Board Converting News, June, 9, 2025

BoardConverting Serving the North American Corrugated and Folding Carton Industries for 40 years June 9, 2025 VOL. 41, NO. 23

The Right Disaster Planning Can Protect Assets, Profits BY PHILLIP M. PERRY Fires in California. Tornadoes in Kansas. Hurricanes in Florida. Floods in North Carolina. Natural disasters can strike anywhere, causing lost lives, destroyed homes, and damaged communities. Businesses are not spared. Those left behind can find themselves repairing collapsed structures, replacing destroyed inventory and re-establishing disrupted supply lines. Little wonder one out of four

IP To Explore Building New Plant In Salt Lake City Memphis, Tennessee based International Pa- per, a global leader in sustainable packaging, announced the strategic exploration of a new sustainable packaging facility in Salt Lake City, Utah. The exploration of a prospective new fa- cility is part of International Paper’s strategic growth plans to expand manufacturing capa- bilities in the United States. The company is eyeing Utah to increase its footprint in the region and better serve cus- tomers by meeting the growing demand for high-quality, sustainable packaging. This announcement comes shortly after the company celebrated the ground-breaking of a new state-of-the-art sustainable packag- ing facility in Waterloo, Iowa. “This exploration is part of Packaging Solu- tions North America’s strategic growth initia- tive to enhance our regional manufacturing footprint in the US. Salt Lake City would be a new market for IP and an opportunity to bet- ter serve existing customers in the region and grow strategically with new customers,” said John Berry, Group Vice President and Gener- al Manager, Packaging Group West.

businesses does not open again after a disaster, according to the Small Business Administration (SBA). “Damage from disasters can be especially great for smaller opera- tions with insufficient financial cushions,” said Erica Bornemann, Vice President of Planning and Risk Reduction at AC Disaster Consulting. “In the worst-case, a disaster can put a company out of business.” Plan Ahead Given the stakes involved, adequate preparation is critical. “Every business needs to develop a comprehensive all-hazard emergency re- sponse plan,” said Bryan Davis, a consultant with Texas A&M University extension service. “The plan should cover communication protocols, evacuation routes, and procedures for protecting employees, custom- ers, and assets.” A well-designed plan will help a company not only preserve as- sets during a disaster but also return to commercial viability sooner. “Getting back into business quickly after an incident can translate into CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

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WHAT’S INSIDE

6 x x 8 x x 12 x x 26 x x

AICC Drops Breaking Down Boxes Episode: ‘Let It Roll’ 10 Ryan Asche Of Advantive

Named 2025 CFO Of The Year Manufacturers’ Optimism Drops, Signaling Need For Tax Reform

32 Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Celebrates 700 EVOLs Sold

EVERYTHING CORRUGATED UNDER

Full Throttle with Full Servo Full Servo Inline Set While Run FFG improves speed rating by up to 12.5%

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Full Servo can Reduce Noise Levels by 15% and Improve Speed Rating by up to 12.5%

Latitude Machinery Corp. (LMC) is a world-class manufacturer of Corrugated Converting Equipment, specializing in Flexo Folder Gluers and Rotary Die Cutters. SUN is proud to be the exclusive representative for LMC equipment, parts and service in North and Central America.

EVERYTHING CORRUGATED UNDER

Machinery and Handling for the Corrugated Board Industry Machinery and Handling for the Corrugated Board Industry

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PPC Extends Deadline For Packaging Competition

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

Are You Planning to Enter This Year’s Carton Competition? The Paperboard Packaging Council has announced that the submission deadline for the 82nd Annual Pa- perboard Packaging Competition has been extended to Monday, June 16. The signature competition is more than a contest — it’s a platform to elevate your organization and the industry. It celebrates innovation, sustainability, crafts- manship, and impact across the packaging supply chain. What’s new in 2025: • Clearer judging criteria with transparent qualitative + quantitative scoring • A new category focused on shelf appeal and user ex- perience Each entry will be judged on its ability to deliver in- novation and impact, from structural breakthroughs and sustainable practices to commercial results and brand storytelling. Winning cartons receive national and glob- al recognition through PPC’s PR campaigns, award-win- ning media coverage, and a spotlight from the stage at the Fall Meeting in Vancouver. This is your chance to ral- ly your team, showcase your success, and help lead the industry forward. To read about the 2024 winners in the Paperboard Packaging Competition magazine, visit paper- box/2024.com. To enter, visit paperbox.org .

