ICPF Q4 Workforce Report Highlights Finding and Retaining Talent The International Corrugated Packaging Foundation’s fourth-quarter workforce update reinforces a message many box plants already know well: attracting and keeping good people remains one of the industry’s most pressing challenges. The Q4 2025 report focuses on two core pri- orities: finding talent and retaining it. Across both areas, one theme is consistent: Successful organizations share common traits, but none more import- ant than having the right people in place. Rather than pro- moting one-size-fits-all solutions, ICPF provides examples and resources that companies can adapt to fit their own operations, culture, and local labor markets. On the recruiting side, the focus is on meeting candi- dates where they are. With fewer people entering man- ufacturing roles through traditional pipelines, companies are encouraged to think more creatively about outreach. Partnering with a manufacturing staffing agency can pro- vide many employer benefits like bridging skills gaps and reducing hiring risks. Building relationships with local schools and technical programs, participating in community workforce initiatives, and rethinking how manufacturing careers are presented to younger audiences are all highlighted as effective strat- egies. Employer branding also plays a growing role in re-
cruitment. Prospective employees want to understand not just the job, but the company behind it. Plants that clearly communicate their values, culture, and commitment to em- ployees tend to attract candidates who are a better fit and more likely to stay. Retention remains an equally important part of the con- versation, reflecting the reality that keeping experienced employees can be just as challenging as hiring new ones. Competitive pay is important, but employees are looking for supportive leadership, opportunities to learn new skills, and a workplace where they feel valued and respected. Training and development continue to stand out as key retention tools. Structured onboarding, ongoing skills training, and clear expectations for growth help employees see a future within the organization. Investing in frontline supervisors and plant leadership often leads to stronger engagement and lower turnover across operations. Workplace flexibility, recognition, and open communi- cation also factor heavily into long-term retention. While solutions vary by plant size and location, listening to em- ployee feedback and making thoughtful adjustments can have a meaningful impact on morale and loyalty. The Q4 report reinforces that labor challenges are not going away, but they are manageable with the right strat- egies. By sharing ideas, focusing on people, and investing in leadership, ICPF continues to support corrugated pack- aging companies as they build strong teams for the future. For the full report, visit www.careersincorrugated.com .
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Kernic Systems is Your Trusted OneSource for Simplicity provider of high-efficiency scrap recovery systems for the corrugated, folding carton, and paper industries. Along with our partner, Höcker Polytechnik , we are bringing German efficiency and innovation to the North American paper markets. Our Negative Pressure Air Conveying scrap recovery systems improve efficiency and energy usage at your facility. Instead of traditional ‘blow through’ systems, the negative pressure systems ‘pull’ material to the separator, reducing duct leakage and ambient dust levels throughout your plant. Kernic Systems and Höcker Polytechnik, offer the highest quality solutions with the following equipment: Balers Corrugated Shredders for sheet, peel, and core waste Air Conveying solutions High-efficiency negative pressure dust collection systems and more!
CONTACT US TODAY TO LEARN MORE:
(905)-632-0562
(440)-250-8560
sales@kernicsystems.com www.kernicsystems.com
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www.boardconvertingnews.com
December 22, 2025
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