Board Converting News, January 26, 2026

January 26, 2026

VOL. 42, NO. 4

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

AICC Spring Meeting Preview: A Speaker Lineup For The Books BY ASHLEY PRAZYCH Each year, the AICC Spring Meeting offers a moment to step back from the daily box grind and spend time focused on the bigger picture, and this year’s agenda reflects that purpose with a thoughtfully balanced speaker lineup. The 2026 program brings together voices from across business, manufacturing, finance, leadership, sustainability, and sales.

Manufacturing Output Grew In December

According to a statistical release from the Federal Reserve, industrial production in- creased 0.4 percent in December and grew at an annual rate of 0.7 percent in the fourth quarter. Manufacturing output rose 0.2 percent in December, but declined at an annual rate of 0.7 percent in the fourth quarter. Capacity uti- lization stepped up to 76.3 percent, which is 3.2 percent below its 1972–2024 average. “The Federal Reserve’s latest manufactur- ing data show modest growth in output and a small bump in capacity utilization,” Kim Hum- phrey, President and CEO of the Association for Manufacturing Excellence, said. “This is good news for the people who keep U.S. manufacturing running. It suggests a bit more stability on the shop floor and more predictable production schedules for teams.” However, she said capacity utilization is still below long-term averages and “many manufacturers have room to grow.” “The recent improvement likely reflects investments in people, safer and more effi- cient processes, and smart use of technolo- gy,” Humphreys said. “While it’s too soon to

From futurists and market analysts to leadership advisors and sales strategists, each presenter will bring a distinct lens on how organiza- tions can adapt, compete, and move forward in an ever-changing envi- ronment. Some sessions will offer a wide-angle view, helping frame the forces shaping the months and years ahead, while others stay firmly grounded in the practical realities of running a box plant. It’s an inten- tional mix designed to encourage perspective without losing relevance. Keynote Speaker: Jim Carroll, Futurist, Business Trends, Leadership & Innovation Expert Jim Carroll is a world-renowned futurist with over 30 years of ex- perience helping organizations navigate the complex challenges of a rapidly changing world. Known for his actionable insights and power- ful leadership keynotes, Jim has guided CEOs, senior executives, and association leaders from some of the world’s largest organizations, in- cluding NASA, Pfizer, The World Bank, Mercedes-Benz, the PGA, Black- Rock, and Disney. Drawing on a deep well of industry-specific knowledge, Jim delivers customized, forward-looking strategies designed to align organizations with disruptive trends and emerging technologies. His keynote presen- CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

WHAT’S INSIDE

6 x x 8 x x 12 x x 26 x x 4 Liberty Diversified Appoints Jim Morgan President, CEO 6 Mike Nist Of Seattle-Tacoma Box Passes Away At 78 8 PPEC Delivers 2026 Outlook: EPR, PFAS, And Plastics 16 Planet Group Installs Domino X630i Digital Corrugated Press

EVERYTHING CORRUGATED UNDER

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Are You Using AI In Your Box Plant? If So, BCN Wants To Hear About It! Let’s be honest, there’s no way around it anymore. If you’re running a box plant and trying to stay competitive, you’ve probably had at least one conversation about AI, if not many more. Whether it’s curiosity, skepticism, or cautious experimentation, AI has officially entered the chat. Across the industry, AI is being increasingly integrated into processes and tasks like scheduling, maintenance, data organization, customer service, and admin. The plac- es that quietly eat up time and energy. We want to hear how box makers are actually utiliz- ing this technology. What inefficiences were you trying to solve first? Is AI helping, or still more talk than action? How has adoption gone internally? Have you seen real results, or are you still figuring out where it fits? How do you think AI fits in the long-term vision for your company? We’re compiling your AI experiences to tell a broader story about how this technology is taking hold in the in- dependent corrugated and folding carton industries. The beauty of our industry is that even when we compete, we still learn from one another. This feature is about sharing ideas, not giving away secrets. If you’re interested in being part of the conversation, please reach out to Ashley Prazych at aprazych@nvpub- lications.com.

