BoardConverting Serving the North American Corrugated and Folding Carton Industries for 37 years June 14, 2021 VOL. 37, NO. 24
Liberty Packaging’s Values: Customer, Culture & People BY JACKIE SCHULTZ Strategic acquisitions and investments have redrawn the landscape for Liberty Packaging’s market presence across major regions of the U.S., expanding the business’s scale and geographic reach, particularly in the Midwest and Southwest. Based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the fam- ily-owned company has changed considerably since its founding 103 years ago as a supplier of refurbished wooden boxes.
Deadline For SCE Boxmaking Olympics Extended 1 Week Be a part of history this year with the 2021 Box Manufacturing Olympics at SuperCorrExpo 2021. Historically in even years, TAPPI’s Cor- rugated Packaging Division has sponsored the elite biennial competition for box makers known as the CorrPak Competition. In odd years, the mainstay event for AICC has always been the Packaging Design Competition. In 2021, TAPPI and AICC will unite their packaging competitions at the first-ever Box Manufacturing Olympics to be held at TAPPI/ AICC’s SuperCorrExpo 2021, August 8-12 in Orlando, Florida. The deadline to enter has been extended to Friday, June 18, 2021. Take advantage of this extra time to get your entry in to compete. Entry is open to corrugated, folding carton and rigid box manufacturers worldwide who have produced commercial corrugated pack- aging products between October 21, 2016, and June 11, 2021. All entries will be on display throughout the 2021 SuperCorrExpo event at the Orange County Convention Center. For years, the CorrPak and Packaging De- sign Competitions have showcased creative talent across the industry and around the
Four generations of the Fiterman family have facilitated continued growth and expansion while preserving their independent family cul- ture that is held up as the business model for success. Today, Liberty Diversified International (LDI) is one of the largest privately held com- panies in the Midwest. “We work every day to have the mindset of a smaller, independent packaging business while being able to invest in the talent, equipment and resources necessary to provide the complex solutions global man- ufacturers need. We believe there are very few companies that can do both of these well,” says Matt Homan, LDI President and CEO. Paper and packaging is the largest segment of the LDI portfolio, which also includes office and building products. The segment is divid- ed into North and South business units. Combined, there are five sheet plants, four corrugator plants, a sheet feeder, distribution facilities and a 100 percent recycled linerboard mill across seven states and Mexico. CONTINUED ON PAGE 24 The LDI and Omaha Box team, from left, Terry Johnson, Matt Homan, Mad- die Moore, Greg Theis, Mike Vanyo, Tabitha Antoniak, Rebecca Steffes and Ron Kenkel.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 4
WHAT’S INSIDE 10 NAM: Hourly Earnings Jumped 4.5% Since Pandemic Began 12 AICC Releases 2021 Sales Compensation Report 34 NDP: It’s The Best Time In 20 Years To Sell Your Business 46 DS Smith Commits To Net Zero Emissions By 2050
T H A C K E R I N D U S T R I A L S E R V I C E C O M P A N Y
O P E R A T O R T R A I N I N G T A I L O R E D T O Y O U R G O A L S Before any training star ts, we need to know your goals. We’ l l help you identi f y them, customize them, measure them and help achieve the expectations set by your team. Our intensive training wi l l encompass two ful l days at your faci l ity for al l par ticipants, during the week or on a weekend. Al l you need is a room for training your group and the machine you want to train on.
O U R T E A M
Our Training team consists of three corrugated industry exper ts with nearly 100 years of combined experience. Their backgrounds are in both integrated and independent companies with roles ranging from Machine Operator to Director of Operations. Making them more than qual i f ied to tackle any machine and training issue. Cal l today to learn how your team can benef it from the industry ’s premier training program.
www. thacker i ndus t r i a l . com (682) 552 5852 For more Information:
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C u r r e n t O p e r a t o r E x p e r i e n c e
S T E P 1
M a c h i n e t y p e G o a l s / E x p e c t a t i o n s
I s s u e s
Q U E S T I O N N A I R E
P l a n 2 d a y s w i t h i n y o u r s c h e d u l e
S T E P 2
1 d a y c l a s s r o o m a n d 1 d a y a t m a c h i n e
S C H E D U L E
1 - B o x S e t u p C a l i b r a t i o n T o o l i n g
S T E P 3
T R A I N I N G
T r o u b l e s h o o t i n g
Calling Profero Systems just another equipment supplier is like calling the Tour just a bike ride. Profero Systems
Proven unsurpassed customer service over the long run, commitment to our customers is second to none!
Add value to your Corrugating Process, be the go-to Company for your customers.
