January 5, 2026
VOL. 42 NO. 1
BoardConverting Serving the North American Corrugated and Folding Carton Industries for 40 years
2026 Converter Outlook, Part I: Creativity, Innovation Continues BY ASHLEY PRAZYCH Each year, Board Converting News invites converters, suppliers, and industry partners to share their outlooks on the year ahead—both for their own businesses and for the corrugated and folding carton indus- try as a whole. As we head into 2026, those perspectives point to an industry that continues to lean on creativity and innovation to navigate
PaperWorks Acquires Color Craft Graphic Arts Fort Washington, Pennsylvania based Paper- Works Industries Inc., a leading North Amer- ican producer of 100% recycled paperboard and folding carton packaging, has announced the acquisition of Color Craft Graphic Arts (Color Craft). Color Craft is a Manitowoc, Wisconsin based producer of packaging for food, bever- age, and household goods. “This acquisition aligns with our strategy of growth and further supports our ongoing investment and commitment to our custom- ers,” says Brian Janki, President and CEO of PaperWorks. “Color Craft meets our criteria for geographic alignment with our mill system and folding carton network, diverse customer mix, and overall cultural fit.” Gregg Weber, President & CEO of Col- or Craft, who will join the PaperWorks team, comments, “We are thrilled to join an organi- zation that emulates our values and has an outstanding reputation in the industry. This is a great opportunity for the Manitowoc team to thrive within a larger folding carton network and leverage mill integration to deliver the highest level of service to our customers.”
change. Investments in technology, people, and process remain top of mind, even as questions around markets, costs, and regulation lin- ger. Still, the outlooks reflect a steady confidence rooted in experience and adaptability. In Part I of our 2026 Converter Outlook, contributors share how they’re positioning their organizations for the year ahead and where they see opportunity taking shape across the industry. ACME CORRUGATED BOX CO. Hatboro, Pennsylvania: Bob Cohen Reports: “As the end of the year approaches questions arise about what the year 2026 will look like. One cannot help but take notice of a pronounced shift in the use of our product. The major producers who garner 80 percent of the market are seeing volume declines that were last seen in 2015, prior to the pandemic period. “While the years 2020 and 2021 were banner years for box con- verters, we are now seeing substitutions for corrugated packaging for- merly used for the shipment of goods purchased on the internet. The adjustments have been painful, as noted by the closure of almost four CONTINUED ON PAGE 20
CONTINUED ON PAGE 3
WHAT’S INSIDE AICC Opens Super Early Bird Registration For Spring Meeting 10 Pratt Industries Hosts Grand Opening Of New Box Factory 14 Community Colleges: Hidden Gems For Manufacturing Talent 18 Economic Improvements To Continue In 2026, ISM Reports 6 x x 8 x x 12 x x 26 x x
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BCN Now Accepting Submissions For Annual Supplier Reports It’s that time of year again! Board Converting News is ac- cepting submissions for 2026 Supplier Reports. If you are a current advertiser in BCN and your company has up- dates, ideas, or plans for the coming year, this is an oppor- tunity to share them with the whole independent corrugat- ed community. Is your company introducing new equipment or ser- vices? Expanding capabilities or focusing on new mar- kets? The annual Supplier Report is free advertising space to highlight what you’re working on, what’s driving your priorities, and what’s on deck for 2026. Suppliers of equipment, machinery, and services are encouraged to participate by submitting an article approx- imately 750 words in length, along with a headshot of the contributor or designated company representative. As with all editorial content, submissions may be edited for length or clarity. There is no cost to participate, as this annual check-in is part of our ongoing effort to recognize and express our gratitude to the companies that support our publication and the greater corrugated industry. The submission deadline is Friday, January 16, 2026. Submissions and questions can be directed to Ashley Pra- zych at aprazych@nvpublications.com.
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
PaperWorks (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1)
With the addition of Color Craft’s folding carton facility and welcoming 120 new team members, PaperWorks ex- pands its fully integrated folding carton network to include two paperboard mills and six converting facilities across the United States and Canada. Color Craft was advised by Mesirow on the transaction. PaperWorks supplies independent packaging convert- ers with coated recycled paperboard and provides sus- tainable, fiber-based packaging solutions to consumer products companies, emphasizing innovation and market differentiation for reputable brands. Visit www.onepaperworks.com for more information.
