Board Converting News, June 24, 2024

BoardConverting Serving the North American Corrugated and Folding Carton Industries for 40 years June 24, 2024 VOL. 40, NO. 26

Jerry Frisch Shares Lessons Learned In Packaging Career BY SUSAN RILEY It wasn’t just business that Jerry Frisch shared as the industry speaker at the AICC Spring Meeting, but the man behind the business, the man who risked it all to follow an entrepreneurial dream of starting his own packaging company. For the Founder and President of Wasatch Container of Salt Lake City, Utah, there have been many life lessons along the path to boxing glory. But while being successful as an entrepreneur is an extraordinary feat by any standard, it’s the last way he would describe himself, noting that he didn’t attend an Ivy League school or even think of himself as a great speaker. He is, however, a tremendous role model in the industry.

BCN Seeking Reader Feedback In Short Survey Board Converting News is asking readers to help improve its editorial coverage by partic- ipating in a short, YES or NO three-question survey. The survey was emailed to subscrib- ers on June 18 in an effort to determine if BCN should continue to publish average contain- erboard pricing and other data appearing on page 3 of each weekly issue. Historically — for the last 40 years — BCN published the AVERAGE prices PAID by its anonymous sources throughout North Amer- ica the week previous to issue. Your anony- mous and confidential responses will help us decide the following: • Should BCN continue to publish Average Containerboard Prices on page 3 every week? Optional: Why or why not? • Should Board Converting News publish any pricing at all? Optional: Why or why not? • Are you willing to be an anonymous and confidential source of pricing information? If yes, please include your contact infor- mation which will remain confidential. Please email your responses to flexo@ nvpublications.com or contact Len Prazych, Publisher, at lprazych@nvpublications.com.

WHAT’S INSIDE

“I’m just an ordinary guy that found packaging to be a very exciting, every-changing field that offered many opportunities,” he said. The Smell Of Ink Raised in St. Paul, Minnesota, Frisch first got a taste of the packag- ing business by way of his father, who was an engineer at the Hoerner Waldorf box company. “During that time in the print shop, I started smelling that ink and I got all excited about it. That letterpress was so cool, but that offset CONTINUED ON PAGE 22 Jerry Frisch, President of Wasatch Container, with his family on the Walk of Fame at the AICC Spring Meeting in Palm Desert, California. From left, An- drea Dawson, Jerry, Paula, Lauren, and Ryan Frisch.

6 x x 8 x x 12 x x 26 x x 5 Greif, Sonoco Raise Paperboard Prices 6 Jeffrey Schwarz Nominated For Circle Of Distinguished Leaders 10 TAPPI Releases New Edition Of ‘Pigments For Paperboard’ 34 The BoxMaker Summer Camp Returns Virtually July 22-26

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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 E. Coast Midwest Southeast Southwest

42# Kraft liner $955.00-960.00 $970.00-980.00 $970.00-980.00 $ 970.00-980.00 $1000.00-1010.00 $973.00-983.00

26# Semi-Chem. Medium

Short Ton Del. Short Ton Del. Short Ton Del. Short Ton Del. Short Ton Del. Short Ton Del.

$ 890 .00-9 4 0.00 $9 0 5.00-9 2 5.00 $9 0 5.00-9 2 5.00 $9 0 5.00-9 2 5.00 $9 2 5.00-9 4 5.00 $9 0 8.00-9 2 8.00

West Coast U.S. Average

SHEET PRICES BY REGION (AVERAGE) Per 1MSF, local delivery included, 50MSF single item order, truckload delivery. Sheets

E. Coast Midwest South-SW S. CA N.CA/WA-OR US Aver.

More box makers, brokers and end users are relying on the containerboard pricing in Board Converting News to negotiate their contracts than ever before. See the current prices every week right here on Page 3. The Price is Right!

200# 275#

$62.26

$72.05

$62.69 $82.80

$85.35 119.54

$73.13 101.29

97.32

99.89

90.86

113.65

OYSTER UP-CHARGE 8.34

8.34

8.34

8.34

8.34

8.34

275# DBL-WALL 350# DBL-WALL

107.46 118.45

114.69 129.32

116.54 137.25 117.82 145.56

141.08 148.46

122.76 131.80

CANADIAN SHEET PRICES (AVERAGE) In Canadian Dollars, per 1MSF, local delivery included, under 50MSF single item order, truckload delivery. 200# 275# Oyster UC 275#DW 350#DW $78.56 $99.18 $9.00 $96.32 $105.83 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.

