Board Converting News, July 15, 2024

BoardConverting Serving the North American Corrugated and Folding Carton Industries for 40 years July 15, 2024 VOL. 40, NO. 29

NFL Great Cris Carter Tapped To Keynote At SuperCorrExpo 2024 BY SUSAN RILEY Cris Carter is a member of the Professional Football Hall of Fame and one of the greatest wide receivers of all time. But the greatest thing he has ever done, Carter says, was achieving sobriety over an alcohol and drug addiction that could have completely derailed his illustrious and celebrated career. TAPPI and AICC, co-producers of the mega corrugated event, Su- perCorrExpo 2024, recently announced that Carter, who today has seen success also as a television personality, author, mentor and in- spirational speaker, will deliver a keynote address at the corrugated in- dustry’s quadrennial event set for September 8-12 in Orlando, Florida.

Hood Container Corp. To Buy Assets Of Independent II Atlanta, Georgia based Hood Container Cor- poration announced that it has entered into an agreement to buy the packaging assets of Independent II in Louisville, Kentucky. Independent II’s assets will complement Hood Container’s footprint and create great- er converting capacity for Hood Container in the increasingly important Kentucky and Ohio region. The transaction is expected to close in the near future. “Independent II adds impressive assets and capabilities to Hood Container’s current portfolio,” said Charlie Hodges, President and COO of Hood Container Corp. “Additionally, its location allows increased presence and growth in markets we currently serve. We are excited to add these capabilities to Hood’s offerings to better serve and care for Hood’s and I2’s existing and new customers.” Neil MacDonald, CEO of Independent II said: “I2’s team is excited to join the Hood Container family and looks forward to con- tinuing the mission that I2 started 18 years ago to be the premier supplier of corrugated packaging in the greater Louisville area. We look forward to assisting Hood Container in CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

WHAT’S INSIDE

Born and raised in Ohio, Carter was named an All-American after his junior season with the Ohio State Buckeyes. He was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles (1987-89) in the fourth round of the 1987 NFL sup- plemental draft, but a growing drug problem would soon catch up with the player known for his acrobatic, one-handed catches. Head Football Coach Buddy Ryan cut him from the team after he failed a drug test. Carter has said that he aimed to prove Ryan wrong — he could change and had an opportunity to prove it when he was picked up by the Minnesota Vikings where he spent most of his career from 1990- CONTINUED ON PAGE 26 Professional Football Hall of Famer Cris Carter joined the Florida Atlantic University football staff in 2023. Carter will be a keynote speaker during TAPPI/AICC SuperCorrExpo September 8-12.

6 x x 8 x x 12 x x 26 x x

Gene Marino, Joe Morelli Bid Farewell As AICC Podcast Hosts ICPF Gifts Zünd Digital Cutters To Cal Poly AICC Emerging Leaders Meet In Savannah, Georgia

22 DFC Manufacturing Group Acquires Mark/Trèce, Inc.

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Hood Container To Buy (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1)

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.

reaching the full potential of I2’s state-of-the-art assets and in continuing to provide quality products and services to our customers.”

REGION E. Coast Midwest Southeast Southwest

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

26# Semi-Chem. Medium

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

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

West Coast U.S. Average

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

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

200# 275#

$62.26

$72.05

$62.69 $82.80

$85.35 119.54

$73.13 101.29

97.32

99.89

90.86

113.65

Hood Container operates locations in 17 states. The company also owns and operates linerboard, medium, and multiwall paper manufacturing operations in New Johnsonville, Tennessee, and St. Francisville, Louisiana. Hood Container Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hood Companies, Inc. Hood Companies is a privately owned, closely held holding company and is the parent to operating subsidiaries involved in the manufacture and distribution of forest and wood products, building and con- struction materials, and flexible and corrugated packaging products throughout North America. A tour of Independent II’s facilities during the 2023 AICC An- nual Meeting in Louisville, Kentucky.

