Board Converting News, June 29, 2026

BoardConverting Serving the North American Corrugated and Folding Carton Industries Since 1985 June 29, 2026 VOL. 42 NO. 25

AICC Northeast Summit Presents An Afternoon Of AI BY ASHLEY PRAZYCH At the AICC Northeast Summit in New Jersey this month, attendees enjoyed an afternoon of AI following an engaging and informative plant tour at nearby President Container. Moderated by Aleks Zlatic, Founder and President of Aurum Intelligence, the panel featured Chris Blizzard, Director of IT at Acme Corrugated Box; Nick Perkins, Vice President of Operations at Connecticut Container; Tom Trinchi, IT Director at James- town Container; and Jason Alvarez, Founder of consulting company Break the Uncertainty, on behalf of President Container.

Pratt Announces Expansion Of Texas Corrugated Plant According to the Rockwall Economic Devel- opment Corporation (REDC), Pratt Industries, a privately held producer of 100 percent re- cycled containerboard and the fifth largest corrugated packaging company in the U.S., is expanding operations at is Rockwall, Texas corrugated plant. Pratt initially opened its state-of-the-art fa- cility on approximately 30 acres in the Rock- wall Technology Park in 2017. This expansion represents a significant investment in Pratt’s Rockwall campus, reinforcing the company’s long-term commitment to the community. The expansion will add approximately 346,000 square feet to the existing facility re- sulting in a total building size of approximately 736,000 square feet. The project is expect- ed to bring $90M in capital investment along with the creation of 100 new jobs. “Pratt Industries’ continued investment in Rockwall is a testament to the strength of our partnership and the success they’ve experi- enced here,” said REDC President Matt Wa- vering. “This expansion not only represents a major capital investment, but also the creation of high-quality jobs and advanced manufac-

Zlatic opened the conversation with an analogy likening the AI journey to starting a fitness regimen. It’s a big lift, and something to build upon over time. The discussion continued from there, spanning The AI panelists, from left: Chris Blizzard of Acme Corrugated Box, Nick Perkins of Connecticut Container, Tom Trinchi of Jamestown Container, and Jason Alvarez of Break the Uncertainty, on behalf of President Container.

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WHAT’S INSIDE 6 Stafford Corrugated Products Joins EOS Corrugated Group 14 Niagara Sheets Breaks Production Record 16 Baumer hhs Celebrates 40 Years Of Industrial Gluing 30 Signode Launches New Battery Powered Hand Tool

a variety of topics, including accessible and tan- gible ways to begin an AI journey, examples of successful implementations, navigating security risks and change management, and balancing effort with ROI. Zlatic: AICC has been doing a lot of really great work the last two years to get us ready for

Aleks Zlatic

AI. We all know adopting a new AI solution can be a big project. But what about some examples that each of you have implemented? Perkins: We have a lot of employees that have been around for a really long time and aren’t comfortable using computers. One of the things we’ve seen work really well in our plant is that just having them CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

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Pratt Expansion (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1)

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turing capabilities. Pratt is exactly the type of innovative, collaborative, and community-focused company we are proud to support.” “We are excited to expand our operations in Texas. The growth of our Rockwall box plant will bring advanced technology and increased capacity directly to our custom- ers, while complementing our existing manufacturing, re- cycling and transportation network across the state and region,” said Pratt Industries Executive Chairman Anthony Pratt. “This expansion further drives our commitment to investing in recycling, sustainability, and American manu- facturing jobs.” The expansion further solidifies Rockwall’s position as a regional hub for advanced manufacturing and sustainable industry. Pratt’s investment aligns with the community’s vi- sion of attracting companies that deliver both economic impact and job creation. Construction and equipment installation timelines for the expansion are expected to proceed in phases, with full operations anticipated following completion of the new corrugator line and facility enhancements. Since being founded in the U.S. about 30 years ago, Pratt Industries has become America’s largest private- ly-held 100 percent recycled paper and packaging compa- ny, with 6 paper mills, 21 corrugating plants, and 19 recy- cling facilities across North America.

