Board Converting News, February 16, 2026

February 16, 2026

VOL. 42 NO. 7

BoardConverting Serving the North American Corrugated and Folding Carton Industries Since 1985

Cauthorne Paper, Part II: Paper Making That Spans Generations BY STEVE YOUNG The Team Mentors The Owner Williams is quick to credit long-time Cauthorne team members for men- toring him into the specialty paper converting industry, and points to them for the advances the company has made in its productivity and profitability. Steve Newsome is Cauthorne’s Operations Manager. His career has been spent in the slitting and rewinding business, first with

The Royal Group Acquires SEMO Box Company Chicago, Illinois based The Royal Group (TRG), a leader in innovative packaging and display solutions, has announced its acquisi- tion of SEMO Box Company, based in Scott City, Missouri. This strategic move further enhances TRG’s manufacturing capabilities in the Midwest and reinforces its dedication to delivering high-quality, customer-focused packaging solutions grounded in service, in- tegrity, and family values. Founded on more than 55 years of suc- cess, SEMO Box Company has grown into a well-respected organization serving custom- ers coast-to-coast. Backed by three genera- tions of experience, SEMO Box Company has established a strong legacy of hard work, reli- ability, and superior customer service. This ac- quisition allows TRG to expand its operational capabilities while continuing to provide SEMO Box Company customers with the trusted ser- vice, quality, and responsiveness they expect. Kevin Miller, CEO of TRG, stated, “We are pleased to welcome SEMO Box Company to the TRG family. This acquisition represents a strong strategic fit with our operations in Halls, Tennessee, and St. Louis, Missouri, and posi-

Cauthorne Paper Company headquarters in Ashland, Virginia.

Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI), a polyester film and polymer manu- facturer in Hopewell, Virginia, where he spent 17 years in various roles leading up to Polymer Plant Manager. “I enjoyed troubleshooting ma- chine-, film-, and polymer-processing problems,” he said. “I learned a great deal working with the machine operators, technicians, mechan- ics and electricians by crawling through machines and working with customers to better understand their requirements.” Newsome came to Cauthorne in 1997, hired by then-owner John Lewis. “Steve is the smartest person I have ever had the opportunity to work with,” Mark said. “He’s a mechanical engineer and really intelligent fellow.” Mark sees Newsome’s mechanical aptitude as a real asset, not just for Cauthorne’s internal operations, but for customer relationships as well. “He loves tinkering with machines, and he’s our best salesman because when customers start giving him information on what types of paper products or rolls or materials they need, he sources them and rolls up his sleeves to solve their problems. It was nice having him to help me understand. He knows what he’s doing and I didn’t.” Theresa Patrick was another Cauthorne veteran who helped Mark learn the ropes. She was Cauthorne’s Customer Service Manager, and she worked at Cauthorne her entire life – 44 years. Dick Doak, Ware- house Manager, had worked with Mark’s father at Albemarle Paper in CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

WHAT’S INSIDE

6 x x 8 x x 12 x x 26 x x 8 Cascades Announces Multiple Plant Closures, Price Increase 10 Harleys Corrugated Invests In Kolbus BX Motion Boxmaker 16 Packrite Installs Koenig & Bauer Press, Brings Printing In-House 24 Supplier Reports, Part Four

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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

The Royal Group Acquires (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1)

tions us for continued growth across the Missouri Valley. SEMO Box Company’s longstanding reputation for quality, innovation, and exceptional customer service makes them an excellent addition to our organization.” Greg Powderly, SEMO Box Company General Manager, added, “Joining TRG represents an exciting next chapter for SEMO Box Company. TRG’s family-owned culture, na- tional reach, and shared commitment to excellence make this partnership a natural fit.” SEMO Box Company’s leadership team will continue in their roles, reinforcing stability and maintaining the com- pany’s culture and customer relationships.

Read the articles in Board Converting News every week to learn about the people, places and machinery that will open the doors to new or repeat business.

Len Prazych at 518-366-9017 lprazych@nvpublications.com

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FOLDING SECTION UPGRADES THAT MOVE THE INDUSTRY FORWARD

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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 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 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: 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: 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. 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 hauler is changing out the container. Problem: No budget for a new system.