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

Manufacturing Output (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1)

call this a lasting trend, continued progress will depend on people-centered leadership, ongoing skills development, and a commitment to continuous improvement.” Underscoring the notion that there is still plenty of room for growth despite slight upticks in key metrics, U.S. man- ufacturing activity dropped to the lowest point of 2025 in December, according to ISM’s latest Purchasing Manag- ers’ Index. The Federal Reserve said that most of the ma- jor market groups posted gains in December, and all of the major market group indexes ended the year above their year-earlier levels.

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January 26, 2026

Liberty Diversified International Appoints Jim Morgan President, CEO Minneapolis, Minnesota based Liberty Diversified Interna- tional (LDI), a manufacturer of packaging, office furniture and building products, announced that Jim Morgan has joined the company as President and CEO.

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Jim brings decades of leader- ship experience in the paper and packaging industry. Most recently, he served as Executive Chairman and CEO for Pressed Paperboard Technologies, LLC. His career in- cludes CEO and board chair roles

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Mike Nist Of Seattle-Tacoma Box Company Passes Away At 78 Michael John Nist, “Mike,” 78, of Browns Point, WA, died peacefully on January 2, 2026 at St Francis Hospital. Born November 2, 1947, he was the beloved son of the late Gene and Carole (Tarp) Nist. He loved growing up in Taco- ma and on the waterfront in Browns Point, spending time with his sister Vicki, and treasured his years at the Mary- mount Military Academy in his youth. Mike was a graduate of Stadium High School (Class of 1966) and Central Wash- ington University (class of 1970). Mike joined the family business in 1970 and spent over five decades at Seattle-Tacoma Box Company. He was instrumental in developing the company’s sales footprint, particularly in the seafood industry in Alaska and the agri-

Mike Nist

cultural industry in Hawaii. He was a natural salesman and loved developing many relationships with his customers, which turned into lifelong friendships. His love of travel and sales took him all over the coun- try and even the world, including visits to especially loved places in Alaska and Hawaii. Mike continued to thrive as a vital part of the company and was blessed to have the op- portunity to work beside his two sons and the extended Nist family until his death.

Mike had the biggest heart and was al- ways looking to help others. He was instru- mental in corporate philanthropy efforts, culminating in the creation of the Seattle-Ta- coma Box Legacy Foundation in 2024, and served as the Foundation’s Vice-President until his passing. Mike was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing. He was a friend to every animal and was never without the companionship of a trusted hunting dog. He loved spending time along the Washington Coast at Ocean Shores Outdoor Recreation Club and, in his later years, time in sunny Arizona. The biggest tribute we can make to his life well-lived is to “Live like Mike.” AF&PA Releases December Packaging Papers Report The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) has released the December 2025 Packaging Papers Monthly report. Total packaging papers & specialty packaging shipments in December increased 2 per- cent compared to December 2024. • The bleached operating rate increased slightly from November to 74.5 percent but remained below the year-to-date rate of 75.1 percent. • Capacity was down 2.6 percent for the year. • Unbleached bag & sack shipments were down 2.6 percent from last December, and down 2.2 percent year to date. • Total inventories were up 6 percent from the same month last year.

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January 26, 2026

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PPEC Delivers 2026 Outlook: EPR, PFAS, And Plastics Policy Across North America BY RACHEL KAGAN From the evolution of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for pack- aging, to plastics policy in flux, the pending CUSMA review, PFAS, and environmental claims, these are some of the environmental issues the Paper and Paperboard Packaging Environmental Council (PPEC) will be watching in the year ahead. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) EPR – a policy approach where producers are financially and oper- ationally responsible for managing the recycling of their packaging – continues to evolve across Canada, while new EPR laws are being in- troduced across the United States. Together, these developments are increasing costs and complexity across the packaging value chain.

