Jan/ Feb AICC BoxScore: The Big Associate Issue

A PUBLICATION OF AICC, THE INDEPENDENT PACKAGING ASSOCIATION

January/February 2021 Volume 25, No. 1

AICC Associate members feature hundreds of solutions for your business ALSO INSIDE Navigating the New Normal NEW DEPARTMENT: Foundation for Packaging Education

TABLE OF CONTENTS January/February 2021 • Volume 25, No.1

COLUMNS

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CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

136 THE ASSOCIATE ADVANTAGE 140 THE FINAL SCORE DEPARTMENTS

127 WELCOME, NEW

& RETURNING MEMBERS

128 AICC INNOVATION 137 FOUNDATION FOR

PACKAGING EDUCATION

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138 ICPF UPDATE

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE IV AICC Associate members feature hundreds of solutions for your business

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EQUIPMENT

72

DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES

86

INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES

94

SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING

107 SERVICES 122 SOFTWARE AND ELECTRONICS

130 130 NAVIGATING THE NEW NORMAL Looking back at 2020, preparing for 2021

BoxScore is published bimonthly by AICC, The Independent Packaging Association, PO Box 25708, Alexandria, VA 22313, USA. Rates for reprints and permissions of articles printed are available upon request. The statements and opinions expressed herein are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views of AICC. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising matter at its discretion. The publisher is not responsible for claims made by advertisers. POSTMASTER: Send change of address to BoxScore, AICC, PO Box 25708, Alexandria, VA 22313, USA. ©2021 AICC. All rights reserved.

Visit www.aiccboxscore.org for Member News and even more great columns.

Scan the QR code to check them out!

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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OFFICERS Chairman: Jay Carman, StandFast Packaging Group, Carol Stream, Illinois First Vice Chairman: Gene Marino, Akers Packaging Service Group, Chicago, Illinois Vice Chairmen: Jana Harris, Harris Packaging/American Carton, Haltom City, Texas Matt Davis, Packaging Express, Colorado Springs, Colorado Gary Brewer, Package Crafters, High Point, North Carolina Immediate Past Chairman: Joseph M. Palmeri, Jamestown Container Cos., Macedonia, Ohio Chairman, Past Chairmen’s Council: Al Hoodwin, Michigan City Paper Box, Michigan City, Indiana President: Michael D’Angelo, AICC Headquarters, Alexandria, Virginia Secretary/General Counsel: David P. Goch, Webster, Chamberlain & Bean, Washington, DC AICC Canada Director: Renee Annis DIRECTORS West: David DeLine, DeLine Box Co., Denver, Colorado Southwest: Eric Elgin, Oklahoma Interpack, Muscogee, Oklahoma Southeast: Ben DeSollar, Sumter Packaging Corp., Sumter, South Carolina Midwest: Casey Shaw, Batavia Container Inc., Batavia, Illinois Great Lakes: Mike Schaefer,Tavens Packaging & Display, Bedford Heights, Ohio Northeast: Stuart Fenkel, McLean Packaging, Pennsauken, NJ AICC Canada: Terri-Lynn Levesque, Royal Containers Ltd., Brampton, Ontario, Canada AICC México: Juan Javier Gonzalez, Cartró, S.A.P.I. de C.V. (CP), Tepotzotlán, Mexico OVERSEAS DIRECTOR Kim Nelson, Royal Containers Ltd., Brampton, Ontario, Canada

DIRECTORS AT LARGE Finn MacDonald, Independent II, Louisville, Kentucky Guy Ockerlund, OxBox, Addison, Illinois Kevin Ausburn, SMC Packaging Group, Springfield, Missouri Nelva Walz EMERGING LEADER DELEGATES Daniel Brettschneider, CST Systems, Kennesaw, Georgia Cassi Malone, Corrugated Supplies Co. LLC, Chicago, Illinois Lauren Frisch, Wasatch Container, North Salt Lake, Utah ASSOCIATE MEMBER DIRECTORS Chairman: Pat Szany, American Corrugated Machine Corp., Indian Trail, North Carolina Vice Chairman: Joseph Morelli, Huston Patterson Printers, Decatur, Illinois Secretary: Greg Jones, Sun Automation, Glen Arm, Maryland Associate Board Director: Tim Connell, A.G. Stacker Inc., Weyers Cave, Virginia Immediate Past Chairman, Associate Members: David Burgess, JB Machinery, Weston, Connecticut ADVISORS TO THE CHAIRMAN Greg Tucker, Bay Cities, Pico Rivera, California Jerry Frisch, Wasatch Container, North Salt Lake, Utah Pat Szany, American Corrugated Machine Corp., Indian Trail, North Carolina PUBLICATION STAFF Publisher: Michael D'Angelo, mdangelo@aiccbox.org Editor: Virginia Humphrey, vhumphrey@aiccbox.org

SUBMIT EDITORIAL IDEAS, NEWS & LETTERS TO: BoxScore@theYGSgroup.com CONTRIBUTORS Maria Frustaci, Director of Administration and Director of Latin America Cindy Huber, Director of Conventions & Meetings Chelsea May, Education and Training Manager Laura Mihalick, Senior Meeting Manager Patrick Moore, Member Relations Coordinator Taryn Pyle, Director of Training, Education & Professional Development Alyce Ryan, Marketing Manager Steve Young, Ambassador-at-Large Richard M. Flaherty, President, ICPF ADVERTISING Information: Virginia Humphrey, vhumphrey@aiccbox.org Opportunities: Taryn Pyle 703-535-1391 • tpyle@aiccbox.org AICC PO Box 25708 Alexandria, VA 22313 Phone 703-836-2422 Toll-free 877-836-2422 Fax 703-836-2795 www.aiccbox.org

EDITORIAL/DESIGN SERVICES The YGS Group • www.theYGSgroup.com Vice President: Serena L. Spiezio Content & Copy Director: Craig Lauer Managing Editor: Jessica Price Senior Managing Editor: Sam Hoffmeister Copy Editor: Steve Kennedy Art Director: Alex Straughan Account Manager: Max Lalwani

ABOUT AICC PROVIDING BOXMAKERS WITH THE KNOWLEDGE NEEDED TO THRIVE IN THE PAPER-BASED PACKAGING INDUSTRY SINCE 1974 We are a growing membership association that serves independent corrugated, folding carton, and rigid box manufacturers and suppliers with education and information in print, in person, and online. AICC membership is for the full company and employees at all locations have access to member benefits. AICC offers free online education to all members to help the individual maximize their potential and the member company maximize its profit.

WHEN YOU INVEST AND ENGAGE, AICC DELIVERS SUCCESS.

Chairman’s Message

Partnering Proudly

A

lthough the cover of this edition of BoxScore reads “Big Associate Issue,” the reality is that this is the “Big Partner Issue.”

Think about it—our box and sheet manufacturing operations have invested millions of dollars in equipment, software, buildings, raw materials, services, people, and a myriad of other categories, all necessary for our boxmaking operations to serve our customers as their partners. By the same turn, I know that most of you, like me, consider our suppliers to be integral partners in our businesses.

As AICC members, we are privileged to be a part of a close-knit community of supplier partners. It is one of the unique and remarkable things about our great industry.

