Board Converting News, July 28, 2025

BoardConverting Serving the North American Corrugated and Folding Carton Industries for 40 years July 28, 2025 VOL. 41, NO. 30

Colorado Industrial Packaging: Beyond ‘A Box For A Penny Less’ BY M. DIANE MCCORMICK A call to Colorado Industrial Packaging (CIP) gets a real person on the phone, happy to take a message or track down someone who can help. It’s all part of CIP’s customer-centric culture. “A lot of people say ‘service,’ but what does that mean?” says President and CEO Carl Nick- el. “For us, we want to create a great customer experience. We want to

Hood Container To Invest $118.9 At LA Paper Mill Atlanta, Georgia based Hood Container Cor- poration, announced plans to invest $118.9 million to modernize its legacy paper mill in St. Francisville, Louisiana, resulting in a signif- icant boost in production capacity and quality to meet evolving market demands, according to Louisiana Economic Development (LED). The company plans to retain 295 current positions with salaries estimated at more than 30 percent above the average in West Felici- ana Parish. Louisiana Economic Development estimates the project will result in an addition- al 819 indirect new jobs. “Investments like Hood Container’s strengthen both our manufacturing base and our timber economy, positioning us to win with two industries that have deep roots in Louisiana,” LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois said. “The timber industry plays a key role in growing Louisiana’s agribusiness sector, which is one of the priority areas we’ve iden- tified for future growth in our Comprehensive Statewide Strategic Plan. Hood Container’s continuing modernization of their facility en- sures the viability of the plant’s historic pres- ence in St. Francisville, meaning good-paying

CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

WHAT’S INSIDE

be able to design, quote, and build product for our customers before, oftentimes, our competitors are able to move a quote out the door.” CIP dates to 2008, when Brian and Janey Nickel bought a supplier of packaging materials—“stock supplies you’d find in a UPS store,” says Carl, their son. With the realization that Colorado abounded with niche businesses demanding specialized protection for their high-end, sensitive prod- ucts, the Nickels bought an AutoBox to develop short-run manufactur- ing capabilities. That era launched a transformation that shaped today’s CIP, a cus- tom packaging solutions provider for services including aerospace CONTINUED ON PAGE 22 The Colorado Industrial Packaging team celebrates its first-ever printed box. (Courtesy: Colorado Industrial Packaging)

6 x x 8 x x 12 x x 26 x x 4 Coastal Container Invests In An Isowa Falcon FFG 6 SUN Launches Quarterly Maintenance Program 10 AICC Midwest Region Awards Two $5,000 Scholarships 18 StarCorr Sheets Invests In BHS Jetliner Monochrome

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Wayne Morgan said. “The State of Louisiana has been a valued partner since we acquired the facility in 2015, and we look forward to building on that strong relationship in the years ahead.” The Hood Container facility first opened in the late 1950s by Crown Zellerbach and later operated under Tem- bec. Since taking ownership in 2015, Hood Container has invested more than $160 million in the facility. The first phase of the upgrade will start in the third quarter of 2026, and the remaining equipment and addi- tions will be fully installed during the May 2027 annual mill outage, the LED said. “This nearly $120 million investment by Hood Contain- er is a big win for West Feliciana Parish,” West Feliciana Parish President Kenny Havard said. “Since they first put down roots here in 2015, Hood Container has been a valued partner, continually investing in St. Francisville. We congratulate them on this significant project.” To secure the project, the State of Louisiana offered the company a competitive incentive package that includes an $800,000 Modernization Tax Credit to be paid out over a five-year period. Hood Container also is expected to uti- lize the state’s Industrial Tax Exemption Program. “We’re delighted to see Hood Container modernize their St. Francisville mill, and continue to deepen their presence in the Capital Region,” Baton Rouge Area Cham- ber President and CEO Lori Melancon said.