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June 14, 2021
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 E. Coast Midwest Southeast Southwest
42# Kraft liner
26# Semi-Chem. Medium
$1005.00-1010.00 $1020.00-1030.00 $1020.00-1030.00 $1020.00-1030.00 $1050.00-1060.00 $1023.00-1032.00
Short Ton Del. Short Ton Del. Short Ton Del. Short Ton Del. Short Ton Del. Short Ton Del.
$940.00-990.00 $955.00-975.00 $955.00-975.00 $955.00-975.00 $975.00-995.00 $958.00-978.00
West Coast U.S. Average
SHEET PRICES BY REGION (AVERAGE) Per 1MSF, local delivery included, 50MSF single item order, truckload delivery. Sheets
E. Coast Midwest South-SW S. CA N.CA/WA-OR US Aver.
200# 275#
$62.26
$72.05
$62.69 $82.80
$85.35 119.54
$73.13 101.29
97.32
99.89
90.86
113.65
OYSTER UP-CHARGE 8.34
8.34
8.34
8.34
8.34
8.34
275# DBL-WALL 350# DBL-WALL
107.46 118.45
114.69 129.32
116.54 137.25 117.82 145.56
141.08 148.46
122.76 131.80
CANADIAN SHEET PRICES (AVERAGE) In Canadian Dollars, per 1MSF, local delivery included, under 50MSF single item order, truckload delivery. 200# 275# Oyster UC 275#DW 350#DW $78.56 $99.18 $9.00 $96.32 $105.83 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 West
$970.00
$960.00 $995.00
$1,015.00
Deadline For SCE (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1 )
world, from simple sophistication to creatively comprehen- sive. The Box Manufacturing Olympics is set to bring more excitement and prestige to the industry’s most talented teams of independent and integrated creative thinkers. Best of Industry awards will be presented to the winner in each category. Attendees will also have the opportunity to vote the “Attendees’ Choice” Winner. Winners need not be present to enter or win. Get start- ed now to enter this premier competition. Visit supercorr- expo.org/bmo to get the latest details on how you can win at the first-ever Box Manufacturing Olympics. SuperCorrExpo is one of the most influential corrugat- ed packaging-focused trade shows in the Western Hemi- sphere and is happening live and in-person from August 8-12, 2021, at the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) in Orlando, Florida. For the first time since 2016, the corrugated industry will have a major trade show at which to safely gather and conduct business. This is a box maker’s best opportunity to discover and witness live machinery solutions on the expo floor, all designed to solve production challenges. Suppliers will have the opportunity to create new business opportunities and grow their networks with exclusive re- lationship-building events. Booth exhibition and sponsor- ship opportunities are still available. Visit www.supercorrexpo.org for more information.
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New-Indy Taking Steps To Reduce Odors From Catawba Plant In SC According to local media reports, the Environmental Pro- tection Agency (EPA) has released New-Indy Contain- erboard’s final remediation plan to eliminate a foul odor coming from its Catawba, South Carolina, plant, which has led to thousands of complaints and concerns about future health impacts. Both the EPA and South Carolina’s Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) determined the odor is the result of the facility releasing high levels of hydrogen sulfide. Homeowners have said the odor has caused nausea, headaches and nosebleeds. New-Indy is facing a June 15 deadline to submit cor- rective action plans to DHEC, which details how it’s going to reduce hydrogen sulfide levels. One of the corrective plans must focus on New-Indy’s wastewater treatment plant, which is one of the areas being investigated as a source of the odor. In the meantime, the company contin- ues to remove solid crust from the surface of its outdoor lagoons. It will also begin testing its stacks and vents to see if emissions have increased. New-Indy can’t start any tests without DHEC scientists present. New-Indy also has a deadline on June 27 from the EPA. The company must consult with a toxicologist and come up with a plan to ensure the odor problem will never hap- pen again.
Box Shipments ( U.S. Corrugated Product Shipments) Industry Shipments In Billions of Square Feet Month March 2021
Year
Actual
Percent Change Avg Week Percent Change
2021 2020
37.992 34.784
9.2
8.259 7.906
4.5
Industry Total
Year-to Date
March 2021
Year
Actual
Percent Change Avg Week Percent Change
2021 2020
102.939 99.108
3.9
8.170 7.743
3.0
Industry Total
Containerboard Consumption (Thousands of Tons)
Year
Month
Percent Change Year-to-Date Percent Change
2021 2020
3.0967 2.8627
8.2
8.4625 8.1907
3.3
Container Board Inventory - Corrugator Plants (Thousands of Tons)
Corrugator Plants Only
Date
Percent Change Weeks of Supply
Percent Change
Mar. Feb.
