Board Converting News, April 7, 2025

BoardConverting Serving the North American Corrugated and Folding Carton Industries for 40 years April 7, 2025 VOL. 41, NO. 14

PPC Spring Outlook Conference To Energize, Elevate Business BY SUSAN RILEY The packaging landscape of 2025 demands more than traditional ap- proaches. It requires visionary leadership, sustainable solutions, cut- ting-edge innovation, and strategic adaptability. As market dynamics shift and consumer expectations evolve, indus- try leaders—now more than ever—face unprecedented challenges but extraordinary opportunities. So where does your company fit in this rapidly evolving market- place? You may find that answer at the Paper & Packaging Council’s

Graphic Packaging To Close Middletown, Ohio Facility Atlanta, Georgia based Graphic Packaging Holding Company (GPK), a global leader in sustainable consumer packaging, announced that it will permanently close its Middletown, Ohio, coated recycled paperboard manufac- turing facility on or about June 1, 2025. The closure is part of a previously dis- closed plan to consolidate recycled paper- board production into Kalamazoo, Michigan, and the new Waco, Texas, facility, which is ex- pected to begin commercial production later this year. GPK said the Middletown closure will af- fect approximately 130 employees. “I want to thank the Middletown team which has played an important role in the growth and success of Graphic Packaging. We are working closely with affected employ- ees to provide employment placement assis- tance and support,” said GPK President and CEO Michael Doss. GPK said the closure of Middletown ad- vances its strategy to build competitive ad- vantage in paperboard manufacturing while driving environmental improvements includ- ing water and energy efficiency. CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

(PPC) Spring Outlook & Strategies Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana April 23-25. The big event will have a full lineup of inspirational speak- ers who have walked the walk, in terms of seizing opportunities and navigating their own path in the packaging industry. The General Session To kick off the general session, Lisa Pruett, President of RRD Pack- aging, Labels, and Supply Chain Solutions businesses, will present, “Stabilize, Then Strengthen, A Culture Driven Approach to Long Term Success,” stressing that great workplaces aren’t accidental—they’re in- tentional. Her keynote will break down how to create an environment where people bring their best, drive results, and fuel growth. She will share how RRD tackles business turnarounds, smart decision-making, and effective leadership. CONTINUED ON PAGE 28 The PPC Spring Outlook & Strategies Conference is set for April 23-25 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

WHAT’S INSIDE

6 x x 8 x x 12 x x 26 x x 3 Sonoco Closing RTS Packaging 6 Pamarco Names Jeff Dietz VP Of Sales & Marketing 8 Richard “Dick” Graham Passes Away At 90 12 PPEC’s Rachel Kagan Analyzes Potential Tariff Fallout

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Sonoco Products Co. Announces Closure Of RTS Packaging Hartsville, South Carolina based Sonoco Products Com- pany is closing its packaging plant, RTS Packaging, in Scarborough, Maine, in coming months, according to local media. The plant, which employs about 67 people, man- ufactures corrugated partitions, folding cartons, sheeted paperboard and die cut paperboard components. It has been in operation in Scarborough under various owners since the 1980s. Sonoco assumed ownership in 1997. Company spokesperson Roger Schrum said the clo- sure is due to inflation and slumping sales in the folding carton market and that Sonoco is committed to ensuring a smooth transition for the plant, its employees and other affected parties, he said. “Sonoco has operations through- out the East Coast and our employees are eligible to seek employment at other company operations where open- ings may exist,” Schrum said. Sonoco announced a $70 per ton price increase for all grades of uncoated recycled paperboard (URB) in the US and Canada effective April 10. The company said the in- crease was necessary due to continued inflation and tight- ening market conditions. Sonoco employs approximately 28,000 people globally. Sonoco also plans to increase prices for all converted paperboard products by at least eight percent starting April 15.

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

Graphic Packaging (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1)

“Graphic Packaging’s investments in innovation and execution capabilities have made us the global leader in sustainable consumer packaging,” Doss said. “Our investments in Kalamazoo and Waco are a critical part of the value we deliver to our customers, allowing us to produce the highest quality, most economically advan- taged paperboard available in North America. With Waco moving quickly toward completion and transition inventory in place, this is the right time to further simplify our paper- board manufacturing footprint.” For more information, visit graphicpkg.com .

