BoardConverting Serving the North American Corrugated and Folding Carton Industries for 40 years April 15, 2024 VOL. 40, NO. 16
50 Years: AICC Celebrates The Independent In Palm Desert, CA BY SUSAN RILEY The voice of the independent was loud, clear and spectacular as the solar eclipse itself which fittingly had taken place earlier in the day during AICC’s 50th Anniversary Celebration in Palm Desert, California. On the evening of April 8, 2024, as attendees were paying hom- age to the founding box makers and envisioning a bright, sustainable future, they were also reveling in the relationships they were building which has kept the corrugated industry solidified and strong for de- cades.
WHAT’S INSIDE 5 ARC International Names New Plant Manager 6 Acme Corrugated Invests In Second Isowa Falcon 12 Menasha Packaging Invests In Highcon Die Cutting System 14 ICPF Features Kristen Erwin In #WomenInCorrugated • Exhibition Hall: Featuring more than 300 exhibitors showcasing working machinery, the latest technologies and solutions tai- lored for the corrugated packaging sector. CONTINUED ON PAGE 5 Registration Open For TAPPI & AICC SuperCorrExpo 2024 The organizers of SuperCorrExpo have an- nounced that registration for SuperCorrEx- po 2024, the largest event in the corrugat- ed packaging industry, is now open. The much-anticipated event will take place Sep- tember 8-12 at the Orange County Conven- tion Center in Orlando, Florida. Hosted jointly by TAPPI and AICC, Super- CorrExpo 2024 is the leading industry event that draws professionals, suppliers, and in- novators from across the globe. Participants can look forward to a dynamic and immersive experience, exploring the latest trends, cut- ting-edge technologies, and insights from key industry leaders. The theme is Time Tested, Future Forward. TAPPI and AICC invite attendees to join the generations of forward-thinking profession- als and companies that have stood the test of time with the newest technology, smartest thinking, and freshest insights. Highlights include:
“What we’re really doing here is celebrating relationships,” said AICC Chairman Matt Davis, Owner of Packaging Express, to the hun- dreds packed in the Frank Sinatra Ballroom. “For the Emerging Leaders in this room, you will make friends here that you’ll have for life. There are no overnight success stories in the box business. It takes years of hard work. That is why we are celebrating. You come in as friends and you leave as family.” AICC, The Independent Packaging Association, was created in 1974 in response to economic challenges they were experiencing — most significantly, a severe shortage of linerboard and medium. This had a serious impact on the independent sheet plants that were dependent on the integrated corrugators who were their main sheet suppliers. From then to now has been a tremendous journey for AICC as well CONTINUED ON PAGE 26 AICC Chairman Matt Davis, Owner of Packaging Express, speaks at the 50th Anniversary Tribute.
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Machinery and Handling for the Corrugated Board Industry
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.
Box Shipments ( U.S. Corrugated Product Shipments) Industry Shipments In Billions of Square Feet Month December 2023
Year
Actual
Percent Change Avg Week Percent Change
2023 2022
29.711 30.124
-1.4
7.819 7.927
-1.4
Industry Total
REGION E. Coast Midwest Southeast Southwest
42# Kraft liner $955.00-960.00 $970.00-980.00 $970.00-980.00 $ 970.00-980.00 $1000.00-1010.00 $973.00-983.00
26# Semi-Chem. Medium
Short Ton Del. Short Ton Del. Short Ton Del. Short Ton Del. Short Ton Del. Short Ton Del.
$ 890 .00-9 4 0.00 $9 0 5.00-9 2 5.00 $9 0 5.00-9 2 5.00 $9 0 5.00-9 2 5.00 $9 2 5.00-9 4 5.00 $9 0 8.00-9 2 8.00
Year-to Date
December 2023
Year
Actual
Percent Change Avg Week Percent Change
West Coast U.S. Average
2023 2022
380.555 400.520
-5.0
7.611 7.979
-4.6
Industry Total
SHEET PRICES BY REGION (AVERAGE) Per 1MSF, local delivery included, 50MSF single item order, truckload delivery. Sheets
Containerboard Consumption (Thousands of Tons)
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
Year
Month
Percent Change Year-to-Date Percent Change
97.32
99.89
90.86
113.65
2023 2022
2.4080 2.4260
-0.7
30.9333 32.5461
-5.0
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
Container Board Inventory - Corrugator Plants (Thousands of Tons)
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.