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Cascades Announces Multiple Plant Closures, Price Increase

Smurfit Westrock Permanently Closes Paper Machine At La Tuque Mill Smurfit Westrock has announced it will permanently close one of the paper machines at its La Tuque, Quebec, mill. The machine’s annual production capacity of 127,000 tons of solid bleached sulfate (SBS) has faced ongoing scale and cost challenges. The change is part of the company’s commitment to strengthen its SBS portfolio and ensure the long-term competitiveness of its paperboard operations. Smurfit Westrock will also close the extrusion facility in Pointe-aux-Trembles, Quebec, which converts grades pro- duced on the La Tuque machine. The closures will result in a limited workforce reduction of approximately 30 at La Tuque and approximately 60 at Pointe-aux-Trembles. The company will provide support to employees includ- ing career transition assistance and relocation opportuni- ties where possible. Impacted employees will receive local severance in accordance with company policy and labor union agreements. “This was a difficult but necessary decision to align with market realities and strengthen our long-term posi- tion,” said Laurent Sellier, president and CEO of Smurfit Westrock, North America Region. “We remain committed to our people, our operations in Canada and to delivering reliable, quality service to our customers.”

Kingsey Falls, Quebec based Cascades chose to exit the two niche packaging markets and is “committed to opti- mizing its operating platform and business activities by fo- cusing on its strategic markets as a partner of choice for its customers,” according to the announcement. The honeycomb packaging plant in Berthierville that LM Packaging agreed to buy assets from was slated for immediate closure upon the news release, affecting 52 employees. Another honeycomb packaging manufactur- ing facility in York, Pennsylvania, will close by February 19, affecting 37 employees. Cascades cited declines in regional customer demand “no longer ensured profitabil- ity there.” And, the cardboard partition facility in Saint-Cé- saire, Quebec, will end operations by April 17, impacting 25 employees. “Focusing Cascades’ assets on its strategic markets is essential to achieving our optimization and profitability im- provement objectives,” said President and CEO Hugues Simon in a statement. Additionally, Cascades announced a $70 per ton price increase for containerboard to take effect March 2, follow- ing late January announcements for the same level of in- crease from Packaging Corporation of America and Inter- national Paper to take effect March 1.

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Harleys Corrugated Cases Invests In BX Motion Boxmaker From Kolbus For businesses seeking robust, reliable, and entirely be- spoke packaging solutions, Harleys Corrugated Cases stands as a name built on over 60 years of expertise. Based in Leicester, UK, this privately owned company has cemented its reputation by marrying four generations of family heritage with an unwavering commitment to quality and customer service. As a leading independently owned sheet plant in the UK market, Harleys offers a comprehensive service that covers the entire packaging lifecycle: design, manufac- ture, and final delivery. They are experts in creating cus- tom corrugated boxes, fitments, and specialised packs, confidently handling everything from a standard shipping

box to complex, bespoke die-cut solutions – and they do so for any size, any quantity, even offering next day de- livery for short orders. This made-to-measure approach, supported by their in-house design service and the latest CAD technology, ensures every customer receives a per- fect-fit packaging solution that is both cost-efficient and structurally sound. What truly sets Harleys apart is their dedication to both customer satisfaction and environmental responsibility. Having built a solid reputation for attention to detail, they pride themselves on being a name the industry trusts. Cru- cially, they have championed the move toward sustainable packaging. All of their materials are 100 percent recyclable and entirely plastic-free, allowing companies to meet their logistical needs while upholding their own green commit- ments. With a reliable team facilitating fast manufacturing and logistics, Harleys is positioned as a partner ready to

efficiently deliver quality corrugated prod- ucts that help businesses succeed in a de- manding market. In 2024, the company went through a generational transition. “My parents de- cided to step back from the business and allow me to take over the company by way of a generational buy-out,” explains David Harley, Managing Director. “I’ve worked in the business my entire working life and could see areas where we could enhance our offerings even further, so we set about looking for equipment to bolster our man- ufacturing capabilities. “We worked closely with Mike Irving of M&K Trading, who installed a recondi- tioned three colour Dong Fang 1224 flexo folder gluer, which has been a big boost for us,” adds David Harley. “But the one area of the business we really wanted to enhance was our short and medium run work, particularly following the installation of a Kolbus MN400 MultiNova gluer in late 2024. We already had two Autobox and two Solarco boxmakers and we decided to boost this area of the business. We visit- ed drupa in May 2024 with the team from Kolbus UK and saw their new BX Motion on their stand. We then saw one at their Houghton Regis facility, before making the decision to invest.” He continues, “It really is a game-chang- er for us, as the print and die-cut in one pass is the right fit for our business. Being able to send jobs direct to the machine from the design office is an amazing func- tion, meaning we get jobs turned around even faster than before. Customers benefit from digital print, without the cost or lead- CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