OYSTER UP-CHARGE 8.34

8.34

8.34

8.34

8.34

8.34

275# DBL-WALL 350# DBL-WALL

107.46 118.45

114.69 129.32

116.54 137.25 117.82 145.56

141.08 148.46

122.76 131.80

CANADIAN SHEET PRICES (AVERAGE) In Canadian Dollars, per 1MSF, local delivery included, under 50MSF single item order, truckload delivery. 200# 275# Oyster UC 275#DW 350#DW $78.56 $99.18 $9.00 $96.32 $105.83 CANADIAN LINERBOARD & MEDIUM The average prices reported are tabulated from prices PAID by various sources throughout Canada. Prices may be higher or lower in various areas of the country. The prices tabulated here are intended only for purposes of reference. They do not connote any commitment to sell any material at the indicated average. Transactions may be completed at any time at a price agreed upon by seller and purchaser. Prices are Canadian $ and per metric ton.

42# Kraft Liner 26#

Semi-Chem Medium

East West

$9 2 0.00 $ 96 5.00

$9 1 0.00 $9 4 5.00

3

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July 15, 2024

Smurfit Westrock Listed On NYSE After Completed Merger

Core Competency

Dublin, Ireland based Smurfit Westrock, a global leader in sustainable packaging, announced its primary listing on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), under the ticker “SW,” following the completion of the Smurfit Kappa and WestRock combination earlier this month. The company also has a standard listing on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) under the ticker “SWR.” Smurfit Westrock says it offers its customers the most diverse, innovative and sustainable range of renewable and recyclable packaging solutions. “Combining Smurfit Kappa and WestRock creates a world-leading sustainable packaging player, bringing to- gether a tremendous depth of experience and expertise from both companies,” said Tony Smurfit, Smurfit Westrock Chief Executive Officer. “We believe that this combination has created the ‘go-to’ leader and partner of choice in sus- tainable packaging. I’m proud to be chosen to lead this great team of people.” “The shareholders of both Smurfit Kappa and WestRock have overwhelmingly supported our combination. Smurfit Westrock has a unique geographic footprint and through our industry-leading applications, an unparalleled ability to provide value for our customers,” said Ken Bowles, Smurfit Westrock Chief Financial Officer.

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July 15, 2024

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Breaking Down Boxes Bids Farewell To Hosts Gene Marino, Joe Morelli AICC, The Independent Packaging Association, an- nounced the release of the latest episode of its acclaimed podcast, Breaking Down Boxes. The episode, One Door Closes, marks a significant milestone as hosts Gene Mari- no, President of Akers Packaging Service Group, and Joe Morelli, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Huston Patterson and Lewisburg Printing Company, bid farewell as hosts. On behalf of himself and Gene, Joe said, “We want to thank Mike D’Angelo, Virginia Humphrey, AICC, and each of our inspiring guests for the incredible journey we’ve shared on this podcast. Most importantly, we want to thank everyone who has supported us over the last two and a

Gene Marino (left) and Joe Morelli.

half years. It has been a privilege to be your hosts, and we are deeply grateful for the support and enthusiasm you’ve all shown. While our time as hosts may be coming to an end, we look forward to seeing how Breaking Down Boxes continues to thrive and inspire.”

After a remarkable journey of 27 ep- isodes, Gene and Joe reflect on the fun and friendships they have made along the way. They express heartfelt gratitude to their listeners and thank Guy Ockerlund of Ox Box for his generous podcast sponsor- ship. In One Door Closes, Gene and Joe delve into memorable moments and key takeaways from their conversations with guests. They emphasize the importance of communication and lifelong learning in the packaging industry, sharing their insights and experiences. Reflecting on their podcast journey, Gene and Joe discuss their regrets and of- fer invaluable advice for young individuals entering the industry. They also express their deep appreciation for AICC and the friendships they have formed through the organization, highlighting the sense of community and support that AICC fosters. “Gene and Joe brought AICC into the podcast world and made so many of the great stories and journeys of their guests so accessible to so many in the communi- ty, and more broadly,” said AICC President Mike D’Angelo. “We are grateful to them for making Breaking Down Boxes a looked forward to monthly must-listen.” As Breaking Down Boxes takes a brief hiatus in August, the podcast will return in September with guest hosts, continuing to offer inspiring stories and valuable in- sights. AICC is committed to providing a platform that fosters learning, growth, and connection within the packaging industry. Listeners can tune in to Breaking Down Boxes on major podcast platforms or at www.AICCbox.org/Boxes to hear Gene’s and Joe’s farewell.