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AICC Opens Super Early Bird Registration For Spring Meeting AICC, The Independent Packaging Association, has of- ficially opened Super Early Bird registration for its 2026 Spring Meeting, giving industry professionals a chance to lock in the lowest registration rate well ahead of April. The Super Early Bird deadline is Friday, February 13. Set for April 13–15, 2026, the Spring Meeting heads to the Omni La Costa Resort & Spa in Carlsbad, California. Over three days, converters, suppliers, and industry part- ners will gather to share ideas, challenge assumptions, and reconnect with peers, something AICC meetings have long been known for. Equal parts education and conver- sation, the Spring Meeting continues to be a place where real industry dialogue happens. The 2026 theme, “Legacy in Action – Inspiring To- morrow’s Leaders,” was selected by Terri-Lynn Levesque, AICC’s 2025–2026 Chair. The theme reflects a moment many companies find themselves in today: honoring the practices and values that built this industry while actively preparing the next generation to lead it forward. Rather than choosing between tradition and innovation, the focus is on blending the two—pairing fresh thinking, new tools, and emerging leadership styles with the experience, disci- pline, and work ethic that have given corrugated and pa- per packaging its staying power.
That balance carries through the event’s programming, which is designed to be practical, relevant, and timely. Sessions will dig into leadership succession planning that actually works, how artificial intelligence is beginning to reshape business operations, and ways to build resilient, high-clarity teams during periods of constant change. At- tendees can also expect discussions around cybersecurity threats in packaging, emotional intelligence as a leader- ship skill, economic conditions affecting paper and pack- aging, and updates on sustainability, greenwashing, and evolving regulatory pressures. The speaker line-up comprises a diverse group of thought leaders and industry experts, including: • Jim Carroll: Futurist, Business Trends, Leadership & In- novation Expert • Ross Bernstein: Inspirational Business Speaker & Best-Selling Sports Author • Matt Eichmann: Founder & Leadership Advisor, Cata- lyst Point Leadership Advisors • George Staphos: Managing Director, Bank of America Merrill Lynch • Jules VanSant: Executive Director, Two Sides North America • Todd Zielinski: Managing Director/CEO, Athena SWC With its mix of insight, conversation, and connection, the 2026 AICC Spring Meeting is shaping up to be a meaningful stop on the industry calendar. To register, visit www.aiccbox.org .
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The Boxery Expands U.S. Network, Boosts Supply Chain Resilience Brooklyn, New York based The Boxery, a national supplier of shipping supplies and corrugated packaging, has ex- panded its U.S. fulfillment network as part of an effort to improve service reliability for cardboard box orders amid ongoing supply-chain variability. The move is intended to shorten transit times and support more consistent prod- uct availability during periods of elevated demand. With this expansion, orders will now ship from multiple warehouse locations across the United States, reducing reliance on single-region distribution and helping offset disruptions tied to weather events, regional congestion, or seasonal volume spikes. The expanded footprint is also aimed at improving replenishment predictability for commonly used SKUs. The network supports a broad range of corrugated packaging formats, including standard-strength boxes, heavy-duty cartons, corrugated mailers, and retail pack- aging. The Boxery reports maintaining inventory across more than 1,000 box sizes, with an emphasis on standard cube and mailer formats that account for a significant share of e-commerce and B2B shipments. The expansion is being phased in to align with typ- ical retail and industrial seasonality, with initial inven- tory depth prioritized for products that historically see
increased order volume in the first and fourth quarters. Rep- resentatives from The Boxery said this approach is intend- ed to support continuity during promotional cycles, product launches, and end-of-year demand surges. In addition to its expanded distribution footprint, The Boxery continues to offer wholesale purchasing options for higher-volume customers, including negotiated pricing and coordinated replenishment programs. It noted that these
services are intended to help customers manage cyclical demand and reduce last-minute sourcing challenges. The expanded fulfillment model reflects a broader trend among packaging suppliers toward decentralized distri- bution as customers place increased emphasis on speed, availability, and supply-chain resilience.
