technology that drives efficiency and growth. Together, we are creating a unified platform that meets the evolving de- mands of our customers.’ “By integrating Label Traxx’s expertise with Amtech’s robust offerings, the company is poised to deliver unparal- leled value to its clients across the packaging ecosystem. “Amtech continued to add more resources this year to support that growth. Amtech Software has significantly ex- panded its team by hiring more developers, consultants, and support personnel to ensure its customers receive the highest level of service and support as they grow. This strategic investment reflects Amtech’s unwavering com- mitment to enhancing the customer experience through faster implementations, tailored solutions, and responsive assistance. Bill Woerner, SVP of Customer Operations, em- phasized, ‘Our customers’ success is our top priority, and expanding our team allows us to provide the expertise and support they need to achieve their goals. By investing in our people, we’re ensuring that every customer interaction is seamless, productive, and focused on their long-term success.’ These efforts demonstrate Amtech’s dedication to being a trusted partner for the packaging industry. “Amtech Software is observing significant growth among its customers in the packaging industry, driven by the adoption of its advanced technology solutions that streamline operations and enhance productivity. As com- panies in the sector continue to evolve, they are increas- ingly turning to Amtech for tools that empower them to meet rising demands and achieve operational excellence. Darren Artillio, SVP of Sales, stated, “We are proud to part- ner with our customers as they expand and innovate in the packaging industry. Our solutions are designed to not only support their growth but to drive it by providing the tools they need to stay competitive in a dynamic market.” This growth reflects Amtech’s commitment to fostering success within its customer base through industry-leading innova- tion and support. “Many of Amtech Software’s customers who previous-
rugated flexo folder gluers, offering precision, reliability, and sustainabil- ity. This latest XTS3 platform replac- es and builds on the success of the XTS2 platform which has enjoyed a solid track record since 2010. “CorrBox is focused on ensuring a flawless production quality and cost-effective operations while help-
Ken Robinson
CONTINUED ON PAGE 26
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CREATIVE SYSTEMS & SOLUTIONS SINCE 1929
Supplier Reports Part 2 (CONT’D FROM PAGE 24)
Board Converting NEWS INTERNET DIRECTORY
ing professionals meet their KPI, OEE, and sustainability goals. “Key features include: • Modular system design—Flexible configurations to suit any production need and budget. • Advanced clue verification—No Box is left without glue—no UV tracers or special lighting required, works on any surface (printed or kraft) • Zero-defect box quality controls—Comprehensive checks, including skew detection, length control, edge detection, slot measurement, and gap measurement. • Glue Save Mode—Optimizes glue patterns through smart algorithms, reducing glue usage and expenses • Xtend³ Modular Controller—Centralizes control on a 21.5” multi-touch display with intuitive navigation and remote diagnostics. Simplified operation using only one cabinet and one screen for all gluing and quality control functions. • Contactless glue application—Proven technology, pio- neered by Baumer hhs first in 1986. It ensures precise, uninterrupted, non-contact gluing with minimal main- tenance. Features automatic rinsing water bath and ‘PX1000 gun technology’ for high-speed dotting—up to 750 glue dots per second. Non-contact means no more ‘worn-down’ glue heads, no production stops for cleaning, no skewing the product and no jams. • Glue verification technology (PGD1000 sensor): Looks for liquid glue not humidity, ensuring accurate detec- tion on any carton surface without additional lighting or glue additives/UV tracers. Ends any food safety con- cerns and optimizes your glue expectations. • High-Pressure Pump (KPE9)—Durable, low-main- tenance all stainless steel pump with up to 40-bar (580psi) glue pressure, automatic regulation, and com- patibility with central glue supply systems. while supporting sustainability. “Innovative components include: “User-friendly operations include one screen/one cab- inet (no working between two different systems; intuitive navigation, simplified interface, automatic equipment cali- bration with minimal training; quick setup times for seam- less integration; simplified programming for up to three glue lines, including angled and slotted flaps; and data exchange protocols with major OEMs. “CorrBox Solution reduces glue consumption by up to 50 percent through its optional ‘Glue Save Mode’ for algo- rithmic dotting or intermittent glue lines (stitching). “CorrBox Solution combines the newest software and hardware technology with eco-friendly practices, helping corrugated board professionals optimize resources, im- prove production quality, and achieve sustainability objec- tives—all with a focus on user simplicity.” For more information, visit baumerhhs.com/applica- tions/corrugated#c874.
ADVANTZWARE www.advantzware.com
Advantzware provides a comprehensive system to address the business management needs of the independent box business, as well as the ERP requirements of full scale pack- aging plants and integrated companies. With modules for estimating, scheduling, production, inventory and account- ing, this scalable system supports companies that produce corrugated boxes, folding cartons, point of purchase dis- plays, assembled partitions, and paperboard products. AIR CONVEYING CORPORATION www.accfilter.com Air Conveying Corporation is a leader in the industry of Pneumatic Conveying Systems and has been in business since 1968. As an equipment manufacturer rather than sim- ply a sales organization, we have complete control over the quality of material and products which make up your pro- posed system. Our equipment is found in printing, folding carton and corrugated plants throughout the world. We've been designing, manufacturing and engineering pneumatic conveying systems since 1984. We partner with our customers to ensure they operate efficiently and guar- antee our systems meet or exceed their specifications. ASDI specializes in full pull-through systems trim separators, and NFPA compliant systems with full electronic controls. AMTECH SOFTWARE www.amtechsoftware.com AIR SYSTEMS DESIGN, INC. www.airsystemsdesign.com Amtech offers the industry’s most innovative and com- prehensive corrugated and packaging ERP, integrated scheduling software, and engineered automation technol- ogy. For over 30 years, Amtech has kept our customers competitive in an ever-changing economy with customer digital storefronts and workflows, business intelligence, automated scheduling for corrugators, converting and shipping, proactive roll stock and inventory management. APEX INTERNATIONAL www.apexinternational.com World’s largest Anilox and Glue & Metering roll manufac- turer, providing the widest selection of corrugated engrav- ings and complementary services. Anilox engraving options available from our North American manufacturing facility include elongated 75°, 60°, 45°, plus Apex’s patented GTT technology. Glue rolls are produced with Hardened Stain- less Steel and a max TIR of 10 µ for Single, Double Facers.
ALBANY INTERNATIONAL www.albint.com
Albany International has a corrugator belt for every appli- cation. Our reputation for durable performance is the trade- mark of the most dependable belts in service today.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 28
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