Board Converting News, December 29, 2025

December 29, 2025

VOL. 41, NO. 52

BoardConverting Serving the North American Corrugated and Folding Carton Industries for 40 years

Year In Review, Part II: Stronger, More Resilient Together BY ASHLEY PRAZYCH The second half of 2025 was every bit as eventful as the first, reflect- ing the natural ebbs and flows of the corrugated and folding carton industries. Despite ongoing challenges—from market unpredictability and tariffs to new and constantly evolving EPR policies—our communi- ty showed up with the strength and resilience that continue to define this industry. Board Converting News is grateful to our readers, sub- scribers, advertisers, and industry partners who support our publica-

Multicell Packaging Inc. Acquires Cell Pak

Lawrenceville, Georgia based Multicell Pack- aging Inc., the largest independent manufac- turer of chipboard and corrugated box parti- tions in North America, has acquired Cell Pak, Inc. of North Haven, Connecticut. The Cell Pak facility will operate as Multi- cell New England, Inc., expanding Multicell’s footprint to four U.S. manufacturing locations. The acquisition enhances Multicell’s produc- tion capacity, shortens lead times, and in- creases supply chain security through addi- tional regional manufacturing capabilities. “We are thrilled to welcome the Cell Pak team into the Multicell family,” said Paul Mill- er, President. “Their reputation for quality and service aligns perfectly with our mission and strengthens our ability to support customers with greater capacity, flexibility, and regional coverage.” Customers will continue to receive the same high-quality products and service, with operations at the North Haven facility continu- ing as usual during the transition. Multicell Packaging has additional man- ufacturing sites in Kutztown, Pennsylvania; Remington, Indiana; and now North Haven, Connecticut.

tion and the work we do. As the only weekly publication serving the North American corrugated industry in print and online, we’re proud to help document the progress, challenges, and milestones that shape our community. As the year comes to a close, we look ahead with ap- preciation and optimism for what we’ll build together next. Here’s a recap of the headlines that carried us through the end of the year. JULY • PCA To Purchase Greif Containerboard Business: Lake Forest, Illi- nois based Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) announced its agreement to purchase the containerboard business of Greif, Inc. for $1.8 billion in cash. • SUN Automation Group Touts Partnership With Versor: Glen Arm, Maryland based SUN Automation Group is partnering with Versor Engineering to bring advanced Specialty Folder Gluer and tape ap- plicators to the corrugated packaging industry across the USA and Canada. CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

WHAT’S INSIDE

6 x x 8 x x 12 x x 26 x x 4 JohnsByrne Acquires Municipal Packaging 6 Jim Porter III, Longtime Industry Veteran, Passes Away At 74 8 Gerrity Corrugated Partners With LMC And SUN Automation 14 PPC’s Folding Carton Boot Camp Delivers Industry Training

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Olive. “The first person I called was him,” Knowles said. “And I said, ‘Well, the business you brought to town is now leaving town,’ so it’s really sad.” The facility manufactures corrugated boxes — a prod- uct many associate with booming demand in recent years due to online shopping and shipping. But Georgia-Pacific says changing market conditions led to the decision. Lauren Campen, a spokesperson for Georgia-Pacific, said the surge in box demand during the COVID-19 pan- demic played a key role in what’s happening now. “What happened was during COVID, box companies and manufacturers saw a surge because big box stores like your Targets, your Walmarts, your Amazons needed to fill their shelves quickly and replenish quickly,” Campen said. “So they overstocked.” Now, that demand has fallen. “Stores have started destocking, and they still haven’t reached their pre-COVID levels of their stock for box sup- plies,” she said. Georgia-Pacific plans to move equipment from the Mt. Olive plant to other locations and sell the building. The company has not yet announced what assistance, if any, will be offered to displaced workers. For residents, the closure represents more than lost jobs — it’s the loss of a key piece of the town’s identity and economy. “As for what’s next for the town,” Knowles said, “it’s go- ing to be tough.”

