BoardConverting Serving the North American Corrugated and Folding Carton Industries for 40 years September 16, 2024 VOL. 40, NO. 38
SuperCorrExpo Panelists Provide Industry Insights BY GREG KISHBAUGH
Gary Brewer Assumes Chairmanship Of AICC
The changing of the guard took center stage on day 3 of the TAPPI/AICC SuperCorrExpo trade show in Orlando, Florida with Packag- ing Express President Matt Davis passing the AICC chairmanship on to Gary Brewer, Presi- dent of Package Crafters and Creative Pack- aging. At the post-election ceremony before thousands in attendance, Davis said that AICC is lucky to have Brewer as the next chair. “Gary is a role model with it comes to a true independent entrepreneur. He is fantastic with customers and is generous with his time and his knowledge,” Davis said. In turn, Brewer presented Davis and his family, wife, Maggie and daughters, Cather- ine, and Mary Elizabeth, the AICC globe in recognition for his service, travel time and im- pact on the industry. Tim Connell, director of sales at A.G. Stack- er, and AICC immediate past chair, also recog- nized Davis’ hard work as AICC chairman. “I’ve had the privilege of serving with him on the AICC board, getting to know him and seeing his passion for the industry and his company, his association, and it’s been great CONTINUED ON PAGE 3
The first session at last week’s SuperCorrExpo show, held in Orlan- do, Florida, was a Panel Discussion called Industry Panel & Paper and Packaging Board: Making the Consumer-Customer Connection. With Chris Harris, Process Specialist and CEO of WPR Services, as moderator, the panel featured: Mark McNay, Senior VP General Man- ager, Southern Missouri Containers; Greg Arvanigian, President, Arvco Container Corporation; Jeff Pallini, CEO, Fosber; and Jeff Quinn, Chief Executive Officer and Owner, Haire Group.
Their comments have been edited for clarity and space. Arvanigian : We assembled this group of industry luminaries be- cause we were talking about sustainability, and there’s nothing more sustainable than four 40-year guys of the industry. And we’ve all seen a lot. We know where the industry has been, and we’re pretty excited about where the industry is going. When I look back, in 1989, when I started, it was pretty easy to get into this business. You’d buy a used press, you’d buy a taper, and you’d buy a slitter and a band saw, and you were in the corrugated business. And I think those times are going away. The barriers to entry to get into this business now are much higher than what they were back in the CONTINUED ON PAGE 26 The SCE Industry Panel & Paper and Packaging Board, from left, Chris Har- ris, WPR Services; Greg Arvanigian, Arvco Container Corporation; Jeff Pal- lini, Fosber; Jeff Quinn, Haire Group; and Mark McNay, Southern Missouri Containers.
WHAT’S INSIDE
6 x x 8 x x 12 x x 26 x x 5 Geo. M. Martin Co. Wins 10 HP Launches PageWide T700i Press In Germany 16 Alliance, JD Engineers Expand Partnership In US Market Innovator Of The Year Award Veritiv To Acquire Orora Packaging Solutions
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in Port St. Joe, Florida. When he made the decision to buy an empty building to start his own plant with his father and four other team members, his did so with only one rotary
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
AICC Chair (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1)
to see. I’ve always appreciated his input and certainly his sense of humor,” Connell said. Brewer, noting how his two plant operations in High Point, North Carolina, and Savannah, Georgia have been supported tremendously by AICC membership, accepted the chairmanship with great honor. Both companies spe- cialize in custom corrugated packaging, point-of-purchase displays, product testing, and fulfillment services. Brewer has degrees in chemical engineering and pa- per science from North Carolina State University and an MBA from Wake Forest University. He began his career as a process engineer at a paper mill, St. Joe Forest Products
die-cutter, one flexo-folder-gluer, and a rotary-slotter. “And then we had to get to work because we had no custom- ers,” he said. Family members often helped late at night to make sure orders were complete and on time. This past summer, Package Crafters celebrated 20 years of success. “I’m a believer in AICC’s mission and its many benefits New AICC Chair Gary Brewer, far right, presents the AICC Globe to Matt Davis, who accepts with wife, Maggie, and daughters Catherine and Mary Elizabeth (front).