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July 15, 2024

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ICPF Funds New Zünd Digital Cutters For Two Cal Poly Programs Students from Cal Poly’s Graphic Communication (GrC) and Industrial Technology, Packaging, and Entrepreneur- ship (ITPE) programs are using brand new equipment, provided by the International Corrugated Packaging Foundation (ICPF). The ICPF said that the new Zünd Digital Cutters G3 L-3200 and L-2500, estimated at $150,000 in value per machine, will allow students to gain experience with in- dustry-standard equipment in their labs. “ICPF was thrilled to step up and secure placement of these much-needed machines at Cal Poly,” said ICPF President Caitlin Salaverria. “This donation will allow the GrC and ITPE programs to support and grow their curricula and expand hands-on learning opportunities for students to prepare them for future careers in the printing and packaging industry. The donations allow for expanded knowledge and increased exposure for students pursuing various degrees, helping us with our mission to grow the labor force of the printed corrugated packaging industry.” Cal Poly’s motto is “Learn by Doing,” says Colleen Twomey, Chair of the Graphic Communication Depart- ment. CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

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

Year

Actual

Percent Change Avg Week Percent Change

2023 2022

29.711 30.124

-1.4

7.819 7.927

-1.4

Industry Total

Year-to Date

December 2023

Year

Actual

Percent Change Avg Week Percent Change

2023 2022

380.555 400.520

-5.0

7.611 7.979

-4.6

Industry Total

Containerboard Consumption (Thousands of Tons)

Year

Month

Percent Change Year-to-Date Percent Change

2023 2022

2.4080 2.4260

-0.7

30.9333 32.5461

-5.0

Container Board Inventory - Corrugator Plants (Thousands of Tons)

Corrugator Plants Only

Date

Percent Change Weeks of Supply

Percent Change

Dec. Nov.

2.1892 2.1071

3.9

3.5 3.5

6.1

Shipping Days

Year

Month

Year-to-Date

2023 2022

19 19

250 251

SOURCE: Fibre Box Association

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July 15, 2024

ICPF Funds (CONT’D FROM PAGE 8)

nizing the importance of equipment such as this, and the impact it has on student learning outcomes.” Javier de la Fuente, Chair of the Industrial Technolo- gy, Packaging, and Entrepreneurship Area, said they are deeply grateful to the ICPF for its unwavering support. “The addition of this advanced Zünd digital cutter is es- sential to our mission,” he said. “It enables students to design and develop sustainable, value-added solutions. Whether they are creating cost-ef- fective systems, developing high-impact POP displays, de- signing inclusive structures, or innovating to delight con- sumers, this state-of-the-art equipment is a tremendous asset. “The new Zünd digital cutter is a key part of our hands- on, project-based learning approach at Cal Poly, signifi- cantly enhancing our students’ educational journey and future opportunities. It also strengthens our packaging re- search and testing capabilities.” As an industry sponsored foundation, Salaverria said that ICPF has worked for the last 30 years to advance stu- dent and faculty knowledge of the industry and to promote development of a highly trained workforce. “We’ve provided over $13 million in donations of equip- ment and grants to universities and look forward to ex- panding our efforts over the coming years,” Salaverria said. For more information, contact Salaverria at csalaver- ria@icpfbox.org or (847) 226-2671.

“Our students learn skills by applying critical thinking and the use of tools to solve significant problems. Many of our students’ projects solve branding and packaging issues for companies in the local community through cur- ricula and competitions,” she said.