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In Canada, the most recent shift is in Ontario, where the Blue Box program transitioned from a municipally operated system with partial producer funding to a full producer responsibility model. As of January 1, 2026, obligated producers are 100% financially and operationally re- sponsible for residential packaging and paper recycling. EPR and recycling policies have always been important to PPEC and its members because the paper packaging industry relies on recycled content as its primary feedstock. Using and reusing recycled fibers is not just an input decision, it is a valuable resource that keeps materials in use and supports Canada’s recycling system. While that remains true, what has changed is the scale and impact of these policies. EPR is no longer just a cost or compliance consideration; it is reshaping packaging value chains and recycling systems across multiple jurisdictions. Looking ahead, EPR can be expected to remain a visible and widely discussed issue in 2026. As programs transition and expand, challeng- es, and learning curves are inevitable in a complex recycling system with multiple stakeholders and overlapping regulatory requirements. EPR is not a simple policy to explain or implement. As a result, media coverage and stakeholder communications will not always capture its full complex- ity, even as EPR reshapes recycling systems and influences packaging decisions across North America. Plastics Policy Canada’s plastics policy framework remains in flux. While the Sin- gle-Use Plastics Prohibition Regulations remain in force, the legal foun- CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

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PPEC Outlook (CONT’D FROM PAGE 8)

trade measures targeting specific materials or jurisdictions can influence supply chains, sustainability planning, and environmental outcomes in ways that are not always im- mediately apparent. The Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUS- MA) is scheduled for its first six-year joint review on July 1,

dation underpinning the federal approach continues to be challenged. The Federal Court of Appeal has not yet issued its decision in Responsible Plastic Use Coalition v. Canada, a case that raises questions about the federal government’s designation of “plastic manufactured items” as toxic under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA). Although the ban remains in effect pending the Appeal, this ongoing legal uncertainty can make it harder for busi- nesses to make decisions about packaging design and material choices. Globally, negotiations toward a UN Global Plastics Trea- ty will continue in 2026, advancing efforts toward achiev- ing a legally binding international agreement to address plastic pollution. Canada, as a founding member of the High Ambition Coalition to End Plastic Pollution, reiterated its commit- ment to a global agreement when the G7 Environment Ministers met last fall and “reaffirmed their constructive engagement towards an international legally binding in- strument on plastic pollution.” Canada-US-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) Review While trade policy is not environmental policy, it can have potential impacts on recycling systems and packag- ing decisions. As PPEC previously noted in its blog, Ex- ploring the Environmental Implications of Potential Tariffs,

2026. While the review is not expected to result in direct changes to recycling regulations, changes could poten- tially affect recycling systems, packaging decisions, and sustainability planning. Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly referred to as ‘forever chemicals,’ are used across various industries and can be found in some types of food-contact CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

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January 26, 2026

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PPEC Outlook (CONT’D FROM PAGE 10)

and unintentional, or legacy, PFAS, and how recycled con- tent may be affected. As regulatory approaches continue to develop in Canada and globally, understanding how PFAS move through supply chains and recycling systems, and how they can be managed and mitigated, remains an evolving area of research. While there is still much to learn, one thing is clear: addressing PFAS will require coordinat- ed action, as it is not an issue any single sector can solve in isolation. Environmental Claims PPEC continues to monitor developments related to making environmental claims in Canada, including Budget 2025’s proposal to amend certain greenwashing provi- sions under the federal Competition Act. Proposed changes include removing the requirement that environmental claims be substantiated using inter- nationally recognized methodologies. This comes on the

packaging. In Canada, the federal government is advancing its PFAS approach under the Canadian Environmental Pro- tection Act (CEPA). This includes a proposed class-based approach that would add PFAS, excluding fluoropolymers, to the List of Toxic Substances, enabling future regulatory controls. The first phase of this framework has begun with the Prohibition of Certain Toxic Substances Regulations, 2025, published on December 31, 2025, and coming into force on June 30, 2026. While this initial phase does not focus on packaging, Phase 2 is expected to target food packag- ing materials. Key issues for the paper packaging industry include the need to distinguish between intentionally added PFAS