CONTINUED ON PAGE 5
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AICC Chair (CONT’D FROM PAGE 3)
of membership,” he said. “For those of you that are not yet a member, I highly recommend the CEO Group or the Leadership Advisory Group.” Brewer, a licensed pilot since he was 21, chose “flying the plane” as his AICC chairmanship theme. Like pilots,
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entrepreneurs and business leaders face distractions and diversions on daily basis. There are many influences, de- mands, interruptions, and everyone is counting on them. Pilots rely on air traffic controllers, checklists, and manuals, but independents also have a support system, he said. “You have AICC, your colleagues, your friends, family, suppliers, and your experiences to help you on your way. But you must fly the plane always. You must run your busi- ness. So, we will develop this theme as the year progress- es. I look forward very much to the dialogue,” Brewer said. Geo. M. Martin Co. Wins AICC/BCN Innovator Of The Year Award Emeryville, California based Geo. M. Martin Company won this year’s Innovator of the Year Award on September 11 during the TAPPI/AICC SuperCorrExpo trade show. Geo. M. Martin Company, founded in 1929, won in the machinery category for their SmartShingle innovation which minimizes feed interrupts during stack or bundle changes. Entries in the machine catetory focus on equipment, products or services that are directly related to the me- chanical converting process. Entries in this category ben- efit the paperboard packaging industry through enhanced efficiency, quality, productivity, and safety of the members of the paperboard packaging community. The Innovator of the Year competition, co-sponsored Matt Davis, President of Packaging Express, left, passes the ceremonial gavel to new AICC Chairman Gary Brewer, Presi- dent of Package Crafters and Creative Packaging.
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CONTINUED ON PAGE 6
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Geo. M. Martin Co. (CONT’D FROM PAGE 5)
Box Shipments ( U.S. Corrugated Product Shipments) Industry Shipments In Billions of Square Feet Month June 2024
by AICC and Board Converting News is designed to rec- ognize innovative solutions created by both AICC box plant and supplier members that enhance the efficiencies,
Year
Actual
Percent Change Avg Week Percent Change
2024 2023
30.635 33.080
-7.4
7.659 7.518
1.9
Industry Total
Year-to Date
June 2024
Year
Actual
Percent Change Avg Week Percent Change
2024 2023
189.589 189.478
0.1
7.464 7.459
0.1
Industry Total
Containerboard Consumption (Thousands of Tons)
Year
Month
Percent Change Year-to-Date Percent Change
2024 2023
2.5331 2.7016
-6.2
15.5229 15.5207
0.0
Container Board Inventory - Corrugator Plants (Thousands of Tons)
Corrugator Plants Only
Date
Percent Change Weeks of Supply
Percent Change
June May
2.2316 2.3155
-3.6
3.8 3.5
8.5
productivity, product quality and bottom line profitability of the independent box plant. The competition alternates its focus between box makers, suppliers, and non-machinery aspects of the converting industry. Len Prazych, President/Publisher of Board Converting News, left, and Gary Brewer, President of Package Crafters and AICC Chairman, presented the 2024 AICC/BCN Innovator of the Year Award to Charles Rizzuti, Senior Executive Vice President of Engineering at Geo. M. Martin Company.
Shipping Days
Year
Month
Year-to-Date
2024 2023
20 22
127 127
SOURCE: Fibre Box Association
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Veritiv Announces Agreement To Acquire Orora Packaging Solutions Atlanta, Georgia based Veritiv, a specialty packaging dis- tributor, announced it has entered into an agreement with Orora to acquire the North American packaging and dis- tribution business Orora Packaging Solutions (OPS). This strategic acquisition will help further position Veritiv as a leading provider of value-added products and solutions in specialty packaging distribution in North America. “The combination of Veritiv and Orora Packaging Solutions will significantly enhance the value we deliver to our customers,” said Sal Abbate, Chief Executive Of- ficer of Veritiv. “By uniting two successful players with a shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and ex- ceptional customer experiences, we are poised to offer a wide range of products and value-added solutions that meet even the most complex packaging and supply chain needs. “Our complementary business strategies and core values make this partnership a natural fit, and I am con- fident the integration will create a stronger, more agile organization that sets new standards for excellence. We are excited to bring together the talented employees, loy- al customers, and trusted suppliers of both Veritiv and Orora Packaging Solutions, and we look forward to col- laborating as one unified team.”