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

Hood Container (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1)

jobs for area residents.” The project will include an upgrade of Hood Contain- er’s primary paper machine, which will increase production capacity by 80,000 tons per year. With the manufacturing of more, higher-quality products, the company anticipates buying an additional 204,000 tons of wood chips and 22,000 tons of recycled boxes annually. The investment will also include significant improve- ments to the facility’s recovery boiler that powers the mill. “Hood Container is proud to continue growing our containerboard business with a new investment to our St. Francisville mill,” Hood Container Senior Vice President

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July 28, 2025

Coastal Container Invests In Isowa Falcon FFG

Play it Safe

Holland, Michigan based Coastal Container announced the installation of a new 4-color Isowa Falcon flexo fold- er gluer. The company says the investment enhances its high-speed converting operations and underscores its commitment to innovation and operational excellence. The latest addition follows the announcement of a 3-color Isowa Ibis in April 2025. Together, these machines form the foundation of a mirrored flexo layout developed in collaboration with Isowa, Dücker, and Mosca. The new layout features a left-hand Isowa Ibis operating in tandem with a mirrored Isowa Falcon. Both machines are support- ed by integrated Dücker material handling systems, includ- ing prefeeders, automated palletizers, and mesh top in- feed/outfeed conveyors. Each line is equipped with Mosca bundlers to optimize bundling efficiency and throughput. A key highlight of this configuration is the implementa- tion of “set while run” technology on both machines. This feature enables rapid job changeovers and high-speed production without compromising quality — critical for meeting Coastal’s long-term growth objectives and deliv- ering exceptional customer value. “Our investment sets us apart from our competitors. We are committed to providing the best possible solutions to meet our customers’ needs,” said owner Brent Patterson.

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SUN Automation Group Introduces Preventive Maintenance Program Glen Arm, Maryland based SUN Automation Group, a global leader in providing innovative solutions to the cor- rugated industry, announced the launch of PERFORM+, a new Quarterly Preventative Maintenance (QPM) program designed to help box plants optimize machine perfor- mance, reduce costly downtime, and extend equipment life to maximize return on investment. The program includes quarterly onsite visits by SUN’s expert technicians, each featuring a comprehensive in- spection, targeted repairs, proactive replacement of high- wear parts, and hands-on operator training. The goal: keep machines consistently operating at peak performance and Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) standards.

“Unexpected downtime remains one of the most sig- nificant challenges facing corrugated plants today,” said Gokul Gopakumar, Vice President of Technology and Business Development at SUN Automation Group. “With

PERFORM+, customers gain a structured maintenance solution that keeps machines running optimally, efficiently, and reliably — while avoiding the high cost of reactive maintenance.” Operator training is integrated into each service visit, giving plant teams the tools and knowledge to operate and maintain equipment with greater confidence and control. The program’s flexible scheduling ensures maintenance can be aligned with production cycles to minimize disruption. As labor shortages, aging assets, and margin pressures challenge the industry, proactive maintenance is no longer op- tional—it’s essential, SUN said. PERFORM+ helps deliver the predictability today’s box plants need to safeguard uptime and sus- tain performance across their operations. AF&PA Releases June Packaging Papers Report The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) released the June 2025 Packag- ing Papers Monthly report. Total packaging papers and specialty packaging shipments in June increased five percent compared to June 2024. They were down two percent when compared to the same six months of 2024. The total operating rate increased 5.8 points since May and was up 1.2 points year-to-date. Bleached and unbleached bag & sack shipments were down 9.5 percent com- pared to the first half of 2024. Inventories were down five percent since May, but up 1.7 percent from last June.

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July 28, 2025

Turn Trim Waste into Revenue One Size Never Fits All G.F. Puhl Designs Scrap Systems to Meet YOUR Needs

Our customers have various needs for scrap and dust collection systems based on several factors including building layout, available space for the equipment, distance conveyed, local codes for noise and height as well as air permitting and available operating and maintenance staff. Change the game with a custom-designed system by G.F. Puhl. It can make all the difference. When it comes to trim collection systems, there’s virtually no problem we haven’t solved.