heels of a recent leadership change at the Competition Bureau, as Commissioner Mat- thew Boswell ended his term early. Under his leadership, the Competition Act was amended to strengthen provisions aimed at addressing greenwashing. Taken together, these developments in- troduce uncertainty about how environmen- tal claims will be interpreted and enforced going forward. As this evolves, businesses should be mindful of a shifting environmen- tal claims legal and regulatory landscape in Canada and review company and product sustainability disclosures to assess risk and ensure appropriate substantiation. The Bottom Line These issues reflect a common theme: environmental policy affecting packaging and recycling is becoming more complex and the impacts are adding up. In 2026, the industry will be dealing with several policies at the same time, many of which are still evolving. This is less about any one regulation and more about their combined effect. EPR is becoming more expensive and more vis- ible, PFAS presents new challenges with many unanswered questions, and other pol- icies continue to shift. The result is a policy environment where expectations are increasing, and where de- cisions made to address one requirement can have effects elsewhere, both within organizations and

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January 26, 2026

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Signode Advances End-of-Line Automation For Empty-Containers Tampa, Florida based Signode, a global leader in transit packaging, announced new advancements in its end-of- line automation portfolio designed specifically for produc- ers of empty containers. Building on decades of experience in empty container and rigid packaging, the company is responding to a clear industry trend: upstream operations are moving toward higher-speed production with greater reliance on integrated, predictable automation.

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Empty-container markets—including aluminum cans, glass and PET bottles, jars, aerosol shells, composite tubes, and lightweight rigid plastics—share a common challenge. These products are shipped, stored, and handled before filling, making unit stability and process control essential. Variability in labor, manual handling, or standalone equip- ment can lead to deformation, product loss, or bottlenecks that ripple downstream. “Producers want automation that keeps up with fast- er lines, but they also need systems that communicate, adapt, and deliver consistent load quality, even with lighter or more fragile containers,” said Shawn Semer, Vice Pres- ident, Global Automation for Signode. “With skilled labor harder to find, simplicity matters. We partner with custom- ers to design reliable, scalable solutions.” Signode’s automation capabilities extend beyond in- dividual machines to complete, coordinated systems that combine conveying, robotic palletizing, strapping, and unitizing into a unified workflow. These solutions are pur- pose-built for the unique demands of empty-container packaging, helping customers maintain throughput and load integrity while reducing manual touchpoints. The system offers flexibility to handle everything from robotic bulk pallet unitizing—enhancing load stability through op- timized stacking patterns, tier sheets, and top frames—to high-density storage with the StorFast® ASRS (Automated Storage and Retrieval System). This seamless integration connects packaging lines with automated warehousing, driving greater efficiency and line continuity. Signode will continue expanding its offering for emp- ty-container applications in 2026, with a focus on tight- er data integration, enhanced maintenance support, and solutions that help producers scale with confidence. To learn more, visit www.signode.com .

That’s why the engineers at ARC International have focused their skills and talents on crafting perfect matches between the components that must work in tandem on your flexo folder gluers and die-cutters: • Anilox Rollers and Ink Chambers • Anilox and Wiper Rollers • Feed and Pull Rollers • Glue and Meter Rollers You can achieve the press speeds and print quality you need to fill your most demanding orders by pairing your team with The ARChitects of Flexo . Contact ARC today to learn how these engineered matches of flexo folder gluer and die-cutter components (new or reconditioned) can help you achieve a more perfect union of production and profits.

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January 26, 2026

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Planet Group Installs Domino X630i Digital Inkjet Corrugated Press Concord, Ontario Canada based Planet Group, a provid- er of innovative and sustainable packaging and market- ing-at-retail solutions, has expanded its digital print ca- pabilities with the installation of a Domino X630i digital aqueous inkjet corrugated press at Hughes Decorr, part of the Planet Group of companies.