Veritiv said the acquisition underscores its dedication to enhancing its capabilities in the specialty packaging distri- bution sector, enabling them to continue providing innova- tive, sustainable, and value-added solutions. “OPS has earned an exceptional reputation for the quali- ty of our service offering to customers in the North America market across our manufacturing, visual display and dis- tribution businesses,” said Kelly Barlow, President of OPS. “The addition of OPS to Veritiv’s packaging distribution platform will provide an even more compelling customer offering and significant value creation potential. Both com- panies have a customer-centric approach, which will be un- derpinned by a combined broad-based footprint, enhanced design and value-added services, and a laser focus on sus- tainability. We look forward to partnering with Veritiv to sig- nificantly enhance the value we deliver for our customers together.” “Today’s announcement represents a significant new era for the OPS business as it transitions to Veritiv owner- ship. We are extremely proud of the way the OPS team has grown the business while part of the Orora Group and be- lieve this is an exciting opportunity to join an industry leader in the North American packaging distribution market with differentiated capabilities,” said Brian Lowe, Orora Manag- ing Director and Chief Executive Officer. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and closing conditions and is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2024.
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HP Announces Launch Of PageWide T700i Press
Palo Alto, California based HP announced the global launch event of the PageWide T700i Press held at Koenig & Bauer in Wurzburg, Germany. The collaboration between HP and Koenig & Bauer has been instrumental in the development of the T700i Press, and the event provided a fitting platform to celebrate a de- cade of collaboration between these two industry giants. HP said the successful launch of the T700i Press is a direct result of this partnership, showcasing the combined exper- tise and innovation that have resulted in this leading-edge technology. At the heart of the event was the HP PageWide T700i Press itself, a testament to HP’s commitment to deliver-
ing innovative solutions for the packaging industry. The T700i Press – a 67-inch (1.7 m), digital web-fed platform – is designed for high-volume, high-speed production of high-graphics packaging with 6-color print quality. The for- mat of the T700i press is designed for replacing litho print
in litho-lam applications, and the press re- mains configurable to meet specific cus- tomer and market needs with its variety of in-line options for winding, priming, var- nishing and delivery. Select configurations can print up to 1,000 feet per minute (300 m/min), supported by HP’s latest genera- tion single-pass Thermal Inkjet technology with water-based inks. Attendees were treated to live demon- strations of the T700i Press, showcasing its capabilities across a range of applica- tions. From producing premium-quality digital prints that rival litho-lamination to efficiently handling batched jobs on both coated and uncoated papers, the press impressed with its speed, accuracy, and versatility. The ability to run the press at 1000-feet per minute on uncoated stock was a particular highlight, demonstrating the T700i Press’s potential to deliver high productivity and boost efficiency. In addition to technical demonstrations, the event highlighted the broader impli- cations of digital printing for the packag- ing industry. Industry experts and thought leaders shared insights on what is driving brands to switch to digital, as well as the economic benefits, operational efficien- cies, and strategic advantages of adopting digital technology. The emphasis on HP’s comprehen- sive One Package workflow solutions and partner ecosystem underscored the com- pany’s commitment to providing end-to- end support for converters. With many HP SmartStream partners present and show- casing their solutions, attendees gained valuable insights into how the T700i Press integrates with existing workflows.