Perhaps it has to do with scale. Or with the fact that being an independent, regardless of size, makes our operations more streamlined, more entrepreneurial, more agile, and therefore, more accessible. Our partner suppliers also know our businesses and the overall industry quite well, and so many of them share our values. Michael Massetti, writing for Supply Chain Game Changer, suggests that “corporate values are the ‘persona’ that is presented on a daily basis by the company and how it engages in and around itself.” Think about how much your most trusted suppliers have in common with you and your values.

In addition, AICC serves a tremendous role in bringing boxmakers and suppliers together—and keeping us together—despite the difficulties of these pandemic months, and will do so in person again in the future. Valuable relationships are formed through participation in AICC, and trust is built within these relationships with Associates.

The Institute for Supply Management offers this definition of supplier partnership: a commitment over an extended period of time to work together to the mutual benefit of both parties, sharing relevant information and the risks and rewards of the relationship.

These relationships require a clear understanding of expectations, open communication and information exchange, mutual trust, and a common direction for the future.

To make that definition work, manufacturers must listen to their suppliers and must be willing to take advice and direction from them. It is well intentioned and meant to deliver the best that the supplier partner can offer based on their extensive experiences beyond the walls of your plant.

The mantra that AICC members buy from AICC members has become a given through the years because of the dynamics of our industry. So many of my preceding AICC chairs have written in this column about the importance of supporting those suppliers that support us. AICC Associate members are engaged and active, and they support our Association in so many tremendous ways. They sponsor events, online and in person; they participate on the AICC board of directors and on every AICC committee.

They are in our businesses every day, directly and indirectly, making a difference.

Valuable relationships are formed through participation in AICC. Enjoy this fourth edition of the Big Associate Issue of BoxScore. Your partners have put their time and effort into this compendium of their offerings—just as they do in all the things that they do for us.

Jay Carman Buy AICC! President, StandFast Packaging Group Chairman, AICC

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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AICC Associate members feature hundreds of solutions for your business

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE, now four years running, is a venue for AICC Associate members to communicate who they are, what they do, and how their products and services bolster the industry at large. The opportunity to submit a company article was opened to all AICC Associate members in good standing, and nearly 100 companies provided material.

Associate members have always been welcomed in AICC. The Association often relies on them to keep us informed on changes in the market and technology, as suppliers, as expert speakers and trainers, and as contributors to AICC publications, including BoxScore.

Associate members also offer significant financial support that allows AICC to invest in benefits for all its constituents.

AICC’s goals with this annual edition of BoxScore are to help members see opportunities and gather information and materials that will guide the future of their businesses. We hope that the Big Associate Issue will serve as an effective tool for increasing your understanding of all the amazing products and services at your fingertips. It is a reference book of what is available to independent converters today, segmented into:

• EQUIPMENT • DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES • INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES

• SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING • SERVICES • SOFTWARE AND ELECTRONICS

To the converters reading this magazine and using it throughout the year, give your fellow members a first look. Support the companies that support your Association. When you speak with an Associate member, please let them know that you saw their article in BoxScore to allow us to continue to offer this member benefit.

When you invest in and engage with the AICC community, you strengthen the foundation for continued growth. To repeat AICC Chairman Jay Carman in his message this issue: Buy AICC!

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Baysek Machines, Inc. Meeting Versatility Needs for 25 Years ~ Proven ~ Predictable ~ Profitable When Baysek customers ask for solutions, Baysek goes to work to deliver resourceful answers. This is evident in the innovative equipment line Baysek provides to conquer and simplify customers’ greatest converting challenges.

FL AGSHIP C-170 DIE CUT TER

Engineered and manufactured in the U.S.A., the versatile C-170 rotary anvil – flatbed die cutter produces high quality foodgrade finished pieces. The C-170 masters both simple and complicated jobs, F-Flute through Double Wall, Solid/ Thin/Chip Board, Foil/Foam/Printed laminates, Coated board, Single/Open Face Corrugated, Recycled board, and more. Multiple-Out diecuts up to 60 individual pieces per cycle are Nick-Free, 100% perimeter shear cut, with no angel hair or paper dust. Waste is pneumatically extracted and directed to recycling. Clean finished pieces are automatically accurately counted and neatly stacked at a rate of 1800 cycles per hour. Orderly finished units exit the machine ready for shipping preparation. The one operator Baysek die cutter is less costly than most large traditional die cutters offering an additional quick return on investment. Proven, predictable & profitable, the number of Baysek customers with multiple C-170’s in their plants is on continual rise.

EL-150 DIE CUT TER

Designed for convertors looking for a larger custom format or an entry level die cutter on a lower budget. The EL-150 offers all of the same great die cutting capabilities as the C-170, at roughly half the speed and half the cost of the C-170.

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BOXSCORE January/February 2021

I-6072 & IR-6072 LOAD TURNERS

RECONDITIONED EQUIPMENT

The I-6072 (invert only) and IR-6072 (invert/rotate) load turners require no pit and contain no messy hydraulics.

Variable speed vibration allows easy squaring and the removal of damaged sheets and dunnage. One operator can flip and/or rotate sheet stacks without the risk of physical injury.

Optional multiple conveyor lines from the IR-6072 allow service to multiple C-170 die cutters or other machines.

Baysek accepts rare tradeins of older machine models when upgrading to a new Baysek C-170 die cutter. Servo conversions and conveyor infeed conversions are also offered in the field upon request.

DIGITAL POST PRINTER W/FEEDER & STACKER

Baysek C-170 customers have asked for the ability to digitally print bar & QR codes, part numbers, and other identification on boxes, partition sets, and other jobs. Baysek has responded with a new Digital Post Printer. The Baysek printer prints inline or stand alone to serve other equipment. Printers are available as One or Two Color Spot print as well as 4 Color Process Print.

COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENT SERVICE

Baysek cares for machines around the world with 24-hour access to service technicians who are committed to keeping customers running at maximum potential. Baysek’s affiliate company, Baysek Machines & Engineering, is located in Gloucestershire, United Kingdom, and services all of Europe.

Parts and consumables are stocked for customer convenience at both Baysek locations.

Baysek’s knowledgeable and friendly team stands ready to assist with more information.

715-824-5300 sales@baysek.com Be sure to inquire about virtual livestream machine demonstrations and headquarters tours if traveling is not an option.

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

FOSBER

F

osber is a leading global supplier for the design, construction and installation of complete lines as well as individual machines for the production of corrugated board.

Originally founded in Lucca in 1978, through its Italian headquarters and strategically located subsidiaries in the USA and China, the Fosber Group today supplies complete corrugators as well as major machine upgrades across the globe with a total dedication to quality and customer service.

Our renowned focus on continuous evolution and innovation and our constant investment in R&D are the keys of the company’s success. In what are continuously changing and evermore demanding markets, the Fosber Group delivers the most up-to-date technology to guarantee high performance, flexibility, dramatically reduced running costs, less complexity and enhanced reliability.

Fosber can offer a wide range of corrugating lines: The S/Line is Fosber’s flagship corrugator and comes in 2.5m and 2.8m working widths. All of its components are 100% exclusively sourced and manufactured in Europe. The flagship S/Line is available in 420 mpm or 370 mpm version.

In order to meet the different needs of its customer base, Fosber has developed the brand new C/Line. 100% built, managed and serviced by Fosber Italy, the C/Line has been specifically designed to have a significantly lower capital, installation and operating cost. The innovative C/Line is available in 300 mpm or 250 mpm version.