Corrugator Plants Only
Date
Percent Change Weeks of Supply
Percent Change
Dec. Nov.
2.1892 2.1071
3.9
3.5 3.5
6.1
Shipping Days
Year
Month
Year-to-Date
2023 2022
19 19
250 251
42# Kraft Liner 26#
Semi-Chem Medium
SOURCE: Fibre Box Association
East West
$9 2 0.00 $ 96 5.00
$9 1 0.00 $9 4 5.00
3
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April 15, 2024
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SuperCorrExpo (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1)
POWER PRECISION PERFORMANCE
• Conference Sessions: Led by industry experts, offering deep insights into market trends, sustainability chal- lenges, innovations and the future of corrugated pack- aging. • Networking Opportunities: Interact and form valuable connections with professionals from across the indus- try spectrum. • Innovative Showcases: Experience first-hand demon- strations of the latest industry technologies and solu- tions. • Workshops and Tutorials: Designed to provide hands- on experience and enhance skills in various aspects of corrugated packaging. • Box Manufacturing Olympics: Celebrating the best in innovation, sustainability, and design within the corru- gated industry. “SuperCorrExpo has always served as a melting pot for corrugated industry professionals. This year, we promise the biggest, most comprehensive, and most innovative event yet,” said Larry Montague, President/CEO at TAPPI. “Our goal for the event is to facilitate knowledge exchange, foster partnerships and drive the industry forward.” Participants are encouraged to register early to benefit from early bird discounts and ensure access to preferred sessions and workshops. For further details on the event program, visit supercorrexpo.org . ARC Int’l Names Richard Fernandez New Plant Manager In Charlotte, NC Charlotte, North Carolina based ARC International an- nounced that Richard Fernandez has been named as the
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dent and CEO, Micheal Foran. “His expertise in coatings technology will insure that ARC continues to provide the highest quality anilox roller coatings in the industry.” PPC Encourages TICCIT As Earth Day Activity The Paperboard Packaging Council asks you to mark your calendars for Earth Day on Monday, April 22. TICCIT (Trees Into Cartons, Cartons Into Trees) is the perfect activity for your teams to inspiren and recruit the next generation of paperboard packaging industry professionals. For infor- mation, visit ticcit.info/resources for more information .
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April 15, 2024
Acme Corrugated Invests In Second Isowa Falcon
long list of clients. Acme Corrugated Box, family-owned since 1918, is a third-generation, independent corrugated box manufac- turer serving customers in Pennsylvania and the Mid-At- lantic region.
Hatboro, Pennsylvania based Acme Corrugated Box Com- pany, Inc., which recently celebrated 105 years of business in the Philadelphia metro region, announced a continua- tion of its expansion with the addition of a second Isowa Falcon to their production capacity for 2025. Unprecedented growth during the covid years drove a physical factory expansion and numerous capital invest- ments. Notable equipment purchases include a full 110” Fosber corrugating line, a WIP high-rack vertical storage system, and a Harmax roll delivery system-and the first Is- owa Falcon. To shorten the timeline of orders through the facility, Acme has determined that a second Isowa installation would bring about a level of service unmatched in the re- gional marketplace. Acme believes that by adding the second Isowa Fal- con, as a complement to its existing machine centers, they will be one of the most effective producers of corrugated boxes in the nation. In mid-2023, the company added their first Falcon. The right-handed 2023 Falcon has the same high speeds and short set-up times that Isowa is known for. Acme looks forward to having a second, multi-color Fal- con to meet the ever-increasing requirements of Acme’s
Their state-of-the-art robotics and machinery are housed in a 320,000-square foot facility – one of the most modern and well-equipped box plants in the country. The company services the pharmaceutical, food, retail, and manufacturing industries. Isowa is a private company with over 100 years of oper- ation. Their US office is located in Phoenix, Arizona. For more information, visit acmebox.com .