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Planet Group identified digital printing as a critical ca- pability as customer demand grows for shorter runs, fast- er turnarounds, customization, and campaign flexibility. After evaluating digital solutions designed specifically for corrugated, the company selected Domino for its robust platform, aqueous ink technology, and strong service and support model. “The Domino X630i gives us the ability to offer high-quality, full-colour digital printing directly on corrugat- ed with minimal setup time,” says Stephen Longmire, VP of Sales, Hughes Decorr. “It allows us to help customers move faster, reduce inventory, and maintain consistency.” With the Domino X630i, Planet Group can help cus- tomers launch programs faster without printing plates, run multiple versions or retailer-specific programs, test new concepts or limited releases, and maintain consistent branding across short runs and reorders. The press also enables Planet Group to pursue more short- and mid-run branded packaging, retailer-specific versions, rapid prototyping, pilot programs, and seasonal or promotional work that was previously cost-prohibitive using conventional methods. From a production standpoint, the Domino X630i is ex- pected to reduce make-ready times, improve throughput on versioned projects, increase flexibility for mixed runs, and deliver consistent colour on repeat digital work trans- lating into quicker turnarounds and more reliable delivery. Planet Group reports high satisfaction with Domino’s hands-on operator training, workflow integration guid- ance, and responsive service as key benefits. “For us, the Domino difference is the combination of a robust technical platform with a genuine partnership ap- proach,” says Mike Bannerman, General Manager, Hughes Decorr. “It’s not just about the hardware it’s about collabo- ration, optimization, and long-term success.” The Hughes Decorr team, from left: Paul Lillies, Craig Berry, and Karan Goyal with the Domino X630i.

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Spring Meeting Speakers (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1)

Learn more about Jim and his work at jimcarroll.com . Keynote Speaker: Ross Bernstein, Inspirational Business Speaker & Best-Selling Sports Author The best-selling author of nearly 50 sports books, Ross Bernstein is an award-winning peak performance hall of fame business speaker who’s keynoted conferences for Fortune 500 companies on all seven continents and has been featured on CNN, ESPN, Fox News, and “CBS This

tations are characterized by fast-paced, motivational deliv- ery, grounded in real-world data and extensive research across industries like healthcare, finance, manufacturing, energy, sports, and more. Jim’s unique perspective is shaped by his background as a Canadian Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA),

giving him a rare combination of business acumen and future-fo- cused insight. Before becoming a full-time futurist in the 1990s, he spent a decade working in audit, taxation, and financial analysis, gaining a firsthand understanding of the challenges business lead- ers face. As an author, columnist,

Morning,” as well as in the Wall Street Journal, New York Times and USA Today. He’s spent the better part of the past 25 years studying the DNA of champion- ship teams, and his program, The Champion’s Code: Building Rela- tionships Through Life Lessons of Integrity and Accountability from

Ross Bernstein

Jim Carroll

and media commentator, Jim has written 39 books on top- ics ranging from innovation and entrepreneurship to the impact of disruptive technologies. Jim is also known for his collaborative approach, of- fering extensive pre-event consultations to ensure his in- sights are perfectly tailored to the unique needs of each audience. His presentation will deliver clear, concise in- sights that inspire leaders to take action in a faster, more complex world. With a client list that spans the globe and a proven track record of success, Jim Carroll is one of the most sought-after futurists in the world today.

the Sports World to the Business World , not only illustrates what it takes to become the best of the best, but it also explores the fine line between cheating and gamesman- ship in sports as it relates to values and integrity in the workplace. As a working media member in his home state of Min- nesota, Ross has unique behind-the-scenes access to all the local sports franchises in the area, including the Vi- kings, Twins, Timberwolves, Wild, and Gophers. As such, he spends lots of his time in dugouts, clubhouses, locker

CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

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Spring Meeting Speakers (CONT’D FROM PAGE 18)

rooms, and press boxes — and it’s here where Ross has met and interviewed thousands of professional athletes over the years. There are reasons specific teams win consistently, whereas others don’t, and Ross explains why. It’s mainly based on the “Good to Great” concept of how the best companies can separate themselves from the rest of the pack through servant leadership, creating a culture of ex- cellence, developing deeper relationships, and giving ex- traordinary customer service. Learn more about Ross at rossbernsteinspeaking.com . Focus Session Speaker: George Staphos, Managing Di- rector, Bank of America Merrill Lynch George Staphos is a managing director and co-sector head in Equity Research. Regular research publications produced by his team include the Packaging & Paper Wrap-

Up and BofA Corrugated Surveys. He and the team are known for their deep, global supply/demand and supply chain work in contain- erboard, beverage cans and other markets. Staphos has been voted a member of the Institutional Inves- tor All-America Research Team for

George Staphos

31 consecutive years by portfolio managers and buy-side analysts who invest in packaging and paper stocks, includ- ing 24 No. 1 rankings in the past 25 years. As a result, he was inducted into the Institutional In- vestor Hall of Fame in 2011, and has also previously been voted No.1 in Greenwich. Staphos has been with the firm since 2003 and his past experience includes analyst and management positions at Citigroup/Salomon Smith Barney and PaineWebber. His Wall Street career began while he was still in college. He has a BS in management and mar- keting from New York University and an MBA in finance from the Columbia Business School. . Focus Session Speaker: Jules VanSant, Executive Direc- tor, Two Sides North America Jules VanSant, Executive Director of Two Sides North America, has decades of experience in a variety of roles

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in the corporate, manufacturing, non-profit, and association space, with a primary focus on the mar- keting, print, and graphic commu- nications industries. Two Sides is focused on telling the truth about the sustainability story the paper, packaging, print, and mailing industry has to tell

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.

Jules VanSant

and its positive environmental impact. Their work includes research, marketing, content creation, speaking, direct outreach, and community building within the industry. In 2018 Jules co-founded Bubble & Hatch Marketing

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

CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

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January 26, 2026

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CREATIVE SYSTEMS & SOLUTIONS SINCE 1929

Spring Meeting Speakers (CONT’D FROM PAGE 20)

University of Denver and has completed executive pro- grams at Kellogg and Harvard Business School. Learn more about Matt at catalyst-point.com . Sales Seminar Speaker: Todd Zielinski, Managing Direc- tor/CEO, Athena SWC Todd Zielinski is one of the co-founders of Athena, which partners with manufacturers and other B2B compa- nies with complex selling environments to streamline the

with Jill Crossley. In her current role as Chief Inspirational Officer, Jules keeps her pulse on print and graphic indus- try trends, news, headwinds, and opportunities into the future. She has presented on various topics, including sus- tainability, marketing, team building and leadership. Breakout Session Speaker: Matt Eichmann, Founder & Leadership Advisor, Catalyst Point Leadership Advisors Matt Eichmann is a performance-focused executive coach and action-biased servant leader who helps leaders and teams unlock their best work. He brings a rare blend

front end of the sales process. He has more than 20+ years of expe- rience with hands-on sales, lead generation and management, tactical marketing, return on in- vestment models, marketing, and management. Todd has successfully imple- mented Athena’s outsourced mar-

of global, operational, and manu- facturing experience—from senior finance roles to serving as Chief of Staff for a mining company in Gha- na to leading a major plastic pack- aging manufacturer in Canada. Matt later served as the first Chief Marketing and Sustainabil- ity Officer at Greif, Inc., a global

Todd Zielinski

keting processes in various B2B complex sales environ- ments, including corrugated, folding cartons and ridged boxes. Since Athena’s inception in 2007, Todd has suc- cessfully increased year-to-year revenue growth for Ath- ena’s outsourced sales and marketing services division, as well as expanded this line of business across the US manufacturing marketplace. Todd holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Manage- ment from D’Youville College and is a graduate of the Buf- falo Chapter of the Harvard Business School’s Executive Management Program.