1.9332 1.9337
0.0
2.9 3.0
3.4
Shipping Days
Year
Month
Year-to-Date
2021 2020
23 22
63 64
SOURCE: Fibre Box Association
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June 14, 2021
40 ft of paper travel from preheater to hot plates 3 seconds of heat, glue and bonding 1 chance to get it right! the ZONE
Design & Production
Chicago Electric offers 10 technology solutions to control ‘the Zone’ CORRUGATOR Sectoral preheating plate
Our sectoral preheating plates provide direct heat by means of a double steam circuit, allowing for efficient heating in hard-to-access locations, as well as to act as a steam shower to open the paper’s fibre, making it receptive to absorbing the heat and the glue.
This translates into increased speed and improved quality of the cardboard sheet finish.
The system’s main advantages are as follows:
• The plate may only be used to heat, only to humidify, or both options at the same time. • The plate is sectored, which allows for applying humidity to the sections. • It provides temperature in previously inaccessible locations and near the location needed. • It compensates the loss of temperature dissipated due to distance, speed or limitations of the exiting preheaters. • Quick transferring of heat to the paper. • The combination of the hot plate and steam shower allows for providing heat even to the hardest papers to heat. • Does not dry out the paper. • Possibility of operating as a humidifier and pre-conditioner. • Maintains and improves the fibre’s elasticity. • Acts according to the operator’s needs. • Facilitates the paper’s hygroscopy to absorb the glue and improve rubberising.
CONTROLLABILITY
1. Wrap Arm - Position & Temperature 2. Preheater Direct Drive
DOUBLEBACKER IMPROVEMENT
3. Steam Plate 4. Contact Roll 5. Glue Machine Direct Drive Touch Productivity Issue—Glue Unit Many glue units run with a rider roll or a guiding bar system. The rider roll with paper gap allows a precise glue application, but requires frequent Contact Roll
PRODUCTIVITY
C/ Orfeó Català 13-15 · 08440 Cardedeu (Barcelona) telf: +34 93 846 01 06 · comercial@al-gar.com WWW.AL-GAR.COM
DOUBLEBACKER IMPROVEMENT
calibrations and settings. Bar systems avoid this, but compensate this with the risk of exces- sive glue application. The system contains many wearing parts. Solution The contact roll combines the ad antage of both systems and ensures minimum contact between board and applicator roll. The system uses small pneumatic cylinders in order to achieve a “soft touch.”
6. Gap Control 7. Curved Plate 8. Roller Shoe Press When it comes to a short-term increas of web tension, spring loaded systems with shoes or airpressure activated system have problems in compensating these. The system is lifted for a short time. This may result in de-lamination and in the ‘double kiss’ effect. Solution For a defined and exact bonding point of the web fiv weight rollers will be installed usually over the first flat hotplate of the heating section. The rolls are mounted into a frame, which is actuated by means of two pneumatic cylinders. P oductivity Issu —Double Kiss Bonding
PRODUCTIVITY
PRODUCTIVITY
DOUBLEBACKER IMPROVEMENT
Roller Shoe
DOUBLEBACKER IMPROVEMENT
9. Thin Wall Hot Plates 10. Pressure System Benefits —Exact glue application due to defined contact of applicator roll to web. Web is in contact to less flute tips compared to bar systems. • High precision glue application • Less moisture applied to web —No wear of shoes and springs —No adjustment of shoes or paper gap —Uniform glue application over entire w orking width for all flutes by use of pneumatic cylinders instead of springs — Less contamination by paper dust and glue remains —No jam of board because of web breaks caused by splice joints going through 630-784-0800 Benefits —Rollers secure exact defined first point of contact of liner and single-faced board - No double kiss —Frame design avoids unintended lifting of roller shoe (compared to spring or air loaded systems) - No double kiss —Pressure can be increased or released for special grades or products 490 Tower Blvd., Carol Stream, IL Contact Chicago Electric to GET IT RIGHT 630-784-0800 info@chicagoelectric.com chicagoelectric.com Solution The ProPress system ensures an optimum heat transfer to the board. It offers a wide range of set- tings. The loadi g pressure can be varied, the number of shoes can be lifted in accordance t the line speed. The outer shoes can be lifted in accordance to the paper width. The shoe bars will be delivered pre-assembled for a short installation time. —Liftable for easy paper infeed and for cleaning of the machine —Position adjustable in paper direction to avoid grooves in hotplate Press Productivity Issue—Poor Heat Transfer Rollers are usually limiting the heat transfer, since they often have contact mainly on the edges of the plates due to wear or bent plates. They also cause often loss of caliper and bearing need to be replaced frequently. Airpressure actuated systems can only supply a limited pressure and have com- pared to shoe systems a closed surface. Pressure Shoe
Plate vity Issue—Poor Heat Control l hotplates are slow to react to pressure due to high steam volume and massive y also have high heat radiation and heat profile. Worn plates can damage crease edge crush.
Thin-Wall Hot Plates
t by peripheral drilled hot plates. anufactured out of special wear and nt steel, through which a continuous is drilled, with one inlet and one outlet. ecured by a massive steel frame.
