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
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22 January 5, 2026
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