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Smurfit Westrock To Close Lebanon Folding Carton Facility According to multiple sources including the Nashville Business Journal, Smurfit Westrock is preparing to shut down its folding-carton plant in Lebanon, Tennessee, a move that will cost about 52 employees their jobs. The closure will mark the latest in a string of plant shutdowns and workforce cutbacks at the global packaging giant. The Lebanon facility at 302 Hartmann Drive is a fold- ing-carton plant that produces printed paperboard and retail packaging. Industry reports indicate the Lebanon shutdown is part of a wider consolidation push as Smurfit Westrock trims capacity and shifts production to larger or more modern facilities. As reported by Packaging Dive, company leaders have described similar closures as “on- going optimization,” with production reassigned to other plants in the network. If Smurfit Westrock files a formal closure or WARN notice with state officials, Tennessee’s Rapid Response program would typically step in to coordinate unemploy- ment information, job training referrals and reemployment services through regional workforce boards. According to the Tennessee Department of Labor, Rapid Response is the state’s system for quickly assisting workers after plant closures and mass layoffs. Visit: www.smurfitwestrock.com .

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Stafford Corrugated Products Joins EOS Corrugated Group

Paris, France based EOS Corrugated Group has acquired a significant ownership stake in Indian Trail, North Carolina based Stafford Corrugated Products, the leading distribu- tor of technical consumables for the corrugated packaging industry in the United States. Stafford was founded in 1987 and has built a strong reputation for serving the corrugated box industry with high-quality products, technical expertise, and exceptional customer support. The relationship between Stafford and Rodicut, the founding company of EOS Corrugated Group, dates back to 2004 – well before the creation of EOS. Since then, both companies have enjoyed sustained double-digit

growth, driven in large part by the success of Rodicut’s in- novative green anvil cover. This product revolutionized the installation and rotation process for rotary die-cutter anvil covers and quickly became the preferred choice of box

manufacturers across the United States. Building on this long-standing partnership, the two companies entered into an exclu- sive supply agreement in 2019. This strategic investment further strengthens EOS Corrugated Group’s presence in North America by enhancing its distribution network, logistics capabili- ties, and commercial synergies across the combined product portfolios of EOS and Stafford. Under this expanded partnership, Staf- ford Corrugated Products will serve as the sole importer and distributor of the Group’s polyurethane product range in the U.S., including Rodicut and Policart anvil covers. Policart products will continue to benefit from a dedicated nationwide net- work of sales representatives and distribu- tion partners, including Dieco G2, another EOS Group company. Dieco G2 will remain responsible for the Lower Midwest and Central regions, where it has developed unparalleled market coverage and close relationships with corrugated box manu- facturers. While the companies will collabo- rate closely to leverage their respective strengths and create additional value for customers, Stafford Corrugated Products and Policart will continue to operate as independent businesses, preserving the entrepreneurial culture, market focus, and customer relationships that have contribut- ed to their success. Since 1987 Stafford has been commit- ted to the production and storage needs of the corrugated industry, having supplied the highest quality parts and services at competitive prices.

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Turn Trim Waste into Revenue One Size Never Fits All G.F. Puhl Designs Scrap Systems to Meet YOUR Needs

Our customers have various needs for scrap and dust collection systems based on several factors including building layout, available space for the equipment, distance conveyed, local codes for noise and height as well as air permitting and available operating and maintenance staff. Change the game with a custom-designed system by G.F. Puhl. It can make all the difference. When it comes to trim collection systems, there’s virtually no problem we haven’t solved.

Problem: No room for a scrap system inside the building. Solution: If your building footprint won’t support additional trim waste equipment, go outdoors. Exterior systems like an above-roof or ground-level concentrator will boost your capacity. Problem: No way to monitor the system unless you’re on site. Solution: G.F. Puhl leads the pack with proprietary technology that makes it possible to monitor the system from wherever you are. Request PLC touch screen controls with real-time pressure balancing and real-time remote via your smart phone or computer. G.F. Puhl’s expert engineering team has more than 50 years of combined experience designing, fabricating installing, and commissioning trim and dust collection systems of every kind, including outdoor systems with dual compactors, above roof systems with single or multiple cyclones and balers and below roof screen separator systems. If you’re looking for a vendor that can help you solve the scrap collection puzzle once and for all, contact G.F. Puhl today. 615.230.9500 or sales@gfpuhl.com

