Board Converting News, September 8, 2025

September 8, 2025

VOL. 41, NO. 36

BoardConverting Serving the North American Corrugated and Folding Carton Industries for 40 years

Stress: The Productivity Killer Hiding In Plain Sight BY FRANK KING At Ramirez & Co., a mid-sized business with decades of wins, leader- ship thought their biggest challenges were competitors, technology, and the market. Close, but no cigar. The real problem was stress—the silent drain that doesn’t show up on a Gantt chart but still wrecks your timeline.

PCA Completes Acquisition Of Greif C'board Business According to multiple sources, Lake Forest, Il- linois based Packaging Corporation of Amer- ica (PCA) has completed the $1.8B acquisi- tion of Greif’s containerboard business, the companies announced after markets closed Tuesday afternoon. The cash transaction itself closed on Sunday, according to a securities filing. “The closing of this sale marks an import- ant step forward for Greif,” Greif President and CEO Ole Rosgaard said in a statement. “This transaction unlocks immediate value for our shareholders and allows Greif to deliver stronger and more consistent earnings pow- er, enhances our capital efficiency, and accel- erates debt reduction.” The company plans to use proceeds from the sale to pay down approximately $1.4 bil- lion in debt, according to another securities filing. Greif previously reported results for the containerboard business in its paper seg- ment, but it now will classify that as a “dis- continued operation” beginning in the third quarter of 2025. The company announced in a 2024 securities filing that in 2025 it would

Deadlines were tighter than skinny jeans, workloads heavier than a Costco bag of dog food, and people were running on fumes. The fall- out? Missed targets, mysteriously “urgent” sick days, and mistakes no amount of white-out could fix. The work didn’t get worse. The humans doing it were simply exhausted. Owner Mark Ramirez had a moment of clarity during a Tuesday bud- get review that looked suspiciously like a Friday the 13th. He noticed the red numbers all had the same root cause: people were tapped out. So, he built a Stress Management Program that wasn’t a wellness app nobody opens or a binder full of laminated good intentions. It was a set of changes that improved daily life and performance. What They Rolled Out • Flexible Work Options – Hybrid schedules, staggered hours, and recovery days after sprints. • Open Communication – Monthly town halls where every voice mat- tered and leadership answered real questions. • Real Stress Training – Practical, engaging, short—tools teams could use the next morning when the inbox looked like Jenga. • Breaks & Vacations Without Guilt – Because overworked brains CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

WHAT’S INSIDE

6 x x 8 x x 12 x x 26 x x 8 Domtar Awards Over 100 Grants Through $2K Your Way Program 10 GBP Promotes Former AR Kraft Mill Managers 16 PCA Advances Carbon Capture Study Following Promising Trial 32 TAPPI Introduces Newest Train- ing Offering This October

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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 PCA Completes (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1) change its fiscal year end from Oct. 31 to Sept. 30, result- ing in an 11-month fiscal year for 2025. PCA anticipated it will fully realize pre-tax benefits of approximately $60 million within two years after the deal closes. The companies announced on July 1 that they had en- tered an agreement the previous day for a $1.8 billion cash transaction. They initially projected the deal would close by the end of the third quarter of the calendar year. The divestiture supports Greif’s recently launched The Greif acquisition will add two mills with a combined 800,000 tons of production capacity per year.

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 Don’t keep it a secret! Articles generate leads for converters and suppliers! Industry Stories (AKA Articles) May be hiding plain view. If spotted in your organization, approach with extreme excitement and report to BCN immediately!

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September 8, 2025

Volk Packaging Promotes Cody Sevigny to Plant Superintendent Biddeford, Maine based Volk Packaging has promoted Cody Sevigny to the newly created role of Plant Superin- tendent, where he will oversee all production operations. Sevigny has held multiple positions since joining the com- pany, including machine operator, forklift driver, and pro- duction supervisor. “Cody has done an exceptional job as a supervisor