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

42# Kraft Liner 26#

Semi-Chem Medium

East West

$9 2 0.00 $ 96 5.00

$9 1 0.00 $9 4 5.00

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June 24, 2024

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June 24, 2024

Greif, Sonoco Raise Prices For Uncoated Recycled Board Greif and Sonoco recently announced price increases for uncoated recycled paperboard (URB) products. Delaware, Ohio based Greif, Inc. said it will implement a $50 to $70 per short ton increase for all grades of URB products effective with new orders and shipments on and after July 8. Greif said the rate hike is in response to increased raw material, energy, labor, and transportation, as well as in- creasing demand for URB. Hartsville, South Carolina based Sonoco said it would implement a $70/ton price increase for all grades of URB in the United States and Canada, with shipments beginning July 10. This price action is necessary to offset increased input costs, the company said. International Paper, Cascades, Pratt Industries, Packag- ing Corporation of America and WestRock implemented linerboard price hikes that have been in effect since Jan- uary 1 this year. The IP, WestRock, and Cascades increases are $70 per ton on linerboard and $110 per ton on corrugating medium. PCA’s increase is $70 per ton on linerboard and $100 per ton for medium. Pratt’s increase is $75 per ton on liner- board and $110 per ton on medium. These producers represent nearly 70 percent of North American containerboard capacity, according to Fastmar- kets.com . WestRock Stockholders Approve Combination With Smurfit Kappa Atlanta, Georgia based WestRock Company, a provider of sustainable fiber-based paper and packaging solu- tions, recently announced that, based on the preliminary vote count, WestRock stockholders voted to approve the Transaction Agreement and other proposals related to the combination of Smurfit Kappa Group and WestRock at We- stRock’s Special Meeting of Stockholders. Pursuant to the terms of the Transaction Agreement entered into on September 12, 2023, Smurfit WestRock said it will acquire Smurfit Kappa by means of a scheme of arrangement under the Companies Act 2014 of Ireland and Sun Merger Sub, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Smurfit WestRock, will merge with and into WestRock, with WestRock surviving the merger and becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of Smurfit WestRock. If the Merger contemplated by the Transaction Agree- ment is completed, the common stockholders of WestRock will receive one new Smurfit WestRock share and $5.00 in cash for each share of common stock of WestRock. Completion of the Combination remains subject to cer- tain conditions, as described in a transaction agreement. For more information, visit westrock.com .

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June 24, 2024

Jeffrey Schwarz Nominated To Circle Of Distinguished Leaders The International Corrugated Packaging Foundation (ICPF), co-sponsored by AICC, The Independent Packaging Asso- ciation, and Fibre Box Association (FBA), announced the nomination of Jeffrey Schwarz for posthumous induction into ICPF’s Circle of Distinguished Leaders. The program honors exceptional individuals — leaders whose vision, creativity and energy have moved the corru- gated industry forward.

yearlong battle with Glioblastoma, an aggressive brain cancer. His nomination to ICPF’s Circle of Distinguished Lead- ers was initiated by the Fiterman family at Liberty Diversi- fied International. His induction 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. Friends, business colleagues, firms, and organizations can honor Jeff by making a donation in his name. Nom- ination contributions are tax deductible and support the Circle of Distinguished Leaders Program, as well as ICPF’s work to grow the workforce of the corrugated packaging industry. Those making donations to honor Jeff will be recog- nized during a posthumous induction ceremony at a 2025 AICC meeting, and in a subsequent release to the packag- ing 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 instructions for your accounting department. Visit careersincorrugated.org more information on ICPF’s Circle of Distinguished Leaders and to see who has been honored in the past. ICPF is dedicated to growing the labor force of the cor- rugated packaging industry now and into the future.