IP To Explore (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1)

If pursued, this proposed new facility will feature cut- ting-edge technology and equipment to help enable Inter- national Paper’s ability to deliver innovative and sustain- able packaging solutions to a growing customer base in the western US. Specific information, including capital investment, facil- ity footprint and potential employment opportunities will be shared at the appropriate time as part of the ongoing evaluation process, the company said. International Paper employs more than 65,000 team members with operations in more than 30 countries.

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June 9, 2025

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June 9, 2025

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 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 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: 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: 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. 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 hauler is changing out the container. Problem: No budget for a new system.

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AICC Drops New Episode Of Breaking Down Boxes: ‘Let It Roll’ AICC, The Independent Packaging Association, has re- leased, “Let It Roll,” the latest episode of its popular pod- cast Breaking Down Boxes, featuring Larry Grossbard, Co-Owner of President Container. Hosted by industry veterans Jeff Pallini, CEO of Fos-

cession and how they survived early losses to thrive. “President Container is a legendary company in our in- dustry,” said AICC President Mike D’Angelo. “Larry’s passion and knowledge personifies why, as he and his brother lead the second generation. His advocacy and vision for the family business is a lesson for us all.” The episode explores the power of strong leadership, mentorship, and a shared vision—highlighting how the Grossbard family’s focus on continuous improvement has positioned President Container for a future rooted in inno- vation. Breaking Down Boxes is available on all major podcast platforms and at NOW.AICCbox.org/Boxes . Submissions Welcome For ICPF University Awards Programs The International Corrugated Packaging Foundation (ICPF) announced it will accept University Award Program pro- posals through September 1 for funding next year. Proposals should be for larger requests—generally above $25,000—and may include equipment donation, software donation, or any need that will help maintain, grow or enhance your packaging or related programs. A request that encompasses specific corrugated pack- aging industry education is not required, but highly rec-

ber America, and Mike Schaefer, President of Tavens Packaging & Display, this compelling episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the triumphs and trials of running a super plant.

“Larry’s passion for running and protecting the family business is in- spiring,” said Pallini. “I’ve known the Grossbard family for over 30 years. They’ve taken being an Independent to a new level. It’s a must listen.” Larry Grossbard, a passionate advocate for family busi- nesses, shares how he and his brother, Rich, grew a mod- est operation started in 1947 by their parents and uncle into a powerhouse corrugated packaging company. With vivid storytelling and characteristic humor, Larry discuss- es the importance of calculated risk-taking, including their pivotal decision to build a super plant during the Great Re- Larry Grossbard

CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

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June 9, 2025

FBA, AICC Recognize 425 Plants For Safety Achievements

Submissions Welcome (CONT’D FROM PAGE 6)

ommended. The ICPF Board of Directors will select the award winners at their Fall Board meeting which is held in October. Requests should be sent to Caitlin Salaverria at csala- verria@icpfbox.org and include the following (please limit to 1-3 pages): • Details of your proposal and how you plan to use the award • Timetable to complete your proposal • Details of current program status including number of students in program, annual number of graduates with printing/packaging-related degrees, etc. • New: List any partnering corrugated packaging indus- try companies, as well as the nature of the relation- ship(s) and impact on student learning opportunities (i.e. internship opportunities, plant tours, guest speak- ers, scholarships, testing, career fair participation, etc.). • New: Answer the following—Has your institution in- vested funding (internally or through other avenues) in the growth of your program in the last three years? Please explain. • Anything else you or your colleagues would think helpful for ICPF’s Board of Directors to consider your request. For more information, visit careersincorrugated.com .