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MACHINERY SHOWROOM TRAINING CENTER AND

TAPPI 2026 Trade Fair Looks At What’s New In Corrugated

Harleys Corrugated (CONT’D FROM PAGE 10)

time for having a flexo plate made for single colour jobs.” As part of its latest investment plans for expansion, Har- leys recently started up a new BX Motion (BXM) short run boxmaking line, manufactured by KOLBUS Group GmbH. The BXM was installed and commissioned in the early au- tumn, moving in to full production mode in November. Greg Bird, Managing Director, Kolbus UK. shared, “This is the second BXM we have installed in the UK, and we know it will give Harley’s a real advantage in their mar- ketplace. The Kolbus BXM can make customised boxes from single, double, and triplewall board. Each module can be individually adapted to specific requirements, in- cluding the sequence of individual processes. Transport rollers and tools are positioned automatically according to FEFCO code and format and automated adjustment of all creasing/cutting tools for precise positioning in less than 60 seconds makes this an easy to operate high perfor- mance workhorse. An autofeeder and stacker allow for au- tomatic one-man operation, and a digital print unit, which comprises three individual 140mm print heads, allows for printing of logos and basic images at high speed.” “The support from Kolbus has been great,” adds Da- vid Harley. “Like any new machine, there will always be teething problems, but their team were reactive and fast to solve any issues. We are proud to be one of only two companies in the UK to have the BXM.”

On Tuesday, February 3, TAPPI hosted its 2026 Trade Fair and What’s New Dinner Program at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel, Oak Brook, Illinois.

What’s New provided suppliers and converters an ex- clusive venue to learn about new technologies, products, and services in a relaxed environment. Topics focused on emerging operational offerings in the corrugated industry in North America, as well as around the world. This most recent event featured presentations from industry experts, including: Dan Goymerac and Blake Ti- tus, Miron Construction; Spencer Bird, JB Machinery; Tim Wilson, The Haire Group; Robert Kaska, Kaska Robotics; Dylan Baker-Flynn, Geo M Martin Company; Charlie No- dus, Ringwood Convery Systems; Phil Eads, SUN Automa- tion; Todd Evans, Fosber America; and Libby Stickle, Stick- le Steam Specialties.

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ICPF, The Packaging School Complete First Scholarship Cohort The International Corrugated Packaging Foundation (ICPF) and The Packaging School (TPS) have announced the successful completion of ICPF’s first funded cohort in the Certificate of Mastery in Packaging Management (CMPM) program. In October 2025, nine students were selected to re- ceive ICPF’s $7,000 scholarship and completed the 12- week, expert-led CMPM program. The inaugural cohort included students from the University of Northern Iowa, Carlow University, Clemson University, Rutgers University, and Wake Forest University. Through completion of the program, students gained industry-focused knowledge, hands-on experience, and a project-based portfolio designed to be immediately appli- cable to packaging and manufacturing career opportuni- ties, with a dedicated emphasis on corrugated packaging. “This first cohort demonstrates the power of strategic partnerships to connect students with meaningful career pathways,” said Caitlin Salaverria, President of ICPF. ICPF and The Packaging School will launch a new CMPM cohort set to begin in April. Applications for the new cohort are currently open for submission. To learn more and receive updates on the upcoming cohort, visit www.packagingschool.com/icpf .