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

Georgia-Pacific To Close Box Factory In Mt. Olive, Illinois

Atlanta, Georgia based Georgia-Pacific is closing its box factory in the Macoupin County community of Mt. Olive, a move that will impact about 135 employees in a town of roughly 2,200 people located about 47 minutes northeast of St. Louis. “It really was just a gut punch to the town,” said Mt. Olive resident John Knowles. Knowles has a personal con- nection to the plant’s history. His father-in-law was mayor in the mid-1970s when Georgia-Pacific first came to Mt.

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December 29, 2025

JohnsByrne Announces Acquisition Of Municipal Packaging Niles, Illinois based JohnsByrne, a leading provider of pre- mium folding carton and specialty packaging solutions, has announced the acquisition of Municipal Packaging, a premium custom packaging provider based in Los Ange- les, California. The strategic addition of Municipal Packaging will fur- ther strengthen JohnsByrne’s service offerings in the at- tractive Health & Beauty market and provide a strategic presence on the West Coast, further enhancing its ability to deliver comprehensive, high-impact packaging solu- tions to clients across a range of industries. JohnsByrne is a portfolio company of GHK Capital Partners LP (GHK), a leading middle-market private equity firm based in Green- wich, Connecticut. The acquisition of Municipal Packaging brings two fa- cilities and 75 employees into JohnsByrne, expanding the company’s footprint and capabilities. JohnsByrne now op- erates five facilities in Chicago, Illinois and Los Angeles, California. JohnsByrne and Municipal Packaging will work togeth- er to develop a unified go-to-market approach under the JohnsByrne brand in the coming months. This acquisition represents JohnsByrne’s continued commitment to pro- viding best-in-class packaging solutions to its customers.

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Jim Porter III, Respected Industry Veteran, Passes Away At 74 James B. Porter Ill, a distinguished leader in the global paper and packaging industry, died December 3 at his home in Key Largo, Florida. He was 74. Renowned for his

the Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School, underscoring his commitment to both technical forestry knowledge and strategic business leadership. He began his career in the forestry and paperboard business with Menasha Corporation - working first in timberlands, later rising to general management withing Menasha’s pa- perboard operations. In 1993, Jim joined Southern Container and helped build the Solvay Paperboard Mill as Vice President. This mill ultimately had three paper machines with more than 800,000 tons of capacity and was one of the most effi- cient mills in the world at the time. Jim and his incredible team grew Southern Container into a very well-managed business - the best in the industry at the time. As President and Chief Operating Officer of Southern Container, he oversaw operations during a pivotal era and in 2008, when RockTenn Company acquired Southern

strategic vision and decades-long commitment to operational ex- cellence, he built a 46-year ca- reer spanning forestry, contain- erboard, corrugated packaging, and global business development before retiring at the end of 2020. Jim earned a bachelor’s de-

Jim Porter III

gree in forest management from the University of Missou- ri and completed graduate studies in business including

Container, Jim joined Rock Tenn’s senior leadership team. Under his leadership, the company greatly expanded: what had been a roughly $2 billion-scale company at the time of acquisition grew into an industry heavyweight with about $18 billion in net sales over approximately a dozen years. Then after the merger of Rock Tenn and MeadWestvaco, becoming WestRock, Jim served as President of several key divisions - including Corrugated Packaging and Pa- per Solutions - and ultimately as President, Business Development & Latin America. In that role, he led global fiber procurement and oversaw WestRock’s operations and expansion in Latin American markets (no- tably Brazil) and its joint-venture operations in Mexico with Grupo Gondi where he re- mained on their Board of Directors follow- ing his retirement. Jim’s many industry accolades include the following: In 2018, Jim was honored with the RISI Lifetime Achievement Award- a testament to his longterm impact in the packaging in- dustry. In the same year, he was inducted into the International Corrugated Packaging Foundation (ICPF) ‘s Circle of Distinguished Leaders, marking his status among the top echelon of industry executives. He also received the Pulp and Paper Safety Association Executive Eagle award in 2017, and he is a past chairman of the Fibre Box Association. He is a past chairman of the Containerboard Sector of the American Forest and Paper Association and a past member of the Board of Directors for Cor- rugated Packaging Alliance, the Internation- al Corrugated Case Association and World

CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

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December 29, 2025

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Gerrity Corrugated Expands Capabilities With LMC Equipment And SUN Automation Support Ontario, Canada based Gerrity Corrugated is strengthening its position in the corrugated packaging market through targeted investments that drive growth, improve efficiency, and enhance customer responsiveness. As a sheet converting plant serving food, pharmaceutical, and manufac- turing customers, Gerrity depends on machinery that performs reliably and keeps pace with increasing demand. That focus led the company to the partnership between Latitude Machinery Corp. (LMC) and SUN Automation Group. A Partnership Built on Value And Performance Gerrity’s relationship with LMC began two years ago with the pur- chase of an 89-inch Jumbo Die Cutter. The results of that first installation set the stage for an expanding partnership.

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“We were really impressed with what the Jumbo could do,” says Chris Maisonneuve, Operations Manager at Gerrity Corrugated Paper Prod- ucts Ltd. “Once we saw the capabilities and the value LMC offered, it made sense to explore their flexo options. The PP1 is our second LMC machine in as many years, and both have delivered exactly what we needed.” SUN Automation, the exclusive North American representative for LMC, worked closely with Gerrity to identify the right solutions and align the project with ambitious timelines. The collaboration reinforced Gerri- ty’s confidence that LMC equipment would support both immediate pro- duction needs and long-term growth. Metrics That Matter When Gerrity evaluated new equipment, the company had clear re- quirements for performance, price, and lead time. LMC met all three. The LMC Jumbo Die Cutter expanded the plant’s capabilities immedi- ately. With its 89 x 189 capacity, Gerrity could take on larger-format work that previously required outsourcing. “Jumbo allows us to enter new markets as we did not have that capa- bility before,” says Maisonneuve. “This machine has been instrumental in helping us keep up with increased demand.” The PP1 Mini Flexo Folder Gluer added another layer of efficiency. Designed for speed, accuracy, and fast setup, the Mini introduced major workflow improvements. Its full-servo architecture, dual vacuum transfer, ball screw slotting system, and Windows-based control platform give op- erators control and consistency across jobs. CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

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Gerrity Corrugated (CONT’D FROM PAGE 8)

high-quality results. Features such as servo-driven sec- tions, computer-controlled axes, Windows-based order presets, and efficient folding and die cutting systems help plants like Gerrity maintain uptime and expand production capacity with confidence. “As SUN Automation’s authorized agent for Canada, we see Gerrity as a converter that knows exactly what it needs to support its growth,” says Mikah Thorne, Presi- dent of Canadian Corrugated Systems. “Their focus on value, throughput, and customer responsiveness makes them an ideal fit for LMC equipment, and it’s rewarding for our team to support their continued expansion alongside With two LMC machines already in operation and a third planned, Gerrity sees its partnership with LMC and SUN Automation Group as an essential part of the com- pany’s future. SUN and LMC.” Looking Ahead “We’ve received great value, exceptional customer ser- vice, and support. Both our machines are workhorses; you cannot lose,” says Maisonneuve. “We are looking forward to the next install.” As Gerrity Corrugated continues to expand capacity and serve new markets, its partnership with SUN Automa- tion and LMC demonstrates how the right combination of equipment, support, and collaboration can elevate perfor- mance and customer experience across the modern box plant.