The Fibre Box Association (FBA) and AICC, The Indepen- dent Packaging Association recognized 425 corrugated industry plants for safety achievements in 2024. Safety Awards are given based on data compiled for the recently released 2024 Corrugated Container Industry Annual Re- port of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses. The associations presented 190 Perfect Plant Awards to plants achieving zero incidents. An additional 235 facilities received Safety Excellence Awards for achieving no lost workdays due to job-related injury or illness. The report provides detailed data for more than 163 million hours worked at 680 participating plants. It also in- cludes trend information presented in graphs for record- able cases, restricted duty cases, and days away from work. Award winners are presented as a percentage of total plant participation and the Safety Award Winners page serves as a great summary of achievement including a count of win- ners by category, number of Perfect Plant Awards, number of Safety Excellence Awards, total awards given, and the percentage of plants awarded. Participation in the report was voluntary and open to all corrugator or sheet plant facilities manufacturing corrugat- ed products. Participants can view the full report at fibre- box.org or aiccbox.org .

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June 9, 2025

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Advantive CFO Ryan Asche Named 2025 CFO Of The Year

tions. Ryan’s recognition highlights his deep commitment to financial excellence and his ability to lead through both transformation and scale. Under Ryan’s leadership, Advantive has reached key milestones—including the successful integration of multi- ple acquisitions and the strengthening of the company’s financial foundation. His strategic oversight has positioned Advantive as a leader in mission-critical software for spe- cialty manufacturing and distribution, enabling long-term growth and operational efficiency. The 2025 CFO of the Year Awards ceremony was held on May 22 at the Georgia Aquarium, where Atlanta’s top financial leaders gathered to celebrate outstanding achievements across the region. For more information, visit advantive.com .

Tampa, Florida based Advantive announced that Ryan Asche, Chief Financial Officer at Advantive, has been

named a 2025 CFO of the Year by the Atlanta Business Chroni- cle. This prestigious honor recog- nizes Ryan’s exceptional financial leadership and the critical role he has played in fueling Advantive’s growth and innovation.

The CFO of the Year Awards celebrate visionary financial execu- tives who drive performance, man- age complexity, and shape the future of their organiza- Ryan Asche

Industry Updates Standard For Recycling Cardboard The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) and Fibre Box Association (FBA) announced an update to their “Voluntary Standard For Repulping and Recycling Coated or Treated Corrugated Fiberboard and its Equivalents in the Old Corrugated Containers (OCC) Recycling Stream.” The Voluntary Standard provides an indus- try-supported set of test protocols that evaluate whether products such as coated or treated cardboard packaging are repul- pable and recyclable. “This will help our industry develop in- novative coatings and treatments for card- board packaging to meet customer needs, while also ensuring they can be validated as repulpable and recyclable,” said Vice President, Industry Affairs, Terry Webber. A joint committee of AF&PA and FBA members developed the update to the Voluntary Standard. It is aligned with cur- rent mill technology and manufacturing practices. The Voluntary Standard aims to help the industry evaluate their coatings and treatments to ensure their packaging can be repulped and recycled using com- mon mill technology. “The repulpability and recyclability test procedures deliver results that are valid, reliable and repeatable,” said FBA CEO Bob McIlvaine. This publication updates joint AF&PA-FBA “Voluntary Standard for Repulping and Recycling Corrugated Fi- berboard Treated to Improve its Perfor- mance in the Presence of Water and Water Vapor,” published in 2013. To download, visit afandpa.org .

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June 9, 2025

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NAM: Manufacturers’ Optimism Drops, Signaling Need For Tax Reform The NAM’s Q2 Manufacturers’ Outlook Survey shows that manufacturers’ optimism about the future is dropping precipitously. The headline number: Only 55.4 percent of respondents report a positive outlook for their companies—a nearly 15-percentage-point drop from Q1 and the lowest level since the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in Q2 of 2020. Manufacturers do have a prescription for renewed confidence, how- ever, as 85.4 percent of respondents believe Congress should preserve pro-growth tax policies in response to trade uncertainty. Worried about trade: Trade uncertainty remained the top business concern for the second consecutive quarter, cited by 77 percent of re-

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spondents. Almost as alarming is the increase in raw material costs, which was cited by 66.1 percent of respondents. The NAM says: “These numbers are yet another indicator that manu- facturers need increased policy certainty. Congress must act urgently to preserve tax reform and empower manufacturers to make the long-term investments that drive the American economy,” said NAM President and CEO Jay Timmons. “The stakes are high: preserving tax reform will prevent the loss of 6 million jobs and avoid a $1 trillion hit to the economy—that’s why man- ufacturers are calling on the Senate to preserve pro-manufacturing tax policies from the House-passed reconciliation bill, while also taking steps to ensure the final package is maximally beneficial for our industry.” “Pro-manufacturing tax policies are a critical component of a com- prehensive manufacturing strategy; this quarter’s results also show that manufacturers need a strategic approach to trade policy that allows our industry to reduce costs and access the inputs we need to make things in America.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

