Board Converting News, October 6, 2025

BoardConverting Serving the North American Corrugated and Folding Carton Industries for 39 years October 6, 2025 VOL. 41, NO. 40

Morrisette Packaging Explodes Onto Corrugated Landscape BY LEN PRAZYCH It’s early September in Browns Summit, North Carolina. I am seated alongside a group of key decision-makers and talent from Morrisette Packaging as they gather in their design center to talk a bit about the future. We’ve just finished a tour of their headquarters in Greensboro, North Carolina, where they showed me the layout and floor plan of what they say will soon become one of North America’s premier corru- gated manufacturing facilities.

Welch Packaging Merges With Elite Packaging Elkhart, Indiana based Welch Packaging Group, Inc., a family-owned and operated manufacturer of custom corrugated products, has announced its merger with Elite Packag- ing of Jeffersonville, IN. Founded in 2015, Elite Packaging has built a solid reputation in a competitive market by being solutions-focused and service-driven. Like Welch, Elite prioritizes relationships—de- veloping customized programs and packag- ing through close collaboration. “We are excited to expand our presence in this region and welcome Krista Uhl and Kristy Murphy to our management team,” stated Scott Welch, President and CEO of Welch Packaging. “I have known them for many years and am honored they chose us as a partner to continue their journey. I am

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WHAT’S INSIDE 10 Jamestown Container Receives Multiple FBA Awards 12 SUN Automation’s Board Leads, Inspires, Innovates 32 Domtar Releases New Global Indigenous Relations Policy 36 PPC To Host 2025 Fall Meeting In Vancouver 42 Kelly Box Celebrates 70 Years Of Packaging Excellence 50 Lawrence Paper Box Paves Road To Success With Engico 58 Remaining Enthusiastic In A Pressurized World

As we settle in, they crack jokes with each other and share snip- pets of stories from their recent European road trip—the trip that led to a multi-million-dollar investment, which we are here today to dis- cuss. They are welcoming and casual, as they explain why they believe these major investments from Morrisette Packaging are positioning the third-generation family-owned enterprise as a market leader in the North American high graphics corrugated market. Since its founding in 1962, the company has evolved from being a distributor of paper bags, foil liners, and tissue paper into a full-ser- vice packaging partner centered around packaging design and design thinking. Today, Morrisette Packaging is recognized as a premier pack- aging design center that collaborates with companies seeking to The Morrisette Packaging management team: From left, Mike Bowman, Technical Manager; Kevin O’Brien, Dir. of Manufacturing; John Morrisette, President; Harrison Hood, Executive VP of Sales; Robbie Workman, Execu- tive Director of Marketing Design; and Kris Vermilion, Director of Marketing.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 44

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October 6, 2025

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October 6, 2025

Investor Chatter Drowns Out Box Market Fundamentals BY RYAN FOX

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

Investors appear to be leading the chorus for a container- board price increase — and the calls are louder than usu-

al. In recent months, analysts have issued buy ratings on paper-pack- aging stocks, often linking them to the possibility of at least one price hike in 2026. Their optimism comes despite a mismatch with market fundamentals. Mill closures and price-hike

Ryan Fox

Welch Packaging Merges (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1)

announcements tend to send stocks higher, as investors assume more pricing power means more profit. But history shows that’s not always the case. Though Packaging Corp. of America has maintained margins through past hikes, In- ternational Paper’s earnings power has eroded. The newly formed Smurfit Westrock is betting it can reverse years of dysfunction and follow a more sustainable path. By traditional measures, the setup for a near-term price increase isn’t there. Mill operating rates remain soft, inven- tories are average, and costs for key inputs like old corru- gated containers (OCC) and natural gas are easing. Any sudden tightening in supply would likely be viewed as ar-

humbled to finally be on the same team. They bring fresh expertise in distribution, kitting, and fulfillment and will re- turn to their roots to drive sales in Kentucky, Indiana and beyond, if you know these ladies.” “Our combined strengths—Elite’s experience and Welch’s network of sheet plants—will create new oppor- tunities for customers, vendors, and associates. This part- nership perfectly aligns with our aspiration to join forces with outstanding independent packaging companies led by strong leaders. We’re proud to welcome Elite into our