Twomey said that every single student in the program operates the equipment. “The Graphic Communication program also has a stu- dent-run enterprise, University Graphic Systems, which provides print and design services for the campus and lo- cal community,” she said. “The Zünd is an integral part of their ability to produce products. We are extremely grateful to the ICPF for recog-

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July 15, 2024

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AICC Emerging Leaders Engage, Learn In Savannah, Georgia BY JOHN MCQUEARY

In the age of social media, economic uncertainty, and seemingly ev- er-shorter attention spans, how do you get more than 40 leaders under the age of 35 to stay engaged in their workplace and want to be drivers of success at their companies? Well, that is one of the things we set out to find out during AICC’s annual Emerging Leaders (ELs) Workshop. The 2024 theme for the EL program, selected by EL Junior Delegate Jordan Dawson of Harris Packaging, was “Engage!” This has motivated

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the leadership of our EL program to focus on ways to educate ourselves and our fellow members on the importance of staying engaged within our respective companies, AICC, and our broader EL community. We put those ideas to the test in Savannah, Georgia. Traditionally, the AICC vice chair would host a summer workshop, formerly called the EL Field Trip, to connect with the next generation of industry lead-

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ers and to promote an opportunity for education, peer training, and net- working. To better foster relationship development, the event is designed to be more intimate than large national meetings; therefore, attendance is capped at 40 members. Current AICC Vice Chair Gary Brewer, CEO of Package Crafters and Creative Packaging, took on the challenge. He and his wife, Ginny, worked with AICC and the EL delegates to plan the Savannah event.

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Forty ELs set foot on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, in Savannah. They came from across the United States and Canada, representing a vari- ety of general and associate member companies and holding various primary job functions, from customer service representatives and sales executives to managers and the children of company owners. They rep- resented the next generation of leadership and the hope for the future of the independent packaging industry and its related industries. After settling into their hotel rooms and catching up on work emails, the group met in the hotel lobby and walked along the 18th-century cob- blestone River Street, which runs along the Savannah River. From there, they boarded a charter boat that took them about 30 minutes to the 19th-century Old Fort Jackson. There, the members were greeted by two local reenactors in 1812-era uniforms who shared historical information about the fort and demonstrated period muskets. As the ultimate “dinner bell,” there was a celebratory firing of a Civil War-era cannon. Then, ELs enjoyed a Lowcountry-style meal and time together in this CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

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July 15, 2024

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Emerging Leaders Engage (CONT’D FROM PAGE 12)

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beautiful and historic space that sits right on the river. This low-pressure time of networking is key for the members, many of whom are newer to the industry, to build relation- ships that will benefit them for the rest of their careers. The next morning, members took a bus to the DS Smith Riceboro Paper Mill, where they enjoyed a thorough mill tour and learned more about the production of linerboard from the team at DS Smith. After the tour and a bus ride back to the city, members had a networking lunch before sitting down for a deep-dive training session led by Omar Abdullah, Ph.D., of Baroco Corporation. Abdullah led a thorough and interactive workshop focusing on the con- crete steps the attendees could take to foster engage- ment within their own teams and how to help these princi- ples overflow into their entire organization. After the workshop concluded and the attendees were sufficiently motivated to help transform their companies and careers for the better, the group headed to a cele- bratory networking event. Together, they attended a Sa- vannah Bananas baseball game. The game was a hit, and smiles were abundant. On the last morning of the workshop, the EL members headed to Gary Brewer’s local sheet plant, Creative Pack- aging. There, members were given a tour of the facility and a chance to learn more about the production practices and operation principles of the Creative Packaging team. After the tour ended, the bus was loaded up one fi- nal time and transported the group to the airport to catch their flights home and back to their offices and produc- tion floors. Ask any EL who was there, and they’ll tell you they left feeling engaged and ready to work hard to help take their businesses to the next level. Plus, they got to have plenty of fun along the way. As the AICC slogan says, “When you invest and engage, AICC delivers results.” John McQueary is an AICC Emerging Leaders Senior Del- egate and Area Sales Manager for Corrugated Board at Bobst North America. Kuznicki Leaves Billerud; Lundqvist Appointed Acting President Solna, Stockholm based Billerud recently confirmed that Kevin Kuznicki, President of Billerud North America and member of the Group Management Team, has left the company to pursue other ventures. “I would like to express a big thank you to Kevin Kuznic- ki for his contributions since taking over the role in March 2023. He has been a key person in guiding the North America operations during a challenging year for the com- pany,” says Ivar Vatne, President and CEO, Billerud. Tor Lundqvist, Deputy President and Senior Vice Presi- dent of Operations for North America, will assume the role of Acting President, Billerud North America, until a succes- sor is appointed.