As the corrugated industry begins its journey into “Industry 4.0,” equipment

manufacturers are looking at ways to future proof machinery designs.

With the emphasis on designing intelligent machinery, Fosber is now focusing its attention on software systems that will help ensure maximum uptime and minimum disruption to daily routines and enhanced quality of corrugated board.

Syncro4: Fosber’s line is controlled by the Syncro4 supervisor system.

Syncro4 can be supplied either as a pure wet-end control system, a pure dry-end control system or a total corrugator control system.

Process Control Supervisor: Process Control Supervisor (PCS) is a closedloop control system that automatically monitors and controls all the various settings and variables of the corrugating process, reducing waste by ensuring a proper bond and optimum quality flat board is produced.

Pro/Care: The core concept of Pro/ Care – and its additional modules – is to remove the total reliance of this vital aspect of maintenance of the corrugator on people, by having the machine itself

dictate exactly which services are needed to be carried out.

Pro/Quality: Pro/Quality is a defect detection and monitoring system that is installed at each single facer to monitor the web immediately, at source, as it exits the machine just prior to the take-up conveyor.

Utilizing vision techniques and technologies, Pro/Quality monitors, detects and records in real-time any defects across the full web width with 100 per cent coverage.

Pro/Visionair – Virtual Technician Onsite: Pro/Visionair – VTO is the ultimate stand alone support tool specifically developed to help plant maintenance engineers maximize uptime on your Fosber corrugator, by keeping the line running with maximum efficiency. Utilizing a helmet with communication head-piece and built in glasses-cam, Pro/Visionair – VTO allows your engineers to be in direct contact with Fosber technicians, in real-time at any time, while diagnosing any technical or maintenance issues.

Contact our sales team at… sales@fosber.it 0039 0583 3891

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EAM-Mosca

The Mosca Difference DRIVEN BY QUALIT Y – LEADING BY INNOVATION

For over 35 years, companies have trusted us to reliably strap their product for shipment. Our continued technological innovations have enabled us to provide superior performance with the lowest total cost of ownership throughout our history. We offer a wide variety of bundlers and unitizers engineered to easily integrate into the latest high-speed flexo folder gluers, die cutters, bundle breakers, slitters, and material handling systems.

Combining our innovative engineering with a performance first focus has allowed us to continually adapt to changing packaging requirements and enables our customers to benefit from reduced parts replacements, lower maintenance costs, and productivity improvements.

SONIXS ® TECHNOLOGY – THE NEW STRAPPING STANDARD

In 2010 Mosca developed an ultrasonic sealing method to seal plastic strap ends together, setting a new standard in the strapping industry. Mosca’s SoniXs® ultrasonic sealing technology creates a stronger, more reliable seal. It’s easy to set up, cool to the touch, and seals both polypropylene (PP) and polyester (PET) strap.

Using ultrasonic vibrations instead of heat or friction to seal eliminates emissions, smoke, and dust and requires no warm-up time, reducing power consumption.

BUNDLING SOLUTIONS

Our wide variety of strapping solutions are tailored to meet your specific

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BOXSCORE January/February 2021

application, from manual offline bundlers to more complex, in-line, fully automatic systems.

The TRC6-SQ4 SoniXs® squaring bundler is one of our most popular bundlers and features electrically driven backstops with side conditioners for consistently uniform loads. The SQ4 SoniXs® can strap and square up to 24 bundles per minute, but if higher production or redundancy is required, a tandem system is the best solution.

We’ve offered a tandem solution for over ten years. The SQ4A-SoniXs® Tandem System easily integrates into existing lines and is proven to strap and square up to 36 bundles per minute. Its two-zone entry/ pacing conveyors reduce transport time for small bundles to meet throughput and integration requirements of high-speed flexo lines. Both SQ4 systems are capable of strapping bundles as small as 7"x7" and have the option of an automatic dual coil changer, which automatically changes strap coils without operator intervention in only 12 seconds.

UNITIZING SOLUTIONS

Our electric compression unitizers feature SoniXs® sealing technology and have proven to create highly reliable seals with PET strap from 9mm–12mm. The “MoscaTrak” system provides real-time diagnostics and data collection for greater insight into operational performance and helps determine if corrective actions are needed. This system also allows our technicians to provide remote support for added convenience and reduced downtime.

Our most popular electric unitizer, the CTR-SoniXs®, features a heavy-duty

powered roller conveyor for consistent load positioning, accommodates up to three strapping heads, and straps up to 220 loads per hour. For safety, our Automatic Platen Support (Platen ZES) is included as standard. Options include pallet lances, an internal turntable, and our Advanced Platen Safety System.

SERVICE AND SUPPORT

We view technical support as an integral part of our complete system approach.

You can expect the same high-quality service and support as you find with our strapping systems.

Our field service technicians are factory trained and strategically located throughout North and South America for fast and comprehensive machine repairs or scheduled maintenance. In addition, our in-house technicians are available to answer any questions or concerns you may have over the phone or by email and perform remote diagnostics for off-site live troubleshooting.

Our services also include new machine installation, supervision and training, emergency after-hours technical phone support for specific in-line production equipment, on-site technical assessments and equipment inspections, custom and standard preventive maintenance programs, and in-house remote technical troubleshooting.

Want to learn more? Contact us by calling 570-459-3426, visit our website www.eammosca.com and chat with us online or email us at info@eammosca. com. We look forward to partnering with you.

Randy Wright VP of Corrugated Sales randy.wright@eammosca.com Mobile/Office: 570-582-9316 Headquarters: 570-459-3426

TRUST THE INDUSTRY LEADER FOR SUPERIOR STRAPPING SOLUTIONS. At EAM-Mosca, we pride ourselves in keeping on the cutting edge of technology.

We design, develop, and engineer 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!

www.eammosca.com | info@eammosca.com | 570-459-3426

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EMBA Machinery

B

ased on the patented Ultima™ platform, EMBA machines set new standards in converting operations by delivering outstanding productivity, print quality and material efficiency.

This state-of-the-art machine features EMBA’s unique Ultima Feeder and vacuum transport throughout the complete machine, making it the world’s first inline machine to feature EMBA’s patented non-crush technology. The noncrush technology of the Ultima™ platform preserves the strength and geometry of the corrugated board throughout the production process. This means enhanced box performance and substantial material cost savings.

The easy to learn and use software makes the operation of the machine extremely user-friendly, a must for real Quick-Set™ setting of new orders or repeat orders instantly downloaded from the article database. During production, the operator will supervise and control the entire machine through the interactive Operator Interface.

Requested by our customers, our successful Ultima technical platform has now been expanded with an additional machine size, the FFG 215 QS Ultima™, which will be a perfect fit to the existing 175 QS Ultima™ and 245 QS Ultima™.

All are built on the proven Ultima concept, with all its advanced features, e.g. non-crush converting, quick-set,

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BOXSCORE January/February 2021

high speed, vacuum transfer through the complete machine and low energy consumption. Three machine sizes built on the same platform result in an efficient machine range in any factory from an operational and efficiency point of view.

With a wide range of options available, all of our machines are customized to fit the specific needs of every customer.

The speed, intelligence and flexibility of the EMBA QS Ultima™ enable rapid and precise adjustment to the latest market trends and demands.