CORR24usa.com
ance from steam to paper surface results in fast heat flow
PPC To Host Virtual Design And Innovation Program
The Paperboard Packaging Council (PPC) has invited the corrugated and folding carton industries to join a virtual program on June 16, from 1:00-2:00 p.m. EDT, when guest speaker, Matt McLelland, VP of Sustainability and Innova- tion at Covenant Logistics, will talk about the importance of looking at problems from a different perspective. Innovation might be one of the most overused business buzzwords, but when put into practice, it can foster signif- icant positive change. In this engaging session, McLelland will establish a common definition for the word innovation, talk about how it exploded during the COVID-19 crisis and argue that it doesn’t always have to be difficult. McLelland’s high-energy, inspirational presentation will be followed by a compelling roundtable and Q&A session. Senior designers from Graphic Packaging International, Southern Champion Tray, and WestRock will join the virtu- al stage for conversation. The event will close with rapid breakout-room conversations. Attendees should be graphic and structural designers at any career stage, those involved in process efficien- cies and continuous improvement, university students in design, packaging, and innovation, and those who want to learn more about design and innovation in paperboard packaging. Visit paperbox.org to register.
The Price is Right More readers rely on Board Converting News’ containerboard pricing to negotiate their contracts. SUBSCRIBE TODAY.
Robyn Smith at 910-553-4055 /rsmith@nvpublications.com Len Prazych at 518-366-9017 / lprazych@nvpublications.com
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NAM: Hourly Earnings Jumped 4.5 Percent Since Pandemic Began BY CHAD MOUTRAY. PH.D. Manufacturing employment rebounded somewhat, rising by 23,000 in May after falling by a downwardly revised 32,000 in April, according to Chad Moutry, Chief Econo- mist at the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM). There remained 509,000 fewer manufacturing employees relative to pre-pandemic levels, with 12,290,000 employ- ees in May. Despite job growth for the month, businesses continue to cite difficulties in finding enough talent. There is optimism for continued growth moving forward, with job openings continue to soar (see graph at right). The average hourly earnings of production and non- supervisory workers in manufacturing rose to $23.52 in May, with a 3.3 percent increase year-over-year but jump-
ing 4.5 percent since February 2020. Nonfarm payroll employment rose by 559,000 workers
in May, essentially doubling the increase of 278,000 in April, but the consensus was for a gain of roughly 700,000. The U.S. econ- omy continues to have 7,629,000 fewer workers today than in February 2020. The unemployment rate declined from 6.1% in April to 5.8% in May, a 14-month low. Initial unemployment claims fell to a post-pandemic low of 385,000 for the week ending May 29 but continuing claims increased. There were 15,435,982 Ameri- cans receiving some form of unemployment insurance benefit for the week ending May 15, 2021. The ISM Manufacturing Purchasing Man- agers’ Index edged up from 60.7 in April to 61.2 in May, buoyed by stronger demand. With ongoing supply chain disruptions and workforce challenges, supplier deliveries were the slowest since April 1974, with indi- ces for the backlog of orders and customer inventories notching unfortunate new re- cords. In addition, prices rose at the fastest rate since July 2008. New orders for manufactured goods fell 0.6 percent in April, and factory orders rose 0.5 percent. Overall, the manufacturing sec- tor continues to expand, increasing 4.8 per- cent since February 2020, or 7.8 percent. New orders for core capital goods—a proxy for capital spending in the U.S. econ- omy—increased 2.2 percent in April to a new record high, with a robust 15.5 percent growth rate over the past 14 months. Private manufacturing construction spending rose 0.4 percent in April, increas- ing to the best reading since July 2020 and providing some optimism in the construc- tion outlook.
BALEMASTER: 75 YEARS STRONG — 1946 - 2021 —
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AICC Releases 2021 Sales Compensation Report
2013 (1.5 percent), or between 2013 and 2011 (7.5 percent). Total compensation, which adds actual commission/bonus paid in 2020 with the January 1, 2021, base salary, aver- aged $141,310, which is almost identical to the average re- ported in 2019 ($141,517). The mean base salesperson salary at responding U.S. corrugator plants as of January 1, 2021, was $87,101, which is a 31.7 percent increase over the average reported in 2019 ($66,140). However, the average reported in 2019 was 17.7 percent lower than the average reported in 2017 ($80,339). Total compensation, averaged $213,475, which is an increase of 2.6 percent over the average reported in 2019 ($208,053). Both figures are much higher than re- ported in previous years. The Report offers detailed information on sales objec- tives, base salaries, bonus basis, CRM usage, social media activity, and more both as a national and regional view to allow independent sheet plants and corrugator plants to benchmark their companies. The report also reveals the responses to Covid-19 related questions about vaccination requirements, travel restrictions and more. While these re- sponses represent a snapshot in time, they still provide valuable insight into the sentiments of the industry. All participants in the survey received a complimentary copy of the report, which is available for electronic down- load for $225 for AICC Members and $415 for non-mem- bers. To order the report visit www.AICCbox.org/store or contact Patrick Moore at pmoore@aiccbox.org.