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July 15, 2024

P+PB Seeks Additional Nominations For 2025 Board

For more information or to receive a nomination form, contact the P+PB at (703) 935-5386 or email nominations@ paperandpackaging.org with questions. Also, contact Sa- mantha Mareno, USDA Marketing Specialist, at (720) 827- 4907 or email Samantha.mareno@usada.gov for addition- al information. Registration Open For AICC Membership Benefits Webinar AICC, The Independent Packaging Association, invites members to take part in a webinar on July 31 at 3:00 p.m. EST that focuses on the key benefits of AICC membership. Hosted by AICC Membership Manager Patrick Moore, participants in the 30-minute webinar will learn how to access online resources and have the opportunity to ask questions. The webinar is useful if your company has recently joined AICC or if you have an employee you would like to be more involved with AICC. It’s also a great reminder of what the AICC benefits are and how to access them. To register, visit https://shorturl.at/lQMDY . The meet- ing will be online in Microsoft Teams. Once registered, you will receive a confirmation email with a link for the meeting. For more information or if you would like to schedule a personal meeting, contact Patrick at pmoore@aiccbox.org of at (703) 535-1394.

The Paper and Packaging Board (P+PB) announced it is seeking nominees for two open board seats in the south (one-year terms) and one importer (two-year term). The term begins January 1, 2025. The south includes Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia. P+PB is opening up the nomination process again be- cause these additional board seats became available after its nomination period for three other open seats ended on May 24. The Board seeks experienced industry members who can bring deep industry knowledge to the board’s delib- eratons and represent a range of product sectors includ- ing containerboard, paperboard, kraft and printing, writing paper and office paper. The board encourages the nomi- nation of diverse candidates including women, minorities, ethnicities and cultures who can bring different perspec- tives and ideas to the board’s deliberations and discus- sions. Nominations start immediately and run through July 18. All nominations are submitted to USDA and the Secretary of Agriculture appoints new board members by the end of 2024.

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July 15, 2024

Revisiting EPR For IC&I Sector BY RACHEL KAGAN

be impacted. Meanwhile, other provinces are continuing to explore the possibility of applying EPR to the IC&I sector, with the latest being British Columbia. The BC government committed to developing an ap- proach for IC&I packaging by 2025, as outlined in its EPR five-year action plan, and they are currently consulting on how to manage packaging and paper waste from the non-residential sector. The government’s Consultation Discussion Paper outlines many potential options, includ- ing expanding EPR to the IC&I sector and introducing EPR for a specific sector, among other possibilities. While PPEC supports efforts to increase recycling and waste diversion, and consultations are an important way to have informed discussions, we remain concerned that we are putting the cart before the horse. The cart being IC&I and the horse being EPR. We should not assume that the same approach for res- idential recycling will work for the IC&I sector for a variety of reasons. The IC&I sector is very different than the residential sector. One side features waste and recyclables collected from homes and apartments. And on the other side, ma- terials are generated from a variety of distinct locations: manufacturing facilities, retail and grocery stores, malls, restaurants, offices, hotels, stadiums, airports, schools, hospitals…the list goes on. CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

Last year the Paper and Paperboard Packaging Environ- mental Council (PPEC) asked if we were putting the cart before the horse when it came to considering a regulat-

ed Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) approach for recycling packag- ing in the non-residential sector, com- monly known as the Industrial, Com- mercial and Institutional or IC&I sector. Revisiting that question now and the answer seems to be…maybe. Stakeholders, including PPEC, are closely watching Quebec – the only