The non-crush technology of the Ultima™ platform preserves the strength and geometry of the corrugated board throughout the production process. This means enhanced box performance and the only machines truly capable of converting the next generation of lightweight board grades now being introduced to the North American market.

245 DualBox™, Two machines in one! The DualBox™ option on our flagship 245 QS Ultima has introduced a whole new realm of productivity.

TwinFeed™ + XL Slotter = DualBox™ = 2x Output = Record breaking productivity with speeds of over 30k / hour.

Unlike existing solutions for twin box production there will be no tolerance variations between the boxes and you have a production output of up to 33,000 boxes per hour.

McKinley Machinery EMBA continues to manufacture and support the full range of McKinley Machinery products from our Westlake, Ohio, location.

The McKinley Premier Rotary Die cutters feature Servofeed lead edge feeders, vacuum transfer, reverse angle or chamber doctor blade ink metering, independent

servo drives of all units, anvil grinding, quick lock die mounting, touch screen operator control systems and much more.

The McKinley Flexo Folder Gluers feature motorized dual slotting shafts, optional precreasers, extended vacuum folding section, positive gap control, top loading counter ejector and much more.

Inside print units have been an available option since 1997.

Sizes range from 66" x 110" up to 88" x 215" for both RDC and FFG versions.

All machines now come with completely updated control systems from B&R automation.

EMBA Total Maintenance Program participants continue to report consistent reductions in downtime and overall maintenance costs.

Contact: Jeff.Dreger@embausa.com or 440-360-7940, and he will be happy to discuss the details of this program, and customize a plan to fit your maintenance needs.

For sales inquiries contact: George W. Linn, Sales Manager George.Linn@embausa. com 1-770-329-8586

Scott Davidson, Western Region Sales Manager Scott.Davidson@embausa. com 1-713-542-7202 usa-sales@embausa.com – General Sales inquiries For complete information on our range of EMBA and McKinley products and services visit us at www.embausa.com.

EMBA Ultima™. Innovation from the premier class supplier

Keep the strength

It continues. The progressive evolution of EMBA’s unique Ultima™ technology platform, combining outstanding production performance with dramatic savings in raw materials and energy.

The innovative and patented EMBA Non-Crush Converting™ technology eliminates nip points, preserving the geometry and strength of the corrugated profile throughout the entire converting process, creating significant savings in paper cost with higher BCT values for a much stronger product, and exciting productivity.

The intelligent Ultima™ technical platform is the result of focused collaboration with our customers, who recognize that high machine speed, optimized precision and low, predictable maintenance costs

are key requirements for any new Flexo Folder Gluer machine.

We will be happy to tell you everything you want to know about smart and competitive box production with EMBA Ultima™ intelligent technology.

EMBA’s World first Non-Crush Converting™ technology, with the unique Ultima™ feed unit and the acknowledged Quick-Set™ feature, makes the EMBA Ultima™ unbeatable.

www.emba.com

Available machines ● EMBA 175 QS Ultima™ ● EMBA 215 QS Ultima™

Our latest model!

● EMBA 245 QS Ultima™

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Fujifilm The Ultra-Productive OnsetX HS Printers OnsetX HS, the latest addition to the OnsetX printer series, offers increased print productivity, greater automation and reduced operator intervention, resulting in a significantly more productive printer.

The OnsetX HS’s presence is driven by three main attributes: quality, productivity and price. On the quality side, the 14 picoliter printheads offer the “sweet-spot” in print quality. Onset’s class-leading image quality is attributed to Fujifilm Inkjet Technology integration including FUJIFILM Dimatix printheads and Fujifilm Uvijet inks. In addition to drop size, a full-width printhead array spans the entire width of the print bed, eliminating textural banding that is sometimes associated with traditional scanning print technology. Uvijet inks are formulated specifically for the Onset to perform at high print speeds, and meet the performance demands across a wide range of substrates.

As for productivity, increases in productivity are an ongoing development requirement because burst capacity and expedited job turnaround time is increasingly important for anyone producing print.

From a pricing standpoint, as digital print for corrugated continues to grow, price sensitivity and competition continue to grow and standing out from the crowd becomes increasingly important.

SPEED MATTERS. One of the most alluring qualities of the OnsetX HS is that its features increase the headline productivity of the machine in all print modes, which means even greater print speeds from the same trusted printers. This is achieved by increasing the print jetting frequencies

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BOXSCORE January/February 2021

while ensuring print quality and stability are not compromised.

The HS also offers an optimized 2-pass print mode, titled “Single Cycle.” Jetting frequencies and drop placement have improved relative to the previous 2-pass, and the OX ink technology means adhesion to plastic media can be achieved in the “Single Cycle” mode.

The OnsetX HS also offers automated side shutters and automated table skin adjustment. The HS’s UV shutters are automatically adjusted dependent on media size. In the past, the operator would need to open the side of the machine and manually adjust the shutter on both sides of the machine. With additional automated features, the OnsetX HS is the pinnacle of productivity.

The automated table skin adjustment was previously a manual task, and as a result is rarely adjusted. By automating this process, zero-masking is much more achievable resulting in even fewer operator interventions and therefore increased uptime and faster job turnaround.

With productivity and throughput as a priority, a key feature of the OnsetX HS is the 30 second set-up, which

defines the time it takes to change job types in the new fully automated mode.

This includes robot effector adjustments, table skin adjustments and side shutter adjustments, and cuts set-up time from 10-15 minutes down to 30 seconds, not including substrate stack changes. With the productivity potential to send your business to the next level, the OnsetX HS is revolutionizing wide format corrugated printing.

Becky is the Wide Format Inkjet Segment Manager, and has spent more than six years at Fujifilm managing the WFIJ printing system solutions from entry-level to the most high productivity wide format equipment, as well as the digital UV inks that are integrated with these systems.

Becky McConnell Segment Marketing Manager, Wide Format Inkjet rmcconnell@fujifilm.com 630-259-7253 www.fujifilmpackaging insights.com/onset-x3-c

YOUR PACKAGING EDUCATION ALL ACCESS PASS AICC created the All Access Pass Program to keep your costs low, payments easy, and to streamline how you and your employees register for AICC webinars. One Pass, One Code, FULL ACCESS to AICC webinars & their recordings for all of your team members through August 2021 for one price. Recordings of dozens of past webinars are also included.

All Access Pass Price Per Company: $1,695 Saves Over $10,000!

Purchase Online: AICCbox.org/pass

CONTACT Taryn Pyle, Director of Education & Leadership Development (703) 535-1391 | tpyle@aiccbox.org | AICCbox.org/pass

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Geo. M. Martin Co.

T

o be market leaders, converters need to maximize the productivity and efficiency of their high-speed rotary diecutters. Therefore, they need material handling solutions that are reliable, have the capability to operate at high speeds for extended periods of time, eliminate virtually all scrap in the load, are easy and fast to set up, and can keep pace with even the fastest diecutters.

The advanced technology of the Geo. Martin LBX Scrubber® stacker meets converters’ requirements for high-speed diecutting around the world and contributes to its growing global popularity.

With over 120 systems in use, the LBX Scrubber® stacker changes converter performance expectations from what was 32 MSF per hour to an average 80 to 100 MSF per hour. Top performers are running as high as 200 to 400 MSF per hour.