AICC, The Independent Packaging Association, has re- leased its 12th Independent Sales Compensation Report. Based on a survey conducted over the last few months, it is the most comprehensive survey of key sales compen- sation salaries and benefits being paid by independent corrugator plants and sheets plants in the United States. This report received data from 62 independent corru- gator and sheet plants. These companies employ nearly 5,700 full-time employees spread across the entire U. S. In aggregate, these plants sold approximately $2.1 billion of corrugated products in 2020. “Knowing where you stand is vital information in the competition for people, and especially vital when look- ing at the sales function,” said AICC President Michael M. D’Angelo. “This report allows independents to benchmark themselves against others in the industry and in their re- gion. It is a critical way for AICC member companies to ensure best practices and leadership.” As of January 1, 2020, the mean base salary for sheet plant salespersons in the U.S. was $76,621, which is 5.6 percent higher than reported in 2019. This represents an increase substantially smaller than that observed between 2017 and 2019 (19 percent), but closer to increases seen between 2015 and 2017 (3.3 percent), between 2015 and
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June 14, 2021 CCS HlfPgBCN.indd 1
Superior Litho To Install Koenig & Bauer Rapida 164 Press For Folding Carton Growth Business is strong and growing at premier packaging specialist Superior Lithographics. Its 110,000-square-foot facility in Southern California hums with activity, producing high quality large format litho and top sheets for the corrugated box industry and printing and converting folding cartons for these dual fast-growing markets. Later this year, the pressroom will increase its output with a new Koenig & Bauer Rapida 164 64-inch sev- en-color offset press.
Cosmo DeNicola Chairman, Amtech Software
Packaging ERP Algorithmic Scheduling Web-Based Access Online Customer Portals
Superior’s management team has long believed in product diversifi- cation and capital investment to maintain its steady growth and leader- ship position. Recently it’s found new opportunities in the folding carton market, which has fuelled the necessity for additional press capacity. The team is eager for the new Rapida press to arrive and ‘flip the switch’ to see its newest large format machine begin production. “Our plan is to run the new press 24/7, printing anything and every- thing that helps our customers grow their brand awareness and allows increased speed to market,” says Jeff Ku, Superior’s Vice President of Operations. “It will be used for all three categories: litho-lam labels, litho- lam top sheets, and folding carton work.” As a long-time Koenig & Bauer customer, Superior’s massive press- room floor features a full suite of its presses. Its most recent delivery in the summer of 2019 was a Rapida 145 57-inch seven color press, which tripled its overall job throughput and impression output. The firm also operates a Rapida 162a 64-inch six-color press and a Rapida 205 81-inch 5-color press, both with UV curing capabilities. Superior plans to keep all four Rapidas operating, which will provide the greatest flexibility and ability to ensure the fastest job turnaround. Doug Rawson, Founder and CEO, expects the new Rapida press to significantly impact his business and the markets they serve. “It will provide a massive 50 percent increase in capacity,” he says, “and will help to train our operators on next-gen technology similar to our recent Rapida 145 addition. The new press will also dramatically decrease our makeready times by 50 percent.” Both of its newest press models are configured as seven-color mod- els, thus allowing for expanded color gamut, custom brand colors, and From left, Superior’s Doug Rawson, President and CEO; Mark Hoppenjans, Vice President of Sales; and Jeff Ku, Vice President of Operations, eagerly await their newest investment: a Rapida 164 seven-color press later this year.
Paperless Workflows Mobile Sales Systems Digital Signage Production Monitoring Mobile Logistics Management Analytics & Reporting Cloud Hosting IT Management Services Cyber Security Management
600 + Plants 60,000 Users North America Latin America
CONTINUED ON PAGE 16
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June 14, 2021
STOP GUESSING.
WE KNOW THE ANSWERS TO THESE QUESTIONS...
WHAT IF?
Get Answers-Be Proactive. • There’s a board increase or decrease? • My volume goes up or down? • I lost my largest customer? • My MIX changed ? • I bought a new machine? • I sold more sheets? • My labor costs go up 5%? • I added OT or another shift?