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WPR Services Named System Integrator For AVEVA Products
Durst Group Appoints Schowalter As Global Sales Director Italy based Durst Group, a manufacturer of advanced dig- ital printing and production technologies, has announced the appointment of Chris Schowalter as the new Global Sales Director Software. With over 20 years of experience in print, primarily in
Fishers, Indiana based WPR Services has confirmed its new status as a system integrator for AVEVA products. This strategic partnership will enhance WPR Services’ abil- ity to deliver cutting-edge solutions to its customers, lever- aging AVEVA’s software suite. Additionally, WPR Services will now offer its proprietary powTALK platform integrated with AVEVA products, pro- viding a comprehensive solution for manufacturing intelli- gence and operational efficiency. As a system integrator, WPR Services will utilize AVE- VA’s software solutions to enhance its service offerings. AVEVA’s products are renowned for their ability to drive digital transformation across industries, and this partner- ship will enable WPR Services to deliver even more pow- erful and efficient solutions to its customers. The powTALK platform, developed by WPR Services, is a solution designed to optimize manufacturing process- es through advanced data analytics and machine learn- ing. By integrating powTALK with AVEVA’s software, WPR Services will provide customers with a tool for predictive maintenance, real-time monitoring, and enhanced deci- sion-making. Key features include predictive maintenance, real-time monitoring, and enhanced decision-making.
inkjet, Chris Schowalter possesses an understanding of the evolving software technology landscape and its intersections with workflows and print equipment. Throughout his career, he has consistently ensured that customers have access to the right solutions to overcome their
bottlenecks and pain points, supported by the appropri- ate channels or direct partners. His customer-centric ap- proach and strategic vision have consistently delivered ex- ceptional results. In his new role, Schowalter will lead the development and execution of Durst’s global sales strate- gy for the software division, while supporting the compa- ny’s international sales teams. “We are thrilled to welcome Chris Schowalter to the Durst team,” says Michael Deflo- rian, Business Unit Manager Durst Software & Solutions. “His expertise and vision will be invaluable as we continue to innovate and expand our software solutions worldwide.” Chris Schowalter
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CPG Honors Schwarz With $150K Donation To ICPF Circle of Distinguished Leaders Induction The Corrugated Partners Group (CPG), a collaborative network of sheet feeders, has donated $150,000 on behalf of Jeffrey Schwarz for post- humous induction into the International Corrugated Packaging Founda- tion’s (ICPF) Circle of Distinguished Leaders. Contributions were received from the following CPG facilities: Alli- ance Sheets, Encorr Sheets, Flutes Hanna, Flutes Zionville, Heartland
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Sheets, Independence Corrugated, Keystone Sheets, NewCorr, New England Sheets, North Star, Pinnacle Corrugated, SPP Miami, Triumph Sheets, Star Corr, and StarCorr de Mexico. The Circle of Distinguished Leaders program honors exceptional individuals — leaders whose vision, creativity and energy have moved the cor- rugated industry forward. Jeff was instrumental in
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spearheading sheet feeder co-ops and forging relationships between corrugated industry companies. Following a yearlong battle with Glio- blastoma, an aggressive brain cancer, Jeff passed away on November 26, 2023. Jeff’s nomination to ICPF’s Circle of Distinguished Leaders was ini- tiated by the Fiterman family at Liberty Diversified International. His in- duction will mark the first time two members from the same family have been honored, with his father Jack having joined this prestigious group in 2011. Industry contributions on behalf of Jeff have led to the most success- ful Circle of Distinguished Leaders nomination to date. In another sizable donation, Pacific Southwest Container has contributed $50,000 to rec- ognize Jeff’s legacy and long-standing impact on the corrugated pack- aging industry. Additional pledges and donations in Jeff’s honor have been made by AICC, Amtech Software, Buckeye Corrugated, Central Package & Dis- play, DanHil Containers, Domtar, Fibre Box Association, Fosber America, Great Northern Corporation, Green Bay Packaging, Jim Johnson, Liberty Diversified International, Litho Press, Bob and Debbie McIlvaine, Packag- ing Express, Jim and Pam Porter, Rick and Mary Van Horne III, Wasatch Container, and Wertheimer Box. Friends, business colleagues, firms, and organizations can still honor Jeff by donating in his name. Nomination contributions are tax deduct- ible and support the Circle of Distinguished Leaders Program and ICPF’s work to grow the workforce of the corrugated packaging industry. Those making donations to honor Jeff will be recognized during a posthumous induction ceremony at a 2025 AICC meeting, and in a sub- sequent release to the packaging trade press that will also be provided to the Schwarz family. Contact Caitlin Salaverria at csalaverria@icpfbox.org if you would like to join in honoring Jeff by making a tax deductible “nomination donation” to ICPF. ICPF then will forward an invoice with mailing and ACH instruc- tions for your accounting department. For more information, visi t careersincorrugated.org . ICPF is an inde- pendent, non-profit 501 (c) 3 corporation dedicated to growing the labor force of the corrugated packaging industry now and into the future. ICPF is largely supported by individual corrugated manufacturers and supply companies and is co-sponsored by AICC, The Independent Packaging Association and the Fibre Box Association (FBA).