Geo. Martin’s legacy of innovation continues with the introduction of their latest products that address converters’ challenges of making “better boxes,” providing more consistent products

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BOXSCORE January/February 2021

and enhancing safety and ergonomics for operators.

LQC™ – Length Quality Control system is engineered for quality conscious converters, especially those serving automatic packing lines where a short sheet can result in jams, stoppages, downtime and product waste. LQC scans the sheets and initiates a feed interrupt when non-conforming products are detected allowing the operator to manually pull the sheets. When used with the SQC or SQX sheets can be automatically ejected at full speed.

SQC™ – Sheet Quality Control system automatically removes sheets from the stacker's board line at all rated press speeds.

This fast acting process can be integrated with the LQC system for consistent on-the-fly ejection of single or multiple sheets. Sheets will be ejected to the stacker’s operator side for safe and easy quality control sample pulls. SQC can also create web gaps for a stack or bundle change, thus eliminating “double inking” issues.

SQX™ – Sheet Quality Extended system combines SQC sheet ejection features with additional scrap removal capabilities.

Placed behind an LBX Scrubber, the SQX further enhances the Scrubber’s already superior scrap removal capabilities to deliver virtually scrap free boxes (well under 1%) making it ideal for scrap critical operations such as auto packing lines. The SQX can also be placed on new or existing Select® and/or ValuStak™ stackers allowing them to take advantage of enhanced scrap removal and blank ejection capabilities.

The Quick-Break™ III (QB-III) is the latest model of Geo. Martin’s high performance nicked bundle breakers.

The heart of the bundle line system, the QB-III features significantly faster cycle speed, soft stop/start break and pull cycle, and unique multi-function “gapless” upper platen which eliminates edge roll on small bundles.

Dan D’Angelo VP Sales ddangelo@geomartin.com 631-368-0783 Geo. M. Martin Company 1250-67th Street Emeryville, CA 94608

Less More

LBX & SBX Stackers with Scrubber Technology ®

Where

is

ÁLess Downtime By eliminating jams ÁMore Sheet Control

Sheets are fully guided throughout

ÁLess Scrap Exclusive Scrubber

®

technology

ÁMore Production

Able to operate at the highest die cutter speeds

LBX™ and SBX™ — exceeding customer demands

Geo. M. Martin Company • 1250 67th Street Emeryville, California 94608, United States 510.652.2200 • Fax 510.652.6447 • email: info@geomartin.com ROTARY DIE CUTTER STACKERS & PERIPHERALS

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Haire Group Haire Vision Creates Sales During Pandemic It’s no secret that the global pandemic of 2020 has altered the way business is executed. Great challenges precipitated unprecedented change throughout the business world, and our industry was no exception. Haire Group has been serving the corrugated box converting industry for over 45 years, and this past year has revolutionized our industry and our entire business model in ways we never thought possible.

As COVID took hold of the airwaves and became the primary news story, people’s lifestyles drastically changed, hastening the evolution from brick and mortar shopping to purchasing goods primarily online. While many industries took a major hit, ours skyrocketed.

Corrugated box manufacturing was at an all-time high, and customers needed more equipment. However, with our sales team grounded, we needed to find a way to bring our machinery solutions to our customers without ever leaving the Haire Group headquarters.

They say, “Necessity is the father of invention,” and the proverbial “they” couldn’t be more right. Enter Haire Vision.

HAIRE VISION

Customers began reporting explosive numbers month after month, each month breaking the previous month’s record, even superseding typical holiday surges. To keep up, customers began looking to increase production, which meant more machines.

“We have several strengths that have helped us grow and keep sales strong,” said Jeff Quinn, VP and General Manager. “Innovation and ingenuity are not in short supply at Haire Group. Our team came together and developed what we call Haire Vision — a way to provide

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BOXSCORE January/February 2021

the same hands-on experience that our customers expect and enjoy but without ever leaving the office.”

Keith Umlauf, Executive VP of Sales, added, “We’ve been blessed with an incredible team. While many people get stuck in a rut wanting to sit back and rely only on what has worked in the past, our team does what it takes and makes the adjustments necessary to be ahead of the curve and meet needs where they are.”

Two machines are located in the Haire Showroom and Training Center. Those machines can be viewed via Haire Vision. However, Umlauf points out that, “If a customer wants to see a machine that we don’t have here at Haire, we are going to make it happen. We enjoy such great relationships with customers we have had for years that they welcome us showing what our machines are doing for them. The support they provide has been tremendous, and in so many ways, we could not do what we do without them.”

Quinn is amazed how far the industry and Haire Group have come in just a few short years. “When we decided back in 2005 to create the New Machinery Showroom and Training Center, we never could have imagined 15 years later we would be doing live ‘Haire Vision Sessions’ with our customers. It’s incredible what our team has done, and

I am so proud of them. Now, I’m left wondering what we will come up with 15 years from now!”

To learn more about Haire Vision or to enjoy a virtual demo, contact Haire Group at www.hairegroup.com.

Jeff has been with Haire Group for more than 30 years. He has been invaluable in his role of shaping the company’s infrastructure both in the office and in the field.

In addition, Jeff is a longtime member of AICC and TAPPI. He currently is the Chairman for the Corrugated Packaging Council (CPC) TAPPI board. Jeff is also an avid golfer and remains active in leadership roles at his church.

Jeff Quinn VP and General Manager jquinn@hairegroup.com 219-947-4545

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

HP

HP Corrugated Presses Help Converters to Better Meet Brands’ Demands The packaging market is experiencing powerful new trends triggered by the pandemic that span the entire supply and value chain, starting at the consumer.

Brands are demanding the freedom to make frequent and last-minute orders and changes, while maintaining brand consistency and graphics to stand out in the marketplace.

As a result, converters and brands need to be able to seize any available opportunity of any volume while ensuring profitability.

HP PageWide digital corrugated presses were developed to help converters deliver the speed, quality, and variability to meet even the most demanding request by their brands. These presses are productive and profitable and the only field-proven presses that can print in offset quality on a wide range of liners and board grades, with true water-based inks.

Key benefits to HP PageWide corrugated presses: • Output quality is exchangeable with both offset and flexo on a wide range of liners and board grades.

• HP thermal inkjet print systems feature millions of inkjet nozzles and built-in nozzle redundancy to achieve outstanding print quality. Sharp

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BOXSCORE January/February 2021

text and barcodes, as well as smooth tone transitions, are enabled by 1200 nozzles per inch and 6-pl drops.

• HP’s true water-based inks can be used for printing on the non-food contact surface of paperboard packaging and designed to support relevant global food safety and environmental guidelines. The true water-based inks contain no UV-reactive chemistries, and require no additional barriers for food packaging applications. (HP A30 and HP CV150 water-based Inks are intended for printing on the external side of corrugated packaging.)

HP PAGEWIDE PRESS PORTFOLIO

The HP PageWide T1100 Series webpress for pre-printing top liners is a six-color, single-pass, high-performance printing. The presses run liners up to 110" (2.8m) wide and are ideal for packaging converters seeking analog-to-digital transformation with high-volume productivity. The presses deliver corrugator-level efficiency and can maximize business opportunities for a wide range of corrugated applications.

With HP’s innovative Multi-lane Print Architecture (MLPA), converters can boost productivity by optimizing the layouts. HP MLPA splits the web into multiple print lanes, so different jobs with

different box sizes and run lengths can be printed in the individual lanes.