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September 8, 2025

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JohnsByrne Expands Facilities And Invests In Growth

to delivering standout packaging experiences that elevate and build brands. ‘We thank our clients for their continued support,’ said Kevin Andrews, CEO of JohnsByrne. ‘Customers rely on us to help them stand out in crowded markets. We take that responsibility seriously. The team is focused on unique solutions and growth investments with our customers. I’m excited for our future together,’ Andrews added. To support its current momentum and lay the founda- tion for future expansion, JohnsByrne is making strategic investments across key areas: • Leadership Team: The company has strengthened its executive team with seasoned leaders in Commercial, Operations, Finance, HR, IT, and Sales to drive strategic initiatives and operational excellence. • Talent Development: With success based on culture and people, the company is investing in retaining top

In a recent announcement, Chicago, Illinois based Johns- Byrne, a leading provider of premium packaging solutions, shared its plans for growth along with strategic invest- ments across key areas of the business. With a rich history, the company has built a reputation on a culture rooted in customer experience and operation- al excellence while pushing creative limits in packaging. Known for its high-impact folding cartons, promotional packaging, rigid boxes, welcome kits, and end-to-end pro- duction capabilities, JohnsByrne has earned its place as a trusted partner to some of the world’s most iconic and emerging brands. As it evolves into a best-in-class pack- aging platform company, JohnsByrne remains committed

talent and attracting new team members who share its commitment to exceeding customer expectations. •Facility Growth: A recent expansion add- ed over 160,000 square feet of fulfillment and assembly space, increasing through- put and flexibility. As a platform company, JohnsByrne is also actively exploring stra- tegic acquisitions to enhance capacity, ca- pabilities, and geographic reach. •Market Focus: With deep expertise across health, beauty & wellness, spirits, finance, entertainment, and premium consumer products, JohnsByrne continues to devel- op tailored solutions that support client success in dynamic markets. •Technology Investment: The company continues to upgrade its press and fin- ishing equipment, digital workflows, and operational systems to deliver enhanced packaging experiences with greater speed-to-market and efficiency. ‘We’re doubling down on what makes us different: agility, creativity, and collab- oration,’ said Curtis Podkasik, Chief Com- mercial Officer. ‘Our clients trust us not just to execute, but to think with them, build with them, and push what’s possible — from concept to commercialization. We’re excited to continue supporting our part- ners and welcome new opportunities to innovate together.’ As JohnsByrne builds on its strong foundation, the company remains focused on delivering packaging that inspires, per- forms, and drives growth for its clients and the industry at large. For more information and to keep up with the company's updates, visit johnsby- rne.com .

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September 8, 2025

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Domtar Awards Over 100 Grants Through $2K Your Way Program

Fort Mill, South Carolina based Domtar has awarded 107 grants in 2025 through its $2K Your Way program. The program, which gives employees the opportunity to apply for grants to support causes they care about, is part of Domtar’s community investment framework, Domtar Connects, which launched in April 2025, complements owner Jackson Wijaya’s own commitment to philanthropy.

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The $1K Your Way program was introduced five years ago, and in 2023, the company increased the grant amounts and renamed the pro- gram $2K Your Way. The corporate integration of Domtar, Resolute Forest Products and Paper Excellence expanded the reach of our $2K Your Way program. In 2025, the program was opened to all 14,000 Domtar employees in North America and this year, we received 143 applications. With the en- dorsement of company leaders, our initial goal of awarding 25 grants was more than quadrupled to 107 grants that will support a wide range of causes, from early childhood education in Quebec to homeless shelters in South Carolina. “It’s been wonderful to see so many employees embrace the $2K Your Way program,” says Jennifer Johnson, vice president of global com- munications for Domtar. “Whether it is an employee’s fifth year participat- ing in the program or their first time, the $2K Your Way program enables them to give back to organizations they are passionate about.” $2K Your Way Program Makes A Difference We spoke with some of this year’s recipients about the causes they will support with a $2K Your Way grant. • Jean Bigelow, who is a technical manager, applied for funding for the CPE Aux Trois Pommes daycare center located in Gatineau, Quebec. “This grant will help further promote the development of children through nature-based learning,” Jean says. “It makes me very proud to work for a company that cares about nonprofit organizations.” • Tracie Redmond donated her $2K Your Way grant to the Bethel Day Shelter, located in the Pathways Community Center in Rock Hill, SC, who said they could use the grant to provide more beds for the com- munity’s unhoused population. “Not only are they grateful, but I am as well for this wonderful program that Domtar provides to their em- ployees,” says Redmond. CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

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GBP Promotes Former AR Kraft Mill Managers Green Bay Packaging has announced two employee pro- motions involving its paper mill operations. Matt Szymanski has been pro- moted to Executive Vice President of Green Bay Packaging. In this piv- otal role, he will lead the paper mills, woodlands, and corrugated packag- ing divisions. Szymanski has been with Green Bay since 1990 and his strong leadership and team-build- ing abilities have earned him great respect within the or- ganization and the industry.