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Alliance, JD Engineers To Expand Partnership In US Market Spokane Valley, Washington basd Alliance USA and JD Engineers announced they are expanding their partner- ship into the US, offering innovative solutions for the spe- cialty folder gluer market. The announcement comes after more than 10 years of successful collaboration in Europe. The JD BOXR complements the J&L product line as it is available in smaller widths than the J&L, allowing Alliance and JD Engineers to offer one of the broadest size ranges in the industry. The JD BOXR features automatic adjustments, e-commerce solutions, and integrated gluing systems, it is designed to enhance production efficiency, offering unmatched speed and precision, particularly for small- er-scale, detailed products, with lightning-fast setup times. The machine is comprised of the durability of the Ta- nabe mechanical design, combined with the user-friendly control technology from JD Engineers, making a powerful addition to the product lineup — perfectly aligned with Al- liance’s strategic vision. “JD Engineers and Alliance are excited to bring these top-tier innovations to the U.S. market and continue our mission to empower our customers with the best in tech- nology and efficiency,” said Doeke Holtrop, Managing Di- rector, JD Engineers.
Alliance Machine Systems International LLC is the glob- al source of products and services designed to enhance the efficiency and performance of the corrugated pack- aging industry. The company strives to provide custom- ers with an ever-broadening line of products and services through investments in R&D, training, strategic acquisi- tions and partnerships. For more than 40 years, Alliance has designed and manufactured more than 14,000 machines for the corru- gated industry, with installations worldwide.
Do you need printed sheets? We have your answer.. Introducing Heartland’s ColorCorr. This is “flexo-printing in the round”. On our corrugator we can print up to 109” wide. The advantage is that we can print the equivalent of ½ roll at a time and not be required to keep several rolls of very expensive preprinted paper on the floor. Much less waste and risk. In continual print mode, we use either laser-engraved rubber rolls or solid rubber rolls to print a “flood coat” or a repeating pattern. If we are printing a repeating pattern, we can run a two-color design on the paper. Customers have found that running sheets we print can allow them to run a lighter-grade due to reduced caliper loss, and in some cases eliminate one or more machine passes.
For more information contact: Charlie Freeman | 816-500-8889 | cfreeman@heartlandsheets.com Tim Kramer | 816-841-8317 | color@heartlandsheets.com
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Höcker Polytechnik GmbH Expands Into NA Market With New NC Plant Germany based Höcker Polytechnik announced its ex- pansion into the North American market with plans for a new distribution and fabrication plant in North Carolina. Hocker Polytechnik Inc. will provide enhanced access to machines, parts, and services starting in 2025. Kernic Systems, as the North American partner and sales arm for Höcker Polytechnik, is poised to collabo- rate closely in this venture to help ensure superior ser- vice for the paper and packaging markets. With Kernic, the company said it can provide a comprehensive offer- ing of equipment, engineering, and after care services, along with faster delivery times of spare parts and appli- cation specific equipment. “Our expansion into North Carolina represents a strategic move to bolster operational efficiency and customer support for our North American clients,” said Philipp Koch, President of Hocker Polytechnik Inc. “By establishing a local presence, we are better positioned to meet the unique material recovery and filtration needs of our clients, driving sustainable and highly-efficient practices and reinforcing our role as a trusted provider of cutting-edge filtration and material recovery solutions. Our strong partnership and working alliance with Kernic Systems has seen the installation
of multiple world-class systems and application specific equipment over the past four years, with many more on the horizon.” Vanguard Cos. Names Coulborn As National Account Manager Kansas City, Missouri based Vanguard Companies an- nounced the appointment of Pete Coulborn as National Account Manager. “We are excited to welcome Pete to Vanguard Compa- nies where his industry insight, retail expertise, and pas- sion will help drive new growth opportunities,” said Chris Cummings, Executive Vice President of Sales. Pete brings extensive experience in national account management and new business development in the cor- rugated packaging and point-of-purchase display industry. He has led successful sales initiatives, implemented effec- tive strategies, and delivered customized solutions that have generated new business opportunities with major brands and retailers. Vanguard Companies is one of the industry’s leading corrugated merchandising solution partners. Its expertise in point-of-purchase displays, signage, retail-ready pack- aging, industrial packaging, and e-commerce packaging is demonstrated across every retail sector. For more information, visit vanguardpkg.com .