Matt Eichmann

industrial packaging company with deep roots in the cor- rugated and containerboard sector. His decade of experi- ence inside the industry gives him a grounded, real-world perspective that manufacturing and packaging leaders appreciate: clear communication, aligned teams, and deci- sive action that drives results. A former U.S. Marine officer, Matt holds degrees from the U.S. Naval Academy and the

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January 26, 2026

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Packaging manufacturers invest heavily in equipment, materials, and people. Amtech solutions turn those investments that sheet feeders, sheet plants, and full box plants make into measurable profit. Our AI-powered ERP, MES, and CRM systems streamline operations so plants can run leaner, faster, and smarter. • Full-plant control: from procurement to production to shipping. • Real-time visibility: identify issues before costly bottlenecks. • Industry-specific: workflows geared toward the packaging processes. • Comprehensive solution: advanced costing, scheduling, and shipping.

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SUPPLIER REPORTS 2026 (PART 1)

AES SCRAP CONVEYANCE SYSTEMS Souderton, Pennsylvania: Jeff Dietterich reports: “The past year marked a record level of AES system installations in

(REI), headquartered in Newton, North Carolina. For our customers, this transition has been intentionally seamless. AES continues to operate with the same leadership, sales, engineering, and service teams that customers know and trust. What has changed is the scale and depth of resourc- es behind those teams. “Together, AES and REI share a common philosophy: delivering turnkey, customer-centric solutions for scrap management and recycling, sustained by a people-first culture. The combined organization is now larger, stron- ger, and better positioned to support customers nation- wide, with expanded manufacturing capabilities and sales and service coverage from multiple U.S. locations. “Customers also benefit from a broader range of equip- ment solutions. In addition to our scrap conveyance and baling systems, we now offer single-shaft, dual-shaft, and tri-shaft shredders, guillotine roll shears, and a heavy-du- ty core shredder, all manufactured by REI. This expanded product offering allows AES to engineer more comprehen- sive systems that address mixed scrap streams, roll waste, and high-volume trim applications. “Service and support capabilities have expanded sig- nificantly as well. With technicians now dispatching from multiple regions—including the Midwest, Southwest, Southeast, and Mid-Atlantic—AES customers benefit from faster response times and reduced travel costs. Preventive maintenance, emergency repair, and system upgrades re- main central to our value proposition, helping customers protect uptime and extend equipment life. “Refurbished equipment is another growing focus area, with a dedicated team of experienced baler technicians specializing in high-quality rebuilds. Customers can ben- efit from an expanded inventory of ready-to-ship refur- bished balers and related equipment—an attractive option for plants needing fast deployment without compromising reliability or performance. “In 2026, customers can also expect an expanded AES website that more fully reflects the combined capabilities and product offerings of AES and REI, making it easier to evaluate system options and support resources. “As box plants continue to invest in growth and auto- mation, AES will continue investing in the systems, people, and service infrastructure needed to help keep operations

the box, corrugated, and folding carton markets. Plant expansions, new production equipment and the desire for increased automation drove strong demand for integrat- ed scrap-handling solutions, an ac- knowledgment of the critical role that efficient scrap conveyance plays