Problem: No room for a scrap system inside the building. Solution: If your building footprint won’t support additional trim waste equipment, go outdoors. Exterior systems like an above-roof or ground-level concentrator will boost your capacity. Problem: No way to monitor the system unless you’re on site. Solution: G.F. Puhl leads the pack with proprietary technology that makes it possible to monitor the system from wherever you are. Request PLC touch screen controls with real-time pressure balancing and real-time remote via your smart phone or computer. G.F. Puhl’s expert engineering team has more than 50 years of combined experience designing, fabricating installing, and commissioning trim and dust collection systems of every kind, including outdoor systems with dual compactors, above roof systems with single or multiple cyclones and balers and below roof screen separator systems. If you’re looking for a vendor that can help you solve the scrap collection puzzle once and for all, contact G.F. Puhl today. 615.230.9500 or sales@gfpuhl.com

Problem: No space for a baler room. No budget for baler room staff. Solution: Try outdoor auger compactors requiring minimal operator interaction. Auger compactors achieve higher compaction than conventional ram compactors with less maintenance and no hydraulic fluid. Dual compactor systems allow continuous running while the waste hauler is changing out the container. Problem: No budget for a new system. Solution: Request a custom system with remanufactured equipment. G.F. Puhl sells remanufactured balers, blowers, separators, filters, and more. The savings can be significant and the warranty adds peace of mind. Problem: Your existing system doesn’t meet codes and the inspector has notified you of a problem with the existing system. Solution: G.F. Puhl’s NFPA trained engineering team designs NFPA and OSHA compliant systems that are as safe as they are durable. Problem: Dust is out of control. Solution: G.F. Puhl systems are designed to minimize the hazards created by ambient dust. Dust briquetters, certified explosion isolation valves, flame front diverters, and other safety features maximize safety.

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Registration Open For AICC Annual Meeting In Chicago

AICC, The Independent Packaging Association, has opened registration for the 2025 AICC Annual Meeting, which will take place Monday, Octo- ber 6, through Wednesday, October 8, at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk in Chicago, Illinois. This highly anticipated event invites leaders and professionals from across the independent packaging industry to gather for three days of learning, inspiration, and connections. Recognized as a hallmark experience for business owners, execu- tives, and team leaders, the AICC Annual Meeting will ignite attendees’ passion for progress by focusing on the latest trends, innovations, and business breakthroughs shaping the future of paper-based packaging.

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The event promises a compelling mix of education, plant tours, peer exchange, and thought-provoking dialogue that helps independent man- ufacturers run more resilient, effective, and forward-thinking businesses. Attendees will hear from visionary keynote speakers and participate in expert-led panel discussions that challenge conventional thinking and encourage action. Featured throughout the program will be plant tours of industry-leading facilities, including Standfast Group, Blackhawk Cor- rugated, and The Royal Group. These behind-the-scenes tours provide real-world insights into successful operational strategies and innova- tions in practice. This year’s educational sessions will delve into timely and critical top- ics. Sessions will address the latest innovations in digital print, policy de- velopments, market trends, and the evolving outlook for the paperboard industry, including strategies for navigating mill closures, sales shifts, and capacity changes. Participants will also benefit from practical opportunities to enhance the value of their AICC membership through workshops, such as “Max- imize Your AICC Membership.” For those seeking deeper financial and operational insight, an optional add-on seminar titled “Unlock Financial and Operational Synergy” will offer tools to drive better integration and performance across business functions. Special events will also be held for AICC Emerging Leaders and the AICC Women in Packaging Group. The 2025 meeting’s distinguished keynote speakers include John O’Leary, bestselling author and nationally recognized speaker, who will CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

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July 28, 2025

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AICC Annual Meeting (CONT’D FROM PAGE 8)

deliver an emotionally resonant presentation titled “On Fire – Ignite Your Story.” Also taking the stage will be Sam Richter, a Hall of Fame speaker and bestselling author, and Chad Pregracke, 2013 CNN Hero of the Year and founder of Living Lands & Waters. Early registration is highly en- couraged. The Super Early Bird rate deadline is Friday, Au- gust 22. Special pricing is also available for multiple regis- trations from a single company. Questions can be directed to Cindy Huber, AICC Director of Conventions & Meetings, at chuber@aiccbox.org, Laura Mihalick, Senior Meeting Manager, at lmihalick@aiccbox.org or call (703) 836-2422. AICC Midwest Region Enjoys Golf Outing, Awards Scholarships Cassi Malone, AICC Midwest Regional Director, hosted a night out for both the Emerging Leaders and Emerging Leaders Alumni the evening before the Midwest Golf Out- ing in St Charles, Illinois. The event took place on July 20 at TopGolf in Naperville. The Midwest golf outing serves as a cornerstone for networking, offering members a day of relaxation and connection that reinforces a commitment to building a strong, supportive community within the indus- try. The event also highlights a dedication to education by awarding two $5,000 scholarships each year.