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Pratt Industries Hosts Grand Opening Of Warner Robins Box Factory Conyers, Georgia based Pratt Industries announced the grand opening of its new fruit and vegetable box factory with a plaque unveiling and guests including U.S. Secre- tary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins and former U.S. Secre- tary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue. The plant is 496,000 square feet, uses recycled materi- als and creates more than 100 local jobs. Secretary Rollins says the factory supports farmers in many areas, such as providing customized, sustainable packaging that protects produce during stacking, transport and storage. “They are challenging the most challenging farm econ- omy many have experienced in their lifetime,” Rollins said. “And there are a lot of reasons for that: the cost of their
inputs, interest rates went up 73 percent. Labor under the other admin, coming down now but went up 47 percent. Fuel went up 36 percent, and fertilizer 28 percent.” Rollins says Georgia is in the worst farm economy we’ve seen in a long time.
“All of the polls we’ve seen, that is in ru- ral America,” he said. “How are you feeling, how are your farmers and ranchers feeling. They are responding higher than ever be- fore, saying that they are excited and opti- mistic about the future.” Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Ty- ler Harper says using state products to advance Georgia farming is a strong op- portunity. “That is investment in American jobs, that is investment in American jobs in American farm families and the farm econ- omy,” Harper said. “And it showcases how agriculture is connected across all econo- mies. It truly is the backbone of who we are as a nation and a state.” Rollins says they will continue to mea- sure their success year after year. “And just this facility and what Anthony has done and built out this manufacturing plant, providing more jobs here in Ameri- ca,” Rollins said. “These are boxes for fruits and veggies, so it is an ecosystem that builds upon itself.” Smurfit Westrock Breaks Ground In Sonora, Mexico Dublin, Ireland based Smurfit Westrock, a producer of sustainable paper and pack- aging, has begun construction of its new production plant in Cajeme, Sonora, in which it will invest $65 million. At an event attended by state and mu- nicipal authorities, Smurfit Westrock ex- ecutives explained that the plant aims to CONTINUED ON PAGE 12
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Smurfit Westrock (CONT’D FROM PAGE 10)
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strengthen its presence in northwestern Mexico and re- spond to growing demand for packaging. Jorge Alberto Ángel, CEO of Smurfit Westrock, said: “With the construction of this plant, we are reaffirming our commitment to economic development, not only in Sono- ra, but throughout Mexico. We are also reiterating our re- sponsibility to our customers, to whom we provide world- class packaging, designed with a focus on innovation and sustainability.” The corrugated, micro-corrugated, and high-graphic folding carton packaging plant is scheduled to begin op- erations in early 2027. It will feature state-of-the-art tech- nology that will optimize processes and provide more effi- cient solutions to customers in various industries, such as beer, food, and beverages. Smurfit Westrock’s new facilities have been designed to strict environmental standards, in line with the compa- ny’s global strategy to reduce its environmental impact. Company executives highlighted that the construction and commissioning of this plant will generate more than 800 direct and indirect jobs, promoting the growth and de- velopment of the community. Smurfit Westrock has a workforce of approximately 100,000 employees. The company is present in 40 coun- tries with more than 500 packaging conversion operations and 59 paper mills.
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.