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October 6, 2025

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Investor Chatter (CONT’D FROM PAGE 5)

Instead, they negotiate directly with producers and feed those prices into should-cost models. The formula is straightforward: paper cost divided by 0.65 yields a target box price. By that math, major CPG brands expect box pric- es of $1,150–$1,200, compared with an industry average of

tificial against a backdrop of weak demand. So why push for higher prices? Executive pay struc- tures may help explain it. Compensation at major integrat-

ed producers is closely tied to stock price, return on in- vested capital and EPS — all metrics that rise when paper prices do. Yet box buyers are more sophisticated than ever. Many now reject the benchmark index, which sits about $200 a ton above actual market levels in the US and Europe.

$1,300 last year, according to Fibre Box Association data. Independents are the quiet winners, able to secure real discounts on containerboard while passing through index-based increases to customers who “buy the bench- mark.” That spread supports healthier margins, reinvest-

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Investor Chatter (CONT’D FROM PAGE 7)

Play it Safe

ment in equipment and a widening gap with the majors. Integrateds, by contrast, cut prices to keep volume, then pursue another hike. The cycle can eventually starve the majors of capital, leaving them with outdated equipment that’s too expensive to replace. Even if producers succeed in pushing through a hike, higher prices could accelerate substitution. Amazon.com’s 2024 Sustainability Report showed that 50 percent of its shipments already use flexible plastic or paper mailers. One distributor told Green Markets this month it had re- placed 20 million boxes with mailers. Fruit and vegetable growers are also eyeing returnable plastic containers or plastic corrugated, citing waxed box prices above $2.50 each, compared with $1.80 for plastic alternatives. Re- tailers such as Walmart and Sprouts are pushing for the use of RPCs for fresh produce, claiming environmental and product-damage benefits. Comparisons against non- waxed corrugated don’t always show reduced costs, but that could change with more price hikes. Linerboard’s price elasticity was quantified in work cited in a recent price-fixing lawsuit. The 2008 paper by Haizheng Li and Jafeng Luo showed that a one percent increase in linerboard prices reduces demand by 0.18 per- cent. Since 2024, benchmark linerboard prices have risen $120 a ton, or about 14.5 percent, implying a 2.6 percent drop in volume — in line with industry trends. Whether the decline is caused by price or just correlates with it remains unclear. If producers pursue another $70 hike in 2026, the math suggests box demand could fall an additional 1.3 per- cent. Lowering prices doesn’t appear to be an option. The investor chorus may be getting louder, but the market fun- damentals — and the buyers reshaping them — suggest it’s badly off-key. Ryan Fox can be reached at rfox93@bloomberg.net or (609) 279-3849. Welch Packaging Merges (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1) family of companies while preserving the legacy they’ve built,” said Welch. This marks Welch’s 41st acquisition—coinciding with its 40th anniversary year. “Our goal has always been to pro- vide an umbrella for family businesses who may not have strong succession plans, growth resources, or exit strate- gies,” Welch continued. “These companies typically have deep ties to their associates, customers, and communi- ties. We want these businesses to see Welch Packaging as a lifeline—an opportunity to protect their legacy while continuing to grow.” For Elite’s customers and associates, the merger un- derscores Welch’s commitment to serving the region with expanded capabilities and a great associate experience. “We are thrilled to join the Welch Packaging family,” said CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

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October 6, 2025

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Welch Packaging Merges (CONT’D FROM PAGE 8)

hanced products, technology, and a broader services footprint to our customers, while providing greater oppor- tunities and purpose for our team. “Our partnership with Welch in the Louisville area is particularly timely for our customers, given the significant changes we have seen recently in this market. We’re es- pecially excited to work alongside Lindsay Welch and Em- ily Welch Stiglitz of the Welch family — both accomplished women business owners whose leadership and vision are helping to shape the future of Welch Packaging.” Jamestown Container Receives Multiple FBA Safety Awards Jamestown, New York based Jamestown Container Com- panies is proud to announce that it has been recognized