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April 7, 2025

P+PB Seeks Nominations For Board Of Directors

Play it Safe

The Paper and Packaging Board (P+PB) is seeking nom- inees to serve on its board of directors for a 3-year term starting January 1, 2026. Nominations are due May 16. The Board is seeking two experienced industry mem- bers from the South region who can bring deep industry knowledge to the board’s discussion and represent a range of product sectors including containerboard, paper- board, kraft and printing, writing paper and office paper. The Board of Directors comprises representation from eight companies: four companies representing the South, three companies for the Rest of the US and one Importer. The definition of the South is a company with opera- tions in Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia or West Virginia. In addition to geographical representation, the selection criteria for board members includes product sector, leadership positions, company size and sustain- ability commitments. Only companies that pay into the Paper and Packaging Board program can be nominated. In addition, only one person per company can serve on the board at any time. For more information, visit paperandpackaging.org or contact the Paper and Packaging Board at (703) 935-8590.

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Pamarco Announces Jeff Dietz As VP Of Sales For North America Roselle, New Jersey based Pamarco, a global leader in An- ilox, announced the appointment of Jeff Dietz as the new

ified its position as a premier supplier in the printing and packaging industry. “It has been a pleasure working at an organization fo- cused on team, superior products, and customer support. The dedication and expertise of this team have made my tenure incredibly rewarding,” Rastetter said. Dietz brings a wealth of experience to Pamarco, having held leadership roles in companies specializing in print- ing and converting applications across corrugated, fold- ing carton, flexible packaging, metal decorating, and dig- ital print solutions. His extensive industry knowledge and strategic vision will play a pivotal role in driving Pamarco’s continued growth and innovation. A respected leader in the industry, Dietz has served two terms on the Flexographic Technical Association’s (FTA) Board of Directors and is currently a member of the AICC Board of Directors.

Vice President of Sales and Market- ing for North America effective April 28. Dietz succeeds John Rastetter, who is retiring after 12 years of ded- icated service to the company. To ensure a seamless transition, the company says Rastetter and Dietz will be working closely together over the coming months as Jeff steps into

his new role. Under Rastetter’s sales leadership, Pamarco has solid- Jeff Dietz

He is a second-generation profession- al in the graphic arts industry, beginning his career in manufacturing at his father’s offset printing equipment company. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from California University of Pennsylvania and an MBA from Ohio Uni- versity. “We are thrilled to welcome Jeff to the Pamarco leadership team,” said John Bur- gess, President of Pamarco. “His deep industry expertise, strategic insight, and passion for innovation will be invaluable as we continue to expand our market pres- ence and strengthen our customer part- nerships.” For more info, visit pamarco.com . Greif To Increase Prices On All URB Grades Delaware, Ohio based Greif, Inc., a world leader in industrial packaging products and services, announced it is implement- ing a price increase between $50 and $70 per short ton for all grades of uncoated re- cycled paperboard (URB) products and a minimum 7.5 percent increase on all tube/ core and protective packaging products. The uncoated recycled paperboard increase is effective with new orders and shipments on and after April 21. The tube and core and protective packaging in- crease is effective with shipments on and after April 28. Greif has a workforce of more than 14,000 people operating across 248 facili- ties in 37 countries to serve global. For more information, visi t greif.com .

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April 7, 2025

Turn Trim Waste into Revenue 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 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: 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

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

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Richard “Dick” Graham Passes Away At 90

He began his career as Controller of the Philadelphia Papermill, Manayunk, of Container Corporation of America (CCA), a global paper and packaging company, headquar- tered in Chicago. CCA, which established the Aspen Insti- tute, was acquired by Mobil Oil and later sold to Jefferson Smurfit. Dick’s career spanned 40+ years with the company, moving from Philadelphia to Chicago to St. Louis, ultimately ascending to Chief Executive Officer. The company is now known as Smurfit Westrock. Dick will be remembered as a revered business leader who had a competitive spirit and for his dedicated service to the Haverford School. Koenig & Bauer Announces Kyana GmbH Spin-Off Germany based Koenig & Bauer announced that its Digital