Jeff started in the industry work- ing for his father’s (Jack Schwarz) company Trey Corrugated and then moved to startup company, Performance Corrugated. In 1998, Jack founded Schwarz Partners, L.P. In 2010, Jack, Jeff and his brother, John, began lead- ing Schwarz Partners together and

Jeffrey Schwarz

expanded its independent sheet feeder operations to in- clude partner companies in the packaging, paper, trans- portation, and recycling industries. Jeff was instrumental in spearheading sheet feeder co- ops and forging relationships between corrugated indus- try companies. Jeff passed away on November 26, 2023 following a

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AICC Fundraiser In Napa Offering Two-For-One Couples Pricing AICC, The Independent Packaging Association, an- nounced a “special” two couples for the price of one to attend the Foundation for Packaging Education’s upcom- ing fundraising event, set for July 16-18, in Napa Valley. This event promises a blend of luxury, camaraderie, and support for a vital cause — workforce development for packaging professionals. The event will kick off with a welcoming reception on the opening night, setting the stage for two days of un- paralleled activities and networking opportunities. On the first day, attendees will enjoy a round of golf on the Sil- verado golf course, a renowned PGA tournament venue. Participants will engage in a hands-on cooking class at the nearby Culinary Institute of America, culminating with lunch. The evening will be highlighted by a multi-course dining experience aboard the famous Napa Valley Wine Train. The second day will feature exclusive wine tours, tast- ings, and a gourmet lunch at the Chateau Montelena and Beringer vineyards. These activities combine education with enjoyment, allowing members to explore Napa Val- ley’s rich winemaking heritage while forging meaningful connections with peers.. To register, visit www.AICCbox.org/Fundraiser .

Box Shipments ( U.S. Corrugated Product Shipments) Industry Shipments In Billions of Square Feet Month December 2023

Year

Actual

Percent Change Avg Week Percent Change

2023 2022

29.711 30.124

-1.4

7.819 7.927

-1.4

Industry Total

Year-to Date

December 2023

Year

Actual

Percent Change Avg Week Percent Change

2023 2022

380.555 400.520

-5.0

7.611 7.979

-4.6

Industry Total

Containerboard Consumption (Thousands of Tons)

Year

Month

Percent Change Year-to-Date Percent Change

2023 2022

2.4080 2.4260

-0.7

30.9333 32.5461

-5.0

Container Board Inventory - Corrugator Plants (Thousands of Tons)

Corrugator Plants Only

Date

Percent Change Weeks of Supply

Percent Change

Dec. Nov.

2.1892 2.1071

3.9

3.5 3.5

6.1

Shipping Days

Year

Month

Year-to-Date

2023 2022

19 19

250 251

SOURCE: Fibre Box Association

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June 24, 2024

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TAPPI Releases New Edition Of ‘Pigments For Paperboard’

“This new edition focus- es on biobased and non- biobased aqueous disper- sions, as traditional barrier materials are being phased out due to their environ- mental impact,” said the book’s editor, Dr. Prakash Malla, retired director of R&D at Thiele Kaolin Com- pany. “The inclusion of var- ious mineral pigments pro-

It has been more than 25 years since the first edition of “Pigments For Paper and Paperboard” was released. During that time, the paper industry has evolved signifi- cantly due to technological advancements and the growth of the internet. Digital printing presses, which were in their early stages back then, are now expanding at a much fast- er pace compared to traditional methods. The increase in e-commerce has also led to the expan- sion of paperboard. Therefore, the latest edition of the book encompasses these changes and reflects the broad- ening scope of the industry. It contains the latest informa- tion on the various pigments used in paper coating and filling.

vides opportunities for developing cost-effective coatings with enhanced barrier performance while improving the recyclability of these materials for both food and nonfood packaging applications.” Malla also noted that, in addition to being a valuable

tool for professionals, the new edition serves as a reference text for college stu- dents and professors in paper science and engineering, materials science, economic geology, mining and mineral processing engineering, and related programs. Whether you’re a seasoned profession- al in the pulp and paper industry, a stu- dent exploring the world of paper science and engineering, or a librarian, this book serves as both an introductory guide and a practical reference. Featuring 13 chapters contributed by 12 new authors, including Malla, this new edi- tion explores 10 different pigments essen- tial to the papermaking process. Highlights of this edition include: • An overview of coated paper and the piv- otal role pigments play in enhancing the performance attributes of coated paper/ paperboard. • Detailed insights into various pigments, from kaolin clays to synthetic plastic pig- ments, covering their physical and chem- ical properties, manufacturing processes, and impact on coated sheet properties. • Exploration of how different pigments affect the printability and overall perfor- mance of coated paper and paperboard Malla holds a Ph.D. degree in Clay Min- eralogy and Clay Chemistry from Rutgers University. Most recently, he was honored with the G. W. Brindley Clay Science Lec- ture Award at the 61st Annual Meeting of the Clay Minerals Society in Honolulu, Ha- waii, June 3-6. The award is presented to a clay scientist who brings new ideas and is involved in innovative research. To purchase the book, visit the TAPPI website at https://shorturl.at/9T7xo .