Domtar Awards Grants (CONT’D FROM PAGE 8)

• Antoine Kack, manager of media relations and public affairs in Eastern Canada, supported Camp le Manoir through the 2025 $2K Your Way program. Antoine was a camper as a child and later worked at the camp for several years. “As the camp was developing a new ed- ucational project on the environment, I immediately saw the potential for the $2K Your Way program,” says Kack. “I’m pleased that the project was selected, as I know the impact it will have on so many children.” • Joseph Chestnut, who works as a rewinder, shipper and converter at the Dubois Converting Center in Pennsylvania, chose to donate to the Toby Creek Wa- tershed Association. The organization is combating the growing issue of acidic mine drainage pollution at the creek. "Over the years, I used Toby Creek for various recreational activities from fishing to kayaking,” Chest- nut shares. “It only seems right to give back after Toby Creek has done so much for me and my community.” Community Connections Grow Through Grants “Engaging our employees in the communities where we live and work is a vital part of the culture we’re building at Domtar,” says Jan Martin, Director of Public Affairs, who advocated for the original grant increase from $1,000 per project to $2,000 per project in 2023. “The $2K Your Way program is a meaningful and rewarding way to bring that commitment to life.”

William Cone will assume the role of Vice President of Mill Opera- tions, effective September 1st. With more than 30 years in the paper in- dustry, Cone brings expertise and dedication to continuous improve- ment, operational reliability, and building strong teams, which have

been a defining part of his success. Szymanski and Cone are both former mill managers at Arkansas Kraft Paper Mill, which produces linerboard us- ing virgin fiber sourced from Green Bay's lumber mill.

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September 8, 2025

Women empowered, power packaging.

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PPSA Hosts Webinar To Minimize Errors And Workplace Incidents The Pulp and Paper Safety Association (PPSA) will host a webinar on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. ET to explore effective ways to handle and minimize work- place incidents. Miscommunication, misunderstanding, and other complex errors often lead to costly setbacks and unnecessary risk. Traditional methods like the “Five Whys” may assign blame but rarely solve the problem, while root cause analyses are often too complex and ex- pensive. Learning Teams are popular, but they also have unique drawbacks. The webinar will present Event Reviews as a practical and effective alternative. Facilitator Jake Mazulewicz, PhD, will outline a six-step process de- signed to build trust, focus on de- sired outcomes, create timelines, identify anomalies and systemic causes, prioritize high-value im- provements, and prepare action- able results for organizations to apply. Mazulewicz’s method, based on decades of experience in high-hazard industries and extensive academic research, offers an alternative. The webinar will feature real-world examples that illus- Jake Mazulewicz

trate how companies can reduce fear, foster innovation, and strengthen their safety culture. Mazulewicz, Direc- tor at JMA Human Reliability Strategies, has more than 15 years of experience working with over 250 groups in high-hazard industries, including energy, construction, and government research. He previously led Human Perfor- mance initiatives for more than 3,600 technical experts in a major electric utility serving over one million customers. His background also includes service as a firefighter, EMT, and military paratrooper, and he has applied his expertise to analyzing more than 300 incidents. With a PhD in Edu- cation, Mazulewicz is known for translating complex safety principles into practical, results-driven strategies for front- line teams and leaders alike. PPSA, which serves members across North America, is dedicated to promoting safety throughout the forest products industry. Its membership spans forest operations, paper mills, corrugated and converting plants, and recycling facilities. Through conferences, webinars, and edu- cational resources, PPSA works to raise safety standards and provide members with tools to prevent incidents and protect their workforce. Registration for the webinar is open at www.ppsa.org/ webinars . Participation is encouraged for box plant lead- ers seeking new approaches to safety and error reduction.