Krista Uhl and Kristy Murphy. “We’ve shared a friendship

with Scott and many of his team members for years. Be- coming part of the Welch network allows us to offer en- From left, Kristy Murphy (Elite), Scott Welch (Welch Packag- ing), Krista Uhl (Elite).

with two prestigious honors from the Fibre Box Association (FBA): the 2024 Perfect Plant Award and the 2024 Safety Excellence Award. The Perfect Plant Award highlights its Cattaraugus Container Inc. (Franklinville, NY) division’s achievement in operating a full calendar year with zero incidents.

The Safety Excellence Award recognizes the company’s Midwest Box (Cleveland, OH) division, and Macedonia, OH and Lyons, NY facilities for having operated a full calendar year with no accidents involving days away from work. “We are incredibly honored to receive these awards from the Fibre Box Associ- ation,” said Joseph M. Palmeri, President. “These recognitions are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, whose focus on continuous improvement and safety has positioned us as a leader in the packaging industry.” With nearly 70 years of experience, Jamestown Container continues to deliver high-quality, sustainable packaging solu- tions across the Great Lakes Region. Kristen Erwin, Regional General Manager, left; Nelson Alicea, Operator, Discovery Flexo Fold- er Gluer.

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SUN Automation’s Board Of Directors: Leadership, Inspiration, Innovation SUN Automation Group has been part of the DNA of corrugated since the 1980s, when its Extend-O-Feed revolutionized how box plants feed sheets into presses. Decades later, the company is still reshaping the industry with cutting-edge innovations like the 625HD rotary die cutter, a machine already embraced by U.S. plants experiencing its perfor- mance. But technology only tells part of the story. Behind SUN’s growth and staying power lies a Board of Directors whose combined 300+ years of corrugated experience shape the company’s path forward. It’s a group that not only brings unmatched industry insight but does so within a governance structure rooted in shared ownership. Since 2003, SUN has been 100 percent employee-owned through its Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), aligning the interests of employees, leader- ship, and customers in a uniquely powerful way. As Vice Chairman Roger Mills marks his 10th year on the Board, SUN celebrates more than a milestone. It’s the culture of leadership, innovation, and connection that positions the company to “lead, in- spire, and innovate” into its fifth decade. A Board Like No Other At the head of the table is Ron Rauschart, who joined SUN’s Board

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in 2011. His corrugated journey began in 1982, when he joined the former Ward Machinery Co. as Northeast Regional Sales Manager. After 16 years with Dicar Inc., Rauschart retired as Vice President of Sales and Marketing in 2010. A year later, when SUN Co-Founder Lou Sardella con- tacted him about joining the Board, it was an easy yes. In addition to serving on Sun’s Board, Mills reflected on his entry into corrugated: “I took my last high school exam, came home, and my dad said, ‘Alright, now you’re going to work at the box plant!’ I even had to take a day off work to attend my high school graduation.” Over the years, Mills has managed plants, engineered capital projects, and eventually rose to leadership roles at IP before joining SUN’s

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board in 2014. “I’d always been on the user side, buying and installing equipment. Being invited to join SUN’s board gave me a chance to stay in the industry but see it from the corrugated equipment manu- facturing side.”

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Greg Jones, Executive Vice President at SUN, also sits on the board, as a relative newcomer to the industry compared to his fellow board members. Still, with more than 35 years in man- ufacturing – the last 13 in corrugated – Jones represents both continuity and the next gener- ation of leadership. He recalls joining SUN and

Greg Jones

entering the world of industry events as newbie. “My first AICC event was a little intimidating, but once I started engaging and volunteering, CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

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October 6, 2025

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SUN Automation Board (CONT’D FROM PAGE 12)

such a unique form of governance that creates transpar- ency, accountability, and pride among our employees. As the original ESOP obligation has been satisfied, SUN is 100 percent employee-owned. Excellent fiduciary man- agement has resulted in a totally debt free company.”