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June 9, 2025

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NAM (CONT’D FROM PAGE 12)

To preserve a pro-manufacturing, pro-growth tax code, the House reconciliation bill approved today would: • Increase the pass-through deduction for small and me- dium-sized manufacturers and make this important de- duction permanent, freeing up capital for businesses to invest and create jobs; • Make permanent the competitive individual tax rates established by tax reform, benefiting the 96 percent of manufacturers organized as pass-throughs that pay tax at these rates; • Increase and make permanent tax reform’s estate tax exemption, protecting more family-owned manufactur- ers’ assets from the estate tax; • Reinstate immediate R&D expensing, reducing the costs of ground-breaking research and supporting in- novation across our sector; • Revive full expensing for capital equipment purchases, enabling manufacturers to purchase new machinery and expand their shop floors; • Restore a pro-growth interest deductibility standard, enhancing manufacturers’ ability to pursue job-creat- ing projects; • Create an incentive for manufacturers’ investments in new and refurbished facilities, supporting factory con- struction here in the US; • Preserve tax reform’s international tax system by mak- ing the FDII, GILTI and BEAT regimes permanent, en-

House Delivers—Senate Must Seal the Deal Following House passage of H.R.1, the “One Big Beauti- ful Bill Act,” Timmons issued the following statement: “Today’s House passage of this historic legislation marks a major victory for manufacturers across America. This pro-growth legislation preserves crucial tax policies that will enable manufacturers to create jobs, invest in their communities, grow here at home and compete glob- ally. In short, this is a manufacturers’ bill. “Manufacturers commend House Speaker Mike John- son, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith and the House for advancing this critical legislation, and we urge the Senate to act swiftly to build on this momentum. “The stakes are high: preserving tax reform will prevent the loss of 6 million jobs and avoid a $1 trillion hit to the economy. Manufacturers urge the Senate to maintain the pro-manufacturing policies in the House bill while continu- ing to work with manufacturers to ensure the final package is maximally effective at supporting manufacturing invest- ment here in the U.S. “This is a pivotal moment. It’s time to double down on policies that encourage manufacturers to invest and cre- ate jobs in America and keep our industry strong and our nation competitive on the world stage—because when manufacturing wins, America wins.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

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NAM (CONT’D FROM PAGE 14)

pansion for the 61st month after one month of contraction in April 2020. (A Manufacturing PMI above 42.3 percent, over a period of time, generally indicates an expansion of the overall economy.) “The New Orders Index contracted for the fourth month in a row following a three-month period of expansion; the figure of 47.6 percent is 0.4 percentage point higher than the 47.2 percent recorded in April. The May reading of the Production Index (45.4 percent) is 1.4 percentage points higher than April’s figure of 44 percent. “The index continued in contraction in March for the third straight month after two months of expansion pre- ceded by eight months of contraction. The Prices Index remained in expansion (or increasing) territory, registering 69.4 percent, down 0.4 percentage point compared to the reading of 69.8 percent in April. The Backlog of Orders Index registered 47.1 percent, up 3.4 percentage points compared to the 43.7 percent recorded in April. The Em- ployment Index registered 46.8 percent, up 0.3 percent- age point from April’s figure of 46.5 percent. “The Supplier Deliveries Index indicated a continued slowing of deliveries, registering 56.1 percent, 0.9 percent- age point higher than the 55.2 percent recorded in April. (Supplier Deliveries is the only ISM Report On Business index that is inversed; a reading of above 50 percent in- dicates slower deliveries, which is typical as the economy improves and customer demand increases.) CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

hancing America’s competitiveness on the world stage; and protect the 21 percent corporate tax rate, ensuring America remains the best place for manufacturing in- vestment and job creation. The NAM recently launched a new ad featuring small and medium-sized manufacturers from across the coun- try thanking Chairman Smith and the whole committee for championing the policies in the bill most critical to the manufacturing industry. For more information, visit nam.org . ISM: Manufacturing Contracts For Third Straight Month Economic activity in the manufacturing sector contracted in May for the third consecutive month, following a two- month expansion preceded by 26 straight months of con- traction, say the nation’s supply executives in the latest Manufacturing ISM Report On Business. The report was issued by Susan Spence, MBA, Chair of the Institute for Supply Management (ISM) Manufacturing Business Survey Committee: “The Manufacturing PMI registered 48.5 percent in May, 0.2 percentage point lower compared to the 48.7 percent recorded in April. The overall economy continued in ex-