Richard “Dick” William Graham, 90, of Bryn Mawr, Penn- sylvania, formerly of Gladwyne, passed away peacefully at Beaumont Retirement Communi- ty on March 24 surrounded by his loving family. He was the oldest son of Agnes and Grant Rowe Graham and was predeceased by his broth- er, Alexander (Sandy) John Graham and sister, Marilyn Graham Ab- bady. Dick attended the Haverford School, Lafayette College and The Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsyl- vania, majoring in Finance. Dick Graham

Unit will be spun off from the holding com- pany as a wholly-owned subsidiary, Koenig & Bauer Kyana GmbH, that will be part of a Special & New Technologies segment. Sandra Wagner, previously Vice Pres- ident of Digitalization at Koenig & Bauer, has been appointed Managing Director of Koenig & Bauer Kyana GmbH. The spin-off of the mechanical engineering company’s software innovation hub as an indepen- dent entity marks an important milestone in the consistent implementation of the company’s digital strategy, the company said. Koenig & Bauer Kyana GmbH will con- tinue to concentrate on the development of digital business models as well as AI and data-driven solutions throughout the entire life cycle of print products. “We are convinced that this strategic spin-off, com- bined with the concentration and consoli- dation of our outstanding expertise in the field of digitalization, will make a significant contribution to the long-term success of our company,” said Andreas Pleßke, CEO of Koenig & Bauer. The spin-off enables the company to meet customer needs in a more targeted manner and to exploit the growth potential in this market segment. Based on global megatrends, the Dig- ital Unit was launched in 2022 as part of the strategy, “Exceeding Print.” With the spin-off of the software innovation hub as an independent Business Unit, Koenig & Bauer underscored its commitment to pro- viding optimal customer support. “Our customers are at the heart of ev- erything we do,” said Sandra Wagner, Man- aging Director of Koenig & Bauer Kyana

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April 7, 2025

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Koenig & Bauer (CONT’D FROM PAGE 8)

reporting by effectively integrating financial and opera- tional data. With attendance capped at 25 participants, the seminar offers an intimate and focused environment to facilitate engagement and collaboration. Led by Mitch Klingher, CPA, a partner at Klingher Na- dler, LLP, this seminar will provide attendees with prac-

GmbH. “With Koenig & Bauer Kyana GmbH, we are creat- ing the necessary organizational structure of an agile soft- ware company, which enables us to respond faster and more comprehensively to the needs of our customers.” The transformation into an independent software com- pany enables the targeted development and expansion of specialized areas such as digital sales, a dedicated on- boarding and support team, and sustained customer care through Customer Success Management. The digital product portfolio is being expanded by the Connected Packaging solution presented at drupa 2024. It bridges the gap between analogue packaging and the digital world and offers brand owners new ways to interact with their customers.

tical strategies to bridge the gap between financial theory and oper- ational practice. With over 30 years of experience in public accounting and a deep specialization in the paper converting and packaging in- dustries, Klingher brings invaluable insights to help companies stream- line processes and improve financial

Mitch Klingher

outcomes. Participants can earn up to eight hours of Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits in Accounting, Man- agement Services, and Specialized Knowledge, certified by Klingher Nadler LLP. This seminar is for profession- als looking to refine their financial reporting skills, foster cross-departmental collaboration, and drive measurable Questions can be directed to Rebecca Rendon, Sr. Manager of Education, at rrendon@AICCbox.org or (571) 629-7613 or Taryn Pyle, Director of Education & Training, at tpyle@AICCbox.org or (703) 535-1391. improvements in business performance. To register, visit AICCbox.org/Calendar .

Klingher To Lead AICC Finance Seminar At Acme Corrugated

AICC, The Independent Packaging Association, will pres- ent the Unlock Financial and Operational Synergy Seminar, an exclusive learning opportunity for industry profession- als, on May 14-15 at Acme Corrugated in Hatboro, Penn- sylvania. This interactive two-day seminar is designed for intermediate-level professionals with at least one year of management experience who seek to enhance financial

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April 7, 2025

Exploring The Environmental Implications Of Potential Tariffs BY RACHEL KAGAN

As discussions continue around the United States proposed 25 percent tariffs on Canadian imports—including paperboard and cardboard—it’s important to consider not only the potential economic implications, but also the possible environmental implications. While these tariffs are still

under review, they raise questions about how trade policy may influence packaging decisions and busi- ness sustainability planning.