Domino Achieves Second Consecutive Silver EcoVadis Rating Gurnee, Illinois based Domino Printing Sciences, a glob- al expert in advanced variable data printing solutions, has announced that it has been awarded the EcoVadis Silver Medal for its sustainability performance, for the second consecutive year. Achieving an impressive score of 76/100 – an 8-point increase on its previous rating – Domino now ranks within the top 7 percent of all companies assessed worldwide by EcoVadis. The upgraded rating reflects Domino’s sustained commitment to embedding responsi- ble practices across its entire global business. This year’s progress is the result of structured and sustained CSR activities, including the establishment of robust global policies and the implementation of tangible measures implemented at every Domino site. Notably, the business also enhanced its transparency and CSR report- ing by publishing its first Corporate Social Responsibility Report, aligned with GRI international standards, marking a milestone in its report evolution. Robert Pulford, CEO, Domino, shared: “Sustainabili- ty performance is integral to our long-term strategy and to the trust our customers place in us. Achieving a Silver Medal with an improved score across our global opera- tions reflects the dedication of our people worldwide and reinforces our commitment to creating value responsibly.”

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Packrite Installs Koenig & Bauer Press, Brings Printing In-House High Point, North Carolina based Packrite, a premium, high-graphic corrugated packaging converter, is redefin- ing the efficiency of large-format offset print production. In a strategic move to offer customers unparalleled qual- ity, consistency and speed, the company has announced the purchase of a new Koenig & Bauer Rapida 164, 8-col- or press. The installation, scheduled for spring 2026 at its High Point, North Carolina facility, marks a significant ini- tiative in Packrite’s ability to further support complex, high- end packaging with digital-level speed and agility. “We’ve spent years searching for a solution that com- bines the flexibility of digital with the superior quality of off- set,” said Michael Drummond, CEO of Packrite. “When Koe- nig & Bauer presented the Rapida 164 with its ultra-short make-readies and a 7-color expanded gamut, we knew we had found the answer. This press allows us to compete for the most demanding short-run jobs while maintaining the premium quality that our business is built on.” The Rapida 164 features automated color control and 7-color expanded gamut printing, allowing Packrite to convert a high volume of spot colors to expanded gam- ut. This process dramatically reduces waste during setup. Make-readies can be completed in as little as five min- utes. Packrite believes this shift will align better with their

customer needs, helping brands to move from concept to shelf more nimbly. The Rapida 164 is engineered as a Digital/ Offset pro- cess with ultra-fast make-ready with the latest digital auto- mation. By utilizing fully automatic inline grey-balance-con- trol and 7-color expanded gamut, the press autonomously measures and controls the dot – a feature unique to Koe- nig & Bauer technology. The system continuously monitors and adjusts color throughout the run, ensuring consistent results from the first sheet to the last — a critical require- ment for regulated and design-sensitive packaging. “For our customers, consistency is not an option. It is an expectation,” Drummond said. “This press takes subjec- tive color control out of human hands and puts it into the advanced quality systems integrated into the press. That’s how we achieve repeatability across short runs, long runs and reruns.” To support the new press, Packrite is investing in a 16,000-square-foot climate-controlled renovation within its 200,000-square-foot High Point manufacturing facility. The dedicated space is designed specifically for Packrite’s new print operation. This renovation aligns with Packrite’s recent Safe Quality Food (SQF) certification, which further strengthens the company to serve safety-critical packag- ing markets through world-class technology. “The Rapida 164 is just another piece of the puzzle that ensures we will provide our customers a tangible, compet- itive advantage,” concludes Drummond.

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Cauthorne Paper, Part II (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1)

the 1960s. He helped Mark transition into Cauthorne and retired in 2022. “I was fortunate to have Theresa, Dick and Steve help me transition into a new business,” he said. “These people took me under their wings and made me feel comfortable.” By way of example of his early misun- derstanding, Mark recalls calling manila tag stock “vanilla” tag stock. “I mean, it kind of looks like vanilla, right? They corrected me and helped me understand the difference.” Joining the Cauthorne team shortly after Williams pur- chased the company is Tom Zbell, Cauthorne’s Process Improvement Technician. Mark knew Zbell from Richmond Corrugated, where he worked to reduce set-up times, ob- tain ISO certification, and standardize work instructions. A veteran of GenEdge, formerly known as the Virginia Man- ufacturing Extension Program, Zbell has been key to up- grading Cauthorne’s quality processes and procedures. “I didn’t really want to retire,” Zbell said, “so Mark gave me a job as a part-time process improvement technician. I run his quality program and keep track of things that are regulated by other agencies like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).” Zbell’s long experience in documenting and implementing process and procedure has, in Mark’s words, “helped capture Cauthorne’s internal tribal knowl- edge and document it.” Mark also credits his operators – Rothmony Him, Seng Seang, Dean Smith, Moen Sam and Randy Lathrip – for