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ISM (CONT’D FROM PAGE 16)

“The Inventories Index registered 46.7 percent, down 4.1 percentage points compared to April’s reading of 50.8 percent. “The New Export Orders Index reading of 40.1 percent is 3 percentage points lower than the reading of 43.1 per- cent registered in April. The Imports Index plunged into ex- treme contraction in May, registering 39.9 percent, 7.2 per- centage points lower than April’s reading of 47.1 percent.” Spence continues, “In May, U.S. manufacturing activity slipped further into contraction after expanding only mar- ginally in February. Contraction in most of the indexes that measure demand and output have slowed, while inputs have started to weaken: “Demand indicators were mixed, with the New Orders and Backlog of Orders indexes contracting at slower rates, while the Customers' Inventories and New Export Orders indexes contracted more strongly. However, a ‘too low’ status for the Customers’ Inventories Index is usually con- sidered positive for future production. “Regarding output, the Production Index increased from an alarmingly low reading the previous month, but factory output continued to contract in May, indicating that panelists’ companies are still revising production plans downward amid economic uncertainty. “The Employment Index ticked up for a second consec- utive month but remained in contraction, as head-count reductions continued. Companies generally opted for lay- offs because they are quicker to implement than attrition. “Finally, inputs are defined as supplier deliveries, in- ventories, prices and imports. The Inventories Index, as expected, entered contraction territory after expanding as companies completed pull-forward activity ahead of tariffs, while the Supplier Deliveries Index indicated continuing slow performance, reflecting ongoing delays in clearing goods through ports of entry. “Tariffs-induced prices growth slowed slightly, while the Imports Index contracted significantly, down 7.2 percent- age points compared to April. “Looking at the manufacturing economy, 57 percent of the sector’s gross domestic product (GDP) contracted in May, up from 41 percent in April. The share of manufac- turing GDP registering a composite PMI calculation at or below 45 percent is a good metric to gauge overall man- ufacturing weakness; in May, this figure was 5 percent, a 13-percentage point decrease compared to the 18 percent in April,” says Spence. The seven industries reporting contraction in May, in order, are: Paper Products; Wood Products; Printing & Re- lated Support Activities; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Prod- ucts; Transportation Equipment; Chemical Products; and Primary Metals. “Uncertainty due to the recent tariffs continue to weigh on profitability and service. An unresolved (trade deal with) China will result in empty shelves at retail for many do-it- yourself and professional goods.”

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June 9, 2025

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Innovating Sustainable Packaging: How EPE USA Helps Lead The Way Santa Ana, California based EPE USA announced its com- mitment to shaping the future of sustainable packaging through innovative solutions that prioritize environmental responsibility. As a leading packaging company, EPE USA is at the forefront of developing reusable and recyclable packaging supplies designed to meet changing market demands while minimizing ecological impact. In today’s eco-conscious landscape, consumer aware- ness about sustainability is soaring. EPE USA’s initiatives directly respond to the growing demand for environmen- tally friendly practices. EPE USA has made advancements in custom packaging design, focusing on creating prod- ucts that are efficient, protective, and conscious of the

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planet’s health. EPE USA aims to revolutionize how busi- nesses approach packaging and fulfillment by reducing waste and promoting sustainable consumption patterns. EPE USA recognizes that businesses adopting eco-friendly practices can enhance their reputations, at- tract conscientious consumers, and comply with increas- ing regulatory pressures surrounding waste management. EPE USA’s offerings include reusable shipping contain- ers designed for multiple transit cycles and a variety of re- cyclable materials that meet current eco-standards. These solutions fulfill customer needs while paving the way for a circular economy, ensuring packaging materials can be re- purposed or reused, significantly reducing landfill impact. To achieve these sustainability goals, EPE USA lever- ages its global footprint. The company’s design engineers collaborate across industries and regions, fostering the exchange of innovative ideas and materials. With access to over 100,000 packaging designs accumulated over the last fifty years, EPE USA can create tailored solutions that address diverse customer requirements while optimizing material performance. This knowledge helps businesses implement best practices in product packaging design. EPE USA takes pride in being a leader in innovation, continuously adapting to its clients’ needs. Reusable pack- aging models offer immediate benefits while unlocking long-term value through cost savings. For more information, visit www.epeusa.com .