Rachel Kagan

Canadian province to legislate EPR for IC&I – as it pre- pares to expand EPR into the IC&I sector as part of the province’s move to modernize its recycling system. Que- bec is phasing in the expansion, which begins in 2025 with schools, outdoor public areas, and similar IC&I establish- ments (defined as “comparable, in nature and quantity, to those meant for the residential sector”), while other parts of the sector will be expanded between 2027 and 2030. But there are still many unanswered questions about how EPR for IC&I will work in Quebec, what the fees will be, and how existing contracts with private recyclers will

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July 15, 2024

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Make a stronger, lighter and more sustainable corrugated blank using less glue by implementing a “brick” style pattern developed by Baumer hhs. This pattern creates a stronger bond using less glue. Our new all-electric PX 1000 applicators with over a billion cycle life can easily apply the pattern with clean cutoff and accurate placement. The PGD 1000 sensor is there to show your customer that every box was properly glued so you’ll never end up on some gag reel. You can be the star with The CorrBox solution from Baumer hhs.

PGD 1000 Monitoring Sensor • Measure the glue proximity to the edge of the tab and avoid squeeze-out so you deliver an accurately glued box every time. • The printing on the carton does not effect the hybrid sensor’s ability to read the bead. Black, white, plaid or polka dot, the sensor is not bothered, so neither are you. • No UV additives needed for detection saves you money, time and effort.

PX 1000 Cold Glue Applicator • Extremely fast and powerful closing force means no drips or tailing so your first box is a good box. • Strong armature activation easily handles viscosity fluctuations and will work with a large variety of adhesives. • Fast action coil means you can now stitch your beads at higher running speeds lowering adhesive consumption up to 70% and improving board output.

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Revisiting EPR (CONT’D FROM PAGE 18)

Differences in where materials come from need to be taken into consideration when looking for solutions to in- creasing waste diversion in the IC&I sector, as they can have impacts on how materials are collected, managed, and ultimately recycled. In many ways, EPR for residential paper and packag- ing is in its infancy in Canada. While we have had legis- lated programs in place for years, decades even, British Columbia is the only province with a true EPR model. Most provinces are either in the process of developing or tran- sitioning to full producer responsibility models, where pro- ducers fund and operate recycling programs, from existing program models where producers only fund the costs of programs operated by municipalities. It will take time to see if this shift to true EPR results in higher recycling rates and program efficiencies. PPEC has high hopes for what true EPR could achieve for Canadian residential recycling pro- grams, but we are not there yet.

In the IC&I sector, businesses are responsible for man- aging their own waste and recyclables, and typically busi- nesses contract directly with waste management service providers. But we understand that not all establishments neces- sarily do that, and even with those that do, there may be challenges with recycling the materials once collected (e.g., contamination, quality issues, lack of end markets to sell the materials). But when it comes to paper packaging, PPEC mem- bers are often the end markets as mills buy back used cardboard and paper materials from grocery stores and other commercial entities, allowing those materials to be responsibly recycled and reused to make new paper packaging products.

DESIGNS THAT INCREASE PRODUCTION

While PPEC members have not his- torically been obligated stewards of EPR programs – our members typically engage in business-to-business transactions, and do not directly supply finished products to consumers – the success of recycling programs is critical to our industry, which relies on using recycled content as its pri- mary feedstock. PPEC members represent several dif- ferent components of the paper packag- ing recycling value chain: as providers of recyclable paper-based packaging, pro- cessors and recyclers of collected paper materials, and end markets who buy back recycled fibres to reuse in their operations. Our industry has been a pioneer in re- cycling for decades, implementing a cir- cular economy for paper packaging long before it was widely recognized, driven not by regulation or EPR, but because it makes environmental and business sense to manufacture paper packaging products using recycled fibres. And while we may not represent obli- gated producers, the decades of experi- ence PPEC members have with recycling – which includes mills buying back used paper materials directly from the IC&I sec- tor to use in their operations – provides our industry with insights that we hope governments and policymakers will con- sider. Let’s get EPR for residential right first before we put the cart before the horse by applying it to the IC&I sector. Rachel Kagan is the Executive Director of the Paper & Paperboard Packaging Envi- ronmental Council.

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

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An RDC for every need A solution for every budget!