their work ethic and efficiency. Mark tracked down Ra- mone Turner, a former truck driver from Richmond Corru- gated, and brought him in in 2018 to drive and organize Cauthorne’s warehouse. Peggy Umbel, Customer Service Manager, ably cares for Cauthorne’s largest customer and their sometimes-complex order requirements. This past year Mark recruited Mike Smith as Plant Man- ager. Formerly with Manchester Industries in Richmond, another specialty paper converter, Mike brought with him his experience in overseeing a plant with state-of-the art precision sheeters, as well as expertise in using PaperSoft, software which powers Cauthorne’s CRM and operating systems. Dean Smith, operator of the Jennerjahn JLS 73 slitter-rewind- er, handles finished rolls of slit and rewound kraft paper.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

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Cauthorne Paper, Part II (CONT’D FROM PAGE 18)

gated shipping boxes while in transit. Prepared meal kits are an example of this application. “We have a unique value-add to them, being this close,” Mark said. “They’re 15, 20 minutes away, and they’re growing like a weed. If we can grow alongside them, that’d be a win-win for both. They are leading the charge on sustainable packaging.” And what are other markets and prospects for the com- pany’s continued growth? “We’re growing the business in three ways,” Mark said. “Organically, through new busi- ness; growth with existing customers through addition of new capabilities, and, when Wallace came on, we were able to acquire another small converter operation, and that really boosted our sales.” The Seventh Generation Joins The Company Enter Wallace Williams, Mark’s son, the seventh gener- ation of Cauthorne’s independent legacy. A 2018 graduate of the University of Virginia, Wallace holds a bachelor’s degree in economics and a master’s in finance. He spent several years with Congressional Bank (later Forbright), in Washington, DC, and Denver, providing financing for the real-estate and operating-capital needs for the elder-care and behavioral health industries. With COVID-restricted demand in those markets and Mark’s persuasive per- sistence to consider the family business, Wallace joined Cauthorne’s team in July 2023. “I was ready for a change of work,” Wallace recalls, “so I made the decision to move back to Richmond. It’s been a decision I haven’t regretted.”

Cauthorne’s ‘Broad Waterfront’ Cauthorne Paper Company’s product lines span a broad waterfront of applications and industrial and com- mercial uses. Its product mix is over 50 percent thinner caliper paper grades such as offset, kraft and newsprint and 45 percent board grades such as linerboard, chip- board, SBS, and tag board. The rest are non-woven ma- terials, carrying trade names such as Tyvek®, Finon® and Hollytex®. These products serve specialty markets where the characteristics of synthetic fibers are required. One industry segment which Cauthorne has served for several years is the electronics business, specifically, the manufacture of industrial capacitors. This manufactur- ing process utilizes chipboard strips cut to very precise dimensions to ensure a smooth-running capacitor line. If the strips are out of tolerance, Mark explained, their entire line goes down. “Steve Newsome came in and developed a system to die-cut them, bundle, then trim them and pack- age them in cartons for shipment directly to the customer,” Mark said. “We ship them all over the world – to Israel, to Mexico and El Salvador.” It is this segment, Mark said, in which Cauthorne’s business has continued to grow. Another market segment served by Cauthorne is ther- mal packaging, namely, slitting and rewinding rolls of pre- printed kraft paper for a local manufacturer of thermal packaging materials for insulating the contents of corru-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

20 February 16, 2026

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Cauthorne Paper, Part II (CONT’D FROM PAGE 20)