Read the articles in Board Converting News every week to learn about the people, places and machinery that will open the doors to new or repeat business. Making New Customers

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

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June 9, 2025

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Disaster Planning (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1)

Board Converting NEWS INTERNET DIRECTORY

goodwill with customers,” said Justin Kates, an emergency management consultant. Recovery procedures must be tailored for each opera- tion. “It’s tempting to download a boilerplate plan from the Internet and call the job done,” said Kates. “But a general, all-purpose plan reflects neither the risks specific to an en- terprise, nor the special mix of available resources.” Conversely, a tailored plan will ensure that employees make the right moves when disaster strikes. That’s import- ant, because the emotional impact of a serious event can make it hard to think clearly. “People often become para- lyzed when disaster strikes,” said Rebecca Rice, an assis- tant professor of crisis communications at the University of Nevada. “Too often, they have no idea what to do.” Assess Risks A successful recovery plan starts with a thorough risk assessment that identifies a company’s unique vulnerabil- ities. What hazards are most common in the area? Is the

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.

Source: FEMA and US Department of Labor.

company facility located in a floodplain? Near a local high- way where trucks with hazardous materials go by? In a fire-prone region? Help with identifying local risks is available from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). “A good, free and easy tool for doing a basic risk assess- ment for your location is FEMA’s National Risk Index,” said Kates. “You can search your address online and assess your area’s overall disaster risk level, as well as the most likely categories of events.” (An online search tool is at www.fema.gov. An interactive risk index map is available at hazards.fema.gov/nri/map ). Businesses can also seek advice from their county or city offices of emergency management, which often post lists of a region’s salient threats. “Local agencies often have area-specific emergency management plans that highlight issues otherwise overlooked,” said Rice. “They can serve as useful starting points.” When identifying common risks, it’s wise to look be- yond the walls of the enterprise and consider how dam- age to suppliers can trickle down to local operations. “It’s important to consider how your business will be affected by transportation and supply chain interruptions,” said Bornemann. CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

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.

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June 9, 2025

Disaster Planning (CONT’D FROM PAGE 22)

Board Converting NEWS INTERNET DIRECTORY

Bonus tip: When identifying risks, keep in mind that even small-scale events can wreak havoc. “A burst water pipe can cause costly water damage,” said Bornemann. “A flu outbreak can affect every worker assigned to a facility.” Get Resources Once the most likely disasters are identified, the busi- ness should create a plan for maintaining its most import- ant business activities, from receiving and filling orders to collecting amounts due. Once again, help is available from outside sources. “FEMA has established a website called Ready Business (ready.gov/business) with templates and tools that walk a business all the way from developing an emergency plan to preparing employees so they're ready to get back to work after a crisis,” said Kates. The organization maintains

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.

a website, and has local emergency management offices that can be helpful. The Small Business Administration (SBA) also has a web page dedicated to business continuity, (Go to sba. gov , then click on “Business Guide,” then “Manage Your Business” and “Prepare for Emergencies.”) Yet another resource is the National Fire Protection As- sociation ( nfpa.org ) which offers guidelines for fire safety and risk mitigation. “There are also benefits to joining the National Emer- gency Management Association (nemaweb.org) and par- ticipating in its private sector committee activities to learn about useful resources,” said Bailey Farrell, Senior Direc- tor, Project Management at AC Disaster Consulting. Local organizations can also help. “Many city and state emergency management agencies, chambers of com- merce, and small business development councils (SBDCs) have put together tools and templates, and even technical assistance, for different types of emergency plans and risk assessments,” said Kates. “They are attuned to the specif- ic hazards common to a region.” Finally, an organization’s insurer can provide useful in- formation. “Companies should take advantage of an insur- ance company’s expertise based on its experience with other operations in the same region,” said Peterson. Bonus tip: Involve your staff. “Too many businesses CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