In this blog, the Paper and Paperboard Pack- aging Environmental Council (PPEC) explores the unintended environmental consequences of tariffs. While we do not take a position on trade policy it- self, we believe it is important to consider how such policies could impact sustainability efforts. So, what could all this mean for packaging, recycling, and sustainabil- ity planning? Could potentially higher costs for some types of packaging materials push businesses toward other materials that may be less recyclable? Could this uncertainty cause companies to delay or adjust their sus- tainability plans? If tariffs were to make certain materials—such as Canadian-produced recyclable paperboard and cardboard—more expensive compared to other materials, businesses may seek alternative materials. On a recent earnings call, Coca-Cola’s CEO James Quincey said that the beverage company could move to PET bottles for some products if aluminum cans were to become less affordable due to tariffs (on March 12, the United States started applying a 25 percent tariff on imports of steel and aluminum products from all countries, including Canada). It is worth noting that Quincey also said “we’re in danger of exaggerating the impact of the 25 percent increase in the aluminum price relative to the total system.” And when it comes to corporate sustainability goals, there has already been a slowdown in progress on various sustainability targets, with some North American companies highlighting difficulties in sourcing sustain- able feedstock and materials, and a lack of infrastructure for sorting and recycling. At a time when policymakers and businesses are working to improve recycling systems through Extended Producer Responsibility, with par- ticular efforts to reduce plastic, the unintended environmental impacts of tariffs should be considered. Our intention is not to exaggerate, but rather to explore potential implications from a sustainability perspective. It is possible that cost pressures could drive shifts in packaging materi- als, which could undermine efforts to reduce waste, particularly as they relate to Canada’s Zero Plastic Waste Agenda, the US National Strategy to Prevent Plastic Pollution, and the work being done to develop an inter- national legally binding instrument on plastic pollution. Additionally, the potential threat of tariffs creates an uncertain busi- ness climate that may make it more difficult to plan, which could impact or even delay progress or investments in corporate waste reduction and sustainability initiatives. While the US tariffs on Canadian paperboard and cardboard remain under review, the Canadian government has also identified potential CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 Rachel Kagan

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April 7, 2025

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Potential Tariffs (CONT’D FROM PAGE 12)

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reciprocal tariffs on US imports of these same products. This ongoing uncertainty adds another layer of complexity for businesses making packaging and sustainability deci- sions. We have seen before how external policy decisions can have impacts on local markets. China’s National Sword Policy, implemented in 2018, reshaped global recycling by restricting imports of certain waste materials. We recently discussed this with PPEC member compa- ny Emterra in a Q&A with their Chief Sustainability Officer. Reflecting on decades of experience in waste resource management and recycling, Paulina Leung emphasized the importance of global politics, specifically noting how the National Sword policy “opened up new markets in new countries and highlighted the need to ‘onshore’ recycling in Canada and in North America.” While not a tariff, China’s ban on importing certain re- cyclables had a significant impact, affecting recycling mar- kets, changes in packaging material choices, and the de- velopment of more local recycling solutions. For Canada’s paper packaging industry, environmen- tal sustainability is built right into its business model. For decades, our industry has relied on recycled content, not just because it’s good for the environment, but because it makes business sense. Using and reusing recycled fibres isn’t just an input de- cision, it’s a valuable resource that keeps materials in use and supports Canada’s recycling system. Regardless of how trade policies evolve, one thing re- mains clear: recycling has never been more important to ensure that clean, high-quality fibres are recovered and reintegrated into Canada’s local paper packaging circular economy. Rachel Kagan is the Executive Director of the Paper and Paperboard Packaging Environmental Council (PPEC). For more information, visit ppec-paper.com.

Nothing’s more rewarding than a couple made for each other.

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.