As VP of Business Development, Wallace, 30, is fo- cused on Cauthorne’s future growth, and his banking and finance experience has equipped him to know a good ac- quisition when he sees one. One such target was Trian- gle Converting Corp. in Durham, North Carolina. Triangle, a converter similarly equipped as Cauthorne, provided sheeting and trimming work for many North Carolina in- dustrial packaging companies. The firm had an additional niche which Mark and Wallace found to be a good addition

to Cauthorne’s product lines, namely, the specialty papers of Beveridge Paper Company in Whiteland, Indiana. The Beveridge Paper Company mill closed in 1999, but the grades are still produced by White Birch Paper in Quebec City, Quebec, Canada, and other North American mills. Ac- cording to Wallace, the acquisition of Triangle expanded Cauthorne’s sales to national paper distributors such as Lindenmeyr-Munroe, Mac Papers and Veritiv. “It’s almost like having a mercenary sales force out there,” said Wal- lace. “We brought in this whole new book of business.” Although Mark Williams, 63 this year, says he’s in the “fourth quarter” of his career, he’s still very much in the game. As for the future of Cauthorne, Mark says, “The decision on future leadership will ultimately be Wallace’s. Cauthorne has withstood the test of time so far and will continue to evolve and adapt to shifting customer de- mands.” In his days as President of Richmond Corrugated, Mark served on the Board of Directors of AICC, The Indepen- dent Packaging Association, and in 2015 was elected its Chairman. He has a message for his former corrugated in- dustry peers. “There are a lot of box plants out there who use our products,” he said. “Just let them know that we’re out here and we want to work with them. We’re a good source, and if we can’t provide a certain grade immediate- ly, we can find it.” He added a final reminder: “Tell every- one I’m alive and well. I am still converting, and I am still independent.” Steve Young is the former president of AICC and a reg- ular contributor to Board Converting News. He lives in Vir- ginia and can be reached at (202) 297-0583 or via email at asyoung001@gmail.com. Mark Williams (left) and his son, Wallace Williams, in Cau- thorne Paper’s finished goods warehouse.

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SUPPLIER REPORTS 2026 (PART IV)

CHROMASCAPE, LLC Cleveland, Ohio: Alan Barcon reports, “ChromaScape LLC is redefining performance and efficiency in the corrugated packaging industry with a growing portfolio of advanced adhesive technologies, additives and technical services designed to help manufacturers run faster, cleaner and more profitably.

ommendations that drive productivity and profitability. “With continued investment in innovation, manufactur- ing and technical expertise, ChromaScape is committed to helping corrugated manufacturers achieve higher perfor- mance, lower costs and greater operational reliability.” Visit: www.chromascape.com Call: Jimmy Holder, (254) 717-0345 DOMINO Gurnee, Illinois: Matt Condon reports, “As corrugated pack- aging continues to evolve, independent converters are increasingly evaluating where single-pass digital printing fits into their operations. With brand demands shifting to- ward shorter runs, faster turnaround, versioning, and sus-

“As a vertically integrated manu- facturer of liquid products, ChromaS- cape offers shorter lead times, great- er supply reliability and consistent, high-quality formulations, giving cus- tomers confidence in both perfor- mance and supply chain continuity.

Alan Barcon

“ChromaScape’s corrugated adhesive and additive solutions are engineered to deliver measurable operation- al and product quality improvements, including: • Accelerated Cure and Throughput: Advanced adhesive chemistries enable faster cure times, helping plants in- crease line speeds and improve on-time delivery. • Cleaner Operations, Less Downtime: Complete cook- out formulations prevent gelling and clumping, re- ducing equipment fouling, unplanned shutdowns and maintenance costs. • Flexible Formulations for Diverse Markets: High-perfor- mance additives allow manufacturers to meet evolving customer demands—from strength and durability to specialty performance requirements—unlocking new market opportunities. “Our formulations are designed to help corrugators move faster and smarter,” said ChromaScape. “By improv- ing cure, viscosity control and waterproofing performance, we help customers maximize throughput while delivering superior box performance.” “At the center of ChromaScape’s innovation portfolio is LBX®, a patented starch cooking agent that simplifies adhesive preparation while delivering exceptional perfor- mance benefits, including simplified chemistry, superior adhesion and cookout, and operational and cost advan- tages. “LBX is a game changer for starch adhesive systems,” ChromaScape noted. “Corrugators are switching to LBX to simplify operations and achieve consistent, high-perfor- mance bonding.” “ChromaScape differentiates itself with hands-on tech- nical support and equipment expertise. The company’s specialists work directly in customer facilities to: Calibrate and optimize equipment for peak adhesive performance; improve process efficiency and reduce waste; and provide ongoing process optimization support. “ChromaScape’s corrugated experts bring decades of industry experience, providing customers with practical guidance, rapid problem resolution and data-driven rec-

tainability, digital inkjet is no longer a niche technology. It is becoming a practical production tool. “From Domino’s perspective, the largest barrier to wider adoption is not the technology itself, but per- ception and education across the market.