Problem: No space for a baler room. No budget for baler room staff. Solution: Try outdoor auger compactors requiring minimal operator interaction. Auger compactors achieve higher compaction than conventional ram compactors with less maintenance and no hydraulic fluid. Dual compactor systems allow continuous running while the waste hauler is changing out the container. Problem: No budget for a new system. Solution: Request a custom system with remanufactured equipment. G.F. Puhl sells remanufactured balers, blowers, separators, filters, and more. The savings can be significant and the warranty adds peace of mind. Problem: Your existing system doesn’t meet codes and the inspector has notified you of a problem with the existing system. Solution: G.F. Puhl’s NFPA trained engineering team designs NFPA and OSHA compliant systems that are as safe as they are durable. Problem: Dust is out of control. Solution: G.F. Puhl systems are designed to minimize the hazards created by ambient dust. Dust briquetters, certified explosion isolation valves, flame front diverters, and other safety features maximize safety.

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PPC: The Future of Paperboard Packaging Is Already Here BY LAUREN ZUBER

Spend enough time around the folding carton industry, and you’ll hear a familiar question: Where will the next generation of leaders come from? The answer, it turns out, is already here. Across North America, emerging professionals are stepping into lead- ership roles, bringing fresh perspectives while building on the knowl- edge and experience of those who came before them. They are helping companies navigate sustainability challenges, embrace new technolo- gies, develop stronger teams, and create innovative packaging solutions for a rapidly changing marketplace. PPC recently spoke with several of these rising leaders, including

• Only standard hand tools are required for all maintenance • Direct drive with no chains or sprockets • No tools for media change required » just zip it up » media change out in minutes • Filter is accessible for visual inspection during operation, Significant Advantages Over Conventional Dust Filtration Technology

Karla Ness of Mill Rock Packaging, Inc., recipient of PPC’s 2026 Woods Scholar Award; Emma Roehlke of F.M. Howell & Company; Eva Liss of Accord Car- ton Company; Madison Keyser of Utah Paper Box Company; and Tyler James of Malnove Packaging Solutions.

While each entered the industry through a dif- ferent path, their stories reveal something distinc- tive: a shared belief in the opportunities ahead and a deep appreciation for the people who make this industry special. Different Journeys, Shared Purpose One of the strengths of the paperboard packaging industry is the di- versity of experiences that people bring to it. For some, the industry is part of a family legacy. Karla Ness

As a fifth-generation member of F.M. Howell & Company, Emma Roehlke, Business Development & Director of Marketing, grew up watching her grandfather, mother, and father lead the business and serve their community. Even as a sixth grader, she envisioned one day helping lead the company herself. Today, she remains motivated by the op-

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portunity to help shape the future of both the company and the industry while continuing a tradition of community involvement and innovation. Madison Keyser, Vice President of Administration at Utah Paper Box Company also began her journey with family, but included time outside

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the industry. After spending five years in Human Resources with Fortune 500 companies, she re- turned with a deeper appreciation for leadership, culture, and employee engagement.

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That experience reinforced a lesson she still carries with her today: “You don’t have to be the most technical person in the room to make an im- pact.” For Madison, people skills, strong training, and employee engagement are just as critical to a successful manufac- turing business as technical expertise. Others found their way into paperboard packaging through a passion for manufacturing itself. For Karla Ness, the appeal lies in watching ideas become reality. As this year’s Woods Scholar Award recipient, she was drawn to the indus- try’s unique ability to transform an initial concept into a finished pack- age that consumers see on store shelves every day. What keeps her en- Madison Keyser

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Future of Paperboard (CONT’D FROM PAGE 8)

Leadership Starts With People When asked about the lessons that have had the great- est impact on their development as leaders, none of these professionals pointed to technology, production, or strate- gy first. Instead, they talked about people. Karla believes leadership is rooted in trust and col- laboration. One of the most import- ant lessons she has learned is that involving team members in deci- sion-making and empowering them to take ownership often leads to bet- ter outcomes than directing solutions from the top down. As she explains, “When people feel valued and en- gaged, they are more willing to innovate, solve problems, and help the organization succeed.” Madison shared a similar perspective. Early in her ca- Eva Liss

gaged is the combination of creativity, collaboration, and continuous change that makes every day different. For Tyler James, Account Executive at Malnove Pack- aging Solutions, the attraction came through marketing

and sales. Early in his career, he rec- ognized that paperboard offered “a unique balance of functionality and environmental responsibility” at a time when more companies were prioritizing renewable and recycla- ble materials. Despite their different back-

Tyler James

grounds, all of these leaders were drawn to an industry that rewards curiosity, problem-solving, and continuous learning.