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Mondi Launches ProVantage SmartKraft Brown Solution

maintaining high standards of quality and strength. These containerboard paper grades are suited for e-commerce, retail and fast-moving consumer goods packaging, by us- ing responsibly sourced raw materials. “Our customers need high performance, sustainable paper and packaging solutions and we can offer this with our extended range of ProVantage containerboard pa- pers,” said Gijs Huisman, Mondi Sales Director, Contain- erboard.

Vienna, Austia based Mondi announced the launch of the ProVantage SmartKraft Brown and White packaging solution. The two containerboard paper grades strike a balance between sustainability, strength, and printability, providing the tranquility needed in packaging decisions, the company said.

AICC Emerging Leaders Webinar Set For July 11

AICC, The Independent Packaging Association, an- nounced the New Emerging Leaders Member Webinar, is set for July 11 at 3:00 p.m. ET. Participants will have the op- portunity to meet the current EL Committee Members and EL Delegates, and learn about the different EL Committee roles, teams, Delegate positions and responsibilities. Both the EL Committee and Delegates work with the AICC to plan all of the Emerging Leader events that are held an- nually. During the call, you will also learn the path that you can take to get more involved if you wish to do so. This event is only open to AICC Emerging Leaders who have joined since January 1, 2023. For more information, contact Chelsea May, Education & Training Manager, at cmay@aiccbox.org.

The papers are made of 100 percent fresh fibre on the top and 100 percent recycled fibre underneath (two-ply solution), blending sustainability, strength, cost efficiency and printability. Like all Mondi Containerboard papers, the company says they are 100 percent recyclable and made from 100 percent responsibly sourced raw materials. ProVantage SmartKraft grades combine fresh and re- cycled fibres and are available in both brown and white variations, aiming to minimize environmental impact while

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Connected Packaging: Taking Brand Consumer Interaction To A New Level BY CRAIG STOBIE

With greater consumer choice than ever before, a product’s visual ap- peal is a crucial factor in capturing consumer attention beyond a loyal customer base. Attractive packaging and labels with unique, eye-catch- ing designs enhance shelf appeal, encouraging consumers to take a closer look. Stand-out homeware packaging designs might feature print matching the pattern of the tableware within, while limited-edition packaging and While the inclusion of mail-away coupons and competitions on product packaging is nothing new – US cereal giants Kellogg’s and Gener- al Mills ran their first promotions more than 100 years ago – historically, the communication be- tween brand and consumer has been one-sided. The objective remains the same: delighting con- sumers and fostering brand loyalty, but packaging-based promotions have evolved to be more interactive than ever before. labels – such as bottles with custom shrink wrap celebrating sports events or personalization – add a layer of exclusivity and collectability. Today, novel packaging is often developed to excite consumers, prompting them to share a photo or unboxing video via their social media accounts – offering free brand exposure or, in the case of the Heinz Tat- too Stencil label, a way to express their die-hard devotion to the brand. Equipping packaging with QR codes can help bridge the divide be- tween the physical and the digital world, taking consumer experience to a new level. QR codes enable an instant connection between consumer and brand, providing consumer access to product information and allow- ing brands to capture consumer responses and feedback. In retail, the transition of packaging barcodes to standardized QR codes powered by GS1 – previously known as the GS1 Digital Link – at QR codes powered by GS1 may be small, but they have the power to deliver information to multiple stake- holders via one convenient scan. They provide valuable data and en- hanced product traceability to brands and retailers while delivering helpful or engaging content to consumers. What’s more, the content can be changed over time or personalized, without changing the packaging. the point of sale has begun, increas- ing brand interest and leading brand owners to discover the technology's versatile applications. This is made possible by the standardized structure of the Uniform Resource Identifier (URI) represented by the QR code. In the simplest terms a URI is a website address that includes a sequence of identifi- ers and attributes that serve as gateways to information such as expiry dates, serial numbers, and batch/lot numbers, as well as landing pages for marketing content. Depending on what device or app is used to read the code, certain CONTINUED ON PAGE 16 Craig Stobie