Above, from left, Shari Saeger, Alliance Machine Systems; Na- talya Krafels, scholarship winner, daughter of John Krafels, American Packaging Corporation; Tim Engle, Sauer Systems; Logan Wilson, scholarship winner, son of Tim Wilson, Haire.

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July 28, 2025

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ICPF, Arden Donate Software To Indiana State University

and the long-term strength of our industry.” Brian James, Senior Instructor and Program Director, Packaging Engineering Technology at Indiana State Uni- versity said, “Our packaging program is focused on stay- ing responsive to the changing needs of education and in- dustry. We work closely with students, alumni, high school educators, and our partners in the packaging world to strengthen how we prepare the next generation of profes- sionals. Access to industry-relevant software is a big part of that. Thanks to Arden Software and ICPF, our students now have hands-on access to Impact Designer Profes- sional, a tool widely used in the corrugated and die-mak- ing space. “Our students gain experience across several plat- forms, and we’re proud to include Impact in that mix. It’s a valuable addition that will serve both our students and the corrugated industry well.” “As an industry sponsored foundation, ICPF has worked for 40 years to advance student and faculty knowledge of the industry and to promote development of a highly trained workforce,” said Caitlin Salaverria, ICPF President. “We’ve had a strong relationship with Indiana State Uni- versity for over 20 years, and we’re grateful for the gener- ous support and commitment from ICPF Corporate Partner Arden Software. With Arden’s help, we’ve provided over $20 million in design software at educational institutions nationwide and look forward to continuing our efforts over the coming years.”

This fall, students in the Packaging Engineering Technolo- gy program at Indiana State University will receive hands- on learning from new design software. Arden Software has donated 50 Impact Designer Professional seats to the International Corrugated Packaging Foundation (ICPF) for use in Indiana State University’s Indiana Packaging Re- search and Development Center (IPRDC). Indiana State University will become the only Hyflex (distance accessible) Bachelor of Science packaging pro- gram by Fall 2025, creating a steady stream of incoming students and continuing learners that will benefit from using the software. This Arden Impact software donation ensures students enhance their proficiency in packaging design and are prepared for future industry careers. “At Arden Software, we’re proud to support the next generation of packaging professionals by making our in- dustry-leading design tools available to students at Indi- ana State University,” said Jim Silianoff, President of Arden Software North America. “We believe hands-on experience with real-world soft- ware like Impact Designer Professional is essential in pre- paring students for successful careers in corrugated pack- aging and die-making. This partnership with ICPF and ISU reflects our ongoing commitment to education, innovation,

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July 28, 2025

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Domtar Aims To Become Largest Pulp And Paper Group In North America Jackson Wijaya, a shareholder in Canada based Domtar Corporation, is moving to lead the largest pulp and paper empire in North America. According to a news release, the Indonesian-born businessman intends to carry out the company’s development process by expanding and con- solidating factory operations, evaluating new merger and acquisition opportunities on the continent, and developing a sustainability project aimed at transforming the group into a benchmark in exceptional practices in ESG in 2030. Wijaya implemented an M&A strategy in Canada, where he has consolidated a considerable share of the pulp and paper market, with revenues exceeding $10 billion. The first acquisition target was Catalyst Paper in 2019. Two

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The Domtar factory in Dryden, Ontario.