With Amtech’s NEW AUTOMATED PERFORMANCE COSTING To Learn More or Schedule a Demo Darren Artillio: dartillio@amtechsoftware.com 215.639.9540 www.amtechsoftware.com/accurate-costing
Superior Litho (CONT’D FROM PAGE 14)
The Perfect Combo Get Peak Performance From Your Equipment with Matched Component Sets
enhanced photographic images. Its clients, such as name brands in the food market, expect their products to match box-to-box on the retail shelf and look enticing to consum- ers. Superior has also developed proprietary processes for certain combinations of varnishes and coating, which the seventh printing unit will allow. “Ever since our prior Rapida 145 installation, we’ve wit- nessed incredible improvements within our facility,” says Ku. “We believe this new Rapida press will provide our customers and our company with exceptional results that will pave a path towards our vision.” Registration Open For ICPF 2021 Holiday Weekend In New York Early Bird Registration is now open for the International Corrugated Packaging Foundation’s (ICPF) 2021 Holiday Weekend in New York. Scheduled for Friday, December 10-Sunday, December 12, 2021, this year celebrates the ICPF’s return to New York to enjoy the best Manhattan has to offer during the holiday season. Register by June 31, 2021 to save $200. Bring your spouse or guest for holiday shopping, sight- seeing, dining, a Broadway play, and enjoying New York’s holiday season, all while supporting ICPF’s educational programs and student outreach. This year’s event will begin with a Friday evening re- ception sponsored by Pratt Industries. ICPF guests will attend a Saturday matinee of The Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall, sponsored by BW Papersystems. On Saturday night, attendees will be treated to a reception and dinner at the renowned Lattanzi restaurant. The re- ception is sponsored by Fosber America, and the dinner is sponsored by the WestRock Corporation. Kiwiplan is also a sponsor of the weekend. In announcing Pratt Industries’ sponsorship for 12 years in a row, Brian McPheely, CEO, said, “As one of the origi- nal sponsors of ICPF’s New York event, Pratt Industries is honored to support this important industry cause in 2021.” Neal McConnellogue, President of BW Papersystems said, “Having just recently made a long-term corporate partner pledge to support ICPF, BW Papersystems is pleased to continue its ongoing sponsorship of ICPF’s New York event in 2021.” Jeff Chalovich, CCO & President of Corrugated Pack- aging at WestRock summarized. “ICPF’s weekend in New York during the holidays is one of the most unique events and opportunities in the Industry. This year’s weekend will sell out even earlier than in past years.” In addition to saving $200 by registering by July 31st, registration is on a “first come, first serve” basis. Request a registration form by e-mailing registration@icpfbox.org or by visiting at www.careersincorrugated.org to download the form.
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 exo folder gluers and die-cutters: • Anilox Rollers and Ink Chambers • Anilox andWiper Rollers • Feed and Pull Rollers • Glue andMeter Rollers You can achieve the press speeds and print quality you need to ll your most demanding orders by pairing your team with The ARChitects of Flexo. Contact ARC today to learn how these engineered matches of exo folder gluer and die-cutter components (new or
reconditioned) can help you achieve a more perfect union of production and pro ts.
The ARChitects of exo
ARCInternational.com 800-526-4569
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3/31/21 6:09 PM
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Apex International Names A&V Canada As Partner
Anderson & Vreeland will have six teams throughout Canada representing Apex. These teams will deliver an all-in-one solution since they will handle everything from creating quotes to providing technical support. “We believe that when choosing partners, not only do our sales and strategy goals need to align but of equal im- portance is that our values and philosophies are shared,” said Sean Sawa, Sales Director Anderson & Vreeland Can- ada. We found all of this in Apex and cannot wait to deliver these shared benefits to the rest of Canada in 2021.” EFI To Implement Price Increases Electronics For Imaging, Inc. (EFI) has said that in light of market changes affecting costs for materials, components, chemicals, global freight and logistics, it will be implement- ing price increases for its inkjet inks, parts and supplies. EFI will implement the changes, which will apply to inks, supplies and printer parts across EFI’s range of equipment, as of July 1, 2021. Price increases will vary by product. “Since the beginning of the pandemic, EFI has worked to solidify our supply chains and maintain the best quality and consistency available with all of our inkjet products,” said Scott Schinlever, COO, EFI Inkjet. “While we have tak- en actions to contain costs, lingering market challenges have led to a price adjustment needed to ensure contin- ued, uninterrupted supply to our global customer base.”
Donora, Pennsylvania based Apex International, a leading manufacturer of anilox and metering solutions, has an- nounced its partnership with Anderson & Vreeland (A&V) in Canada. Apex North America has successfully been working with Anderson & Vreeland Canada for over a decade and has confidence that this strategic partnership will continue to exceed the expectations of their customers while also growing their presence in the Canadian market. Anderson & Vreeland has been representing Apex in Quebec and Eastern Canada with sales and technical representatives who have a wealth of knowledge and experience in the anilox and printing industry. With this partnership, they will now service all markets, including flexible packaging, la- bels and corrugated printing. Joe Settanni, Apex North America’s Vice President of Sales, says this partnership is key to their success in Cana- da, “We’ve always had a great relationship with Anderson & Vreeland Canada, and we look forward to expanding our partnership. We have seen nice growth in the Cana- dian market, and we’re pleased to be a part of the A&V portfolio. Together with A&V, we’re dedicated to providing top tier technology and solutions to our customers, both existing and new.”