Len Prazych at 518-366-9017 lprazych@nvpublications.com
12 January 5, 2026
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Community Colleges: Hidden Gems For Manufacturing Workforce According to an article on Packaging Dive , community col- leges are gaining traction as a pool for the next generation of the manufacturing workforce. That’s according to a se- ries of reports by The Rutgers Education and Employment Research Center released in October, which examines the “hidden innovative structure” of America’s community col- leges. The manufacturing industry has long bemoaned the decline of its workforce. Yet today’s manufacturing educa- tional pathways look much like they did in the ’80s, when hiring numbers began declining. Apprenticeship programs remain scarce, with just 678,000 apprentices registered nationwide (in compari- son, Germany’s labor force is less than a third of the U.S.’ yet maintains 1.22 million apprentices). And according to one Dewalt survey, students believe that trade schools are costly and offer limited networking opportunities. Community colleges excel in ways conducive to a suc- cessful manufacturing career, said Shalin Jyotishi, founder of the Future of Work & Innovation Economy Initiative at think tank New America. The schools are accessible, closely plugged into the local manufacturing industry and usually more affordable. For many people, Jyotishi said, a community college is the
best way to enroll in a program that offers all the benefits of an apprenticeship. Community colleges allow students to enroll in cred- it-bearing courses, which can open future doors to oppor- tunities in advanced manufacturing and beyond. What Makes Community Colleges Unique Unlike many higher education institutions, community col- leges are able to develop, tailor and put specialized cours- es in manufacturing on offer at a quick pace. Students at Ohio-based Clark State College, for exam- ple, can obtain up to 14 manufacturing certificates, which can be applied toward a Bachelor of Applied Science de- gree in Manufacturing Technology Management. President Jo Blondin said much of this is created ac- cording to the Developing A Curriculum model, which cen- ters industry input. Simultaneously, Blondin said, the college’s engineering tech coordinator organized another advisory meeting to “obtain key insights to evolving advanced manufacturing skills desired by industry partners.” This included partic- ipants from Amazon, American Pan, Honda, LH Battery, Rittal, Sweet, Topre and Valco. Maintaining excellent industry relationships isn’t just a boon for the curriculum, it also allows colleges to offer training with a degree of job placement support. While still employed at Honda, Scot McLemore helped develop an apprenticeship program for manufacturing in which stu- CONTINUED ON PAGE 16
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Community College (CONT’D FROM PAGE 14)
dents could interview for and do paid work at a local ad- vanced manufacturing employer for three days a week. And while there was no guarantee, “it was the intention of both the company and the college for that student to then be employed with that company at the end of that apprenticeship,” said McLemore, who now serves as the vice president of the Office of Talent Strategy at Columbus State Community College. At worst, the student walked away with a network, real-life experience and skills tested in a live manufacturing environment. Community colleges also offer something that many ap- prenticeships do not: following their coursework, students have the flexibility to move away from manufacturing. “Some of these students are going to be transfer stu- dents that go on for a four-year degree. The others are go- ing to go directly into industry either with their associate’s degree or noncredit learning and completion certificate,” said McLemore, referring to the noncredit bearing course- work that manufacturing training is usually categorized under. According to a Rutgers report, community colleges are “filling knowledge and coordination gaps among local manufacturers and acting as ‘innovation brokers’ by link- ing their programs to the needs of local employers.” “Faculty are able to work with employers, because that is the sole mission of community colleges. They don’t have to balance research with teaching. They just do the teach- ing,” said Jyotishi, while acknowledging that community colleges are not a monolith. There’s also the fact that the “noncredit” nature of many manufacturing programs allows “faster time to program creation.” While credit-bearing programs have to move through faculty senates and the accreditation process, their “noncredit” counterparts allow colleges to quickly meet the customized training needs of manufacturers, Jy- otishi said. The Community College Manufacturing Pipeline In the United States, people seeking a manufacturing ca- reer have “too many options” when it comes to certifica- tions and credentials, Jyotishi said. According to Credential Engine, there are more than 1 million unique credentials available in the U.S. across sectors including IT, healthcare, manufacturing and more. This, coupled with the fact that not enough data exists on which certifications lead to better employment outcomes, means students must often make difficult choices with lit- tle guarantee of results. “In other countries, there’s much more sophisticated mechanisms to curate pathways into jobs. For us, it’s the wild west,” Jyotishi said. Manufacturers can help develop a skilled workforce by teaming up with their local community college on course- work development, or even offering a work-based learn- ing arrangement that benefits both the student and the manufacturing business.