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April 15, 2024
AICC To Host Series Of Webinars In 2024
Savannah, Georgia, the workshop will be hosted by Gary Brewer, AICC Vice-Chair, and his fantastic team from Pack- age Crafters and Creative Packaging. Event Registration Includes: • Tickets to see the world-famous Savannah Banana’s play • A low country style dinner on the grounds of a 19th cen- tury fort right on the Savannah River • Charter boat transportation down the Savannah River • A tour of the DS Smith Riceboro Paper Mill, followed by lunch and a deep-dive workshop focused on this year’s EL theme of “Engage!” • A tour of Creative Packaging • Networking and educational opportunities throughout The workshop will equip Emerging Leaders with the skills and strategies necessary to foster engagement with- in their teams and effectively cascade these principles throughout their organizations. The focus will be on cultivating a culture of collabo- ration, communication, and motivation, with an empha- sis on adapting leadership styles to enhance employee engagement. Leaders in attendance will leave with en- hanced engagement driven competencies, personalized action plans, enhanced collaboration skills, and cascading engagement initiatives to drive career development and greater success at their perspective companies. Training is hosted by Omar Abdullah of AchieveNext. CONTINUED ON PAGE 10
AICC, The Independent Packaging Association, an- nounced the following upcoming webinars. For more in- formation, visit aiccbox.org. April 30: Membership Benefits Overview AICC’s Membership Manager, Patrick Moore, will be available to go over key benefits of AICC membership, illustrate how to access AICC’s online resources, and an- swer any questions. This meeting will be useful if: • Your company has recently joined AICC • You have an employee that you’d like to get more in- volved with AICC • You need a reminder of AICC membership benefits and how to access them • You have general AICC questions This meeting will be online at 3:00 p.m. Eastern in Mic- rosoft Teams. Once registered, you will receive a confirma- tion email with a link for the meeting. For more information, contact Patrick Moore at pmoore@aiccbox.org or (703) 535-1394. May 29-31: AICC Emerging Leaders Workshop The annual “Emerging Leaders Only” event is full of networking, plant and papermill tours and useful career development and leadership training. Held this year in
8 April 15, 2024
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AICC Webinars (CONT’D FROM PAGE 8)
and retailers they serve. Set for 2:00 p.m. Eastern, the we- binar is available free to AICC members in good standing. Kerry Sanders, Vice President of Market Development
Rooms at the DoubleTree by Hilton Savannah Historic District in the AICC block are $204+tax/night. This special rate is available until April 29. June 13: Digital Printing On Corrugated Packaging And Its Impact On Carbon Emissions Digital printing is a sustainable option for marking and decorating corrugated packaging and displays. To sub- stantiate and quantify, AICC education investor EFI has partnered with Clean Agency to develop a Life Cycle As- sessment (LCA) that calculates Global Warming Potential (kg CO2e) for digital printing on corrugated and then com- pares it to other printing technologies. In this session will discuss the LCA findings, the meth- odology used, and how corrugators can leverage EFI’s ap- proach to quantify their Scope 3 emissions for the brands
at EFI will be the instructor. Sanders joined EFI in 2022 as Vice President Market Development and focuses on driving awareness and adoption of EFI digital printing solutions for corrugated packaging in the eCom- merce customer segment. He brings with him a wealth of experience and
Kerry Sanders
a history of proven success in business development and sales, operations, and marketing leadership, focused on growing new B2B markets/channels. Prior to joining EFI, Kerry served as Executive Vice President, Global Business Development at Craft Worldwide, an Interpublic Group (IPG) agency. Prior to Craft, he held key leadership roles
in sales and marketing at HP and Xerox, focusing on growing digital solutions busi- nesses across the globe. June 18: Integrating Digital Post-Print Press In Corrugated Plants: Challenges And Solutions As the corrugated industry continues to evolve, many converters are exploring the integration of digital post-print press tech- nologies to meet the growing demand for high-quality, customized packaging solu- tions. However, this transition comes with its own set of challenges and considerations. This webinar will delve into the practical aspects of integrating a digital post-print press into your corrugated production floor. A panel of production managers will share their insights and strategies in the fol- lowing key areas: 1. Production Floor Adaptations: What changes were necessary in the production floor layout, workflow, and processes to seamlessly incorporate the digital post-print press? This will discuss the essential steps required to ensure optimal integration. 2. Integration with Conversion Steps: Ex- plore how the HP PageWide C550 digital post-print press seamlessly integrates with the subsequent conversion steps, such as die-cutting, folding, and gluing. Learn best practices for maintaining efficiency and quality throughout the entire production process. 3. Operator Education and Training: Up- skilling your workforce is crucial for success- ful adoption of new technologies. Panelists will share their experiences and strategies for effectively educating and training oper- ators to work on the digital post-print press,