“The PP1 Mini allows us to run more efficiently and convert one job to another much faster than our prior machine,” Maisonneuve explains. “The rapid set reduces changeover time significantly.” Both machines have supported Gerrity’s operational goals to such a degree that the company already plans to For Gerrity, the installation and onboarding experience confirmed the strength of the partnership. Having worked with a variety of suppliers over the years, the team quickly recognized the differences in approach that SUN and LMC provided. bring another unit online. Installation And Support “We were able to collaborate and work around our am- bitious timelines. We were consulted on every step, and the communication was second to none,” says Maison- neuve. “SUN and LMC rank at the top for installation and onboarding.” Ongoing service has been equally impactful. “The technical support is top shelf, and parts are readily avail- able. Every time we needed assistance, the response was immediate with prompt corrective action,” Maisonneuve adds. Growth With Technology LMC equipment is engineered for converters seeking reliable, user-friendly machines that deliver consistent,

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December 29, 2025

FOLDING SECTION UPGRADES THAT MOVE THE INDUSTRY FORWARD

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PPC’s Fall Folding Carton Boot Camp Delivers End-to-End Industry Training The Paperboard Packaging Council (PPC) recently con- cluded its signature Fall Folding Carton Boot Camp, held December 9–10 at PPC Headquarters in Springfield, Mas- sachusetts.

Jim Porter (CONT’D FROM PAGE 6)

Containerboard Association. Jim served on the boards of the American Forest Foundation, the Family Forest Impact Foundation and the Forest History Society. He was induct- ed into the International Corrugated Packaging Founda- tion’s Circle of Distinguished Leaders, was a member of the Society of American Foresters and was an SAF Certi- fied Forester. Jim was devoted to building a strong culture support- ed by committed teams and consistent execution. He was known by his many team members throughout his career as a caring and supportive leader who encouraged each member’s personal and professional growth in support of company success. His career demonstrated a rare blend of technical forestry knowledge, operational lead- ership, and strategic business development, making him a respected leader among both industry and conservation communities. After retiring Jim dedicated time to conservation and sustainable forestry. He served on the board of environ- mental organizations such as the American Forest Foun- dation and the Forest History Society. Together with his wife, Pam and supported by his son, Seth, Jim actively managed a large tree farm under sustainable forestry prac- tices - reflecting his lifelong commitment to stewardship of natural resources. They were recently honored with South Carolina, Southern Tree Farmer of the Year.

Attendees strengthened their understanding of the folding carton industry end-to-end by exploring how mate- rials, manufacturing decisions, and converting processes work together to drive performance, efficiency, and qual- ity. Boot Camp is designed to connect the full production chain in a way that’s difficult to replicate elsewhere. The in-person format elevates the experience, allowing partic- CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

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PPC Boot Camp (CONT’D FROM PAGE 14)

The Perfect Combo Get Peak Performance From Your Equipment with Matched Component Sets

ipants to engage directly with materials and concepts, ask questions in real time, and leave with practical takeaways they can apply immediately. A Speaker Lineup Built For Real-World Learning A major highlight of this year’s program was the depth and diversity of the expert speaker lineup. Steve Rote of Metsä Board Americas Corporation opened the materials discussion with a clear overview of virgin paperboard: how it’s made, what fiber choices mean for strength and printability, and how papermaking and fin- ishing steps influence runnability.

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Quinn Garber of Integrity Fiber broke down where re- covered material comes from, how it’s collected and val- ued, and how waste fiber is generated throughout con- verting operations. Jen Lechlitner of Graphic Packaging International gave an end-to-end view of recycled paperboard, from pulping and contaminant removal through forming, drying, coat- ing, and winding.

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.

Max Rawson of BW Papersystems delivered a practi- cal look at web and sheet processes, highlighting what it takes to turn rolls into consistent, press-ready stacks through nonstop unwind/splicing, tension control, curl management, and key sheeter components that keep lines running reliably. Susie Stitzel of Esko bridged structure and graphics, covering core structural design considerations alongside graphic fundamentals and a practical color and prepress primer, and strategies for consistent brand color across substrates and print methods. Gene Cowden of Wikoff Color Corporation grounded inks and coatings in production realities, connecting print system and curing choices to key performance factors

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December 29, 2025

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PPC Boot Camp (CONT’D FROM PAGE 16)