Registration Open For PACK EXPO Las Vegas

Registration for PACK EXPO Las Vegas 2025, set for Sep- tember 29 to October 1 at the Las Vegas Convention Cen- ter, is now open. Produced by PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, this event remains one of the most comprehensive packaging and processing trade show in North America, featuring 2,300 exhibitors show- casing innovations for more than 40 vertical markets. “Our industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace, mak- ing it essential for professionals to stay ahead of trends and technology,” says Jim Pittas, president & CEO, PMMI. “PACK EXPO Las Vegas is the ultimate platform to explore cutting-edge packaging and processing solutions, gain

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April 7, 2025

Double Your Production with the Twin Box Slitter ®

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Registration Open (CONT’D FROM PAGE 14)

able Packaging Pavilion, The Confectionery Pavilion, The Education and Workforce Development Pavilion, and The Association Partner Pavilion. Sustainability Central: Hear from experts on a range of sustainability topics and learn how to implement eco-friendly strategies for the future. New this year will be a Sustainable Packaging Show Floor Tour, a curated experience designed for CPG brand owners actively seeking sustainable solutions. Industry Speaks Stage: Experts from the PACK EXPO Partner Program will discuss key trends, including smart packaging, AI-driven automation, remote access, supply chain solutions, and operational efficiency. Innovation Stage: Three stages will host free, 30-min- ute seminars featuring breakthrough technologies and best practices, presented daily by industry experts and suppliers. Processing Innovation Stage: Focuses on ad- vancements in processing technologies, offering insights into improving efficiency and product quality. Reusable Packaging Learning Center: Experts will share insights into implementing reusable packaging sys- tems to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact. PACK EXPO offers numerous networking events to connect professionals with various interests. These events provide opportunities to exchange ideas and build rela- tionships that can lead to future collaborations and busi- ness growth. Register at packexpolasvegas.com .

industry insights, and build invaluable connections—all under one roof.” Attending PACK EXPO Las Vegas 2025 is one of the most efficient ways to discover solutions, ex- pand professional knowledge, and connect with industry experts. With 100+ educational sessions and an extensive show floor, attendees will have access to more innovations than anywhere else in North America. The PACK EXPO Las Vegas show floor will have targeted pavilions or “shows within a show” featuring solutions that address many in- dustry challenges. The Logistics Pavilion: With the rapid expansion of e-commerce, this pavilion will feature cutting-edge supply chain solutions, including warehousing, fulfillment, distri- bution logistics, and transportation providers. The Processing Zone: This area showcases the latest processing innovations, including homogenizing, heat treating, forming/sizing, and coating solutions. The Healthcare Packaging Pavilion: Focused on life sci- ences, this pavilion will showcase packaging innovations for pharmaceuticals, biopharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and medical devices. The Showcase of Packaging Innovations: Sponsored by Smurfit Westrock, this attendee favorite will display award-nominated packaging solutions. Additional Pavilions: PACK EXPO Las Vegas will also feature The Containers and Materials Pavilion, The Reus-

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April 7, 2025

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Koenig & Bauer Announces New CEO, CFO, Executive Board Changes Würzburg, Germany based Koenig & Bauer announced that Stephen Kimmich has been appointed as the next CEO starting in June. Kimmich, CFO and Deputy CEO, will succeed the previous CEO, Andreas Pleßke, who is sched- uled to retire as planned on December 31, and will assume special responsibilities within the group as a member of the Executive Board. “I am very pleased that Stephen Kimmich is succeeding me as CEO,” Pleßke said. “He has proven in recent years as CFO and Deputy CEO that he can lead Koenig & Bauer successfully. With his extensive wealth of knowledge–both in our markets and technologies, in mechanical engineer- ing and in finance–he is the ideal person for this position. In addition, every generational change always brings new impulses for a company.”

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Kimmich has been with Koenig & Bauer since 2020 and has taken on increasing responsibility for the compa- ny during this time. He studied mechanical engineering and business administration in the US, UK and Germany. His 25 years of global industrial experience in mechanical engineering and the automotive industry have given him not only a deep understanding of international business processes, but also the ability to lead and transform com- panies in a dynamic environment. At Koenig & Bauer, he initially served as CFO, respon- sible for finance, capital market communications, IT, and strategic M&A. In December 2023, he was appointed Dep- uty CEO and, in April 2024, additionally assumed respon- sibility for the business segment Special as a member of the Executive Board. He will succeed Pleßke as Chairman of the Executive Board at the annual general meeting in June 2025. The term is for five years. Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Raimund Klinkner, said: “With Stephen Kimmich, we have the ideal candidate to take on the role of CEO in the generational transition. In addition to his international experience and his profile as an engineer and financial expert, he has built up a pro- CEO Andreas Pleßke will hand over the baton to the current CFO, Stephen Kimmich, at the Annual General Meeting on June 4.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