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September 8, 2025

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AICC Offers Sponsorship Opportunities For Annual Meeting AICC, The Independent Packaging Association, has opened sponsorship opportunities for the upcoming An- nual Meeting taking place October 6-8 at The Sheraton Grand Riverwalk Hotel in Chicago.

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AICC's Annual Meeting will gather industry leaders, decision-makers, and innovators, providing a unique plat- form for engagement and collaboration. As a sponsor, your organization will benefit from: • Enhanced Brand Visibility: Gain recognition through event materials, signage, and online promotion leading up to the meeting. • Networking Opportunities: Connect with influential in- dustry professionals and prospective clients through exclusive sponsor events and sessions. • Showcase Thought Leadership: Present your insights and expertise through speaking engagements and panel discussions. We offer a variety of sponsorship packages designed to meet diverse marketing goals and budgets, ensuring there’s a perfect fit for your organization. New Sponsorships For 2025 • Welcome Sponsor - $10,000 • Elevator & Escalator Branding Sponsorship - $7,500 • Headshot & Photographer - $7,000 • Hydration Station - $5,500 Sponsorships Still Available • Tuesday Networking Lunch w/ Keynote Speaker - $5,500 • Local Luxuries Gift Basket - $3,000 • Monday Refreshment Break - $2,500 • Technology Sponsorship - $5,000 • Program Guide - Back Cover Ad - $1,000 • Program Guide General Placement Ad - $500 Don’t miss this chance to elevate your brand and make a lasting impact in the industry. We encourage you to act quickly, as sponsorship opportunities are limited! If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, please contact Laura Mihalick at lmihalick@aiccbox.org or Cindy Huber at chuber@aiccbox.org.

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.

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September 8, 2025

Gluing on Specialty Folder Gluers is Our Specialty

Sustainability initiatives are changing the packaging landscape and Baumer hhs is ready to help you meet those challenges. Our PX1000 cold glue applicator coupled with the new ULT 400 XL are the pair to get it done. The PX1000 runs the widest ranges of non-contact cold glues and the ULT 400 XL verifies the glue dot or bead is in the right place without the aid of UV tracers, no matter the variety of board or thicknesses. Get your corrugated board onboard with Baumer hhs and let us show you how special you are to us.

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PCA Advances Carbon Capture Study Following Promising Trial According to a recent article in Packaging Dive , Lake For- est, Illinois based Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) is moving forward with an engineering and design study for a large-scale carbon capture and storage (CCS) facility after reporting promising results from a pilot project at one of its southern U.S. mills. “The results of this trial have been very promising, and we plan to proceed with a more detailed engineering and design study that will take around seven to nine months to complete. This study will provide us with a better idea of the capital cost and construction schedule for a large- scale facility,” said CEO Mark Kowlzan in the report. These technologies catch carbon dioxide emissions

and either reuse them or permanently store them to avoid entry into the atmosphere. In 2022, PCA introduced its sustainability target for net-zero emissions by 2050. The 2022 sustainability re- port also detailed the intention to invest in carbon capture technologies, along with the company’s goal to capture and permanently store 1.75 million metric tons of biogenic CO2 per year by 2040. At that time, the company projected that 2028 would be the earliest it could operate a plant for capturing and storing biogenic carbon dioxide, and it’s still sticking with that date. It also noted a longer-term goal of scaling this technology to multiple sites. PCA has described CCS as the “next frontier for our cir- cular bioeconomy” for its sustainability strategy, position- ing the technology alongside the natural carbon benefits of trees used in its manufacturing process. By capturing and permanently storing CO₂ from bio-

DESIGNS THAT INCREASE PRODUCTION

mass combustion at its mills, PCA says it could turn a carbon-neutral process into a carbon-negative one. Tapping Into Trees PCA has previously described its plan to permanently remove its own CO2 emis- sions from the atmosphere by harnessing benefits from both trees and CCS systems that involve saline aquifers. The paper and packaging company projects that the CO2 it removes from the atmosphere and stores will bump up to 4.1 million metric tons by 2050. “When PCA purchases a tree, whether as roundwood or wood chips, our man- ufacturing process begins from a ‘car- bon-negative’ standpoint because the tree has removed carbon atoms from the atmo- sphere and stored these within its struc- ture,” the report says. PCA uses a combination of virgin and recycled fiber to create its products. Gen- erally, the greater proportion of virgin fiber in its products, the “greater the availabil- ity of renewable fuel to power our manu- facturing processes,” the report says, be- cause the biomass in trees that can’t be