The new 6-color T470S web press, with the addition of Orange and Violet inks, can deliver outstanding print quality while achieving a greater number of brand colors. With a 42" print width, the press is ideal for roll-to-roll packaging applications, and its 600 feet-per-minute print speed ensures excellent productivity and throughput.

The HP PageWide C500 Press is a direct-to-board post-print solution for a wide range of corrugated packaging applications on both coated and uncoated paper. The C500 press brings benefits of digital printing, with flexibility, accelerated time to market, and reduction of waste and inventory with no need to compromise on print quality. With no limitation of Minimum-Order-Quantity (MOQ), converters can easily print low to high numbers of sheets, reducing the cost of making a box.

This innovative single-pass, digital post-print breakthrough solution, helps create new business opportunities and new competitive advantage.

HP www.hp.com/go/corrugatedpackaging Contact our sales team at: corrugated. packaging@hp.com

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

JB Machinery ®

JB MACHINERY JB Machinery – Optimizing the Performance of your Equipment!

For over 20 years JB Machinery has offered innovative products to the sheetfed corrugated industry that optimize performance, quality and safety. Whether it’s drying, curing, plate cleaning or ink management, JB equipment is designed for ease of use and total integration within the machine. JB products are designed and manufactured in the USA and have won many prestigious awards for innovation and quality.

The centerpiece of the JB product line is the range of ColorDry XL3000 ® IR dryers. Approaching 3000 installations in 56 countries, ColorDry XL3000 has become the industry standard, is the preferred choice of rotary diecutter and flexo folder-gluer OEMs around the world, and is virtually essential for maximizing the quality and productivity of the latest trend – inside/out flexo printing.

The safest and most efficient dryer on the market today, ColorDry XL3000 includes Sentinel® sheet detection, Lead Edge Sheet Detection (where applicable) and the optional VisionMaster® with the latest 1080p digital camera technology and RFID reset to provide operators a real-time view inside the press when starting and running. ColorDry XL3000 allows users to print the highest quality

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BOXSCORE January/February 2021

product possible at high speeds and diecut in-line for a smooth and efficient process.

Other JB standards continue to grow in popularity and gain a strong foothold throughout global markets. ColorCure ® ColdUV® is the leader in the UV curing segment, and now with TurboBoost™, offers the fastest UV curing times in the industry with speeds in excess of 50% of prior performance. KleenPlate ® 3.0 auto plate wash and print defect eliminator has continued to hit the mark with many new installations currently in process around the world! InKomand® continues to gain acceptance globally as a fully automated, precise ink temperature control system with pH/ viscosity monitoring and auto adjustment capabilities, that render it a true, set and forget it system.

New additions to the JB product offering for 2021 include AutoWash™ and DigiFlex™. AutoWash is a high speed plate cleaning system that provides automatic, simultaneous pre- or post-production sub five-minute washing cycles. A segmented soft brush roller system provides effective deep cleaning of all plate screen ranges and mattes. Using high speed rotation, oscillation and pulsation with a finite injection of detergent treated water followed by a rapid power drying interval,

plates are quickly cleaned and ready for the next job.

DigiFlex, JB’s high speed variable imaging system, can be retrofitted to most rotary diecutters, flexo folder-gluers, specialty folder-gluers, flatbed diecutters or any corrugated line where modest space is available. DigiFlex comprises imager, ink delivery system, LED UV system, control software and full docking system. It’s the only system that is capable of printing 600 dpi at 1,000 ft/minute on all substrates, including semi or fully coated paper. DigiFlex is an additional turnkey print unit that provides variable data capability, inside and outside the box, without any changes to the architecture of the host machine.

Finally, JB Machinery is pleased to announce our new headquarters at 33 Riverside Avenue in Westport, CT and the unveiling of many of our new innovations at SuperCorrExpo (Orlando, FL, August 9-12, 2021), where we hope to catch up, face to face, with longtime friends, new prospects and supplier partners alike!

Dave Burgess Sales Director dburgess@jbmachinery.com 1-203-544-0101 www.jbmachinery.com

A new level of PERFORMANCE...

...the next level of QUALITY

 the highest IR Drying safety and performance standards

KleenPlate 3.0 ®

print defect eliminator with auto plate washing

 print defect eliminator

with auto plate washing

 the highest UV curing safety and performance standards

 precise ink temperature control

optimizing productivity and quality

®

®

JB MACHINERY

(+)1-203-544-0101 | Fax (+)1-203-544-0202 | 33 Riverside Ave, 4th floor | Westport, CT 06880 USA | jbmachinery.com

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

KOLBUS HYCORR Continued Focus on Corrugated Growth Kolbus GmbH and its U.S. subsidiary, Kolbus America, have adapted and evolved to become leaders in paperbased packaging equipment and deliver exceptional products for its customers.

Kolbus excels not only in engineering and manufacturing high-quality packaging equipment but also outstanding sales and support. With a product assortment ranging from inhouse box makers to high precision flexo rotary die-cutters, any discerning corrugated packaging company – independent or integrated – will have their needs matched and exceeded.

Founded in 1775 in Rahden, Germany, Kolbus continues to be privately-owned and operated with over 1,000 employees.

The management team takes pride in more than 225 years of successfully growing its business. To this day, Kolbus, together with its family of brands, is proud to continue to provide “Excellence in Motion.” This summer, the firm appointed Jeffrey Dietz as its new president of Kolbus America – Hycorr.

He has assumed overall responsibility for the Kolbus, Hycorr, and Autobox product lines in North America and is responsible for all sales, service, and operations activities for Kolbus America.

HE SOLUTIONS

Since the acquisition of Hycorr nearly 10 years ago, Kolbus has been steadfast in providing reliable advanced-engineered solutions for corrugated customers. With the more recent purchase of the UK based company, Autobox, the Kolbus product portfolio expanded to offer solutions that can satisfy the needs of box companies of varying sizes. The three major Kolbus brands: Hycorr, LuxPack, and Autobox, each providing expert solutions for the industry.

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BOXSCORE January/February 2021

Kolbus Hycorr outgrew its roots and moved into a new manufacturing facility in Kalamazoo, Michigan, to support further expansion. The Kolbus Hycorr RDC continues to be proudly made in the USA and has evolved with the support of the Kolbus German engineering team. This acute combination of resources has created a true value for converters that are looking for a machine that can service all their production needs, both throughput and graphics.

With 20 years of experience, Kolbus Hycorr is a pioneer in the development of top print technology. With the increased demand for inside the box printing, Kolbus Hycorr has recently delivered machines with single and multiple top print units. Companies who have not looked at Hycorr recently will be pleasantly surprised at what is being offered today. The firm takes great pride in offering its Hycorr flexo rotary die cutters with an industry leading three-year warranty.

Kolbus GmbH is excited to bring to market the new RD115/135S full servo flexo rotary die-cutters. This important product development represents years of engineering investment and listening to customer input about desired features and specifications. More details on the RD115/135S were shared in late 2020.

In addition, Kolbus recently introduced the new Luxury Packaging line, a fully automated modular production system that delivers flexible solutions for the rigid box luxury packaging market.