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June 24, 2024

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Connected Packaging (CONT’D FROM PAGE 14)

flavor. In addition to providing entertainment, scannable QR codes can transform time-consuming, mundane tasks such as locating manuals and ordering spare parts, help- ing to deliver a more convenient consumer experience and enhancing brand loyalty. The addition of variable data elements, such as a batch or serial numbers, enables the content served to change over time: the first scan could open a landing page to provide model-specific assembly, installation, or user videos, while subsequent scans could provide content to assist with warranty registration, for ex- ample. Considering potential returns like this, it is not surpris- ing that connected packaging is high on brands’ priority lists, with 80 percent of respondents of Domino and Ap- petite Creative’s Connected Packaging Survey 2024 citing that connected packaging will be increasingly important to the packaging industry in the next 12 months and 88 per- cent planning a connected packaging campaign this year. Today, forward-thinking brands are using QR codes to create immersive, interactive experiences to enhance interactions with consumers, as well as adopting GS1 technologies to future-proof their business. Providing in- formation for multiple stakeholders via one compact code allows brands to focus label and packaging designs on maximizing consumer appeal and driving scans. For more information, visit domino-printing.com . Craig Stobie is the Global Sector Development Director at Domino Printing Sciences.

identifiers are processed to provide access to a specif- ic data source. This means that a mobile phone camera scan might open a landing page presenting information regarding recycling and sustainability to consumers, while brands and retailers using an EPOS scanner might gain access to supply chain tracking and expiry dates to inform dynamic pricing strategies. Packaging is the key touchpoint between consumer and brand – where consumers expect to find everything they need to know about a product, from allergens and nutrition to usage and recycling instructions – but also the best opportunity for brands to make a lasting connection with the consumer. With customer retention considered easier than gain- ing new customers, packaging QR codes allow brands to drive app downloads and sign-ups to loyalty programs and online communities. Members are rewarded with access to exclusive content, discounts, freebies, and events. In return, brands gain a loyal audience for cross-promotion and compliant personal data for use in targeted marketing campaigns. Competitions and games are popular, and joining games commonly promoted by QR codes on soft drink la- bels or snack packaging is easy. For example, Coca-Cola’s recurring What the Fanta? Campaign uses QR codes on bottles and cans to give consumers clues about a mystery

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Mainline Conveyor Systems: Rethinking Conveyor Solutions

Mainline Conveyor Systems was founded by Roger Brown in 1991. Once customers experienced the quality of Main- line’s products and services, the company began to grow. For over 30 years, Brown led the company and Mainline went through many new expansions and changes. Once Brown was ready to retire, Terry Smith took over as CEO after purchasing the company in 2022. Smith had previously worked at Mainline as a teenager and intern during college. With a passion for the industry and a desire to grow Mainline, he was the perfect fit for the job.

Adhering to Strict Standards In Anilox & Glue Roll Technology

While much of the industry has remained the same, Mainline continues to rethink conveyor systems — finding new solutions to increase efficiency, safety, and function- ality. Working with their customers one-on-one to really understand their business and needs, Mainline develops customized solutions. “A customer can expect that we know their environ- ment, we know their equipment, we know their plants. We know what we can do with our conveyor systems. But we're always looking to give them more,” said Smith. In the past two years, Mainline has grown in all facets. This steady growth is a result of the intentionality and ex- ceptional service the team provides to the customers. To keep production and efficiency up, Terry Smith, CEO, and Brandon Martin, Vice President of Operations, knew they would need a new facility to accommodate the company’s growth. Their new building is a 96,000-square-foot facility that is located in Mooresville, Indiana — continuing the lega- cy Mainline had already established. With the move, the leadership team feels prepared for the next 30 years of business. The new building allows Mainline to provide a smooth- er experience and an overall higher-quality product for CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

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Visit us at Booth 1371

Challenge the Status Quo A lot has stayed the same in the industry over the years. But, if you’re looking to improve your conveyor systems and find new solutions to increase your efficiency, safety, and functionality — we’d love to meet with you.