Matt Condon

“Many independents are still evaluating how digital fits into their workflow, cost structure, and customer mix,” notes Matt Condon, Operations Manager at Domino Dig- ital Printing North America. While the capabilities of sin- gle-pass digital have advanced significantly, converters of- ten need to see real-world applications before making the leap. Domino’s X630i was developed specifically to lower that barrier, combining simplicity of operation with wa- ter-based ink technology and the ability to print high-quali- ty graphics across a broad range of corrugated substrates. “Warp remains a persistent issue in corrugated plants, regardless of print method. Domino emphasizes that warp is not unique to digital printing, nor is it amplified by inkjet technology. To address this, the Domino X630i incorpo- rates a vacuum transport system engineered to stabilize sheets as they pass through the print engine. “Digital presses must be forgiving enough to maintain consistent output even when warp conditions are chal- lenging. Our architecture allows software updates, ink en- hancements, and certain hardware retrofits to extend the useful life of the press,” Condon says. “One frequent market question is why digital press suppliers hesitate to quote a simple “sheets per hour” number. Domino believes that while speed metrics mat- ter, real-world productivity depends on job mix, workflow, and artwork complexity. The X630i is rated up to 246 feet per minute, translating to approximately 4,500 sheets per hour depending on sheet size. However, Domino stresses transparency in distinguishing between maximum techni- cal speed and job-ready throughput.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

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Supplier Reports, Part IV (CONT’D FROM PAGE 24)

Board Converting NEWS INTERNET DIRECTORY

“Historically, one of digital’s biggest challenges has been producing heavy solids uniformly. The X630i uses Domino’s AQ95 aqueous ink set with polymer-based tech- nology to deliver smooth solids and rich color density. “Domino also believes converters benefit most when expectations are clearly defined from the start. The com- pany provides print samples, discusses achievable gamut, and works closely with customers during implementation. “Another misconception is that digital presses require extensive pre-press expertise. Domino suggests the op- posite: systems like the X630i are designed for accessibil- ity. Operators do not need deep pre-press backgrounds. If they can handle digital files, the press workflow and RIP software manage much of the complexity. This reduces labor dependency and makes digital easier to integrate into existing corrugated operations. “With pre-print digital solutions emerging, some have questioned whether sheetfed single-pass presses will be displaced. Domino sees the technologies as complemen- tary. Pre-print digital systems tend to focus on longer run mass customization, while the Domino X630i excels in short-to-medium runs, versioning, and quick-turn work. “Looking ahead, Domino expects the competitive field to narrow. “Only suppliers who can deliver reliable tech- nology, excellent service, and long-term commitment will remain,” Condon says. With decades of inkjet experience and the backing of Brother Group, Domino positions itself as a long-term partner for converters investing in digital.”

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.

Visit: www.dominodigitalprinting.com . EQUIPMENT FINANCE CORPORATION

Alpharetta, Georgia: Ed Gargiulo reports, “Happy New Year! We can all look forward to the expansion of a healthy and prosperous U.S. Economy under the Trump adminis-

tration during 2026, and hopefully well into the future. While the estab- lishment media and others continue in their attempts to hide any and all positive news, reduced taxes and regulation have already created the environment for long term, sustain- able economic growth.

Ed Gargiulo

“GDP grew at only 2.5 percent during all of 2024, with the Biden administration’s parting legacy being a -0.5 per- cent contraction during the first quarter of 2025. Since that time, GDP has risen to 3.8 percent and 4.3 percent, respectively during Q2 and Q3, with the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta’s GDP model projecting a surge to 5.1 per- cent - 5.4 percent for Q4. “There is also “light at the end of the tunnel” in the banking/lending industry. The ineptitude of the Feder- al Reserve with delayed interest rate adjustments and over-regulation manifested in the tightening of both mon- ey supply and lending requirements.

ALBANY INTERNATIONAL www.albint.com

Albany International has a corrugator belt for every appli- cation. Our reputation for durable performance is the trade- mark of the most dependable belts in service today.

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