years later, Domtar renamed the group previously known as Paper Excellence. In 2023, the businessman incorpo- rated the activities of Resolute Forest Products, becoming one of the ten largest global players in the forest products industry. The objective now is to identify common activi- ties and expenses that can be compatible and divided be- tween group companies within the same country, reduc- ing costs and streamlining processes. Wijaya, 45, recently inherited sole control of Asia Pulp and Paper Group (APP) from his father, putting him in charge of two of the world’s largest pulp and paper com- panies, operating on four continents. Domtar Corporation operates in North America and Europe, with mills for Pa- per Excellence Canada, Domtar and Resolute Forest Prod- ucts. APP, headquartered in Jakarta, Indonesia, operates primarily in Asia. The two groups operate independently from one another. To manage business on four continents and identi- fy strategic acquisition opportunities, Wijaya travels fre- quently and divides his time between his homes in Asia, Europe and North America, where he lives with his family. Recently, Domtar was recognized as one of the 25 most sustainable private companies in the world in a ranking by Corporate Knights. The Corporate Knights list includes companies from various sectors, including CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

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July 28, 2025

Domtar (CONT’D FROM PAGE 14)

merous interviews, surveys, meetings, and workshops to outline priority goals for the period 2026 to 2030. Sustain- ability, Wijaya says, is “at the core of our business.” The group also plans to implement a new ESG data management system across all the conglomerate’s com- panies. The goal is to concentrate sustainability metrics in a single location, facilitating the management of goals and the administration of all information for preparation of re- ports. The strategy is expected to increase the accuracy of data and the transparency of information made available to stakeholders. Wijaya studied in Indonesia and Singapore and com- pleted a master’s degree in industrial engineering at the University of Michigan. With the dot-com bust around 2001, he returned to Asia to gain practical experience in the family business – a conglomerate that, at the time, held assets in the banking, real estate and palm oil pro-

consumer goods, transportation, and energy. Compa- nies from Europe and the United Kingdom dominate the ranking. The survey includes key performance indicators

(KPIs) in areas such as energy, wa- ter resources and waste, as well as governance factors such as gender diversity. Sustainable revenue and investment categories were also considered. Domtar says it is currently fo- cused on developing its first unified Sustainability Strategy, the result of a task force that began in 2023.

Jackson Wijaya

The process involved extensive consultation with more than 500 internal and external stakeholders, including nu-

duction sectors. He opted for the pulp and paper sector, starting operations in Cana- da in 2006 with the purchase of a pulp mill in Meadow Lake. Discreet and soft-spoken, he usu- ally reads and fishes in his spare time. The businessman describes himself as a third-generation entrepreneur and an “ac- tive investor” whose role model is billion- aire Warren Buffett. “He leaves the day- to-day management to the team in charge of the business, and that’s also my style in running my companies,” says Wijaya. AF&PA Responds To US-EU Trade Negotiations American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) President and CEO, Heidi Brock, reacted to recent US-EU trade negotia- tions, saying she appreciated President Trump and his administration’s efforts to further enhance fair and reciprocal trade with key partners like the European Union. “Addressing tariff and non-tariff trade barriers is crucial to ensuring a positive trade relationship for the pulp, paper, pack- aging and tissue products manufacturing industry. The EU’s deforestation free regu- lation (EUDR), which has been identified as a non-tariff trade barrier by the US Trade Representative, risks over $3.5 billion in annual forest products exports to the EU. “We encourage President Trump and his administration to continue working to- wards a fair and reciprocal trade relation- ship with the EU that fixes this regulation while improving other aspects of trade for US paper manufacturers.”

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July 28, 2025

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StarCorr Sheets Invests In World’s First BHS Jetliner Monochrome Temple, Texas based StarCorr Sheets, a leading North American sheet feeder and member of the Corrugated Partners Group (CPG) owned by Schwarz Partners Group, announced purchase of the world’s first BHS Jetliner Monochrome. This acquisition adds Single-pass Inkjet print capacity directly at their corrugator, designed by BHS Corrugated. The innovative technology provides StarCorr Sheets with unique digital print capabilities and nearly un- limited application possibilities. The BHS Jetliner Monochrome features one-color black printing directly inline at corrugator speeds and widths. StarCorr Sheets can now offer digital pre-printed sheets, creating new business opportunities for the com- pany and its converters. This cutting-edge technology en- ables variable data printing, unique barcodes, QR codes, and straightforward serialization and versioning on corru- gated boxes. Print+, the brand under which StarCorr Sheets and CPG will market this pioneering solution, will highlight its high- speed, high-resolution single-pass digital printing. BHS says it delivers sharper graphics, faster turnaround times, avoiding costly printing plates and long setup delays. “The Corrugated Partners Group has long evaluated the possibilities of printing with Single-pass Inkjet technol-