reer, she learned the importance of seeking understanding before making assumptions. In a manufacturing environment where em- ployees bring different experiences and perspectives to the table, listening first of- ten creates stronger relationships and bet- ter solutions. Emma echoed that sentiment, noting that some of the most important growth in her leadership journey has come from un- derstanding that leadership is not always about having the right answer. “It’s not always about having the right an- swers but listening and learning from those around you,” she said. “From your custom- ers, your team, your industry, and even yourself.” For Eva Liss of Accord Carton Company, leadership begins with communication. She believes leaders must recognize the impact their words have on relationships, culture, and trust. Looking ahead, she sees empathy becoming even more important for future leaders, emphasizing a simple but power- ful principle: “Employees need to know that you care.” Taken together, their perspectives sug- gest that the next generation of leaders may look different from those who came before them—not because they are aban- doning traditional leadership principles, but because they are doubling down on them. Listening, communication, trust, and empa- thy remain central to how they lead. Embracing Change And Opportunity The paperboard packaging industry is experiencing a significant transformation, driven by sustainability initiatives, evolving regulations, changing consumer expecta-

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FOLDING SECTION UPGRADES THAT MOVE THE INDUSTRY FORWARD

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Future of Paperboard (CONT’D FROM PAGE 10)

technology, workforce development, sustainability, or cus- tomer expectations, these professionals understand that the pace of change is accelerating and that success will belong to those willing to evolve alongside it. The Power Of Community Another theme appeared in nearly every conversation: none of these leaders believes they are navigating the future alone. Each pointed to the value of learning from peers, mentors, and industry colleagues. Through PPC programs such as Women in Packaging and New Genera- tion Leaders, as well as educational events and network- ing opportunities, they have found spaces to exchange ideas, ask questions, and gain perspective from profes- sionals facing similar challenges. For many, those relationships have become one of the most valuable aspects of their professional development. The Next Generation Starts Here The leaders featured in this article didn’t build their ca- reers alone. They learned from mentors, connected with peers, embraced new opportunities, and invested in their professional growth. PPC’s Emerging Leaders Pathway helps the next gen- eration of industry professionals do the same by con- necting them with educational programs, networking op- portunities, leadership development experiences, and a community of peers committed to shaping the future of paperboard packaging. Visit: paperbox.org .

tions, workforce challenges, and emerging technologies. Tyler pointed to Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation and increasing demand for sustainable packaging as catalysts accelerating innovation across pa- perboard materials, design, and recyclability. “The advancements happening across materials, de- sign, and recyclability are opening new doors for brands to transition without compromising performance or shelf appeal,” he said. Emma sees sustainability and innovation working hand in hand. As brands look for solutions that balance perfor- mance and environmental responsibility, she believes pa- perboard packaging is uniquely positioned to help meet that challenge. Eva agrees, noting that the industry’s role in sustain- ability and plastic replacement is helping attract a new generation of talent into manufacturing careers. At the same time, these leaders are paying close at- tention to automation, artificial intelligence, workforce de- velopment, operational efficiency, and changing customer expectations. What stands out most is their mindset; rather than fearing change, they are preparing for it. As Tyler put it, “We will need to get comfortable with being uncomfortable.” That willingness to continuously learn surfaced repeat- edly throughout these conversations. Whether discussing

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Niagara Sheets Breaks Production Record

The Perfect Combo Get Peak Performance From Your Equipment with Matched Component Sets

North Tonawanda, New York based Niagara Sheets, a manufacturer of corrugated paper sheets, has announced that it has broken its previous plant milestone of 700,000 lineal feet on a corrugator in a 12-hour shift. Official record numbers included:

• 714,760 lineal feet in 12 hours • 59,563 lineal feet per hour • 993 LFM – average speed

• 488.5 msf\hr average • 98.9 percent uptime

While the production numbers themselves are impres- sive, what makes this accomplishment especially mean- ingful is the complexity involved in achieving it.

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That’s why the engineers at ARC International have focused their skills and talents on crafting perfect matches between the components that must work in tandem on your flexo folder gluers and die-cutters: • Anilox Rollers and Ink Chambers • Anilox and Wiper Rollers • Feed and Pull Rollers • Glue and Meter Rollers You can achieve the press speeds and print quality you need to fill your most demanding orders by pairing your team with The ARChitects of Flexo . Contact ARC today to learn how these engineered matches of flexo folder gluer and die-cutter components (new or reconditioned) can help you achieve a more perfect union of production and profits.