Gayle Harrop of Tamarack walked through carton win- dowing, from aperture creation to patch application either offline or inline, covering a range of equipment features and how film and adhesive choices can support coated boards and specialty requirements like freezer or micro- wave-safe packaging. Chris Raney of Heidelberg USA then tied carton styles directly to folder gluer performance, helping attendees understand how structure and equipment operation work together from feeding and alignment through folding, glue application, transfer, and compression/delivery. The program also explored adjacent technologies and premium formats that continue to grow in relevance. Harold Leete of Bobst returned to deliver an overview of litho-laminating and microflute packaging, explaining common production approaches and where litho-lamina- tion can deliver both protection and shelf appeal. Joe Sico of Emmeci USA rounded out the experience with a look at rigid boxes, clarifying what makes turned- edge packaging unique, how materials and construction choices shape performance and appearance, and which design elements—finishes, inserts, and closures—can ele- vate the end-user experience. Looking Ahead: Spring 2025 Boot Camp With the Spring 2026 Folding Carton Boot Camp al- ready scheduled for next May, PPC remains committed to driving innovation, sustainability, and professional growth for our members and the paperboard packaging industry.

in finishing and distribution, such as adhesion, rub resis- tance, gloss, coefficient of friction (COF), and durability. Harold Leete of Bobst North America led sessions on Digital Printing, Intro to Laminating, Sheetfed Diecutting/ Blanking/Embossing/Stamping, and Digital Diecutting, Miles Guessford of Marbach broke down converting tools and the critical tooling decisions behind cutting and

creasing, ejection/rubbering, and makeready, highlighting how the right toolset supports quality, consistency, and ef- ficiency on the diecutter. Kirsty Drury of Henkel led a production-focused ses- sion on gluing fundamentals, comparing water-based and hot-melt systems and connecting bond formation to key performance attributes and day-to-day success on the folder gluer.

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Year In Review (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1)

• Pratt Industries Achieves Record-Breaking HP Page- Wide Performance: Palo Alto, California based HP con- gratulated its customer, Pratt Industries, for becoming the most productive HP PageWide press across HP’s global install base. • Cascades To Close Niagara Falls Corrugated Oper- ations: Kingsey Falls, Quebec based Cascades Inc. announced that its corrugated facility in Niagara Falls, New York will be permanently closed, with production ceasing by September 3, 2025. • Colbert Packaging Certified As A Woman-Owned Business: Colbert Packaging was certified as a Wom- en’s Business Enterprise (WBE), solidifying the compa- ny’s position as an independent, woman-owned, small business, as it has been for more than 20 of its 66 years in operation. • Hood Container To Invest $118.9M At LA Paper Mill:

• The Royal Group Acquires Trans World Marketing: Ci- cero, Illinois based The Royal Group (TRG) announced its acquisition of Trans World Marketing, a premier pro- vider of custom permanent retail displays and environ- ments, based in East Rutherford, New Jersey. • Wasatch Container Celebrates 30 Years Of Packag- ing Reimagined: North Salt Lake, Utah based Wasatch Container proudly celebrates 30 years of delivering high-quality custom packaging solutions in corrugated, foam and wood crates. • Baysek Machines Inc. Acquired By Private Investors, Renamed Baysek Solutions LLC: Nelsonville, Wiscon- sin based Baysek Machines, a well-known manufac- turer of die-cutting solutions, was acquired by a con- sortium of private investors and was renamed Baysek Solutions LLC.