it became community. This industry is relationship-based, and if you don’t lead with honesty, that’s a reputation that will follow you.” Rounding out the board are Jerry Hessel, retired Execu- tive Vice President of Menasha; Ron Diedeman, who spent more than 50 years in corrugated and retired as SUN’s President in 2018; Ken Hoffman, former Global President of Signode; Joe Hikel, President of Shelter Systems with over 40 years in manufacturing; and Chris Kyger, President of SUN with more than 30 years in corrugated. Together, they bring a balance of plant-level insight, executive lead- ership, engineering expertise, and financial acumen. “It’s a unique board,” Jones says. “I don’t know anyone else in the industry with this kind of depth. Over 300 years of corrugated experience in one room is invaluable.” Ownership That Inspires SUN’s board doesn’t just bring knowledge; it operates within a governance model that ensures alignment across the company. Since 2003, SUN has been 100 percent em- ployee-owned through an ESOP. Every employee has a stake in the company’s future, both financially and cultur- ally. “When I look at our success, I point to the ESOP,” shares Rauschart. “Lou Sardella and Pat O’Connor had the fore- sight to share their success with the people who helped build the company,” Rauschart continues. “The ESOP is

Research backs what SUN has lived for two decades: ESOP companies typically outperform expectations, grow faster, and provide greater retirement security. A 2000 Rutgers study revealed that ESOP companies grow 2.3 to 2.4 percent faster after implementing their ESOP than would have been expected otherwise. Pivotal Decisions And Defining Moments Both Rauschart and Mills pointed to the same moment as one of the most defining in SUN’s history: the 2016 CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

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SUN Automation Board (CONT’D FROM PAGE 14)

selves the ability to become a major player in corrugated equipment.” The Glen Arm facility represented SUN’s renewed ability to deliver complete solutions and reinforced its reputation for efficiency and quality. Financially, it was a transformative decision as well: consolidating leases, elim- inating redundant costs, and investing in a building the company now owns outright. For the employee-owners, it meant greater stability and a stronger foundation for fu- ture growth. Looking back, both leaders agree that the decision stands out as an example of what makes board service meaningful. As Mills puts it, “Critical decisions are the most defining. They’re not always comfortable, but when you take the time to investigate, listen, and make the choice that positions the company for the long term, those are the decisions you’re proud of.” How The Industry Has Changed When you’ve spent forty-plus years in corrugated, you’ve seen more than your share of change. The mem- bers of SUN’s board have lived through it all, from the days of analog print rollers to today’s high-speed, data-driven plants. Rauschart points to print quality as one of the most striking examples of industry change. “When I was selling finishing machines at Ward, customers rarely asked what the screen count on the anilox rolls was,” he recalls. “Now, CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

consolidation of three separate facilities in Hunt Valley, Maryland into a single state-of-the-art 180,000-square-foot plant in Glen Arm. “When visitors walk through the building today, they see a serious, organized, efficient operation,” Rauschart says. “Being able to build three or four RDCs at the same time under one roof makes a statement about who we are as a company.”

For Mills, the move came just as he joined the board, and it confirmed why consolidation mattered. “Without this consolidation, we would’ve always been a second-ti- er supplier, constantly trying to manage inefficiencies. By moving everything into one modern plant, we gave our-

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SUN Automation Board (CONT’D FROM PAGE 16)

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it’s a major part of a machine’s specification.” This shift led to the board’s choice to be the OEM sup- plier for the Domino X630i, effectively combining SUN’s corrugating expertise with Domino’s horsepower in digital printing technology. Leveraging the strengths of each in- dividual company results in the best solution for the corru- gated industry. Technology has no doubt redefined the pace of the industry. Mills remembers when corrugators operating at 650 feet per minute was considered fast. “Now it’s 1,500,” he says with a laugh. That leap in speed is matched by ad- vances in automation and artificial intelligence. Predictive systems, robotics, and digital tools have made corrugated both more efficient and more complex.