ogy directly at the corrugator,” said Craig Fisher, President of the Corrugated Partners Group. “Print+, powered by the BHS Jetliner Monochrome and its proven Single-pass Ink- jet technology, enables us to offer a ground-breaking busi-

ness model to our customers and support them in meeting the demands of big brands and international e-commerce companies.” Greg Grdinich, Vice President of BHS Corrugated North America, said: “The BHS Jetliner Monochrome is a disrup- tive technology that will shake up the corrugated world. We are thrilled by the enthusiasm of StarCorr Sheets and CPG in adopting this innovation and tackling the market opportunity to promote the Print+ brand.”

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July 28, 2025

PSI Welcomes New Packaging Designer Greg Greiner

Williamsport, Maryland based PSI Group welcomed Greg Greiner to the PSI Design Team as a Packaging Engineer. Greg is a recent graduate of Virginia Tech, where he earned

his Bachelor of Science in Packag- ing Systems & Design. He was first introduced to PSI during his time at Virginia Tech, where he connected with President Chris Litzinger and VP of Human Resources Becky Kline at the CNRE Career Fair. He also had the opportunity to take classes alongside current designer, Molly Trinh, and later participated in

Greg Greiner

a PSI-sponsored Senior Capstone Project. These experi- ences gave Greg insights into PSI’s culture and confirmed it was the right place to begin his career. In a previous role with a delivery service provider, Greg gained hands-on exposure to last-mile logistics, deepen- ing his understanding of how packaging choices affect the efficiency of an entire operation. “What excites me most is applying what I’ve learned in school to real-world chal- lenges,” Greg said. “I want to contribute, help people, and become someone the team can count on. Everyone here is kind, supportive, and genuinely welcoming.”

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Features:

Specifications:

Enhanced Feeding Performance Precise Folding Accuracy Computerized Set-up Set up Times of Under Two Minutes No Tools Required for Mounting or Adjustments Fully Servo-Controlled for High Speed and Accuracy Dual Slotting Patented Servo-Driven Design Runs at Speeds of up to 450 SPM

1227 300 SPM 1210 X 2700 290 X 755 1100 X 2600

1125 330 SPM 1050 X 2500 260 X 755 1020 X 2400

925 375 SPM 880 X 2500 230 X 755 820 X 2400

618 400 SPM 600 X 1800 200 X 550 570 X 1800

Max Speed Max Sheet* Min Sheet* Max Print Area*

*mm (millimeters)

Give us a call so you can learn how to make more boxes every minute... period! 847-949-5900

1486 St. Paul Avenue Gurnee, Illinois 60031 USA 847-949-5900 800-621-4343 www.boxmachine.com

Colorado Industrial Packaging (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1)

Board Converting NEWS INTERNET DIRECTORY

and defense, medical device, semiconductor electronics, building materials, manufacturing, and—naturally, being in Colorado—outdoor gear. Capabilities and services cater to clients’ needs for in- dustry-specific drop-testing, prototyping, military and co- py-exact specifications, efficiency maximization, and cost and labor savings. Carl Nickel joined the firm in 2018, implementing a plan to grow CIP’s Denver facility and upgrade its origi- nal Colorado Springs plant. The process stretched from a

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.

planned 18 months into four years, culminating with Brian and Janey’s phased-in retirement and Carl’s elevation to the C-suite. CIP differentiates itself in design and engineering, says Nickel. Solutions are crafted from a toolbox of product ca- pabilities that includes custom boxes, custom foam, cus- tom crates, and heavy-duty and specialty packaging. With its specialty mindset, CIP has produced packaging that protects everything from circus equipment to airplane seats. The process builds on understanding how products interact with packaging “from start to finish,” scrutinizing how they’re loaded, handled, shipped, and unboxed. “There are two modes of selling in our industry,” says Nickel. “One is, ‘I’ll sell you a box for a penny less.’ We just don’t compete that way. We’re looking for how we add value through the entire life cycle of the package.” Growth projections are positive. The new Denver fa- cility—replacing a space so cramped that the conference room was converted from a tiny office—creates space for new equipment, and new sales reps are being hired. It’s all geared toward keeping pace with industry CONTINUED ON PAGE 24 Colorado Industrial Packaging’s capabilities include custom boxes, custom foam, custom crates, heavy-duty packaging, and specialty packaging.