Atlanta, Georgia based Hood Container Corporation plans to invest $118.9 million to modernize its legacy paper mill in St. Fran- cisville, Louisiana. • Coastal Container Invests In Isowa Fal- con FFG: Holland Michigan based Coastal Container announced the installation of a new 4-color Isowa Falcon flexo folder gluer. • SUN Automation Group Introduces Pre- ventative Maintenance Program: Glen Arm, Maryland based SUN Automation Group an- nounced the launch of PERFORM+, a new quarterly preventative maintenance pro- gram to help box plants optimize machine performance, reduce costly downtime and extend equipment life. • StarCorr Sheets Invests In World’s First BHS Jetliner Monochrome: Temple, Texas based StarCorr Sheets announced its pur- chase of the world’s first BHS Jetliner Mono- chrome. AUGUST • Sappi NA Invests $500M To Launch Re- built PM2 In ME: Boston, Massachusetts based Sappi North America announced that it is delivering commercial product to cus- tomers following the $500 million conver- sion and expansion of Paper Machine No. 2 at its Somerset Mill in Maine. • SUN Automation Announces Sale Of Kolbus BX Motion To TX Boxmaker: SUN Automation Group has announced the sec- ond U.S. and third overall North American purchase of the Kobus BX Motion by Corru- gated Partners LLC in Arlington, Texas. • Koenig & Bauer Enhances Senior Man- agement Team: Koenig & Bauer (US/CA) entered a new chapter of leadership at its Dallas, Texas headquarters.

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December 29, 2025

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Year In Review (CONT’D FROM PAGE 20)

affected 100 employees and layoffs were slated for Oc- tober 2025. • Cascades Provides Updates On Bear Island, Niagara Falls Operations: Montreal, Quebec based Cascades announced the early closure of corrugated manufac- turing operations in Niagara Falls in light of notable ton- nage increases at Bear Island. • AICC To Launch Next Generation Executives Program In Fall 2025: AICC announced the upcoming launch of its Next Generation Executives Program, a premier 18-month educational experience designed to prepare high-potential professionals in the packaging industry for executive and C-suite leadership roles. • Bay Cities Celebrates 69 Years Of Innovation, Owner- ship, And Impact: Bay Cities celebrated its 69th birth- day with Bay Day. Since 1956, Bay Cities has stood out in the world of industrial packaging, retail packaging, and in-store displays by staying true to its core: inno- vation, sustainability, and 100% employee ownership. • Greif To Sell Southeast Timberlands For $462M: Del- aware, Ohio based Greif has announced its agreement to sell the timberlands it owns across the southern U.S., to Molpus Woodlands Group for $462 million. • Colony P&M Expands Capabilities With Honeycell Packaging: York, Pennsylvania based Colony Packag- ing & Machine has announced the expansion of its con- verting capabilities in the honeycell corrugated pack- CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

• CUIR Corrugated Launches Report Editor Data Anal- ysis Software: CUIR Corrugated Converting Machinery announced the launch of its new data analysis soft- ware, a proprietary, in-house application developed to revolutionize how production performance is mon- itored, analyzed and communicated. • Lawsuit Accuses Containerboard Producers of Price Fixing: Containerboard producers are being hit with a class-action antitrust lawsuit accusing them of creating a “cartel” and engaging in price collusion to boost prof- its at the expense of customers. • G-P Announces Retirement of CEO and President, Christian Fischer: Atlanta, Georgia based Georgia-Pa- cific has announced the retirement of Christian Fischer, who served as president and CEO since 2017. • Colbert Packaging To Participate In Startup Moxie Program For High School Students: Elkhart, Indiana based Colbert Packaging announced its participation in Startup Moxie, an entrepreneurship-focused dual credit course helping high school juniors and seniors learn about the printing and production of folding car- tons. • Smurfit Westrock To Close Facility In Cedar Rapids, IA: Smurfit Westrock announced the closure of its Ce- dar Rapids facility, which produces corrugated packag- ing like standard cases, boxes and trays. The shutdown