Learn more at MainlineConveyor.com/SuperCorr

Rethinking Conveyor Solutions

Mainline Conveyor (CONT’D FROM PAGE 14)

their customers. Terry Smith, CEO, takes this growth seri- ously — always putting the customer first in these times of company growth. “I think the future is bright for Mainline. We’ve got the ability to grow into our new space. We’ve got the ability to add more technology, advanced manufacturing.

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“I think we’re going to be a bigger player in the corru- gated industry as we move forward,” said Martin. Mainline Conveyor Systems will be at the SuperCorr- Expo, September 9-12, and will share some exciting ad- vancements, improvements, and products at their booth. To learn more, visit MainlineConveyor.com/SuperCorr.

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Wasatch Container (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1)

printing I knew was cutting edge,” he said. After high school, he went to the University of Wiscon- sin-Stout to study graphic arts management which he en- visioned as his career. But an Intro to Packaging elective class allowed him to see how perfectly the two concentrations were connected which ultimately led to his degree in packaging engineer- ing with a focus on graphic arts management. “I think I’m the only person in this room that chose packaging as a career path and I’m still in it for all these years,” he said. After leaving Stout, Frisch took an entry-level position at Flour City Press Pack in Minneapolis, a folding carton and rigid box converter, where he was by far the youngest employee. He worked in estimating and purchasing, and eventually joined the sales division. “I found that to be very exciting. After many years of sales, I had the opportunity to be sales manager. I loved that title; I loved that position. I was finally there,” he said. At Flour City, he was managing people who were de- cades older than him and that prompted him to take night classes at the University of Minnesota to learn more about leadership, business, sales training, and finances. With a willingness to take on new challenges through- out the plant, a strong work ethic and a boatload of ambi- CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

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Wasatch Container (CONT’D FROM PAGE 22)

that nearly broke the bank. He would also oversee big pur- chases including a six-color offset press and a Bobst die cutter. Under his leadership, Flour City went from being a $4 million to a $16 million company. But after 15 years of help- ing grow the business, Frisch found that situations can change in a heartbeat when it was sold out from under him and he was out of work at 35. “I had three little kids, a wife, a house payment and a But Frisch still had cards to play. His involvement with the National Association of Paperbox and Packaging led to his serendipitous meeting with Paul Keyser, who passed away in 2023, Chairman of the Board at Utah PaperBox. Theirs was an instant friendship and meeting of the minds. “Paul and I had many conversations about best practic- es of how to run a business,” Frisch said. Eventually, Keyser convinced him to uproot his young family and move to Salt Lake City, Utah in 1990. car payment,” he said. The Frisches Go West “It was a relatively easy move because all he asked me for was a two-year commitment, and that’s what I gave him,” Frisch said. “If you make a commitment, live up to it no matter what.” Frisch put his sales skills to work at Utah PaperBox but also aspired to strike out on his own. Sensing the need for an independent corrugated sheet plant in the area, he

tion, Frisch excelled in his career and rose to the position of president at the ripe age of 31. “Imagine that this yahoo at 31 being president of the company with 195 employees, five labor unions; it was a lot of responsibility for me, but I thought I was up for the task,” he said.

BCN(US)202308(QS618)(o)(出血5mm).pdf 1 2023/8/28 下午 01:49:35 Frisch would lead efforts to modernize the plant and, of course, grow sales. He oversaw the implementation of the cutting-edge-at-the-time IBM software system, the AS400, and the incredible facsimile machine, a $3,700 purchase Jerry Frisch, President of Wasatch Container, was the industry speaker at the AICC Spring Meeting.

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Wasatch Container (CONT’D FROM PAGE 24)

Board Converting NEWS INTERNET DIRECTORY

prepared a business plan and presented it to Keyser as a potential partner. After learning the hard way in what can happen without a clear succession plan, Frisch also saw the importance of a buy-sell agreement, a legal contract for co-owners of a business that stipulates what happens to stock ownership in the event of a death, disability, divorce or other trigger- ing event of an owner. Frisch said that the buy-sell agreement is a must so that the ownership remains in the best interest of the company and fairness to the owners. “If you don’t have one, it’s going to cost a lot of money and ruin a lot of friendships so please keep that in mind if you are doing this,” he said.