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CONTINUED ON PAGE 12
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MACHINERY SHOWROOM TRAINING CENTER AND
AICC Webinars (CONT’D FROM PAGE 10)
Highcon system purchased by Menasha in less than half a year, following the purchase and recent installation of two Highcon Beam 2 systems. Mensaha’s commitment to Highcon’s digital die cutting solutions has also led them to join the Vulcan Foundation Customer Program, giving them priority for earliest delivery of Highcon’s next generation digital die cutting platform for corrugated production. Menasha is the sixth and final member to join this program. The Vulcan1 will address a painful gap in current cor- rugated die cutting solutions. It has a maximum sheet size of 55 inches by 66 inches and supports boards up to 5mm, including microflute, B, C, and EB flutes. Like all Highcon systems, Vulcan will combine true physical creasing with laser cutting. “We are impressed with how fast we have started production ramp up. Within 3 weeks from systems deliv- ery, we have commenced full ramp up on both systems and we are certainly off to a good start,” said President of Menasha Packaging Michael Riegsecker. “This has given us the confidence to move into the next phase and extend digital die cutting to corrugated.” “Menasha’s decision to purchase its third Highcon system and join the Vulcan Foundation Customer Pro- gram shortly after the first two units is a strong testa- ment to the focus of Highcon’s entire team and of the potential of Highcon systems to solve customer needs and create value,” said Shlomo Nimrodi, Highcon CEO.
ensuring a smooth transition and maximizing productivity. 4. Color Management: Achieving consistent and accu- rate color reproduction is a critical aspect of high-quality packaging printing. This will compare the color-matching process with the HP PageWide C550 digital press and the traditional flexographic printing process and share insights on how achieving consistent and accurate color reproduc- tion is more streamlined with digital presses. 5. Setup and Changeover Optimization: Efficient setup and changeover processes are essential for maximizing productivity and minimizing downtime. Gain insights into streamlining these procedures for the digital post-print press, minimizing effort and maximizing output. Whether you’re considering integrating a digital post- print press or have already embarked on this journey, this webinar will provide valuable insights and practical strat- egies to help you navigate the challenges and unlock the full potential of this technology.
Menasha Packaging Invests In Highcon Die Cutting System
Neenah, Wisconsin based Menasha Packaging an- nounced an investment in a Highcon Beam 2C digital die cutting system for corrugated production. This is the third
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ICPF Features #WomenInCorrugated With Kristen Erwin Of Jamestown Container Cos. Kristen Erwin, the General Manager of the Lake Ontario Region at James- town Container Companies, has amassed over 30 years of experience in the corrugated packaging industry. Before beginning her first role in sales in 1992 at Buckeye Corrugated, Inc., she earned a degree in Man-
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agement Science with an emphasis in Marketing from the business school at the State University of New York (SUNY) College at Geneseo. In the years since, her career has spanned sev- eral positions in the industry, including both sales and general management. The International Corru- gated Packaging Foundation (ICPF) sat down with Kristen to discuss her journey within the industry,