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Labor has also evolved alongside the technology. Today’s machines are increasingly automated and us- er-friendly, yet that ease of operation doesn’t eliminate the need for skill. “The training required to operate these sys- tems can be extensive, demanding real commitment from new employees, which is becoming increasingly rare,” Rauschart notes. “We need to recruit more people into corrugated, and automation helps make the industry attractive,” Jones says. “The nature of the people being hired is changing, and so are the systems they work with.” And What’s Stayed The Same Yet for all the change, some fundamentals remain con- stant. Mills puts it plainly: “Customers still want a box that performs at a reasonable price. At the end of the day, the box itself doesn’t usually add value to the product it holds. It’s a necessary part of our economy, and it’s good that hasn’t changed, because it allows us to keep our jobs.” Mills also pointed to the steady presence of alternative packaging as a recurring challenge, from reusable plastic containers to companies like Amazon experimenting with soft or flexible materials. Beyond the products, what has stayed constant is the community. Rauschart sees it in the friendships and ca- maraderie that come with decades of shared experience. “This industry has a lot of veterans, and the relationships you build last a lifetime.” That sense of connection is part

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October 6, 2025

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SUN Automation Board (CONT’D FROM PAGE 20)

For SUN, Helios reflects the company’s broader ap- proach of delivering complete solutions. A culture of merg- ers and acquisitions supports this strategy. “Looking down the road, partnerships will continue to play a major role,” Rauschart adds. “We’re always looking for partnership op- portunities that complement us, whether in corrugated, or in closely related areas like folding cartons.” Because board members aren’t involved in the day-to- day operations, it can sometimes be difficult to see exactly where the challenges are or what improvements would make the greatest impact. This is one of the reasons why it is so valuable to have leaders like Kyger and Jones on the board. Their perspective as SUN employees helps bridge the gap between the boardroom and the production floor. Looking Forward As SUN Automation celebrates just over 40 years in op- eration, the board is set to guide the company into a future defined by innovation, service, and shared ownership. “Our board’s job is to direct senior leadership,” Raus- chart says. “We listen, we respect each other, and we keep raising the bar.” For Mills, the excitement lies in the constant forward motion. “The industry doesn’t stop, it keeps turning. And SUN has always been at the front of that momentum.” Jones frames it simply: “It’s not just the work. It’s the people. That’s what makes corrugated special, and that’s what makes SUN special too.” To learn more about SUN, visit sunautomation.com .

of what has made corrugated feel like more than just a business. Innovation At The Core Innovation has always been part of SUN’s identity, and today that means pairing engineering expertise with part- nerships that expand the company’s ability to serve cus- tomers. The work starts with the R&D team, which collabo- rates closely with customers and sales to address real box maker challenges.

One example is Helios, aptly named for the Greek word for “sun.” It is SUN’s predictive maintenance solution, a system that monitors equipment health in real-time and signals when a part is nearing failure. The machine-agnos- tic system comes standard on SUN RDCs but is also avail- able to the wider industry as a subscription. Several large integrated companies have already embraced it.

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October 6, 2025

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SUN Automation Expands Into Europe With LMC Partnership

Glen Arm, Maryland based SUN Automation Group® (SUN), a global leader in providing innovative solutions to the corrugated industry, is expanding its commitment to the European market by promoting its successful partner- ship with Latitude Machinery Corp. (LMC). Building on sig- nificant growth and customer impact in the United States, SUN now aims to deliver the same unmatched service and support to customers across the UK and Europe. “Over the past several years, our partnership with LMC has brought tremendous value to customers throughout the U.S. by providing world-class Flexo Folder Gluers (FFGs) and Rotary Die Cutters (RDCs), backed by SUN’s dedicated service and support,” said Greg Jones, Execu-

tive Vice President, SUN Automation Group. “We are excit- ed to bring this same level of customer-focused service, innovation, and reliability to the European market.” SUN’s collaboration with LMC has already established a strong footprint in North and Central America. By extend-