Unlike an integrated box plant, Niagara Sheets does not have the luxury of running sheets directly into down- stream converting operations. Every unit produced must be stacked, banded, handled, staged, and shipped to our customers. Achieving record-setting performance requires precise coordination across every area of the operation, especially considering the number of order changes and setups processed during a typical day at a sheet feeder.

Success at this level depends on much more than the corrugator alone. Paper supply, machine reliability, staff- ing, material handling, logistics, scheduling, and support- ing equipment performance must all come together seam- lessly. Any one of these factors can impact production performance. What makes this achievement even more remarkable is CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

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Baumer hhs Celebrates 40 Years Of Industrial Gluing Innovation Baumer hhs marked its 40th anniversary with a celebra- tion on 12 June 2026 at its headquarters in Krefeld, Ger- many. The event was attended not only by the Baumer hhs team from Sales, Service and Administration – which counts over 350 employees worldwide – but also by orig- inal founders of the company. Partnership, precision and a pioneering spirit are the values that guide Baumer hhs in supporting customers and OEM partners around the world. The company main- tains a global presence with subsidiaries in France, Great Britain, India, Italy, China, Mexico, Spain and the USA, as well as a sales and service network spanning over 120 countries. Since its establishment, Baumer hhs has been driving innovation in the global packaging industry, espe- cially in the folding carton, corrugated, end-of-line and to- bacco segments. Baumer hhs is often a leader of developments in the industries it serves – even in areas that go beyond gluing and quality assurance. One example is the advancing digi- tization in the packaging world, in the wake of which pack- aging products are acquiring new functionality through QR and data matrix codes. Further examples include Baumer hhs’s role as a founding member of the 4evergreen Alli-

Niagara Sheets (CONT’D FROM PAGE 14)

that it was accomplished on a BHS corrugator that has been in service for 18 years. Through a commitment to mainte- nance, continuous improvement, capital investment, and

operational discipline, Niagara Sheets has worked hard to keep the machine performing at a world-class level while continuing to raise the bar for what is possible. Most importantly, this record belongs to our people. It reflects the dedication, skill, teamwork, and commitment of our employees, supervisors, maintenance team, and leadership group. We are extremely proud of everyone in- volved in this accomplishment and grateful for the effort it takes every day to achieve results like these. Records may be measured in feet and square footage, but they are ultimately built by people.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

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Baumer hhs (CONT’D FROM PAGE 16)

ance and as a SUGRA partner. 4evergreen works across industries to improve the recyclability and sustainability of fibre-based packaging. The SUGRA (Sustainable Gluing with Renewable Adhesives) research project is develop- ing biobased adhesives from starch which can be used in high-speed folder gluers.

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Baumer hhs exports 75 percent of its products to cus- tomers all over the world. Percy Dengler, Managing Direc- tor at Baumer hhs said: “We have always taken a holistic approach to developing solutions. It enables us to per- fectly tune all the components of our complete systems to their respective applications. Our customers can integrate these systems into their production lines right away and start benefiting from their resource efficiency, energy effi- ciency and reliability for the overall process.” Dr. Oliver Vietze, CEO and Chairman of Baumer Group, left, and Percy Dengler, Managing Director at Baumer hhs.

Len Prazych at 518-366-9017 lprazych@nvpublications.com

18 June 29, 2026

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Graphic Village Boosts Post Press With Koenig & Bauer Folder Gluer In its 105 years of existence, Cincinnati, Ohio based Graph- ic Village (GV) has successfully navigated the ever-chang- ing world of print and packaging technology with strong customer satisfaction, balancing these two guiding prin- ciples while continuing to modernize and enact strategic

its clients. Its latest acquisition is a Koenig & Bauer Allpro 110 folder gluer. “There were three main challenges that we needed to overcome,” says Mark O’Bryan, chief operating officer of Graphic Village. “Most importantly our goal was to in- crease capacity and invest in the latest automation. This new folder gluer positions us as the go-to provider for so- phisticated and innovative packaging solutions and allows us to successfully compete in new markets.”