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the importance of knowing your product, the value of mentorship, and her takeaways as a woman forging her path in a male-dominated industry. ICPF: We often hear from packaging professionals that they were not aware of opportunities in the corrugated packaging industry while pursu- ing their degree. What led you to pursue a career in corrugated? Kristen Erwin (KE): It actually is in my blood. My father is in the industry, so I grew up with it my whole life. When I got out of college, I didn’t really know what I wanted to do. I wanted to get into sales, so I worked for a company that (my father) was working for at the time. I went through a sales training program — I worked in customer service, design, out in the floor, in scheduling–you name it. In sales, it’s all about knowing your product, so it was a very good, fundamental program that I went through. And then, of course, learning through sales how to connect with people. ICPF: What did your first sales role in the industry look like? KE: I worked internally for a solid year after the sales training program. I would go out on sales calls with some of the sales reps that we had, and then eventually, the gentleman that was in sales at the time took a sales management position, so I took his job and reported to him. I started with a small book of business from him, just something to cut my teeth on. But that wasn’t comfortable to me, I wanted to build my own book of business and I did just that. ICPF: Can you walk us through what the day-to-day responsibilities look like in your role as Regional General Manager? When you start your day in the morning, what do you tackle? KE: Every day in this business is a different day, always with new chal- lenges. I’m responsible for the overall safety of this (Rochester) facility and our Lyons facility including quality, profitability, supporting the sales team, and growing the business. ICPF: Have there been any mentors, specifically women, that have helped you professionally or personally over the course of your career? KE: Before I went into a general management role, I did an extensive leadership training program with Dr. Jim Kestenbaum, who is a local gen- tleman in the area, and focused on fundamentals of leadership. In that journey, I did have a couple of women who expanded my support net- work. One who is outside of the industry, Diane DeSanto, who works for GNC Foods. She is somebody who I could reach out to and lean on, and she runs a very big operation herself. And then someone in the industry, Kim Nelson from Royal Container. Those two ladies are wonderful. Kim has a lot on her plate, but we do lunches and dinners, we get together and golf. I think our shared experiences are really important. CONTINUED ON PAGE 16
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April 15, 2024
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ICPF Features (CONT’D FROM PAGE 14)
ICPF: Have you been able to serve as a mentor in your current role or throughout your career? KE: Yes, there’s actually a young woman, Lauren, who works in the design department (at Jamestown Contain- er). I got her set up in the Emerging Leaders Program with AICC and she’s part of that group now. She has a packag- ing degree from RIT, but she really wanted more, and I’ve been able to take her under my wing. ICPF: What piece of advice would you give to current job seekers? KE: Be a sponge and learn from the ground up. Be a mas- ter in your field. You’ve got to put the time in and there is a lot of grinding. When I got into this industry and started calling in sales, I was a young 20-something year old call- ing on predominantly males in the purchasing community and a lot of them were probably the age of my father. I needed to know my field and I needed to know my product. I had a lot of great customers that I still talk to today that became like mentors to me and really took me under their wing and taught me a lot (about the industry). So, really, just be a sponge. The ICPF is dedicated to growing the labor force of the corrugated packaging industry now and into the future. Co-sponsored by AICC, The Independent Packaging As- sociation, and the Fibre Box Association (FBA), ICPF part- ners with students, universities and industry companies to bring a talented workforce of motivated, qualified gradu- ates to the corrugated packaging industry.
ICPF: Can you speak a little bit about the importance of young women considering a career in the manufacturing field, including corrugated packaging? KE: There’s definitely an opportunity for you to grow as a person. You need to be devoted and dedicated to your discipline, but you can really find a fulfilling career here. I’ll be honest with you, when I got out of college everyone was going into pharmaceutical sales or the more glamor- ous sales, and people would say, ‘Who buys a box?’ And I would say, ‘Stop and look at everything on your body right now — everything on your body was probably in a box at some point.’ I love that part about the industry and learning all of the other types of manufacturing that’s out there. I wouldn’t have had that opportunity without being in sales and being on other people’s manufacturing floors. It’s pret- ty cool to see the businesses that have flourished here in my region. ICPF: What would you say is the most rewarding part of your job? KE: The people. I try to have a presence on the floor ev- ery day, to stop and talk to people. A big focus for me is knowing everyone’s name on the floor and we have over 160 employees here. I always want to have an open door; I want people to come and talk to me, to feel comfortable with me and be happy. I want them to want to come to work.