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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June 9, 2025

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Disaster Planning (CONT’D FROM PAGE 24)

Board Converting NEWS INTERNET DIRECTORY

ignore input from their employees during emergency re- sponse planning,” said Davis. “Front line personnel can often suggest practical procedures that will mitigate harm

CORRUGATED REPLACEMENTS, INC. www.corrugatedparts.com

from severe events.” Involve Employees

As the above comments suggest, the details of disaster recovery plans will vary to reflect local risk categories and resources. Most, however, will include basics such as the location of a temporary office relocation site, backups of business data, and redundancies for services such as data processing and power generation. The prudent plan will also address the importance of preparing the staff to respond appropriately and quickly when a disaster strikes. “Everyone needs to understand what the plan is for different types of emergencies,” said Kates. One of the first steps is to communicate information about the event to employees, customers and suppliers. Too often though, operational disarray keeps the word

Corrugated Replacements, Inc. is a production powerhouse that manufactures high quality machine parts and replace- ment parts for the corrugated and paperboard converting industries. CRI can redesign, engineer, and manufacture any part while providing a rapid turn-around rate, keeping machines running at their peak performance and limiting down time.

C.U.E., INC. www.AnvilCovers.com

Makers of single and dual-width Timesaver® Anvil Covers, the premier urethane anvil cover for corrugated die cutting. Timesaver® covers feature construction of solid steel back- ing and solid steel locking components to ensure a precise fit every time. C.U.E., Inc. also offers Dura-Latch and Cor- Lock anvil covers, and urethane Lead Edge Feed Wheels.

EMBA www.embausa.com

The EMBA group supports a complete line of corrugated converting machinery for the worldwide market. EMBA’s Quick Set technology enables the highest productivity across a broad range of converting equipment, from mini to super jumbo. EMBA also includes the McKinley jumbo line of flexo folder gluers and rotary die cutters as well as ser- vice, rebuilds and upgrades for both EMBA and McKinley.

Source: FEMA

from getting out. “Businesses often discover they have not planned for efficient communications when disaster strikes,” said Davis. “Indeed, a breakdown in communica- tion is the most common cause of business disruption.” Again, advance planning comes to the rescue. Every company should maintain a comprehensive list of employ- ees in a document called a “calling tree” that specifies who will contact whom when disaster strikes. A well-organized protocol will obviate redundancy and ensure everyone is informed. “You don’t want to end up with signals crossed when multiple people try to contact each other,” said Rice. Internet disruption may obviate the use of email, so the calling tree should also contain phone numbers, physical addresses, and the names of each individual’s alternative contacts in the form of friends and family. Finally, the calling tree should specify who will reach out to customers, suppliers, and service firms that can un- dertake repairs. Having a plan is one thing. Ensuring everyone under- stands it is another. Regularly scheduled drills will help employees react automatically when an event occurs. “We recommend regular exercises during which team mem- bers talk through potential scenarios,” said Kates. “These rehearsals ensure the plan is realistic and will actually work during a crisis.”

EAGLEWOOD TECHNOLOGIES, LLC www.eaglewoodtech.com

Eaglewood Technologies offers trusted cleaning technolo- gies for the world’s best printers and converters. Solutions include the award winning Sitexco+ Anilox Laser System, the Nanovis Parts Washing System, the Sitexco L10 Label System, the innovative Sanilox™ System or Alphasonics solutions. We also offer Xpress™ mobile cleaning service at your facility or ours. ESKO www.esko.com ArtiosCAD and Kongsberg are the most trusted names in CAD/CAM solutions. Esko’s ArtiosCAD is the most widely used CAD software in the world. Esko’s Kongsberg series of tables brings you reliable, outstanding quality for sample- making and short run production.

DOMINO www.dominodigitalprinting.com

Domino is a leading manufacturer and distributor of digital printing and product identification solutions. Celebrating its 44th year, Domino is headquartered in the UK and North America headquarters are Illinois. Domino has 25 subsid- iaries, representation in over 120 countries, and over 2,900 employees worldwide .

CONTINUED ON PAGE 28

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