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September 8, 2025

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Carbon Capture Study (CONT’D FROM PAGE 16)

used to make paper can be used as biogenic fuel. Feeling Salty A saline aquifer is a geological formation made of po- rous rocks and brine — water that is too salty to be used for agriculture or drinking — deep below the earth’s sur- face. Pressurized CO2 can be injected into saline aquifers, according to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. There, the CO2 could dissolve over time, react with the minerals in the aquifer or become trapped in rocks’ pores. PCA identified four of its mills that are located on or near saline aquifers that can be used to permanently store the carbon dioxide they produce: Counce, Tennessee; De- Ridder, Louisiana; Jackson, Alabama; and Valdosta, Geor- gia. These mills emitted a combined 4.5 million metric tons of biogenic CO2 during the 2021 baseline year.

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The company explored multiple technologies before landing on an amine-based solvent approach that involves capturing CO2 from post-combustion flue gas emissions from a biogenic boiler at the mill. PCA received the test unit in pieces that were delivered in 12 shipping contain- ers, and after an eight-week build it stood 15-stories tall. What's Next Now, PCA is working on its seven- to nine-month engi- neering and design study for a possible large-scale CCS facility; it’s slated for completion in early 2026. While PCA’s longer-term plans involve expanding CCS to multiple sites, it acknowledges in the sustainability re- port that there are risks to pursuing this: technologies do not always advance or become commercialized on ex- pected timelines, and it might not be able to incorporate the technologies in an efficient or cost-effective manner. Even so, the company is “looking for opportunities to integrate the system more efficiently within our existing mill operations — particularly around heat recovery and energy optimization. Of course, financial viability will be key, as these systems require significant investment,” Lit- zenberg said. PCA indicated in its most recent report to the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures that it stands to receive tax credits for CCS projects of up to $85 per metric ton, which makes the project financially viable. Reducing tax incentives beyond that amount could slow the rate of technology deployment or make such projects unviable. Visit packagingcorp.com for more information.

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September 8, 2025

Early Bird Registration Open For CorrExpo 2025 In Savannah The corrugated packaging industry will come together in Savannah, Georgia this fall for CorrExpo 2025, scheduled for October 20–22 at the Savannah Convention Center. The event will bring more than 1,500 industry profession- als, 130 exhibitors, and representatives from 300 compa- nies across 15 countries for three days of learning, net- working, and business development. CorrExpo, hosted by TAPPI, is recognized as one of the premier gatherings for box makers and industry sup- pliers. Attendees will gain access to technical workshops, expert-led sessions, and keynote presentations, alongside exclusive networking events that provide opportunities to connect with colleagues, customers, and potential part- ners. Early bird registration is now open and runs through September 27. Participants are encouraged to secure their place before the deadline to take advantage of reduced rates and guarantee access to the full lineup of education- al and networking opportunities. The event’s robust technical program demonstrates its forward‑thinking vision and practical relevance. Stand‑out sessions include three compelling panel discussions: • Cyber Security in Corrugated & Packaging: Threats, Tech, & Tactics: As manufacturing increasingly relies on connected systems, safeguarding operational technol-

ogy has never been more urgent. This panel will ex- plore emerging threats and the proven strategies for prevention, response, and recovery. • Think Inside the Box — Utilizing AI in the Box Plant: Ar- tificial intelligence continues to revolutionize corrugat- ed manufacturing. Attendees will hear real-world case studies of how AI can improve the box-making process – from productivity and precision to decision-making. • Dollars, Disruptors, & Decisions — Justifying Equip- ment Investment in Uncertain Times: Timing, return on investment, and the shifting market landscape make equipment decisions increasingly complex. This panel will help attendees navigate the strategic calculus of investing wisely, even when uncertainty prevails. Additional highlights include the Corrugated Classic Golf Tournament, the Women’s Summit, and an intensive two-day workshop focused on effective methods to max- imize diecutting productivity. Participants will be treated to insights from Shaquem Griffin, consultant with the NFL Legends Community and a motivational speaker, who will share his perspective on overcoming challenges and in- spiring teams. CorrExpo will also host an evening of cock- tails, cigars and networking at Savannah's premier rooftop destination, The Grove. With Savannah’s historic charm as the backdrop, Corr- Expo 2025 is set to deliver a balance of technical learning and memorable networking experiences. For more infor- mation and to register, visit tappi.org .