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FOLDING SECTION UPGRADES THAT MOVE THE INDUSTRY FORWARD
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Economic Improvements Expected To Continue In 2026, ISM Reports According to the nation’s purchasing and supply manage- ment executives in the December 2025 ISM Supply Chain Planning Forecast (formerly known as the Semiannual Economic Forecast), economic improvement in the United States will continue in 2026. Revenues are expected to increase in 16 of 18 manu- facturing industries and 16 of 18 services-sector industries. Capital expenditures are expected to increase by 3 per- cent in the manufacturing sector (after a 3.5-percent in- crease in 2025) and increase by 2.5 percent in the services sector (after a 3.9-percent increase in 2025). In 2026, em- ployment is expected to grow by 0.4 percentage point in manufacturing and 2.5 percent in services. After projected growth in manufacturing and services in the first half of the year, growth in the second half is projected to accelerate in manufacturing and slightly decrease momentum in the services sector. Expectations for 2026 are positive, as 56 percent of survey respondents expect revenues to be greater in 2026 than in 2025. The panel of purchasing and supply executives expects a 4.4-percent net increase in overall revenues for 2026, compared to a 2.5 percentage point increase reported for 2025. Manufacturing industries ex- pect revenue improvement in 2026, with the largest pro- jected increases in Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Computer & Electronic Products; and Chemical Products. “Manufacturing’s purchasing and supply executives ex- pect to see overall growth in 2026. They are optimistic about overall business prospects for the first half of 2026 and more excited about faster growth in the second half. According to the ISM® PMI® Reports, manufacturing was in contraction for the ninth month in a row in November. Respondents continue to expect raw materials pricing pressure in 2026 and see first-half 2025 profit margins im- proving over the second half of 2025. Manufacturers also predict growth in exports while imports stay the same in 2026,” says Spence. In the manufacturing sector, respondents report the companies operating at 82.4 percent of normal capacity, up 3.2 percentage from the 79.2 percent reported in May 2025. Purchasing and supply executives predict that cap- ital expenditures will increase year over year by 3 percent in 2026, compared to a 3.5-percent increase reported for 2025. Manufacturers expect employment in the sector to grow by 0.4 percentage point in 2026 relative to Decem- ber 2025 levels, while labor and benefit costs are expect- ed to increase an average of 2.5 percent. The Business Survey Panel predicts that prices paid for raw materials will increase 5.4 percent during the first five months of the year, with an overall increase of 4.4 percent for 2026. This compares favorably to a reported 5.4-per- cent increase in raw materials prices in 2025.
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Converter Outlook (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1)
through our facility. We are quite proud of our operation as it stands. Our future plans include several major chang- es. We have on order two entirely automated flexo lines for delivery in late 2026 and early 2027. Orders are in for a complete makeover of our finishing lines including new unitizers and a new conveyance system. “We will be exploring the use of AI to further enhance our ability to service our clients and run our internal opera- tions more efficiently. The focus will remain on the custom- er and the ever-changing requirements that commerce im- plies. We will search globally for the best paper available. We continue to look at box structure and ways to increase the value proposition we make available to our clients. We will continue to be a counter point to our larger competi- tors in both responsiveness and service. “The differentiator remains who the client can depend on. Our clients’ success hinges on fulfilling their obliga- tions to their clients. It sounds basic, but believe me, our success has been sustained by having the passion oth- ers lack. While we are smaller than the competitors men- tioned, we don’t lack resources. If allowed, we use a ho- listic approach in resolving clients’ supply issues. We are looking for ways to improve on what our clients are doing at present. Being a resource separates us from the way others approach the market. Being innovative and creative often gives us a second look. In a highly competitive prod- uct, you need to use all the business wisdom that you have CONTINUED ON PAGE 22
million tons of containerboard capacity (almost 10 percent of North American capacity). Healthy industries do not shrink themselves. So, the question becomes, what are
the five major producers thinking? What is their strategy? Do they tru- ly believe that raising prices will in some way halt the obvious decline? “Hasn’t it been pointed out in the Bloomberg publication that as pric- es rise there is a concomitant loss of industry volume? Maybe some
Bob Cohen