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Koenig & Bauer Joins Women In Print Alliance
AIR CONVEYING CORPORATION is a recognized leader in the industry of Pneumatic Conveying Systems and has been in business since 1968. As an equipment manufacturer rather than simply a sales organization, we have complete control over the quality of material and products which make up your proposed system. Our equipment is found in Printing, Folding Carton and Corrugated plants throughout the country and the world.
Germany based Koenig & Bauer announced its member- ship in Women in Print Alliance, a key advocate for women in the printing industry and part of PRINTING United Alli- ance. The Women in Print Alliance membership program is designed to provide enhanced benefits and greater ac- cessibility for women at all stages of their careers. Mem- bership in this important community allows for supportive professional development opportunities, and advocates for the advancement of women in printing and graphic arts. “We’re thrilled to welcome Koenig & Bauer as a cor- porate member of our growing community,” said Lisbeth Lyons Black, director of Women in Print Alliance. “Inclusion and diversity are more than just buzz words. By investing
AIR CONVEYING CORPORATION PH: 901-454-5016 FAX: 901-324-7979 e-mail: sales@accfilter.com • www.accfilter.com
Share the story of your company’s success with an ARTICLE in Board Converting News. The corrugated and folding carton industries are waiting! Brand Owners, Converters & Decision-makers Read BCN wanted Great Stories Don’t keep it a secret! Articles generate leads for converters and suppliers!
in the professional and personal development of its fe- male employees, Koenig & Bauer is demonstrating action- able commitment to attracting, advancing and advocating for women in the print workplace – and is helping foster an industry culture in which women can thrive and shine.” Membership in the Women in Print Alliance offers nu- merous advantages. Key benefits include, but are not lim- ited to: exclusive invitations to Women in Print Alliance virtual and in-person events; special event invitations and access to gatherings in conjunction with PRINTING United Expo; exclusive and elevated members-only content; par- ticipation in Book Chats featuring best-selling, non-fiction literature relevant to women in the workplace; access to an exclusive professional network through a comprehen- sive member directory; and so much more. “With our rich history of supporting women in print dating back to the mid 1800s when Fanny Koenig over- saw our organization for several years, we are proud to support the Women In Print Alliance and pledge to be a vital part of its growth in the future,” says Kilian Renschler, president and CEO of Koenig & Bauer. “We are honored to be a member of this distinguished organization and look forward to working together to expand our industry with its educational development.” Ericka Luneau, director of human resources at Koenig & Bauer, is proud to be a new member of Women In Print.