Mark O’Bryan, Chief Operating Officer at Graphic Village, left, and Eric Kahn, Executive Chairman at Graphic Village.

acquisitions. Today, the distinguished firm is the largest in- dependent print marketing solutions provider in the Great- er Cincinnati region with over 140 talented employees and three operating locations throughout the Midwest that in- clude printing, packaging, mailing, creative, fulfilment, and promotional items. But to keep up with this rapid growth into its second centennial, Graphic Village remains committed to adding a broad range of high-quality print and finishing solutions for

Known as one of the most versatile folder gluers in the world, the Allpro 110 allows its users to exceed production requirements, maximize productivity and profitability, and produce endless carton box design and format possibil- ities. These include straight line, double wall, crash lock and optional four- and six-corner with single finger servo fold for high-speed precision as well as inner partition, Z-fold, conical crash lock and CD boxes. Visit: us.koenig-bauer.com .

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AI Panel (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1)

get started is to identify a tedious task that people dislike doing and try to automate it. Let’s dig deeper into that. Alvarez: Not too long ago, we implemented a docu- ment management system. It reviews invoices, indexes them, and routes them for approval. There is AI involved, but the main value came from streamlining the process. Zlatic: Change management and employee adoption of these tools can be challenging. How have you seen this with AI?

dictate emails, format them nicely, making forms, slides – AI has helped reduce the amount of time it takes for them to do that type of work. Trinchi: I run our IT team, and using paid and secure versions of tools like ChatGPT and Copilot has really ele- vated our team from a support and documentation stand- point. Historically, IT teams are not great at documenting

things. Now, when my team finishes a conversation with an AI tool that helps resolve an issue, I instruct them to document it. They can just ask the tool to write up a one- page summary, and then we add that to our knowledge base. That knowledge is extremely valuable. We have had people with tribal knowledge leave the company, and suddenly no one knows how to do their job anymore. AI gives us a way to capture more of that knowledge before it walks out the door. Blizzard: For Acme, our goal wasn’t necessarily AI; it was better decision-making for better outcomes. We cre- ated a simple maturity model. Level one is productivity. How do we get some of these tools in the hands of our employees to make them more productive? Level two is how do we integrate AI into some of the work? Third, is how do we get to autonomy? How do we educate where it’s making decisions for us? The human at the end has done a marathon for this decision. Here’s an example: Each day, he would spend about an hour and a half reviewing his batching report to iden- tify opportunities to consolidate shipments and save on freight costs, and send that information to our client rela- tions team We purchased a ChatGPT business license, configured the settings, gave him about 20 minutes of training, and provided the tool with a persona and specific instructions. When he uploaded the report to ChatGPT, it produced a full analysis within minutes. Not only did we save him an hour and a half to two hours a day, but we also uncovered opportunities he had missed. The tool identified addition- al freight savings because it could see patterns that were difficult to catch manually. That became our first quick win. Zlatic: That’s a great example of something people can take action on this week. I have heard that the best way to 22 June 29, 2026

Trinchi: It all comes down to the governance of it. If we do not provide an approved AI tool or a clear AI policy, people will go off and do their own thing, which is scary. There has to be a level of control. I am an IT person, so I am naturally a control freak. The job requires it. You need controls around your data and the use of AI. We are trying to limit the exposure of which AI tools are available. Zlatic: Everything starts with data, and consolidating it all is no small undertaking. Jason, what are your thoughts or best practices from President Container on bringing data together so you can get more value from it? Alvarez: There has to be one source of truth. You need a data scientist, a data engineer, or someone who can help organize your governance. Operations teams know how to execute, but someone has to organize those concepts across the business. That’s where I would start: establish a source of truth, organize it with rules, and align on the tools. Blizzard: I agree. If you can centralize your data, that’s a great start. Most of us have many different systems with data sitting in different places, and you need to know where that data lives. If you need help and do not have an internal IT team, partner with someone who can per- form a current-state data analysis. From there, identify the business problems you are trying to solve. You also need a full picture of your key business metrics, whether that is waste, on-time delivery, OEE, or something else. There may be critical data sitting in a system you do not even realize is contributing to that metric. Zlatic: A fear many plants have is investing heavily in AI without seeing significant results. What ROI have you seen from your projects? Trinchi: The ChatGPT licenses are worth their weight in gold. They have significantly augmented my team to the

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AI Panel (CONT’D FROM PAGE 22)