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eCommerce Industry Reshapes Consumer Packaging Experience BY GREG KISHBAUGH Over the past decade, the eCommerce industry has un- dergone a massive transformation, re-shaping the way consumers shop. Mondi has just released its 2024 report on eCommerce trends, which examines how increasingly digital-savvy shoppers will continue to change the online retail experience. While the scale and speed may be up for debate, Mon- di sees several trends being at the forefront of sustainable eCommerce packaging solutions. Social commerce, a shopper’s ability to purchase goods directly from social media platforms has surged in recent years and shows no signs of abating. Almost half of those surveyed have used social media platforms for buying products over the past year. Platforms like Facebook and Instagram are increasingly the go-to places for consumer purchasing decisions which further fuels the significant time users spend on such channels. This upward trajectory signifies a lasting trend in the rise of social commerce, mainly driven by younger generations (Millennials and Gen Z) where more than half (50 percent and 51 percent) have actively participated in social shop- ping over the past year. Delving into sentiments on environmentally friendly packaging reveals distinct differences across generations and countries. Interestingly, while sustainability matters across generations, it gains more significance with age. Boomers lead in rating it as very important (33 percent), surpassing Gen Z (31 percent, down from 40 percent last year). In terms of consumer shopping behavior, the report had several key findings: • A quarter of shoppers are buying online at least once a week, but frequency of shopping has fallen com- pared to last year as shoppers head back instore or cut spending; • Fashion is still the most popular product to buy online with Millennials the most likely to buy across product sectors; • Gen X are the most value-driven with half (50 percent) choosing online for lower prices; • More than half (53 percent) of Boomers spend up to $150 online a month; • A quarter (26 percent) of con- sumers are shopping online more as a result of the in- creased cost of living; • Nearly half (44 percent) of consumers have bought via social commerce in the last 12 months; • Facebook and Instagram dominate social commerce buying; • Around a third of consumers have bought or sold sec- ond-hand clothing online in the last 12 months with Mil- lennials and Gen Z the most likely to have done so; and CONTINUED ON PAGE 20
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. SPECIALTY FOLDER GLUERS • Operator Training • Rebuilds and Relocations • Reconditioning in Racine • Parts & Machine Reviews • GUARANTEED IMPROVEMENT TOROSIAN TECH SERVICES INC. Training and Reconditioning Center 930 Tenth Street • Racine, WI 53403 (800) 555-5876 (U.S. only) Phone: (262) 633-5133 • Fax: (262) 633-5176
AIR CONVEYING CORPORATION PH: 901-454-5016 FAX: 901-324-7979 e-mail: sales@accfilter.com • www.accfilter.com
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eCommerce Reshapes (CONT’D FROM PAGE 18)
Looking into consumer behavior and attitudes to recy- cling and reuse, the report had the following findings: • More than half (51 percent) of consumers have noticed retailers’ efforts to reduce packaging waste in the last 12 months; • 38 percent of consumers are most likely to recycle their eCommerce packaging; • The same amount are also most likely to reuse their eCommerce packaging; • Boomers are the generation most likely to recycle packaging with nearly half (47 percent) doing so; • More than three-quarters (79 percent) of consumers claim to regularly recycle their packaging; • A lack of collections is the biggest barrier to recycling for a third of consumers; • Nearly three-quarters (71 percent) of consumers claim to regularly reuse their packaging, whether for returns, storage or other uses; and • Half (49 percent) of those who don’t regularly reuse their packaging say it is because they don’t have a need for it, while 38 percent say it is not suitable for reuse. What does all these data mean to the packaging and corrugated industry as a whole? Consumers have ex- pressed many of the things they would like to see develop. • 43 percent want to see materials that are easier to re- cycle, while more than a third (35 percent) want to see CONTINUED ON PAGE 22
• The top barriers to recommerce, that is buying or sell- ing second-hand goods online, are shipping costs, time, packaging items and shipping them. Concerning the reaction to customer trends and shop- per sentiment around packaging, Mondi found that: • Protection of goods remains the number one priority but ‘easy-to-reseal’ for return shipment and sustainabil- ity are also important concerns; • A third of consumers refuse to pay extra for packaging but that leaves a larger majority who say they are will- ing to pay; • Of those willing to pay, 27 percent will pay up to 1 per- cent extra and the same amount between 1-5 percent extra for packaging that best meets their needs; • Almost four in ten (39 percent) consumers say they don’t want to pay for returns; • Millennials and Gen Z are most willing to pay for re- turns; • Nearly two-thirds (61 percent) say the unboxing experi- ence is important; • The unboxing experience is most important to Millenni- als and Gen Z; and • Oversized packaging (47 percent), hard to recycle (45 percent) and excess internal packaging (45 percent) are the top three annoyances that can put consumers off buying from a brand or retailer again.