soul searching regarding ‘bigness” should be in order? Clearly the pricing power and the synergies hoped for in the merger frenzy have not materialized. Instead, rational- ization of assets continues unabated. With rare exception, I wouldn’t wish to be on the Wall Street ‘hot seat,’ which is where many of these companies are headed. In the search for cost reduction, greater reach and greater efficiency, they don’t appear to be gaining what was hoped for. As an independent, we don’t have industry pricing power--inde- pendents have less than 10 percent of the total market--so all we can do is watch the fiasco unfold. In the end the industry dysfunction, while worrisome, is not a disadvan- tage for us. “For the years 2026 (and 2027), we will continue our efforts to become more efficient in processing work
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310-346-5476 markneely5476@gmail.com ■ www.markneelyseminars.com
20 January 5, 2026
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Converter Outlook (CONT’D FROM PAGE 20)
business and operations. By focusing on our mission of “Solving urgent and complex packaging problems” and staying true to our values of “Thinking differently, being unapologetically transparent and willing to do the hard things,” we not only preserved margin performance but also positioned ourselves for continued growth heading into 2026. “Tavens 2025 results reflect a business that under- stands its environment, adapts quickly, and executes con- sistently. In a year where many competitors struggled to maintain footing, Tavens demonstrated that strong fun- damentals, customer-first strategy, and defined focus can still drive positive outcomes even in the most challenging market conditions. “Across producers, analysts, and the financial com- munity, there is near-universal expectation of a Q1 2026 price increase attempt. Many insiders say they would be “shocked” if the industry didn’t try. Their case rests on: • 9.5–10 percent capacity removal • Consolidated networks • Operating rates above 90 percent • Margin rebuilding following M&A and inflation • A disciplined supply base “But customers tell a very different story: ‘Demand isn’t there.’ With shipments at decade lows and consumer goods markets constrained, many buyers say they would be ‘absolutely shocked’ if a 2026 price hike sticks — char-
gained over the years to stay in the game. “When all is said and done, I remain an optimist. We are poised for whatever the economy throws at us. We have a great team and a history of riding out the cycles. So, if 2026 has some surprises I am confident that we are more than able to meet the challenge.” TAVENS PACKAGING & DISPLAY SOLUTIONS Bedford, Ohio: Mike Schaefer reports: “Despite operating in one of the most volatile and structurally shifting mar- kets the sector has seen in years, Tavens delivered strong performance in 2025. While the broader industry grappled
with weak demand, ongoing tariff pressure, elevated inflation, and ag- gressive supply-side restructuring from major producers, Tavens main- tained stability, strengthened cus- tomer relationships, and continued to outperform expectations through organic and inorganic growth.
Mike Schaefer
“Throughout 2025, the market was defined by soft shipments, a shallow manufacturing recession, and rapid- ly tightening capacity engineered by the largest players. These dynamics created uncertainty for converters and end-users alike — yet Tavens was able to navigate the tur- bulence with discipline, agility, and a clear focus on new
CONTINUED ON PAGE 24
Serving the North American Corrugated and Folding Carton Industries Since 1985 DRIVE your message to the GREEN... with the credibility of Board Converting News behind it! Sponsor a weekly Monday morning issue blast or we can ‘Tee It Up’ any time you like to our full online circulation of 7,500+. You provide the copy, images and link to a video or website and we’ll do the rest!
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22 January 5, 2026
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Converter Outlook (CONT’D FROM PAGE 22)
acterizing producer confidence as ‘hope, not fact.’ The market should expect: • Additional capacity closures as large producers contin- ue network rationalization • A Q1 price increase attempt, the success of which de- pends more on discipline than fundamentals • Ongoing disconnects between published indices and the true transactional market Two possible paths emerge: • Demand stabilizes and tariff pressures ease: Capacity cuts become the foundation for a tighter, more profit- able market. Pricing power solidifies and margins nor- malize. • Manufacturing recession deepens, tariffs escalate: Pro- ducers remain reliant on aggressive supply discipline, and price increases become more difficult to sustain. “The era of demand-led pricing is over. In our opinion, Containerboard in 2026 will be defined by supply engi- neering, disciplined capacity management, and consoli- dation-driven restructuring. The industry’s confidence in a 2026 price hike is less an economic forecast than a test of Big Paper’s resolve — and a signal that the market has entered a fundamentally new phase. “Tavens will continue to “Think Differently” as we tackle the obstacles that 2026 throws our way and are excited
Follow Board Converting News on LinkedIn and Facebook to get the most current news and information for the corrugated and folding carton industries.