ing this reach into Europe, SUN is reinforc- ing its commitment to being a trusted, glob- al partner for box makers of all sizes. “As we’ve seen in the United States, the combination of LMC’s high-performance equipment and SUN’s technical expertise creates a winning formula for corrugated converters,” said Gokul Gopakumar, Vice President of Technology and Business De- velopment, SUN Automation Group. “This expansion allows us to replicate that suc- cess in Europe and provide converters with scalable, innovative solutions that improve productivity and profitability.” “Our vision has always been to deliver more than just machinery—we deliver long- term value through service, spare parts, and a deep understanding of our custom- ers’ business goals,” added Anson Hsiao, Sales Manager, LMC. Litho Press Packaging And Print Materials Drive Sales As Q4 approaches, businesses across North America are already preparing for their busiest stretch of the year: the holiday season. From fall launches to year-end pro- motions, packaging and print materials play a critical role in capturing customer atten- tion and driving sales. For corrugated con- verters, box makers, and brands alike, now is the time to start. Production timelines, shipping schedules, and seasonal demand can tighten quickly. By planning packaging and print needs in advance, companies gain the opportunity to: • Refine designs and messaging for maxi-

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ASDI offers: • 40 years of experience with separators, cyclones, conveyors and more • Sequential, Zero-Defect and various types of Scrap Systems • Each system is guaranteed to meet customer specifications • T urnkey Systems-handling all grades of paper and paperboard • In ground and overhead return conveyor systems direct to balers • Replace your undersized or aging cyclone over a two or three-day weekend • Representing a complete line of shredders, wet scrubbers and filters • NF PA compliant systems, ISN Network

Air Systems Design Inc .

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CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

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October 6, 2025

Single Point Single Operator Full Automation

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Litho Press (CONT’D FROM PAGE 24)

Press. Litho Press sees packaging as more than protection, it’s a silent salesperson. With over 60 years of experience, Litho Press partners with some of the largest packaging companies in the U.S. to deliver custom retail packaging, litho labels, and top sheets that help brands stand out. Backed by G7 Master Printer certification, their team en- sures consistent, accurate color across every substrate, from corrugated cartons and foil board to plastic and sty- rene. “At Litho Press, we deliver on those needs with solutions like metallic inks, UV finishes, and cold foil options, ensur- ing our clients’ packaging not only protects their products but also leaves a lasting impression”, shares Lacy. And the details matter. A polished litho label elevates the look of corrugated packaging. A custom top sheet not only protects but also reinforces brand presence. Large-format prints transform in-store displays and sea- sonal promotions into attention-grabbing experiences. Every piece is an opportunity to tell a brand’s story while building customer trust. As we head into Q4, companies that prioritize their packaging and print materials now will be best positioned to capture attention, connect with consumers, and build lasting trust during the busiest shopping season of the year. From standing out on crowded shelves to reinforcing brand stories, custom packaging and print remain critical tools in helping businesses maximize year-end sales.

mum impact. • Ensure color consistency across every label, carton, and display. • Avoid last-minute orders that restrict creative flexibility and add cost.

Bernie Lacy, President of Litho Press.

“During the holiday season, packaging and print mate- rials take on an outsized role in helping brands succeed. They provide crucial differentiation on crowded store shelves, create storytelling opportunities that spark emo- tional connection, and build brand trust that drives loyalty long after the sale”, says Bernie Lacy, President of Litho

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October 6, 2025

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Two10 Technologies Partners With DeLine To Modernize Operations Fort Worth, Texas based Two10 Technologies announced that it has reached an agreement with DeLine Box & Dis- play, a leading packaging solutions provider based in Den- ver, Colorado, to modernize their enterprise technology with the implementation of CorrValues software. Developed and delivered by Two10 Technologies, CorrValues unifies all data sources within the DeLine en- terprise into a single source of truth, enabling leadership to make data-driven decisions through intuitive visualiza- tions and drill-down analytics—all securely accessible from desktop and mobile devices. As a part of the deployment, DeLine will also leverage CorrGPT, the industry’s leading generative A.I. digital as- sistant, empowering team members to engage in secure, natural conversations with their data, instantly generate insights, create ad-hoc reports on demand, and build pre- sentation-ready charts and graphics within seconds. David DeLine, CEO of DeLine Box & Display, shared his enthusiasm: “We are excited about the impact of this tech- nology to keep us at the forefront of service to our custom- ers.” Jason Hooston, CEO of Two10 Technologies, added: “David and his team at DeLine embody the best in a leg- acy family-run company with a reputation for excellence. The DeLine brand is a mainstay in the Western U.S. and we are proud to partner with them to maximize the value of their data and equip them with the tools to keep even the most demanding of their clients professing that DeLine is easy to do business with.” For more information, visit www.delinebox.com and www.two10technologies.com .