Our engineers are fluent in automated processes but speak the language of corugated manufacturers. Our robotics feeders offer an intricate solution to simplify your processes so you can safely and accurately operate at your highest potential and return on investment.
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JUMBO FLEXO
MORE BOXES EVERY MINUTE . . . PERIOD! Since 1955 we have been serving the corrugated industry with both new and used equipment. Now more than ever, we offer practical and affordable solutions to meet the needs of today’s boxmaker.
K1X Jumbo Flexo The Jumbo series of KL were designed to withstand the rigorous needs of Jumbo box making. This series is available as a Flexo Folder Gluer or a Printer Slotter/Die Cutter. • Extremely rugged construction • Triple wall capable • Speeds up to 4,800 SPH • Full width die cutting and stacker • Non-stop downstacker w/post compression section Sizes Available: 86” X 210” to 98” X 210”
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SINCE 1955
eCommerce Reshapes (CONT’D FROM PAGE 20)
Board Converting NEWS INTERNET DIRECTORY
better instructions about how to recycle; • 42 percent want to be incentivised to recycle their eCommerce packaging; • More than half (53 percent) say that packaging should be made more suitable for reuse; • Nearly six in ten (58 percent) consumers expect com- postable or recyclable packaging to be the norm in the next five years; and • Nearly a third (31 percent) expect to be refunded for returned or collected packaging in the next five years. The BoxMaker Celebrates 100,000th Web-to-Print Packaging Order Seattle, Washington based The BoxMaker, a United States manufacturer of digitally printed corrugated packaging and labels, announced receiving its 100,000th online order through its family of web-to-print offerings: Fanta- stapack, My Print Valet, and custom API integrations.
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.
Established in 1981 as a traditional corrugated sheet plant, The BoxMaker entered the digital print arena in 2011 with the purchase of the company’s first digital corrugated press and a single CAD cutting table. After a handful of years spent leveraging these machines for quick prototyp- ing and sample order production, BoxMaker President and Co-Owner Richard Brown saw an opportunity to serve new markets across the country by investing in web-to-print au- tomation and enhanced manufacturing capabilities. Conceived of in 2014 and launched the following year, Fantastapack (www.fantastapack.com) was one of the ear- liest web-to-print e-commerce sites created to facilitate the online purchase of digitally printed corrugated box- es, countertop displays, and pressure-sensitive labels. As early adopters of digital print and finishing and one of the first to market with an e-commerce storefront for custom packaging, The BoxMaker largely trailblazed their own web-to-print workflow automation systems with a team of in-house developers. From a business strategy perspective, Fantastapack was created as a way for The BoxMaker to extend sales
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.
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The BoxMaker Celebrates (CONT’D FROM PAGE 22)
Board Converting NEWS INTERNET DIRECTORY
of their digitally printed products to a wider audience. By combining the efficiencies of a web-to-print workflow with those of an e-commerce storefront, The BoxMaker says it created a business model that eliminates many of the manual steps that a conventional custom packaging order process requires. The site garnered the attention of others in the custom print e-commerce marketplace who had existing store- fronts and wanted to add custom corrugated packaging to their offerings. This led to the development of My Print Va- let (MPV) and API integration capabilities, extending The BoxMaker’s products to up-and-coming custom packaging resellers as well as established members of the packaging trade.
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.
AMERICAN CORRUGATED MACHINE www.acm-corp.com
For a wide variety of new and used equipment on to- day’s market, visit our website at www.acm-corp.com.
“We’re very proud of the growth we have experienced and the return on investment that our web-to-print work- flow automation solutions have delivered,” said Richard Brown. “As one of the earliest to market in this space, we’ve never rested on our laurels and continue to reinvest to remain at the forefront of web-to-print workflow solu- tions and digital production capabilities for custom pack- aging in North America.” Justin Stacey, Vice President of E-Commerce Solu- tions, adds, “Receiving our 100,000th web-to-print order is a huge accomplishment and confirmation that not only does workflow automation hold the key to a secure future in custom packaging, but that The BoxMaker will play a significant role in that future as we continue to expand our capabilities to serve new customers, whether they are brands buying directly through Fantastapack, a resller con- nected via API, or a Trade Partner using MPV. We’re proud of what we have accomplished and excited for everything that’s coming next for our company and our customers.” Now in its 10th year of investing in web-to-print work- flow automation and operating 4th generation corrugated presses that can produce digitally printed packaging on an industrial scale, The BoxMaker continues to innovate and strives to offer products and services that address a wide range of markets and clients throughout North America. As established businesses modernize their operations and the next generation of new businesses open, The BoxMaker is confident that its web-to-print platforms will continue to experience high demand and rise to the occa- sion of serving brands, resellers, and fellow members of the trade with easily accessible, high-quality, and beauti- fully printed custom packaging products.