Jeff Dietterich

in protecting production schedules and profit margins. “For 2026, AES continues to focus on the needs of our customers to improve their operating efficiency as a buf- fer to changing economic conditions and consumer be- haviors. From initial system evaluations through design, installation, commissioning, and ongoing service, our goal is to align scrap conveyance solutions with the realities of modern box-plant operations. “Converters and box plants are looking for automation wherever it can be deployed on the production floor, in- cluding their scrap collection and baling processes. Our approach integrates air conveyance, separation, size re- duction, baling, and dust control into an automated system that performs reliably, safely, and with minimal operator intervention. Built-in features such as PLC’s (Programma- ble Logic Controllers) provide remote system access and monitoring for engineers and technicians. This capability allows for real-time diagnostics, troubleshooting, and up- dates, minimizing downtime and ensuring that production continues smoothly. “A key component of many AES installations is the Air- SharkTM air-material separator, engineered for efficient, clog-free separation across a wide range of operating conditions. With capacities up to 64,000 CFM, AirShark units are ideal for supporting everything from single die cutter applications to large, multi-line plants. The result is dependable separation, reduced plugging, and less time spent troubleshooting scrap flow issues. “Dust control remains a significant industry concern, and last year’s adoption of NFPA 660—consolidating mul- tiple combustible dust and particulate solids standards— clearly states that compliance is not optional. AES spe- cializes in NFPA-compliant dust control solutions that help customers maintain cleaner, safer operating environments while meeting regulatory and insurance requirements. Our wide range of solutions include traditional baghouse col- lectors, cartridge-style collectors, and enclosureless sys- tems. In some cases, we can offer lower cost solutions that eliminate the need for dust collectors while still meet- ing the NFPA 660 standard for combustible dust. “One of the most significant developments for AES this year was our acquisition by Recycling Equipment Inc.

running safely, efficiently, and reliably.” Visit aesales.net or gogreenrei.com . HAIRE GROUP

Merrillville, Indiana: Mike Mulroe reports, “Two thousand and twenty-five was a banner year for Haire Group, and a major driver of that momentum was the launch and grow- ing success of the Apstar GTS Flexo Folder Gluer. Inde- pendents told us exactly what they needed: speed, preci-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 28

www.boardconvertingnews.com

January 26, 2026

A RECYCLING EQUIPMENT INC COMPANY

BEFORE

Scrap and Dust Collection System Upgrade CUSTOM-ENGINEERED CONVEYANCE SUPPORTS GROWTH AT TAVO PACKAGING. TAVO Packaging is a custom folding carton manufacturer based in Fairless Hills, Pennsylvania, serving large-volume customers in food service, refrigerated and frozen foods, bakery products, and quick-serve restaurant markets. Known for consistent quality and responsiveness, TAVO recently undertook a facility expansion to support increased production capacity. As part of that growth, the company identified the need to modernize its scrap and dust collection system to keep pace with new high- speed converting equipment and evolving operational demands.

The Challenge

The Solution With additional production capacity coming online, TAVO’s existing scrap system began to show its limits. Outdated rooftop cyclones detracted from the building’s appearance, while an undersized system restricted baling flexibility and throughput. Cyclones exhausting to atmosphere created negative air pressure inside the facility, contributing to energy inefficiencies and cleanliness concerns. Additionally, a centrally located baling room required unnecessary material handling, as scrap had to travel longer distances before being stored and transported. Advanced Equipment Sales (AES) partnered with TAVO to design and install a custom scrap and dust handling system aligned with the facility’s expansion goals. The new system was strategically relocated adjacent to the loading docks, reducing internal scrap movement and improving overall material flow. A new dust collector eliminated negative pressure issues and enhanced plant cleanliness, while a dedicated baling room streamlined bale handling and staging. To further improve performance and aesthetics, AES installed AirShark ™ rotary separators beneath the roof, delivering high air-handling capacity in a compact footprint while eliminating the need for large, unsightly cyclones.

The Results

The upgraded scrap conveyance system now supports higher production volumes while improving plant safety, cleanliness, and energy efficiency. Exterior aesthetics were enhanced, material handling was simplified, and TAVO gained a scalable solution designed to support long-term operational growth.

CONTACT AES TO DISCUSS YOUR SCRAP COLLECTION NEEDS

AESALES.NET | 1-800-572-9998 | SALES @AESALES.NET

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