At Pamarco, we focus on print quality & consistency YOUR LEADER IN ANILOX ROLL MANUFACTURING

New York AICC Members: Access State Funds Now

Facilities in high-energy industries like manufacturing face growing decarbonization and compliance challenges. The New York State Energy Research and Development Au- thority’s (NYSERDA) On-Site Energy Manager (OsEM) pro- gram helps eligible New York facilities embed a part-time or full-time energy manager for up to two years with NY- SERDA covering 75% of costs up to $200K through avail- able NY State funds. As a trusted NYSERDA partner, Environ currently works with NY businesses and has secured millions of dollars. We help your members identify and prioritize eligible ener- gy efficiency projects, successfully submit your members’ application to secure funds, act as their dedicated part- time or full-time Energy Manager, and assist with strategic planning and communications. Funds are available through December 2025 or until they run out. Fill out the form on www.environenergy.com or email info@environenergy.com.

Guiding converters in Anilox Selection Care & Handling Operator Training

info@pamarco.com 404-691-1700 Pamarco.com

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October 6, 2025

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

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

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

GPI Dismissed From Containerboard Price-Fixing Lawsuit According to a report in Packaging Dive , Graphic Pack- aging International has been dismissed from the contain- erboard price-fixing lawsuit that New York-based Artuso Pastry Foods Corp. filed against eight of the largest fiber product producers in North America. The court documents did not state Artuso’s reasons for requesting that GPI be dismissed, and note the case will continue against the other defendants, which include Cas- cades, Georgia-Pacific, Greif, International Paper, Packag- ing Corporation of America, Pratt Industries and Smurfit Westrock. Although the court and parties did not publicly offer reasons for the action, known industry information could offer some clues. For instance, Graphic Packaging Inter- national’s primary customer base is for its ready-made consumer packaging products, not containerboard. That said, the lawsuit does include “containerboard sheets, li- nerboard sheets, and finished packaging products made from containerboard and/or linerboard” in its definition for “containerboard.” GPI was not involved in the notable 2010 price-fixing case that Kleen Products brought against multiple contain- erboard producers, although several of those defendants are also named in Artuso’s current lawsuit. GPI generally was not the first to initiate price increases on its products over the last couple years, although it did follow suit at times when a cluster of companies took similar actions. Artuso would be unlikely to convince the court that fi- ber companies colluded based solely on a wave of nearly identical price increases occurring within days of each oth- er, Hurtado suggested. Importantly, antitrust cases such as this one require the plaintiff to prove the named defen- dants all collaborated on some sort of advance conspiracy to raise prices. GPI was “dismissed without prejudice,” meaning that although it was released from the case, it could be called back later if new information comes to light of its potential involvement. Still, “in these cases where it’s a voluntary dismissal, where the plaintiff is letting [the defendant] out of the case on their own, you usually don’t get information about it” after the dismissal, Hurtado said. All defendants have until Oct. 20 to respond to the initial complaint. If any responses are motions to dismiss, Artuso’s deadline to file opposition is Dec. 19. Defendants would then have until Jan. 20 to reply. This is a significantly longer briefing schedule than what is typical in most civil cases, according to Hurtado. “Courts frequently allow more time in antitrust cases be- cause these cases are often complex and involve detailed factual allegations about markets, competition, and eco- nomic theories of harm,” he said. The longer schedule helps to ensure that the issues are fully briefed for the court.