We are probably looking at a $50,000 investment and a one- to two-year timeline. The bigger cost is time. The longer we wait, the longer it will take. Beyond the price tag on the investment, the bigger question is whether we can pull people away from what they are currently doing or whether we need to add staff. It becomes a risk assess- ment: is the effort worth it, and are we confident it will be successful? Alvarez: One of the biggest decisions is which platform you are going to use. Many people started with the Copilot experience, and even Microsoft seems to recognize that its strength is Office and organization. Now OpenAI mod- els are becoming more accessible, Claude tools are avail- able, and Gemini may also become part of the ecosystem. For adoption, especially with bigger solutions, work- flow matters. Decide on the platform, stay disciplined, cre- ate a governance workflow, and bring solutions in slowly. Otherwise, you may end up subscribing to 10, 15, or 20 different tools, and that gets expensive quickly. Your tool of choice will probably live within your office platform. I have asked people, “What is the number one application in your enterprise?” They may say it is Kiwiplan or Amtech, but Outlook is open all day. People live in Of- fice, Google Sheets, email, and Teams. That is where most communication happens. Zlatic: Let’s move into security. What precautions should companies take to protect customer data, pricing,

point where we do not need to hire additional people. I do not view it as reducing staff. It’s more about making the people we already have more effective. Blizzard: Going back to the shipping example, it costs about $20 a month for that manager to use the tool. The freight savings from the first time we ran the report cov- ered roughly two years of that cost, not including the time savings. Is it the most quantifiable ROI? No. I think the in- dustry is still struggling with how to prove ROI for AI invest- ments. But in that example, the value was very clear. Zlatic: Let’s talk about time to deploy. These quick wins are good, but what does time and investment look like for some of these more in-depth solutions? Blizzard: Gathering our data took the most time. We are in year three. The first year was data assessment. The second year was building out the platform. The third year is operationalizing it. That is the data side. But quick wins are much faster. They can be as simple as signing up for a ChatGPT license, developing an AI policy, and training users on the tool. In my earlier example, the training took about 30 minutes. Perkins: We are currently working on an ERP schedul- ing system transition. One use case we are considering is automatically reading customer POs, then looking across our fleet of machines to determine how quickly and effi- ciently we can produce the order.

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AI Panel (CONT’D FROM PAGE 24)

Board Converting NEWS INTERNET DIRECTORY

and sensitive information being placed into AI platforms? Blizzard: Governance is critical, especially if you are centralizing your data. You need to make sure sensitive information is protected. If someone is using a business version of an AI tool, there are configuration and security settings you can put in place. You also need an AI policy that defines what is acceptable and what is not. It should list the approved tools and make it clear that other tools require approval. Trinchi: There has always been tension with IT. Some- one wants to use a tool they know, and IT says no. But it cannot be the Wild West. There has to be control. A poli- cy alone does not stop anything. It helps protect you, but then you have to enforce that policy.

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. 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.

Zlatic: When we talk about ChatGPT, Claude, or Co- pilot, do not use the $20-per-month personal license for business data. It is fine for experimenting, as long as you do not put sensitive information into it. We’ve talked about many things members can do them- selves. But what should they expect or ask for from their OEMs, software vendors, and hardware providers? Trinchi: I expect vendors to be mindful of the data they use and how they use it. I am also concerned about whether vendors are using AI to write code and whether that code is secure. Cyberat- tacks often come through data, supply chains, and vendor systems. You have to ask whether you trust these partners and whether they follow best practices. I expect vendors to lean into cybersecurity and value security as part of the solution. Alvarez: One of our biggest failures was trying to build a troubleshooting tool for one of our machines. The goal was to reduce downtime by helping operators trouble- shoot faster. But it failed because training the tool on all of that machine knowledge was too much. Really, that kind of information should come from the OEM. They know how the machine works. They should be able to share that knowledge with us, even if it’s through a paid connection or subscription. If they can provide that expertise in a structured way, it would be very valuable.