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Year In Review (CONT’D FROM PAGE 22)

aging space. • Zumbiel Adds Unwind & Splice Technology For Its HP Digital Production Line: Hebron, Kentucky based Zumbiel, a leading independent folding carton con- verter, reported that it has chosen Martin Automatic’s unwind and splice technology for its new HP digital production line. • AICC, The Packaging School, To Launch MBA-Level Program: AICC and The Packaging School have an- nounced the launch of the Business Management in Corrugated Packaging Certificate Program. • G-P Closes Knowledge Gap With Retiree Program: Georgia-Pacific introduced the Retiree Talent Network Program, led by its internal staffing agency. The initia- tive leverages the skills and expertise of retirees, turn- ing a potential gap into a competitive advantage. SEPTEMBER • IP Invests In Containerboard Facility, Sells GCF Busi- ness: International Paper announced a series of stra- tegic changes, including the sale of its global cellulose fibers business for $1.5 billion; investing $250 million into the Selma, Alabama mill; and closing its Savannah and Riceboro mills. • Patricia Carman, Co-founder Of StandFast Packag- ing, Passes Away: Patricia Lea “Pat” Carman, beloved

CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

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December 29, 2025

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Year In Review (CONT’D FROM PAGE 24)

Board Converting NEWS INTERNET DIRECTORY

wife of John Carman and co-founder of StandFast Packaging, passed away at the age of 88. • JohnsByrne Expands Facilities And Invests In Growth: Chicago, Illinois based JohnsByrne, a leading provider of premium packaging solutions, announced plans for growth, including a recent facility expansion of over 160,000 square feet of fulfillment and assembly space. • Platinum Converting Acquires Chicago Laminating: Bartlett, Illinois based Platinum Converting, a provider of print and packaging converting services, has an- nounced its acquisition of Chicago Laminating. Plati- num will integrate Chicago Laminating’s lamination and specialty coating technologies and experienced team into its operations. • Domtar Awards Over 100 Grants Through $2K Your Way Program: Domtar has awarded 107 grants in 2025 through its $2K Your Way program, which gives em- ployees the opportunity to apply for grants to support causes they care about. • Veritiv Acquires S. Walter Packaging Corp.: Atlanta, Georgia based Veritiv Operating Company, a leader in specialty packaging distribution, facility solutions and print products, announced its acquisition of Walter Packaging Corp., a provider of custom packaging solu- tions serving retail, hospitality, food and beverage, and fashion markets. • Engico America Appoints Richard Goldberg Presi- dent: Lissone, Italy based Engico was founded on the awareness of the importance of service. With installa- tions in North America increasing, Engico America was created and Richard Goldberg, a 45-year packaging in- dustry veteran, was appointed President, and will lead the North American business from its headquarters in Merrillville, Indiana. • A.G. Stacker And Valco Melton Partner On QA Im- provements: Attleboro, Massachusetts based Ab- bott-Action Packaging announced significant improve- ments to print quality, operational efficiency and waste reduction following the integration of A.G. Stacker’s Sample Quality Rejection System with Valco Melton’s PrintChek technology. • SupplyOne Acquires Vital Pack, Expands To SoCal: Newtown Square, Pennsylvania based SupplyOne, Inc. announced its acquisition of Vital Pack, a Signal Hill, California based packaging distributor with in-house la- bel printing capabilities and a strong presence through- out the state. • Corrugated Market Shows Signs Of Stabilization Amid Capacity Cuts: A prolonged down cycle in fiber markets may be nearing an inflection point, thanks to significant containerboard capacity reductions and a milder-than-expected tariff environment. • Koenig & Bauer Identifies Technicians For Its Appren- ticeship Program: Koenig & Bauer (US/CA) announced

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.

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.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 28

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December 29, 2025

Year In Review (CONT’D FROM PAGE 26)