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DFC Manufacturing Group Acquires Mark/Trèce, Inc.

looks to the future with investments in color management, networking, screening calibration technologies, and digi- tal platemaking. “We are delighted to offer our customers a broader range of products and locations,” said Brian Kearins, Na- tional General Manager of the DFC Manufacturing Group. “Mark/Trèce’s leadership in the platemaking industry will significantly expand DFC’s product offerings to our cus- tomers, as we will be able to offer a single source for both dies and printing plates across the US. Together, Mark/ Trèce and DFC can reach most cities across the country within less than a three-hour drive, which will allow us to reduce lead times and costs for our customers. We look forward to integrating Mark/Trèce into the DFC family and continuing to invest in their equipment and people to maintain their exceptional quality.” Richard Godfrey, Co-founder and CEO of Mark/Trèce,

Joppa, Maryland based Mark/Trèce, Inc. announced that it has been acquired by the DFC Manufacturing Group, LLC of St. Louis, Missouri. Terms of the sale were not disclosed. DFC Manufacturing Group is a leading maker of dies with locations across the United States. For over 60 years, Mark/Trèce, Inc. has provided the flexographic printing industry with superior bundled solu- tions. With manufacturing and sales operations in six lo- cations in the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast regions of the US, Mark/Trèce will continue to service the diverse needs of the industry. In addition to platemaking, Mark/Trèce of- fers total concept development, including graphic design, print quality programs, cutting dies, and more. Mark/Trèce

Inc., said he is proud to partner with the DFC Manufacturing Group. “It is rare to find a business that is not only enduring but thriving with the involvement of the original founder after 62 years in business. Mark/Trèce has been more than a job for many of our employees. It has been a ca- reer based on loyalty and opportunity for many that felt like family. I truly believe we have entered into a very compatible rela- tionship as we share similar core values and as we both operate under fair and dip- lomatic principals. We both understand the key to success is knowing when it is time to change. I have always said ‘change or perish’ and I stand by that now. “62 years ago, when I started a fledg- ling Mark/Trèce, I saw it as a terrific chal- lenge, however I felt I could make the mar- ket better and help our customers with a local platemaker there to serve them high quality products at a fair price. I know this decision is favorable and will continue to guarantee success for all parties into the future. The total quality management con- cept made evident that Mark/Trèce’s stron- gest asset and greatest resource are the employees. “It has been a longstanding mission of Mark/Trèce to provide the highest quality products and customer service and we will continue to do so as we transition into the future.” Lee Grantham and Ken Ricks will co- lead Mark/Trèce as Regional General Man- agers of the DFC Manufacturing Group. They will continue to manage their Mark/ Trèce facilities, while integrating Mark/ Trèce’s printing plates into product offer- ings at all of DFC’s locations.

WHERE PERFECTION MEETS PACKAGING

CONTACT US

Customized Formulations Maintenance-Free Clean Running Adhesives High Green Tack Ensuring Perfect Boxes Highly Competitive Pricing

+1-973-225-1070 www.baker-titan.com info@bakertitan.com

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Exceptional German Engineering. Unsurpassed Performance.

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LPC Celebrates Company Day, Employee Appreciation

Lewisburg, Tennessee based Lewisburg Printing Compa- ny (LPC) announced the celebration of its second LPC Day and Employee Appreciation Day on May 1 – topping off a week of special day outfit contests and recognition of employees and their dedication to customer excellence.

Recently retired CEO Hale Hawkins and VP of Business Development Kirk Kelso cooked for the entire team. Tonya Kowa-Morelli, COO, was the master of ceremony and pre- sented Peter Doyle, Pricso, as Vendor of the Year. The new CEO, Clay Davis, spoke on the company vi- sion and expanion plans.

PRINTCHEK REPRESENTS A NEW FRONTIER IN PRINT QUALITY ASSURANCE FOR THE CORRUGATED CARDBOARD INDUSTRY PrintChek uses a series of line scan cameras to capture an image of each sheet across its entire span before being die-cut. Every sheet's size, rotation, and print quality are then compared to your set “golden standard” to identify defects as small as 2mm like skew, spots, hickeys, smears, color deviation, missing print, and more. Using PrintChek in conjunction with MeasurementChek allows you to remotely monitor production and quality statistics which you can then export via Excel for statistical analysis.