Len Prazych at 518-366-9017 lprazych@nvpublications.com
CONTINUED ON PAGE 26
• Machinery selection • Plant layout • Project Management • Consulting
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24 January 5, 2026
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Converter Outlook (CONT’D FROM PAGE 24)
Board Converting NEWS INTERNET DIRECTORY
for what the coming year brings as we strive for continued growth.” VALLEY CONTAINER Bridgeport, Connecticut: Robert Niedermeier reports: “‘Tepid’ would be the word I’d use to describe the sales environment this past year at Valley Container. Talking with many other box makers, it would appear we’re not
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.
alone despite some pockets of great sales in different areas. While the year may not have been a re- cord one akin to the post Covid years, the steady pace at which we have progressed allowed us to gear up for the coming years. “The expectation for 2026 is
Robert Niedermeier
‘more of the same’ with a ‘better than last year’ mentality. More of the same regarding a steady business environ- ment and climate given the national and global pressures abound. Nationally, I don’t expect an expansion which would create a boom, and I don’t expect a major recession that would cause extreme contraction either. Tarriff pres- sure, pricing pressures related to the affordability conver- sation, coupled with as steady of a political climate (albeit divisive) means that slow and steady is what I expect for the coming year. So, more of the same. “The big question on the table these days seems to be who does the country want to be? The dividing lines chal- lenge capitalism in many ways, yet the gluttonous streak of the country can’t but help to embrace the consumeristic tendencies that have brought us to today. Throw on top of that pricing pressures which the majority of the country feels every day. “The result is a sour pill to swallow for a country that would love to spend but simply has to show enough re- straint not to in order to keep food on the table and the lights one. A struggle that will keep consumer spending limited thereby continuing our tepid environment for the packaging sector. “My guess is that this environment will continue for the foreseeable future, just like in the Obama years. Unfortu- nately, it will take an ‘event’ of some magnitude to break the malaise, hopefully for the good. While Covid did just that, we can’t say that a pandemic is something that ulti- mately was a good thing, even if it shook up the economy and lead to some banner years. Our outlook is one where we simply stay poised to jump should opportunity pres- ent itself, continue to execute our five- and ten-year goals, while remaining fiscally sound should another negative turn in the economy present itself. “‘Better than last’ for Valley Container means we’re geared up to take captive some efficiency expectations from the last 13 months of capital investment. Starting last November, we have installed a new Baysek, Vega special-
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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26 January 5, 2026
Converter Outlook (CONT’D FROM PAGE 26)
Board Converting NEWS INTERNET DIRECTORY
ty gluer, and are in the beginning stages of installing our new Flexo Folder Gluer from TCY. “We know that with the new plant layout and invest- ments in capital equipment, 2026 will be better than last year for the whole company. Running new equipment buoys plant moral and excites the team as we look forward to ‘what’s next’ for the factory. The new equipment allows us to target new customers with the new capabilities we didn’t have before for gluing, zero waste/nicking cutting, and tricks we plan to run on the new TCY. “If 2026 means we are in a sound position to navigate whatever the year brings and excited as a company to not only play with our new toys but master them, I know the year will be a good one for sure.” VOLK PACKAGING Biddeford, Maine: Derek Volk reports: “As Maine’s only lo- cally owned and operated corrugated box manufacturer, I am cautiously optimistic about 2026. I am an optimistic person by nature, but this is the box business, so I am not over when running a manufacturing plant, from high labor and capital expenses to anti-business governments mak- ing terrible decisions like we have here in Maine, and a Federal government issuing tariffs that are hurting many of our customers with higher costs on everything, thus driv- ing them to seek lower box prices to survive. Despite what comes at us, every day we strive toward our vision to be a great place to work, take care of our customers, thrive financially, and give back to the community. It is our inten- tion to pursue that vision for many years to come but it is not easy to be a manufacturer these days. “The competition for workers is fierce so it is import- ant to, no pun intended, think outside the box when at- tracting people to come work at your box shop. At Volk Packaging, we offer all the standard benefits but if you are content with the same results as everyone else, do just what everyone else is doing. If you want better results, do something different. We have fun with events like the bi-annual Corrugated Olympics and recently, the Forklift Olympics. We offer additional services at no cost to our employees, such as Marketplace Chaplains who come in every week in case someone needs to talk. (Stress is im- pacting your workplace more than you realize). We also provide Concierge Health Advocacy giving employees a doctor to speak to about themselves or a loved one at no cost, whether they are on our healthcare plan or not. sure I have ever started a year with any other viewpoint. I have a great deal of faith in my team, and have no concerns we will thrive in 2026, but I have to be realistic and that comes with some caution that it will not be easy to achieve our goals. “There are many hurdles to jump Derek Volk
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.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 30
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