Len Prazych at 518-366-9017 lprazych@nvpublications.com
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Domtar Kingsport Mill Recognized For Sustainability Efforts Domtar announced its Kingsport Mill has received the 2024 Business Recycler of the Year award from the Ten- nessee Recycling Coalition (TRC). The recognition was an- nounced in Gatlinburg on August 23 during the organiza- tion’s annual Tennessee Sustainability Conference. This year’s award honored Domtar’s Kingsport Mill for Project Smoky — the two-year conversion of the facility’s uncoated freesheet paper machine into the company’s first 100 percent recycled containerboard facility. “To receive this recognition is a tremendous honor, and it reflects our commitment to set the standard as a leader in sustainability,” said Troy Wilson, manager of the King- sport Mill. “I am proud to accept this award on behalf of our em- ployees. They are the driving force behind our efforts.” As part of its conversion, the more than 100-year-old mill repurposed approximately 31,500 tons of concrete and brick left over from the demolition of the previous mill for the foundation of the new facility. This action eliminated approximately 1,000 trips re- quired to transport the material to a construction waste disposal site. “The conversion of the Kingsport Mill was one of the largest capital investments in Domtar’s more than 175-year
history,” said Jan Martin, director of communications and public affairs for Domtar. Since the conversion, the mill’s daily water usage has declined by two-thirds. In addition, the mill now consumes nearly 700,000 tons of recycled boxes and paper each
year — enough to fill nearly 1.5 Empire State Buildings. Before being used to make new containerboard prod- ucts, the material is screened and cleaned, yielding about 50,000 tons per year of waste byproducts that the mill uses to produce energy and electricity instead of sending it to landfills. Domtar’s Troy Wilson, Kingsport Mill manager, and Jan Martin, director of communications and public affairs, accepted the 2024 Business Recycler of the Year award from the Tennessee Recycling Coalition.
Serving the North American Corrugated and Folding Carton Industries Since 1985
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September 16, 2024
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Koenig & Bauer Partners With Software Developer Tessitura
source for maintenance tips, ensuring smooth operation. Soon, it will also include AI-powered data analysis, allow- ing users to identify anomalies and make informed deci- sions quickly. Additionally, users can open support tickets directly within the platform. Kyana Data provides deep insights into production pro- cesses through customized dashboards. It offers real-time monitoring, allowing users to identify and address issues, which helps minimize downtime and boost productivity. PSI Group Welcomes Molly Trinh As New Packaging Designer Williamsport, Maryland based PSI Group announced the addition of Molly Trinh to the PSI team as newest Packag- ing Designer. Molly recently earned her BS in Packaging Systems and Design from the College of Natural Resourc- es and Environment at Virginia Tech this past May. The company says they are thrilled to have Molly on their team with her fresh perspectives and personal design style that are sure to bring new energy and creativity.
Würzburg, Germany based Koenig & Bauer announced a new partnership with industry expert Tessitura, a software developer within Steuber group. This collaboration’s goal is to bring unprecedented levels of flexibility, efficiency, and transparency to production processes through the various functions available in Koenig & Bauer’s myKyana portal. The partnership is built on a shared vision of an open, in- terconnected production environment that doesn’t limit customers to a single manufacturing brand. Tessitura’s Odeon-Platform, which serves as the back- bone of this collaboration, is designed to connect all print- ing and finishing machines within a company, regardless of equipment manufacturer, whether modern or classic, and across single or multiple sites. The myKyana portal, Koenig & Bauer’s flagship digital platform, now allows the integration of third-party machin- ery. Two of the standout components of the myKyana por- tal are Kyana Assist, an AI-driven chatbot, and Kyana Data, a comprehensive performance dashboard tool. Kyana Assist is an advanced AI-driven assistant. It offers instant technical help, providing detailed, machine-specif- ic guidance without the typical wait times of traditional service calls. Beyond troubleshooting, Kyana Assist is a re-
Originally from Springfield, Vir- ginia, Molly first learned about PSI when she met two of PSI’s packag- ing designers, Ben and Daniel, at Virginia Tech’s Career Fair. She was immediately drawn to the company due to its proximity to her family in Virginia and the job role’s focus on
Molly Trinh
design, the aspect of her studies she enjoyed most. Molly’s journey into the field of packaging began with her childhood love for origami, the art of folding paper. Her mom would often tease her, saying she could never make money by folding paper, which Molly took as a challenge. This led her to discover packaging, a field that perfectly combines her passion for design and creating things. Molly is excited about her new role at PSI, particularly the chance to work on diverse projects and explore new ways of thinking about design. She believes she can bring a fresh perspective to PSI’s designs and product develop- ment. PPC Folding Carton Boot Camp Set For November 12-13 The Paperboard Packaging Council’s Folding Carton Boot Camp is back this fall from November 12-13 at PPC’s World Headquarters in Springfield, Massachusetts. Boot Camp is a training opportunity for those new to cartons or the industry and non-plant personnel with limited experience outside a single plant operation. This two-day event will provide a hands-on experience that teaches attendees about windowing, rigid boxes, au- tomatic packaging, cold and hot foil, tooling, laminating, and more. To register, visit paperbox.org .