Turnkey Scrap Conveyance and Baling Solutions
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OUR TECHNOLOGY YOUR RELIABILITY
At EAM-Mosca, we pride ourselves in keeping on the cutting edge of technology. We develop, design, and build highly reliable, top-performing strapping systems for our customers with the greatest return on investment. All our corrugated bundlers and electric unitizers feature Mosca’s proprietary SoniXs® Sealing Technology for superior performance and reliability. Contact Us Today!
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AICC To Offer Moderated Think Tank: Managing Employee Expectations AICC is bringing members together for a moderated dis- cussion, “Are You Prepared to Manage Your Employees’ New Expectations, during the next Converter Think Tank, being held Friday, June 18, at 2:00 p.m. EST. There have been many changes in the past 18 months, so will things go back to how they were or are the expecta- tions of employees changed forever? Members are trying to navigate these changes as more and more employees begin to come back to work at the plant. How are mem- bers communicating and reacting to new expectations? This Converter Think Tank is about people. Will they come back to the office? To the plant? Will they continue to work virtually? How flexible can these options be? What do they want? The conversation will also cover finding the new people needed in these busy times and training them. Panelists Greg Tucker, Chairman & CEO, Bay Cities; Lauren Frisch, VP of Administration, Wasatch Container; and Joseph Morelli, VP of Sales & Marketing, Huston Pat- terson Printers, will share their experiences and plans. The Converter Think Tank sessions are free to AICC members, but registration is required. Register at www. AICCbox.org/Calendar. Questions about AICC training and can be directed to Chelsea May, Education and Train- ing Manager, cmay@aiccbox.org or (703) 836.2422.
AIR CONVEYING CORPORATION is a recognized leader in the industry of Pneumatic Conveying Systems and has been in business since 1968. As an equipment manufacturer rather than simply a sales organization, we have complete control over the quality of material and products which make up your proposed system. Our equipment is found in Printing, Folding Carton and Corrugated plants throughout the country and the world.
AIR CONVEYING CORPORATION PH: 901-454-5016 FAX: 901-324-7979 e-mail: sales@accfilter.com • www.accfilter.com
OEM box machine suppliers like to use proprietary electronic designs. It keeps you locked in to them and only them at a price they find very profitable. IMC box has successfully retrofitted 31 different OEM FFG, RDC and PS box machines with a simple low cost non-proprietary design - set yourself free Proprietary OEM electronics are expensive
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www.boardconvertingnews.com 423 Commerce Lane - Unit 6 West Berlin, New Jersey 08091 Tel. (856) 768-5370 (800) 462-8660 www.imcbox.com cschipke@imcbox.com
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June 14, 2021
EMBA P ROFESSIONAL S ERVICE TM
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The performance of your production machin- ery is critical to achieving the optimum return on your investment. Keeping your machine in top condition requires a team effort backed by professional support. The EMBA/McKinley professional service team provides the support required to keep your machine fit for the long run. Nobody knows your EMBA/ McKinley machine like we do, we built them.
Our professional service team can offer you technical support, spare parts, machine condi- tion tests, production optimization training, in- stallation and machine moves. Additionally we offer retrofits for EMBA, McKinley and other OEM machines. Why don’t you contact the EMBA/McKinley professional service team today on our 24hr hotline 1-440-360-7940. ! Join the team – become a winner.
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Mesirow Financial Holdings Names Brown President
Over the past several years, Brown has advised the firm’s Board of Directors and businesses on financial, oper- ational, and organizational strategy, playing a pivotal role in recent lift-in acquisitions, key senior hires and techno- logical innovation. She has also acted as liaison between Mesirow business leaders and Corporate Services to de- velop strategic alignment with important firm initiatives. “I am honored to serve as Mesirow’s President continu- ing to work closely with Richard and our exceptional busi- ness leaders,” said Brown. “Mesirow’s employees have an entrepreneurial spirit, a passion for serving clients, and a commitment to social good, and I am dedicated to provid- ing the best career experiences for them. I believe we will extend the firm’s decades of success in the financial ser- vices industry and create significant value for our clients.” As President of Mesirow, Brown succeeds Dominick Mondi, who retired in February 2021 after 12 years of ser- vice in a series of executive roles. Jesse Keig, who has been with the firm since 2006, most recently as Financial Controller, assumes the role of Chief Financial Officer, with responsibilities spanning the firm’s accounting operations, business accounting, financial reporting, tax, and finan- cial planning and analysis. Before joining Mesirow, Brown spent 18 years at Nuveen, where she held senior account- ing, finance, and investor relations roles. She is currently a member of the Mesirow Board of Directors and is deep- ly involved in the firm’s Employee Resource Groups and community engagement initiatives.