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.

Once Frisch and Keyser hashed out the deal as 50/50 partners, they bought a lot and built a $1.1 million, 30,000-square-foot building and branded it Wasatch Con- tainer after the Wasatch Mountains. The investment was a big risk for Frisch personally. He said his pockets were not as deep at Keyser’s, but his wife, Paula, was behind him, and together they took the leap. “I exhausted all my savings and I had to refinance my home. I actually had to refinance my home again about five years later,” Frisch said. Keep Learning Like many startups, Frisch said they purchased a lot of old, manual equipment including a two-color printer slot- ter, a paper gluer, and four-bar slitter to get up and run- ning. In 1995, they shipped their first order, but he knew there was more to learn on the way to profitability which is why he reached out to AICC. “I needed to join an organization that could help teach me the corrugated business as well as meeting those in the industry,” he said. Frisch was blown away at the first meeting he attended in Las Vegas in 1998 by how excited members were to tell him all about the box business. They shared their stories Jerry Frisch traveled to Kolbus headquarters in Germany to see the Kolbus RD 115S and its performance for himself.

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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Macarbox manufactures technologically advanced and high performance converting machinery for corrugated board. We are honored to present our wide product range to the US market: and Digital Printing machines. The biggest international groups from the corrugated industry work with us and conceive Macarbox as THE “alternative” : European technology, high performance and excellent cost- performance ratio! THE High Performance Alternative Flexo Folder Gluers, Rotary Die Cutters, Corrugators, Laser Cutting

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Wasatch Container (CONT’D FROM PAGE 26)

Board Converting NEWS INTERNET DIRECTORY

and explained what markets they served and how they got there. “I also found in AICC some great mentors that have re- ally coached me over the past 29 years. I believe mentors in life is what has made a difference of me being who I am and me being a failure, so I encourage everybody to find mentors,” Frisch said. Eventually, the company invested in better equipment, most notedly a three-color flexo folder gluer. It was per- forming beautifully, then within 45 days of startup, the economy collapsed setting off the recession of 2008. It was a stressful time to be making big payments on equip- ment, but Wasatch Container survived that crisis, wiser to the importance of keeping debt in balance. It was just one of the lessons he would stress as a men- tor himself to other box makers and chairman of the AICC. What's Luck Got To Do With It? He’s been told often over the years that he is lucky, but Frisch doesn’t think so. “I don’t believe in luck,” he said. “My definition of luck is when experience meets opportunity. If you don’t have experience, you don’t have opportunity.” Such was the case in 2010 when talking to a Boeing representative who was complimenting them on how great they were as a foam and corrugated manufacturer and that he wished his crate supplier was half as good. Though Wasatch wasn’t in the crate market, they told the man they absolutely built crates. “He said, ‘Great, when can you start supplying us the crates?’ I said, ‘Sir, right now we’re about 8 to 12 weeks out,’” Frisch said. Frisch said they purchased top-of-the-line equipment for the crate operation, and at less than $30,000, it was still less than the glue system on their flexo folder gluer. “Be prepared for what can happen to you in business,” he said. “You see an opportunity, you seize it.” In 2010, Wasatch Container was now a corrugated sheet plant, fabricator, and crate builder. His son, Ryan, Vice President of Sales, and daughter, Lauren, Vice Presi- dent of Administration, joined him at the helm, and today, each own 19.5 percent of the company. “I can’t tell you how wonderful it is to have great part- ners in business,” he said. A Second-Generation Company By 2019, Frisch said they had reached an inflection point and called a family meeting. “We needed to decide who we were and what we were going to do — sell the business or expand,” he said. “The question was answered in seconds. Both my kids said, ‘Dad, we’re all in. Let’s roll.’” That year they bought the lot next to them, hired an ar- chitect and started on a new building just before the Covid pandemic became the next kink in the chain. Supply chain and labor issues were just a couple of the

ARC INTERNATIONAL www.ARCInternational.com

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

AES (ADVANCED EQUIPMENT SALES) www.aesales.net

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

CORRUGATED MACHINERY SPECIALISTS www.cmsretrofits.com

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

CORRUGATOR BELT SERVICE LLC www.corrugator.com

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

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