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. 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.
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INTRODUCING
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AICC Celebrates (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1)
Board Converting NEWS INTERNET DIRECTORY
as a transformation to the modern organization it is today. “This is about what AICC has meant over the last 50 years,” Davis said. “This is about all the risk takers in this room, the entrepreneurs who have built this association into what it is.”
CORRUGATED REPLACEMENTS, INC. www.corrugatedparts.com
Corrugated Replacements, Inc. is a production powerhouse that manufactures high quality machine parts and replace- ment parts for the corrugated and paperboard converting industries. CRI can redesign, engineer, and manufacture any part while providing rapid turn-around, keeping ma- chines running at peak performance and limiting down time.
C.U.E., INC. www.AnvilCovers.com
Makers of single and dual-width Timesaver® Anvil Covers, the premier urethane anvil cover for corrugated die cutting. Timesaver® covers feature construction of solid steel back- ing and solid steel locking components to ensure a precise fit every time. C.U.E., Inc. also offers Dura-Latch and Cor- Lock anvil covers, and urethane Lead Edge Feed Wheels.
AICC President Mike D'Angelo
Without those box makers with “fire in their belly,” AICC would not exist as it does today, he said. As visionary as the founding members were, AICC President Mike D’Angelo said he wonders if they could get their hands around what the association has become to- day with 518 member companies (285 box makers, 233 associates/suppliers) in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Of note, Davis said that AICC Mexico is currently the fastest growing region. “If I was selling equipment, I would place a huge em- phasis on Mexico,” Davis said. AICC leadership, however, has been slow to turn over with only three presidents since its inception in 1974: Dick Troll (30 years), Steve Young (25 years), and D’Angelo him- self.
EMBA www.embausa.com
The EMBA group supports a complete line of corrugated converting machinery for the worldwide market. EMBA’s Quick Set technology enables the highest productivity across a broad range of converting equipment, from mini to super jumbo. EMBA also includes the McKinley jumbo line of flexo folder gluers and rotary die cutters as well as ser- vice, rebuilds and upgrades for both EMBA and McKinley.
EAGLEWOOD TECHNOLOGIES, LLC www.eaglewoodtech.com
Eaglewood Technologies offers trusted cleaning technolo- gies for the world’s best printers and converters. Solutions include the award winning Sitexco+ Anilox Laser System, the Nanovis Parts Washing System, the Sitexco L10 Label System, the innovative Sanilox™ System or Alphasonics solutions. We also offer Xpress™ mobile cleaning service at your facility or ours.
ESKO www.esko.com
ArtiosCAD and Kongsberg are the most trusted names in CAD/CAM solutions. Esko’s ArtiosCAD is the most widely used CAD software in the world. Esko’s Kongsberg series of tables brings you reliable, outstanding quality for sample- making and short run production.
DOMINO www.dominodigitalprinting.com
Over the years, AICC membership has become not only more diversified, but more philanthropic with $400,000 awarded to charities, including the Foundation For Pack- CONTINUED ON PAGE 28 An Industry Panel Discussion. From left, are Joe Morelli (Hus- ton Patterson), Bill Akers, Jim Akers, and Andrew Akers (Akers Packaging), Chad Wagner (Peachtree Packaging), Larry Gross- bard and Richard Grossbard (President Container), and Jeff Pallini, Fosber America.
Domino is a leading manufacturer and distributor of digital printing and product identification solutions. Celebrating its 44th year, Domino is headquartered in the UK and North America headquarters are Illinois. Domino has 25 subsid- iaries, representation in over 120 countries, and over 2,900 employees worldwide .
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