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.

www.boardconvertingnews.com

July 28, 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.

10570 Success Lane, Dayton, Ohio 45458

trends. “We want to stay in line with supporting the mar- kets we’re already serving and doing more of what we’re already good at,” Nickel says. “I think we’ve done a good job of carving out a good niche. Our objective is to double and triple down around that.” Joining AICC in 2019 expanded Nickel’s network of peers, knowledgeable about industry challenges and op- portunities. “I’ve always been a firm believer that it takes an army to be successful,” he says. “When I was looking at taking over the business, I knew that I needed to find some help and find some people who have done this be- fore and know what they’re doing. That’s exactly what I’ve found with AICC.” Colorado Industrial Packaging (CONT’D FROM PAGE 22)

Board Converting NEWS INTERNET DIRECTORY

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.

Before AICC, problem-solving involved Nickel and his father “troubleshooting and trying to figure out how to do it.” Now, he belongs to an AICC CEO Advisory Group whose members tour each other’s plants and are always available for brainstorming. Whether he’s addressing a new process or product launch, Nickel knows he can call someone and get a timely response. “Before, something like that might take me months to find a solution, whereas I can find it in a day now,” he says. His parents also taught him “more than I can remem- ber,” Nickel notes. His father, a veteran of sales, knew how to connect with people and build relationships. His mother “was always looking around the corner at what could go wrong, which was really healthy, because I’m very much a shoot-from-the-hip kind of guy.” He adds, “Within our relationship, we had a really good dynamic. No one person can make good decisions consis- tently over time. It takes a team and a team that thinks very differently. Being in that environment gave me a North Star Colorado Industrial Packaging’s custom foam fabrication is a key capability, allowing for greater packaging security.

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 26

www.boardconvertingnews.com

July 28, 2025

in what I can create in terms of a team.” With Brian and Janey in near-retirement, CIP is rebuild- ing in-house expertise and skills in handling high-level de- cision-making, developing his existing people and hiring new personnel. In CIP’s culture, staff can “feel comfortable with taking some swings.” It’s better to take initiative than shy away from innovation. Colorado Industrial Packaging (CONT’D FROM PAGE 24)

Board Converting NEWS INTERNET DIRECTORY

CORRUGATED REPLACEMENTS, INC. www.corrugatedparts.com

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

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

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

EMBA www.embausa.com

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

EAGLEWOOD TECHNOLOGIES, LLC www.eaglewoodtech.com

“It’s OK to make mistakes,” Nickel tells the CIP team. “Just learn from it, and don’t do it again. I’d rather see our staff trying things and actually being agents of change than to be afraid of trying something.” The CIP team is excited about the future of the boxmak- ing and packaging industry and the company’s role in it. While CIP follows market trends that help inform decisions, its focus remains on its distinctive pathways to success. “It’s really easy to overlook how much goes into mak- ing a box,” Nickel says. “Most of our customers, if they’re designing a missile or satellite component that’s going into space, the box is the last thing they’re thinking of, and that’s OK. That’s why we’re here. But by looking for how we can add value, there’s a lot more that our industry has Carl Nickel, right, celebrates the retirement of his parents and predecessors, Brian and Janey.

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

DOMINO www.dominodigitalprinting.com

to offer than a box at a penny less, and that’s worked really well for us. I think that’s why our customers tend to stick around.” This article appeared in AICC BoxScore. M. Diane Mc- Cormick is a freelance journal- ist based in Pennsylvania.

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

M. Diane McCormick

www.boardconvertingnews.com

July 28, 2025

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