AOPACK LTD www.aopackmachine.com

Aopack is a leading manufacturer of automatic corrugated box making machines for short-run and on-demand pro- duction. 1,200+ machines operate in 60+ countries. The BM2800-Ultra integrates digital printing, slitting, slotting, creasing, and vibrating knife cutting, delivering efficient, flexible solutions for customized corrugated box orders.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 28

26 June 29, 2026

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AI Panel (CONT’D FROM PAGE 26)

Board Converting NEWS INTERNET DIRECTORY

Zlatic: What advantages do independent companies have in AI adoption? Trinchi: I work for a large corporation, and it is hard to make change. Independent companies may be in a better position to move quickly. Large organizations have bigger budgets, but they are harder to influence, and change can take longer. Their risk exposure is also larger. Blizzard: I agree. Events like this are valuable because they create conversations, enabling us to work with OEMs and software vendors in the industry to get practical solu- tions off the ground. Audience Member: I have two questions. First, on as- set performance management: since many ROI use cases depend on scalability, how does being a single-site man- ufacturer influence your decisions around bigger invest- ments? Second, digital transformation is often more of a peo- ple and culture issue than a technology issue. How do you make sure the ROI does not disappear after a year because people leave, operations turns over, or no one maintains the process? Trinchi: That is exactly my fear, and why I try to avoid doing an “AI project” just for the sake of it. It has to be part of a broader culture change. We have people in our plants who have been there forever, and they are the only ones who know how to fix certain machines. The risk of not capturing that knowledge is greater than the risk of attempting to capture it with AI. We created an AI committee whose purpose is to eval- uate opportunities and determine where AI can save time, reduce waste, or improve a process. We meet monthly and keep these topics in front of the organization. Final comments from the panel included: Alvarez: The people on the floor are often the smart- est people in the building when it comes to the operation. Over the years, I have heard people explain a problem and thought, “I know how to help with that.” But you need that operational insight. AI is just a tool. Our responsibility is to use it in good faith and apply it to what the operation actually needs. Blizzard: The differentiator will not be AI itself; it will be the companies that can integrate business decisions into their processes. Do not get too hung up on the AI label. Focus on the problem you are trying to solve. If AI is the right tool, great. If another solution is better, that is fine too. Perkins: For us, success has come from finding places where people are pulling for the solution, not where we are pushing it on them. Every time we try to force a project on someone, it is harder. But when it saves that person time, they become much more engaged. Trinchi: If you are looking for a takeaway, go back to your plant and think about the repetitive tasks people are doing. If you do not have someone internally or an AI com- mittee, look for a supplier or partner who can help you get started.

ARC INTERNATIONAL www.ARCInternational.com

ARC International is a world leader in the manufacturing of roller products for flexography. The latest nano-technology laser engraving in our NC and NV manufacturing facilities ensures superior quality and consistency in anilox rollers.

AES (ADVANCED EQUIPMENT SALES) www.aesales.net

AES is a leading full-service provider of integrated convey- ance systems specializing in scrap, trim, and dust. AES en- gineers custom scrap systems and works as a partner in process improvement to help businesses achieve greater profitability, productivity, and sustainability. Products include balers, shredders/hoggers, core shredders, filters, fans, and specialized dust control and collection systems. AES is the ex- clusive distributor for the AirShark Rotary Material Separator. For a wide variety of new and used equipment on to- day’s market, visit our website at www.acm-corp.com. BAUMER HHS CORPORATION www.baumerhhs.com hhs is a global leader in advanced gluing, camera verifica- tion and quality assurance systems for the packaging indus- try. Zero-defect quality and elevated production speeds are key parameters in the manufacturing of corrugated boxes. With hhs Xcam Box Monitoring and non-contact flap gluing of corrugated board, hhs offers every option for quality as- surance in the production of boxes with flexo folder gluers. AMERICAN CORRUGATED MACHINE www.acm-corp.com BLOWER APPLICATION COMPANY (BLOAPCO) www.BloApCo.com BloApCo has served the corrugated industry since 1933 with a variety of scrap handling solutions, including Hori- zontal Floor Shredders, Trim Cutters, and Material Handling Fans and Conveying Systems. BloApCo Shredders allow for continuous shredding and pneumatic removal of sheet waste stacks of all sizes, roll slab, cores, and carton scrap.

CORRUGATED MACHINERY SPECIALISTS www.cmsretrofits.com

Leading manufacturer and installer of quality retrofits, up- grades and replacement parts for S&S and Prime Flexo Folder Gluers. Specialists in reconditioning of S&S Flexo Folder Gluers, including ink, air and electrical systems.

CORRUGATOR BELT SERVICE LLC www.corrugator.com

Serving the corrugated box industry since 1991, Chicago- based Corrugator Belt Service LLC maintains corru- gator belts for peak board quality and performance.

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