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April 7, 2025

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Koenig & Bauer (CONT’D FROM PAGE 18)

Dagmar Rehm, Deputy Chairwoman of the Superviso- ry Board, added: “With Alexander Blum, we have gained an excellent candidate who brings extensive international experience in the financial and capital markets sector and will help shape the future as CFO of Koenig & Bauer.” Blum will begin his work at Koenig & Bauer on May 1 to help ensure a smooth transition of the future CEO and CFO roles. The group’s restructuring is being rapidly ad- vanced. It envisages a reduction from three to two busi- ness segments and a reduction of the Executive Board from five to two members. Koenig & Bauer has also appointed two new members to the Group Management team. Christian Steinmaßl is re- sponsible for various areas in the newly created Special & New Technologies segment, and Markus Weiß leads the Paper & Packaging Sheetfed Systems segment. Accurate Box Invests In Second Bobst Masterflute Touch Laminator Paterson, New Jersey based Accurate Box Company an- nounced the completed installation of its second Bobst Masterflute Touch Laminator, finalizing a series of planned upgrades to its Laminating Department. This milestone so- lidifies Accurate Box’s position as a state-of-the-art facility as it has the most advanced laminator technology consol- CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

found knowledge of our business processes, products, markets, and customers over the past five years at Koenig & Bauer.” “Koenig & Bauer looks back on a success story span- ning over 200 years,” Kimmich said. “Over the last five years, I have cultivated a deep passion for this excellent company and our industry. “I look forward to leading Koenig & Bauer into the future

together with the new management team and our dedicated employees, and most of all to being successful together with our customers and partners.” The Supervisory Board of Koenig & Bauer AG has appointed Alexan- der Blum as the new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for a three-year term,

Alexander Blum

effective July 1. Blum has extensive and long-standing experience in fi- nance. He studied business administration and earned his doctorate before beginning his career in industry. Over the past 20 years, he has served as CFO in vari- ous companies in the IT sector, logistics, and mechanical engineering, among others. He brings experience from a broad range of family businesses, private equity-led com- panies, and publicly-traded companies.

Serving the North American Corrugated and Folding Carton Industries Since 1985

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April 7, 2025

Accurate Box (CONT’D FROM PAGE 20)

idated in one facility in the United States. The upgrade, which began in September 2024 and was completed by the end of the year, involved convert- ing one of the facility’s older laminators to the Masterflute Touch model. Accurate Box’s team worked closely with Bobst engi- neers to ensure a seamless transition by dividing crews and managing workloads across its other two laminators. The completion of this project builds on the compa- ny’s first Masterflute Touch upgrade done in 2023 and brings several operational advantages. All three of Accu-

Consumers expect online product purchases to arrive in pristine condition. Retailers and E-tailers need to minimize costly returns. Shipping in corrugated boxes makes everyone happy. Corrugated packaging combines structural rigidity with wavy flutes to cushion

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rate Box’s laminators can now handle multiple flute sizes, giving greater flexibility when scheduling production jobs and meeting customer needs. The department has seen an increased throughput of approximately 20 percent per machine. These upgrades were supported by other significant facility investments to optimize production and prepare for future growth at Accurate Box. It installed a brand-new starch kitchen to supply all three laminators which provide greater control over starch formulas and cost savings on starch materials. Additionally, two new 500 HP boilers were installed to ensure a reliable steam supply to all three laminators and accommodate potential future expansions. For more information, visit accuratebox.com . RRD Reduces Carbon Footprint With Fruit Box Redesign Chicago, Illinois based RRD announced the results of a case study with a leading American gift producer and re- tailer known for its gift baskets and gourmet food gifts that was facing inefficiency and sustainability challenges with existing product packaging. As it stood, they were using high-end solid white sol- id bleached sulfate (SBS) board for their packaging, along with certain non-recyclable tapes. Due to the packaging’s rigid construction and tape closure, the boxes could not be flattened, and each box order required six trucks for

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CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