With the surging demand for small to medium quantity box production, Kolbus Autobox has continued its position as a market leader in this segment. The Boxer and Autobox equipment’s tool-less/automatic set-up offer printing and converting solutions for box of one to one thousand.

This allows distribution companies to create boxes on demand and larger corrugated plants to free up valuable space on their

die-cutters. Both in-line flexo and digital print solutions are available to complement the improved operational functionality of the Kolbus Autobox equipment.

SUPPORT

Kolbus customers enjoy tremendous support, whether it be remote or “boots on the ground.” The ability to provide true 24/7 remote diagnostics and service support is an absolute necessity in today’s manufacturing environment. For example, Kolbus360 remote support is included standard on all new equipment for 24/7 remote diagnostics and technical support, which maintains a continuous link to its service teams and resources.

The company also offers a full complement of local North American-based customer service representatives, inventory, and technicians. Their priority is to ensure that everything goes smoothly – from installation to production operations.

This high-caliber support – worldwide, online and on-site – is delivered through a network of experienced service technicians.

LOOKING FORWARD

What can customers expect in 2021?

The New Year will bring the first North American RD115S installation. It will be up and running in the first quarter. With a successful second half of 2020, Kolbus Hycorr enters 2021 with a good backlog of equipment orders. Kolbus continues to offer new products and will be greeting its customers at a variety of trade fairs including SuperCorr and drupa.

Jeffrey Dietz President Jeffrey.dietz@kolbus.com 412-491-4300

THE NEW RD115/135S

The NEW KOLBUS Hycorr RD115/135S Flexo Rotary Die Cutter represents years of investment by the KOLBUS engineering team in Rahden, Germany and the Hycorr technical team in Kalamazoo, Michigan. This cooperation, combined with the input from our customers, has resulted in the ultimate blend of quality, performance, and value. Designed with all corrugated markets in mind, the RD115/135S is well equipped for high throughput, quick make-ready, and high graphics print production. With a complement of new features and benefits to accompany.

KOLBUS America Inc. | 216-931-5100 | sales@kolbus.com

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

SUN Automation Group SUN Automation Group Celebrates Significant Milestones and Continues to Support Corrugated Industry through Pandemic and Beyond While there have certainly been some ominous forecasts about the future of the global economy, SUN Automation Group® continues to be a bright spot on the horizon of the corrugated industry. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and its unprecedented levels of pressure on the corrugated industry, SUN has reached significant milestones over the last year, including celebrating its 35th anniversary and placing the 100th Latitude Machinery Corporation (LMC) machine in the United States market. SUN’s extensive offerings and resources are positioning the corrugated industry for continued success into the future, no matter what challenges it may bring.

In just over a year since forging a strategic partnership as the exclusive North and Central American representative for all Latitude Machinery Corporation (LMC) machinery, SUN is proud to announce that it has placed LMC’s 100th machine in the US market. LMC is a rapidly growing and world-class Taiwanese manufacturer of Flexo Folder Gluers, Rotary Die Cutters and other solutions to the corrugated industry.

LMC’s P2200 Jumbo FFG has top speeds of 100 kpm and with a standard SUN Automation Feeder Transmission, SUN Licensed wheel box and a fixed frame design that can be quickly opened for cleaning and maintenance, it is a popular option for box plants looking for a true Jumbo 86" repeat. LMC’s PP6618 Mini FFG, with top speeds of 400 kpm, highlights just how diverse an arsenal of bespoke equipment is available to box plants – designed to support corrugated needs of all shapes and sizes. These

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machines and more are fully supported by the SUN service and support guarantee.

With the largest inventory of parts in the United States, with many ready to ship same-day and overnight, SUN Automation Group is committed to the sustained success of its customers. This commitment goes beyond simply supplying the necessary parts – it also centers around providing customers with all the necessary support needed to keep their machines running optimally, without interruption or the need of a service plan. As box-making plants are pushed to their capacity limits and supply chains face ongoing challenges, this universal support enables customers to proceed confidently, knowing that they can count on their equipment to run efficiently around the clock. And with a growing staff of service and support technicians around the world, SUN is ready and uniquely equipped to handle any customer need, regardless of location.

SUN is further supporting corrugated box plants by helping them to get the most out of their existing machinery and equipment, and ultimately stretch their budgets in a time of economic uncertainty. As the financial effects stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic approach a fourth consecutive fiscal quarter, many corrugated plants are facing difficult budgetary decisions, particularly concerning investments in larger-scale equipment purchases. SUN recognizes these challenges and offers diagnostic screenings to help detect minor issues impacting output and performance of their existing machines, and to remedy them before they lead to major issues.

Older machines are also often not functioning to their full capacity. SUN helps customers bring their workhorse machines back to OEM specification or better, not only keeping them running,

but also increasing their output and making them more productive and profitable.

These cost-effective solutions help SUN customers remain competitive and financially viable by stretching budgets and maximizing existing machinery while incorporating new technology previously unavailable on older models.

In looking ahead, SUN seeks to continue to meet customer demands by working tirelessly to be a trusted partner and employ a “culture of listening.”

Whether that means servicing equipment and supplying parts, fulfilling new orders, establishing new partnerships or innovating new solutions, SUN plans to answer the demands of today as well as tomorrow.

With so many happenings going on, SUN encourages visits to its state-of-theart facility in Glen Arm, Maryland. To contact directly call: 410-472-2900 or visit: www.sunautomation.com.

ABOUT SUN AUTOMATION GROUP ®

SUN Automation Group® is a global industry leader providing corrugated box plants with innovative equipment for feeding, printing and converting. The wide range of products are proven solutions for increasing production, efficiency, and profitability. With 24/7 on-site technical support, SUN Automation is known for its exceptional service and care.

Headquartered outside of Baltimore, MD, SUN Automation has service centers around the globe. To keep up to date with SUN Automation’s innovations and news, visit www.sunautomation.com.

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Valco Melton PrintChek for Diecutters and Flexo/ Folder/Gluers Some quality managers will report that printing defects are not among the top three issues that they deal with throughout the year but with point of purchase boxes/ trays it can be the number one complaint.

In addition, print quality expectations of large key accounts are increasing and exceeding the ability of your flexo presses or operators to scrutinize output sufficiently to prevent future complaints.

The ClearVision® division of Valco Melton is introducing PrintChek™ – a camera-based tool for inspecting the entire width of every corrugated sheet in a Flexo-Folder-Gluer or Die-Cutter

and analyzing it for print quality. From spots and hickeys to color registration problems, stripes, scratches and smeared, ghosted or missing print, PrintChek™ is able to compare each sheet to a standard and highlight areas of concern to be removed and inspected. Along with defect detection, PrintChek™ reads and evaluates barcodes for quality and assesses the geometry of the sheet for size, skew and trim.

The principle involves several cameras installed above (top-print) or below (bottom-print) the sheet along with light modules to illuminate the sheet. Linescanning cameras take images as the sheet passes and the image is re-assembled

in order to evaluate. Minimum defects down to 2.0 mm are visible. Color measurements of a delta-E value of 3 can be resolved for accurate inspection of ink recipes and matching to desired corporate color standards. If there is no viable pdf standard available to compare to, a sample box can be run as a “golden standard.”