Chicago, Illinois based Mesirow Financial Holdings, Inc., an independent, employee-owned financial services firm, has announced the appointment of Natalie A. Brown as President following a unanimous vote by the firm’s Board of Directors. In her role as President, Brown will work closely with Richard S. Price, Mesirow’s Chairman and CEO on all facets of corporate strategy. She joined Mesirow in 2018, most recently serving as the firm’s Chief Financial Officer and Chief Administrative Officer. “Natalie is a natural leader with deep financial services experience, and an ability to navigate through complex challenges and opportunities successfully. Her core val- ues align with the firm’s, which makes her an ideal choice for this role” said Richard S. Price. “As we are emerging from the pandemic, we see increased optimism in the communities we operate in and a sense of renewal among our clients. I look forward to partnering with Natalie on our corporate strategy and serving our clients through a di- verse set of differentiated, personalized financial products and services.” Natalie Brown
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Liberty Packaging (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1 )
The Liberty Triangle The growth in the Midwest region with the acquisitions in 2016 of Omaha Box in Omaha, Nebraska, and in 2017 of Miller Container in Rock Island, Illinois, is its own success story. Referred to as “The Liberty triangle,” the region in- cludes manufacturing and distribution facilities in Minne- sota, Illinois, Iowa and Nebraska and employs more than 500 people. The two acquisitions doubled the business across four corrugators, expanding products and services for a strate- gic customer base. Greg Theis, Vice President of the Mid- west business unit, holds up Omaha Box as an example of the company’s approach and level of commitment to the market. Liberty invested approximately $50 million in a new 335,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility in Omaha as well as new equipment, which included a 98-inch Fos- ber Compact Line corrugator, a 50-inch four-color Isowa Ibis flexo folder-gluer and material handling components from Alliance Machine Systems International. These investments have provided a foundation for considerable growth. Monthly capacity has increased by nearly three times since the investment. “We really didn’t have space for big runs and inventory,” says Ron Kenkel, General Manager of Omaha Box. “With the new machin- ery, improved flow and warehouse we’re able to run larger truckload quantities. The move allowed us to grow with our customers.”
The corrugated plants offer a core set of competencies for industrial and protective packaging, diecuts and RSCs in addition to their own distinct products and services. Their strength is providing innovative designs and com- plex supply chain solutions for customers who may have
larger numbers of SKUs and varying quantities of product or require warehousing and fulfill- ment. “Every one of our plants has certain skill sets that we lever- age across the regions. This has helped us differentiate in all our markets we serve at LDI. Having this footprint is how we
Jack Fiterman
satisfy those customers that have three or four plants in North America,” says Jack Fiterman, LDI Vice President of Business Development. He says Liberty’s niche is “Delivering superior packag- ing solutions that the small players can’t and the giants won’t.” That business model can be traced back to Fiter- man’s grandfather, Ben Fiterman, who started the compa- ny’s first sheet plant in 1940. “He used to say ‘If you take care of your customers and your employees, everything else will take care of itself.’ I think that still holds true to- day.”
CONTINUED ON PAGE 26
OUR ROBOTIC SOLUTIONS will Speed your Business into the Future
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Liberty Packaging (CONT’D FROM PAGE 24)
Material Handling Solutions
The plant’s primary mix of business is 65 percent flexo and 25 percent diecuts. Markets include heavy and light manufacturing and food. The new facility is AIB certified. ISO certification is expected this summer.
Feed It.
Fold It.
“The markets that we’re going after haven’t changed but how we approach them has,” says Dan Gigstead, Re- gional Sales Director. “We’re not just thinking about what fits inside Omaha Box. We’re leveraging the region to ser- vice larger segments of our customer’s business bringing them a total solution.” Gigstead is responsible for sales across the entire re- gion, ensuring a consistent market message. Jerry Corm- ier, Regional Operations Director, oversees capital invest- Concurrent with the Omaha Box move, the team also installed an Isowa Falcon flexo folder-gluer at the Brooklyn Park, Min- nesota, plant.
Bundle It.
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Omaha Box’s new Isowa Ibis flexo folder gluer.
ments for the region, making sure there is redundancy for tooling, maintenance and parts. New technology across all the facilities reinforces syn- ergy and shared connectivity, says Cormier. “Liberty made a significant investment in technology in regard to our or- dering and manufacturing systems so that Omaha is tied CONTINUED ON PAGE 28
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