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April 7, 2025

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RRD Reduces (CONT’D FROM PAGE 22)

tion’s supply executives in the latest Manufacturing ISM Report On Business. The report was issued by Timothy R. Fiore, CPSM, C.P.M., Chair of the Institute for Supply Management (ISM) Manufacturing Business Survey Committee: “The Manufacturing PMI registered 49 percent in March, 1.3 percentage points lower compared to the 50.3 percent recorded in February. The overall economy con- tinued in expansion for the 59th month after one month of contraction in April 2020. (A Manufacturing PMI above 42.3 percent, over a period of time, generally indicates an expansion of the overall economy.) “The New Orders Index contracted for the second month in a row following a three-month period of expan- sion; the figure of 45.2 percent is 3.4 percentage points lower than the 48.6 percent recorded in February. The March reading of the Production Index (48.3 percent) is 2.4 percentage points lower than February’s figure of 50.7 percent. The index dropped back into contraction after two months of expansion, with eight months of contraction before that. The Prices Index surged further into expan- sion (or “increasing”) territory, registering 69.4 percent, up 7 percentage points compared to the reading of 62.4 per- cent in February. The Backlog of Orders Index registered 44.5 percent, down 2.3 percentage points compared to the 46.8 percent recorded in February. The Employment Index registered 44.7 percent, down 2.9 percentage points from February’s figure of 47.6 percent. “The Supplier Deliveries Index indicated a continued slowing of deliveries (though at a slightly slower rate of change), registering 53.5 percent, 1 percentage point low- er than the 54.5 percent recorded in February. (Supplier Deliveries is the only ISM Report On Business index that is inversed; a reading of above 50 percent indicates slower deliveries, which is typical as the economy improves and customer demand increases.) The Inventories Index regis- tered 53.4 percent, up 3.5 percentage points compared to February’s reading of 49.9 percent. The index returned to expansion after six months of contraction. “The New Export Orders Index reading of 49.6 percent is 1.8 percentage points lower than the reading of 51.4 percent registered in February. The Imports Index contin- ued in expansion in March, though just barely, registering 50.1 percent, 2.5 percentage points lower than February’s reading of 52.6 percent.” Fiore continues, “In March, U.S. manufacturing activity slipped into contraction after expanding only marginally in February. The expansion in both February and January fol- lowed 26 consecutive months of contraction. Demand and output weakened while input strengthened further, a neg- ative for economic growth. Indications that demand weak- ened include: the New Orders Index falling further into contraction territory, New Export Orders Index dropping into contraction, Backlog of Orders Index contracting at a faster rate, and Customers’ Inventories Index remaining in “too low” territory. Output (measured by the Production CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

transportation and storage. They found their current car- bon footprint to be unacceptable, and desired the lower freight costs that would come with a potential packaging redesign. Ultimately, the brand sought an experienced partner to help source new packaging design ideas and sustainable materials. A longstanding relationship with several RRD business units led the brand to entrust RRD’s packaging experts to overhaul their packaging. RRD worked with internal client teams to develop time-saving, environmentally-friendly solutions for their packaging needs by producing a shirt-

style box—a flat folded box—made with solid unbleached sulfate (SUS) paperboard, which contains fewer chemicals than the SBS stock. The resulting SUS-constructed box is strong, durable, and in adherence with food packaging in- dustry standards. RRD also eliminated the freight concerns of the rigid and taped boxes with a flat-ship box design. Because the boxes ship flat and are now regionally sourced, five few- er trucks are required per order, leading to lower carbon emissions per shipment. The brand’s original fruit box design was too tall and narrow for the updated shirt-box style, so RRD designed a new one-part auto-bottom box with the same advantag- es. This all-in-one style consolidates the box into one SKU, and its effortless pop-up style simplifies assembly. To complement the fiberless SUS stock, the fruit box- es contain water-based glue for enhanced recyclabil- ity. The boxes are made without plastic or tape, making them 100 percent curbside recyclable. They also include environmentally-friendly coated natural kraft paperboard visible to the end-consumer. RRD said its comprehensive packaging solutions provided freight optimization, with 83 percent lower freight costs, and an average of five fewer trucks per order—reducing the required storage space by a factor of six.

Manufacturing PMI Slips To 49 Percent As Economy Expands

Economic activity in the manufacturing sector contracted in March after two consecutive months of expansion pre- ceded by 26 straight months of contraction, say the na-

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April 7, 2025

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