Board Converting NEWS INTERNET DIRECTORY

its seventh consecutive year of its successful appren- ticeship program. The program currently has six ap- prentices enrolled, providing participants with valuable skills and professional development. • Bay Cities Expands East With Cincinnati Office: Pico Rivera, California based Bay Cities has announced the opening of its newest office in Blue Ash, Ohio, just out- side of Cincinnati – an expansion designed with client success in mind. • Advanced Equipment Sales Acquired By Recycling Equipment, Inc.: Souderton, Pennsylvania based Ad- vanced Equipment Sales (AES), a leader in custom air conveyance and baling and dust control systems, an- nounced it has been acquired by Recycling Equipment, Inc. (REI), based in Newton, NC. • Bruce Benson, Former FBA President, Passes Away: The FBA community mourned the passing of Bruce Benson, former association president, who served as both a dedicated leader and passionate advocate for the corrugated industry. • Menasha Announces Partnership With Amazon Transparency Program: Neenah, Wisconsin based Menasha Packaging Company announced its strategic partnership with the Amazon Transparency Program. The collaboration empowers suppliers selling through Amazon to seamlessly integrate Transparency codes into their packaging strategies, ensuring product au- thenticity and enhancing consumer trust. • BAHMÜLLER Strengthens Sales Team In North Amer- ica: BAHMÜLLER announced that Michael Donnert and Andreas Schneiders will jointly assume responsibility as Area Sales Managers for the North American mar- ket. OCTOBER • Welch Packaging Merges With Elite Packaging: Elkhart, Indiana based Welch Packaging Group, a fami- ly-owned and operated manufacturer of custom corru- gated products, announced its merger with Elite Pack- aging of Jeffersonville, Indiana. • Jamestown Container Receives Multiple FBA Safe- ty Awards: Jamestown, New York based Jamestown Container was recognized with two prestigious honors from the Fibre Box Association (FBA): the 2024 Perfect Plant Award and the 2024 Safety Excellence Award. • SUN Automation Expands Into Europe With LMC Partnership: SUN Automation Group expanded its commitment to the European market by promoting its successful partnership with LMC. • AICC Annual Meeting A Success In Chicago: More than 700 AICC members and guests convened in Chi- cago for the Associations 2025 Annual Meeting, held at the Sheraton Grand Riverwalk Hotel. • Smurfit Westrock To Invest $19.3M In Mississippi Container Plant: Smurfit Westrock announced its plan

ARC INTERNATIONAL www.ARCInternational.com

ARC International is a world leader in the manufacturing of roller products for flexography. The latest nano-technology laser engraving in our NC and NV manufacturing facilities ensures superior quality and consistency in anilox rollers.

AES (ADVANCED EQUIPMENT SALES) www.aesales.net

AES is a leading full-service provider of integrated convey- ance systems specializing in scrap, trim, and dust. AES en- gineers custom scrap systems and works as a partner in process improvement to help businesses achieve greater profitability, productivity, and sustainability. Products include balers, shredders/hoggers, core shredders, filters, fans, and specialized dust control and collection systems. AES is the ex- clusive distributor for the AirShark Rotary Material Separator. For a wide variety of new and used equipment on to- day’s market, visit our website at www.acm-corp.com. BAUMER HHS CORPORATION www.baumerhhs.com hhs is a global leader in advanced gluing, camera verifica- tion and quality assurance systems for the packaging indus- try. Zero-defect quality and elevated production speeds are key parameters in the manufacturing of corrugated boxes. With hhs Xcam Box Monitoring and non-contact flap gluing of corrugated board, hhs offers every option for quality as- surance in the production of boxes with flexo folder gluers. AMERICAN CORRUGATED MACHINE www.acm-corp.com BLOWER APPLICATION COMPANY (BLOAPCO) www.BloApCo.com BloApCo has served the corrugated industry since 1933 with a variety of scrap handling solutions, including Hori- zontal Floor Shredders, Trim Cutters, and Material Handling Fans and Conveying Systems. BloApCo Shredders allow for continuous shredding and pneumatic removal of sheet waste stacks of all sizes, roll slab, cores, and carton scrap.

CORRUGATED MACHINERY SPECIALISTS www.cmsretrofits.com

Leading manufacturer and installer of quality retrofits, up- grades and replacement parts for S&S and Prime Flexo Folder Gluers. Specialists in reconditioning of S&S Flexo Folder Gluers, including ink, air and electrical systems.

CORRUGATOR BELT SERVICE LLC www.corrugator.com

Serving the corrugated box industry since 1991, Chicago- based Corrugator Belt Service LLC maintains corru- gator belts for peak board quality and performance.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

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December 29, 2025

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