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SuperCorrExpo Panelists (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1)
Board Converting NEWS INTERNET DIRECTORY
day. A quarter million dollars for the capital would have started a sheet plant back several decades ago. Now a quarter million dollars won’t even lease the building. So it’s interesting how far we’ve come. Quinn : One theme that is common amongst all of us here is for all these years, at least when I was starting off, is we had TAPPI and we had the AICC. Those organiza- tions are so critical for all of us and have been critical since day one. Tom Haire, who was the founder of our company, was an engineer. He loved TAPPI. When I started with the company, he said, “You’ve got to get involved in TAPPI, and I don’t want you to just show up. You need to get on committees, and you need to network and get to know
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.
people.” I started in 1986 with TAPPI. It’s been one of the greatest experiences I’ve ever had, because not only do you get to come out and meet with your friends, you also get to understand innovation and what innovation is about into the future. McNay : From a sustainability perspective, the industry has been very sustainable for decades. We’ve pivoted a little bit now toward those workforce issues that we all face and the challenges of sustaining your business. How do you keep it going with the next generation, with old guys like us that are beginning to get to the end of their career? How do you sustain that business model moving forward? There’s a couple of things that come to mind. Number one is prepare. That’s in a couple of areas. One is prepare for those issues that will inevitably happen when technology will fail, when it goes down. Then it’s one of the other areas of preparation for me, and I used to tell my kids this, is preparing to win, always be in a situation where you can win. You’re not always go- ing to win, but you need to be in a position to win. If you prepare well, you’ll always come out on top. The second thing is you need to gain perspective. That means really understanding the people around you, the team that you have around you, and recognizing that the perspective that they have can add value to your busi- ness. Make sure that you listen. Step outside of your own From left at SCE, Larry Montague, President & CEO, TAPPI; Matt Davis, President of Packaging Express and outgoing chairman of AICC; and Mike D’Angelo, President of AICC.
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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SuperCorrExpo Panelists (CONT’D FROM PAGE 26)
Board Converting NEWS INTERNET DIRECTORY
comfort bubble and listen to those that may have conflict- ing opinions. That’s always a very positive thing. The other thing that I think is represented here, and we’ve seen it in spades over the last few days, is partner- ship. It’s important for us to forge partnerships across the organization, across the supply chain, from customers to vendors. Partnership is critically important to sustaining a business long term. Then the very last thing that I think is you have to remain curious. Always look for new ways to do things and new opportunities. Don’t ever get compla- cent and don’t accept the status quo. Harris : What’s the biggest accomplishment you, as a business, have made to better the process? What’s the biggest impact of something that you changed in your fa- cility?
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.
Arvanigian : We’re an independent, and independents generally operate a little bit differently than the big inte- grated guys. We’re not focused on consistent long-term volume. We’re not trying to keep paper mills going. So flex- ibility is the name of the game. With a company my size, you knock down a new $10 million company, that can change the whole trajectory of your business. And it changes a lot of the decision making you do. It changes a lot of both the capital decisions you make and also the human resource decisions you make. And we pivoted a number of times. It just basically de- pends on the opportunities that are out there. It’s not always something that’s really easy to do, but that’s why we’re still here. We’ve been in business for 53 years. If you look at our company, back to looking at 10- CONTINUED ON PAGE 30 The Hyatt Regency Rotunda was the setting for the opening night reception during SuperCorrExpo in Orlando, Florida.
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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