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September 8, 2025

MORE BOXES EVERY MINUTE... PERIOD!

Since 1955, we have been serving the corrugated industry with both new and used equipment. Now more than ever, we offer practical and affordable solutions to meet the needs of today’s boxmaker.

K1X Jumbo Flexo Folder Gluer

Features: Inside/Outside Print Capable Lead Edge Feeder Computerized Set-up Motorized Board Calipers Heavy-Duty Upper and Lower Scoring and Slotting Shafts Top and Bottom Printing Configuration Chrome-Plated Shafts and Cylinders Full Machine Width Downstacker Rotary Die Cutter Available

Specifications:

2655 70 SPM 2500 X 5460 650 X 1020 2480 X 5450

2653 70 SPM 2500 X 5260 650 X 1020 2480 X 5250

2255 80 SPM 2100 X 5460 600 X 960 2080 X 5450

2253 80 SPM 2100 X 5260 600 X 960 2080 X 5250

Max Speed Max Sheet* Min Sheet* Max Print Area*

*mm (millimeters)

Give us a call so you can learn how to make more boxes every minute... period! 847-949-5900

1486 St. Paul Avenue Gurnee, Illinois 60031 USA 847-949-5900 800-621-4343 www.boxmachine.com

Stress (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1)

don’t innovate; they just Google “how to resign politely.” • Recognition That Sticks – Spot bonuses, thank-you’s, and public appreciation that didn’t wait for year-end ceremonies. • Conflict Resolution Training – Managers learned to fix problems while they were still small and cheap. The Results • Absenteeism down 22 percent • Productivity up 15 percent • Employee satisfaction at record highs and the vibe in meetings upgraded from “doom” to “doable” Marketing Manager Sarah Lopez put it plainly: “It’s easi- er to stay creative when you’re not running on fumes.” Here’s What You Can Do (No Matter Your Industry) You don’t need Silicon Valley perks to build a support- ive culture. You need small, smart moves that compound. • Give Flexibility. Time is the cheapest perk. When you trust people with their schedules, they repay you with loyalty and better work. • Build Predictable Feedback Loops. Don’t wait for annu- al surveys. Monthly forums and manager one-on-ones catch issues early. • Make Training Useful. If it’s boring, it’s gone by lunch. Bring in trainers who use humor and real stories so the lessons stick. • Normalize Rest. Leaders set the tone. If you never un- plug, no one else will. Treat PTO like maintenance, not a luxury. • Recognize Wins in Real Time. A quick thank-you today beats a framed certificate collecting dust. • Empower Leaders. Teach managers to spot burnout— irritability, errors, withdrawal—and intervene before it becomes turnover. • Address Mental Health Directly. Provide confidential resources. Normalize the question, “Are you okay?” and mean it. • Track ROI. Measure absenteeism, rework, turnover, and engagement. When the numbers move, the skep- tics do too. • Guard Focus. Reduce meeting sprawl, protect deep- work hours, and stop scheduling “quick syncs” that steal the afternoon. • Design Workflows for Humans. Tighten handoffs, clar- ify ownership, and kill zombie projects no one remem- bers authorizing. A Quick Story from the Turnaround Two departments were stuck in a passive-aggressive email war over who owned a recurring client task. The new approach kicked in: a 20-minute live huddle, a simple RACI chart, and a shout-out when the first clean handoff shipped. The conflict evaporated, the work sped up, and nobody had to CC the entire company again. That’s not magic; that’s management.

COMMUNITY DATA CONNECTION DESIGN INNOVATION

ALL IN ONE BOX

PAPERBOX.ORG

CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

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September 8, 2025

Eliminate Warp at the Speed of Light! Laser Warp Correction AI ™

Monitor It — Identify It — Eliminate It

X Immediately identify and correct warp without operator intervention X Continually measure 1200 points across the full web width with laser precision X Produce high quality sheets sooner by utilizing Machine Learning algorithms (AI) X Fully integrates and communicates with CoparSolutions’ QualityMaster™ System Laser Warp Correction AI brings the latest AI technology to corrugator process control. This next generation of automation combines the precision of laser measurement with closed-loop process control to enhance sheet quality, improve consistency, eliminate operator error, and maximize productivity and profitability!

INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS FOR TOTAL CORRUGATOR CONTROL +1.708.496.1859 u info@CoparSolutions.com See us at Booth 306

Stress (CONT’D FROM PAGE 24)

Board Converting NEWS INTERNET DIRECTORY

The Bigger Lesson Every industry has stress. Healthcare races patient loads. Finance wrestles risk. Tech chases release dates like a dog after a laser pointer. None of that means burnout is inevitable. Burnout is a result of choices—about work- load, communication, recognition, and leadership habits. Burnout costs more than any program. High turnover drains time and mon- ey. Absenteeism wrecks timelines. Health claims rise with stress-related illness. Reputation takes the invisible hit—word gets around fast about places that chew people up. In a tight labor market, culture is survival. Companies that grind through people com- pete on price. Companies that support people compete on value—and they win. Look around: • Healthcare teams can’t deliver safe care if they’re ex- hausted. • Financial analysts don’t make sharp calls when they’re sleep-deprived. • Sales reps don’t close big deals when they’re one Zoom away from quitting. • Customer service doesn’t “wow” when your people are running on fumes. Culture is a competitive advantage you build daily. A company that supports employees attracts talent, keeps its best people, and delivers better results—steadier qual- ity, fewer mistakes, and happier clients who notice the dif- ference even if they can’t name it. Your Takeaway Here’s what Ramirez’s story shows, and what you can apply by Friday: • Stress is universal. Burnout isn’t. • Well-being isn’t charity—it’s a business strategy and a margin protector. • Healthy teams innovate, stay, and attract other high performers. • Recognition and rest aren’t perks—they’re perfor- mance fuel. • Focus is finite. Guard it like you guard cash. • Culture is leadership’s daily behavior, not a slogan on the wall. • Leaders who care build businesses that last, and peo- ple who want to stay. Key Lessons & Lasting Changes • Flexibility is the new loyalty program. CONTINUED ON PAGE 28

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.

www.boardconvertingnews.com

September 8, 2025

ROBOTIC PALLETIZER

High - speed automatic load forming for your 50 inch

flexo folder gluer ,

in a NEW compact design .

www

. alliancellc .

com

Stress (CONT’D FROM PAGE 26)

Board Converting NEWS INTERNET DIRECTORY

• Communication is the cheapest stress reliever. • Rest fuels innovation. • Recognition builds engagement. • Early intervention prevents expensive turnover. • Mental health is core to safety, productivity, and profit. Frank King, Suicide Prevention Speaker, writer for The Tonight Show for 20 years, keynot- er and comedian for 39 years. His speaking is informed by a lifetime of Depression and Suicidality, com- ing close enough to suicide he can tell you what the barrel of his gun tastes like. He turned that dark jour- ney of the soul into 13 TEDx Talks, and sharing insights with corpora- tions and associations. For a free consultation, visit https:// tinyurl.com/39pps8su.

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.

Atlas Container Corp Develops Custom Corrugated Solution

Baltimore, Maryland based Atlas Container Corporation has engineered a customized corrugated packaging solu- tion for a fast-growing drink subscription service needing a packaging solution that could safely ship various sizes of beverage cans—while also delivering a premium unboxing experience. The challenge? Create a carton that’s both secure in transit and visually appealing for subscribers. The result: a tailor-made corrugated carton and insert system that checks all the boxes: • Snug fit for multiple can sizes • Organized and protected layout during shipping • Elevated presentation for a memorable unboxing mo- ment From initial concept

sketches to detailed CAD modeling, every aspect of the design was carefully crafted to bal- ance durability with aes- thetics. The final product not only protects the beverages—it enhances the brand experience from the moment the box arrives.

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

Atlas Container Corporation is a leading independent manufacturer of corrugated packaging based in Maryland, USA. Since 1968, the company has specialized in cus- tom-designed boxes, inserts, and display solutions for a wide range of industries. Visit atlascontainer.com for more information.

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

www.boardconvertingnews.com

September 8, 2025

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