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Adhesive Dispensing and Quality Assurance Solutions Valco Melton :+1 513 874 6550 Info@valcomelton.com | www.valcomelton.com

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Cris Carter Tapped (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1)

2001. He credits the Vikings football program and its health professionals with getting him the help he needed. When

he quit drinking, his life changed. He went on to become an eight-time Pro Bowler and twice earned first-team All- Pro honors. In interviews over the years, Carter doesn’t express any resentment to- wards Ryan. In fact, he said that had he kept him on the Eagles team, it

Cris Carter

wouldn’t have helped. His hell-and-back journey via Min- nesota led him to where he is today — sober since 1990. Carter says his recovery journey has been the fight of his life, but he is willing to share what he has learned. To- day, as a public speaker, he gives back by talking about his personal experiences that inspire leadership, teamwork, and overcoming adversity. Carter is currently the Executive Director of Player En- gagement at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, Flor- ida, where he not only promotes their degree programs but spends time with each player to help prepare them for life and professional opportunities outside of college football. Together, they devise a plan so that when they graduate and their eligibility is complete, they have real opportunities, he said. “I just believe overall in the position I’m in now I have

more of an impact not only on the coaching staff but on the entire roster compared to being a position coach or someone associated with only a part of the team,” Carter said in a FAU feature. “A lot of these kids, we know their aspirations of trying to make it to the NFL, no problem. If a kid comes through

CONTINUED ON PAGE 28

We’ve got our customers covered… …with our fiberglass backed, boltless, full double-wide blankets and an extensive inventory of corrugated parts needed by virtually every box plant in the country. The innovator of the original fiberglass-backed knuckle locking anvil cover, Stafford is the industry’s go-to source for everything corrugated. TM

www.go2stafford.com 800-282-5787 IS THE MANUFACTURER OF STAFFORD ANVIL COVERS ®

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Cris Carter Tapped (CONT’D FROM PAGE 26)

the door and he’s an NFL player, oh trust me, we will get the maximum out of his ability, but there’s also a life after. “If the average NFL career is 3.4 years, which that has been the average for the last 35 years, at 25, 26 we’ve got to make these decisions that Coach Carter has already started talking to you about when you’re 18, 19 and 20.”

BRAD MASON

Atlanta Laser Operator

Carter performed a similar role in the NFL Legends program which helps top players transition to fulfilling and productive lives after football through various programs, resources, and partnerships. He has also been recognized for his work with in- ner-city youth, receiving the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award in 1999 and has been a mentor in President Barack Obama’s “My Brother’s Keeper” program. Upon retiring from professional football, Carter tran- sitioned into broadcasting, where he served as a studio analyst for HBO’s Inside the NFL (2002-2007) and ESPN’s Sunday NFL Countdown and Monday Night Countdown (2008-2016). He was a regular co-host on ESPN’s “Mike and Mike” and provided expert analysis on ESPN’s Super Bowl and NFL Draft coverage. Most recently, Carter co-hosted Fox Sports 1’s daily morning show, “First Things First,” where he debated the hottest sports topics. In 2013, he authored a book, “Going Deep: How Wide Receivers Became The Most Compelling Figures In Pro Sports.” TAPPI CEO and President Larry N. Montague said they are honored for Cris Carter to speak at SuperCorrExpo. “His journey of resilience and success is sure to inspire and energize our attendees.” Others to keynote at SuperCorrExpo include New York Times Bestselling Author Shawn DuBravac and Jake Hall, known for his industry-leading platform The Manufacturing Jake Hall stands at the forefront of the manufacturing revolution. Through his popular platform, The Manufactur- ing Millennial, Jake seeks to educate manufacturing pro- fessionals on the latest cutting-edge automation and man- Millennial. Jake Hall

PEOPLE CENTRIC, QUALITY FOCUSED

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CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

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