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

www.boardconvertingnews.com

October 6, 2025

Gluing on Specialty Folder Gluers is Our Specialty

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

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Domtar Releases New Global Indigenous Relations Policy

ity through business development and community invest- ment. Thanks to Indigenous partnerships in every region where we operate, we can advance strategies that fa- cilitate the participation of Indigenous businesses in the procurement of goods and services and support mutually beneficial partnerships. Our Atli Chip Partnership in British Columbia is just one example of this. We have a large-scale fiber-supply agree- ment with the ‘Na̱mgis First Nation, through Atli Chip, ma- jority-owned by Atli Resources LP. We purchase all wood chip and biomass fuel production, enhancing Indigenous participation in the local economy.

According to Domtar’s website, the company has released a new Global Indigenous Relations Policy, representing the company’s long-term commitment to fostering mean- ingful relationships with Indigenous Peoples. The policy is grounded in the principles of inclusion, transparency and mutual respect. The policy commits to advancing reconciliation, pro- moting economic opportunities, and fostering respect and knowledge of Indigenous Peoples’ rights, culture and con- nections to the land in all our business practices. “This new Global Indigenous Relations Policy rep- resents an important next step in our company’s com- mitment to values-based engagement with Indigenous Peoples,” says Luc Thériault, President, Wood Products. “The policy will serve as our guide for interactions with Indigenous communities and partners as we promote part- nerships that are grounded in trust, respect and shared prosperity for all.” Rooted in Values Our Global Indigenous Relations Policy is founded on four important values: • Respect for Indigenous Rights: We recognize the im- portance of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People (UNDRIP), ensuring that Indigenous voices guide our decisions. • Cultural Awareness: We provide opportunities for our employees to be educated in diverse Indigenous cul- tures, fostering respectful interactions. We integrate Indigenous perspectives into decision-making where appropriate. • Sustainable Development: We work in partnership with Indigenous Communities and incorporate traditional knowledge into our sustainable practices. • Economic reconciliation: We focus on actions that build partnership opportunities on a path of shared success. “We are committed to walking the talk in all our inter- actions with Indigenous communities and partners,” says Lana Wilhelm, Director of Indigenous Relations, Domtar. “This policy embeds respect for Indigenous rights, culture and knowledge at the core of our business practices. We are dedicated to the real work of staying true to those val- ues as we operate every day.” The new Global Indigenous Relations Policy applies to all regions in which Domtar operates. It is the result of two years’ work by Domtar’s Indigenous Relations Steer- ing Committee. The Committee integrated and built upon the existing policies of legacy Domtar companies (Paper Excellence, Resolute Forest Products and Domtar). As part of this process, we commissioned an external review by Mokwateh, an Indigenous business consulting firm. Our Commitment In Action Our Global Indigenous Relations Policy also lays out clear pathways for creating shared benefits and prosper-

Another pathway to shared prosperity is community investment that is harmonized with the aspirations and di- rection of Indigenous communities. One way we do this is by increasing opportunities for Indigenous youth. Through the Outland Youth Employment Program (OYEP), we pro- vide a six-week paid forestry work experience to high school-aged Indigenous youth in supportive and enriching environments across Canada. We’re also supporting Indigenous-led conservation projects in Canada by investing in $135,000 USD as a funder of First 30x30 Canada. This is an opportunity to contribute to environmental stewardship and economic potential, with Indigenous Nations at the forefront. We recognize that the work of reconciliation takes many forms. Recently, Domtar and the Tla’amin Nation signed the historic tiskwat land agreement. Through the agreement, Domtar returned to Tla’amin Nation a substan- tial portion of land at the former tiskwat paper mill site in Powell River, British Columbia. tiskwat was a large and im- portant village site that holds both historical and contem- porary significance for the Tla’amin people. A Global Indigenous Relations Policy For The Future Trust. Respect. Shared prosperity. This is how we live our values at Domtar. By embedding respect for Indige- nous rights, culture and knowledge into the core of our business practices at Domtar, we aim to contribute to the broader movement of reconciliation. The full policy can be found on Domtar’s website, www. domtar.com.

www.boardconvertingnews.com

October 6, 2025

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