PrintChek™ uses the familiar ClearVision BoxChek 7 interface to activate desired inspection tests, set tolerances and view images. The live image is always visible on screen and defects are visible both as they occur and in the defect viewer. The defect viewer sorts images, provides close examination opportunities and highlights reasons for the defect being

the perfect BOX

PRINTCHEK REPRESENTS A NEW FRONTIER IN PRINT DETECTION FOR THE CORRUGATED INDUSTRY. Our PrintChek cameras image every sheet across the entire press before it is die-cut. The system can see defects as small as 2mm as well as large-scale defects such as faded print, smearing and color deviations. PrintChek full sheet corrugated inspection allows you to select areas such as printing, logos, etc. and view them in closer detail. Pair PrintChek with our MeasurementChek system and remotely monitor usage and quality statistics which you can then export through Excel.

PERFECT PRINT Adhesive Dispensing & Quality Inspection Systems World HQ: +1.513.874.6550 | ask@valcomelton.com For more information visit: www.valcomelton.com

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PC

DEFECT

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

identified. Defect data are stored in SQL format and defect images are stored for later inspection.

Statistical Process Control Charts are available for select PrintChek measurements to assess machine capability and monitor how well operators are adhering to target values.

The charts include all the normal SPC values plus CP and CPk reported throughout the order for various sample sizes.

MeasurementChek™ continues to serve as both a local and remote access point for production data, per box details and all of the data are stored on the local device, not the cloud.

Valco Melton is a leading supplier of gluing and inspection systems in the corrugated

industry. Since 1952, Valco Melton has been selling and servicing equipment and providing robust solutions for the industry.

ClearVision® products are dedicated to using vision for inspecting corrugated production

EQUIPMENT

and making removal of defects from the production stream possible.

Contact our sales team at 513-874-6555 or email info@valcomelton.com.

The next generation WANTS to grow.

Help them.

Emerging Leaders, those roughly 35 years of age or younger, meet regularly at AICC’s National Meetings in sessions specific to their needs; they participate in active industry training programs; and they provide valuable input to the future of our industry. We develop at least 3 EL programs per year and occasionally offer ELs exclusive discounts on programs that we think are most relevant to them. Employees of AICC General and Associate Member companies are invited to apply. AICCbox.org/ Leaders When You Invest & Engage AICC Delivers Success.

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Zünd Zünd: changing digital packaging production.

SHOW ME—VIRTUALLY

Zünd America, right along with most of our customers, had to adjust for all the changes and limitations the 2020 pandemic brought with it. To keep our customers and our employees safe, and the need for travel to a minimum, we put in place full, multi-camera virtual demonstration and training capabilities, which we can personalize to your specific interests and needs. Let us know what you would like to see, and we’ll show you, virtually. No travel required.

PRESS & CUT ADVANTAGES

Zünd’s newly developed Press-Cut Tool – PCT is equipped with a specially designed glide shoe that offers both greater cutting speeds and superior edge quality. With the tool compressing the edges of the material during the cutting process, the resulting pillow effect mimics the quality and appearance of traditional die-cutting, making this a great tool for corrugated converters.

SUCCESSFUL DIGITAL AUTOMATION

Zünd’s fully automated Board Handling System BHS150 continues to be a great success with digital

Digital cutting at an industrial level.

AD Zund

1.5 m Contact us anytime for a demonstration, in person or virtual, tailored to your needs.

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BOXSCORE January/February 2021

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

packaging producers implementing Zünd’s innovative and reliable automation technology all over the world. Capable of processing 1.5m stacks, materials up to 4" thick, and maximum processing speeds of 2.8m/9.2ft per sec., the system delivers unprecedented non-stop productivity and throughput, especially when paired with the Zünd dual-beam D3 cutter. Customers are reporting significant reductions in production time and cost, along with the ability to attract more business with larger and more economical short runs. The D3 system can accommodate 3 different tools (e.g. cutting, creasing, perforating) on each beam, and automatic file retrieval via QR code further enables efficient, non-stop cutting even if the stack of uncut materials consists of different jobs of varying lengths.

WHY ZÜND?

Engaged for more than three decades in the development, manufacturing, and worldwide distribution of modular, multifunctional digital cutting/finishing equipment, Zünd offers several lines of digital cutters for graphics, packaging, and other demanding industrial applications. The G3/S3 and dual-beam D3 are highly adaptable finishing solutions for custom & prototyping to high-volume digital production environments. For packaging manufacturers, Zünd’s state-of-the-art cutting systems can accommodate a complete palette of specialized tools for processing all commonly used packaging materials, including protective foams up to 2" and 4" thick (depending on beam height) and 10' wide. Zünd Cut Center, Zünd’s end-toend digital workflow suite, ensures simple, efficient operation and reliable, non-stop

EQUIPMENT

productivity that can be monitored on-site or remotely via Dashboard. With features such as the new fully automated, stack-to-stack Board Handling System, robotic pick & place, tandem operation, intelligent or even one-shot register-mark capture and touch-free file retrieval, Zünd can provide customers with the most efficient digital workflow solutions tailored to their specific requirements. Every component of Zünd’s modular systems is geared to maximizing productivity and adapting to ever-changing digital cutting/ finishing needs.

For more information and to schedule a personal demonstration at our expansive in-person and virtual demonstration facilities in Oak Creek, WI, please contact: Infous@zund.com 414-433-0700 www.zund.com

The Board Handling System BHS150.

AD Zund

infous@zund.com T: 414-433-0700 www.zund.com

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Alliance Machine Systems International Automation is for Everyone Automation isn’t just for the big guys.

Hiring and retaining employees is everyone’s problem, whether you are an integrated plant or independent operation. Having a full crew report to work every day can be a challenge, and partial crews cripple productivity. The prospect of slogging bundles to a loadformer all day is hardly motivation to come to work. The bending and twisting required to place heavy bundles can lead to soft tissue injuries and fatigue, meaning more lost time.

Whether you are running a high-speed flexo folder gluer at 800 boxes per minute or a 30-year-old 50-inch flexo plodding along at 4,500 boxes per hour, Alliance has the right automatic loadforming technology for your application. While automating the high-speed flexo is a given at 800 boxes per minute, automating the 50-inch machine takes more thought.

Productivity is frequently dictated by loadformer operators as they struggle with placing the large, heavy bundles on the sliding plate of the machine. As they tire, the line slows down. Replacing the semi-manual loadformer with a robotic unit not only frees up employees for more important tasks but may increase productivity, as the robot never tires, complains, or has soft tissue to injure.

Assuming an average box size of 20 square feet, running 1,000 boxes per hour faster than the current rate could yield $250,000 per year in increased profit.

This plus the crew savings can yield a 1-year return on investment. It’s worth thinking about.

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Spend some time with us and learn about our family of robotic loadformers.

• Raptor XR loadformer º High-speed flexos º Rotary die cutters º Specialty gluers • Raven loadformer º Medium-speed, 50-inch flexos • RaptorPAL palletizer º High performance pit-less Robotic palletizer For more information, visit www. alliancellc.com/robotics.

ABOUT ALLIANCE

For more than 40 years, Spokane Valley, Washington-based Alliance Machine Systems International LLC has designed

and manufactured more than 14,000 machines for the corrugated industry, with installations worldwide. Alliance offers material handling systems that keep pace with today’s faster finishing machines. It offers high-speed feeding and downstream handling designs that are reliable, cost-effective solutions to increasing productivity. Products include robotic loadformers, stackers, prefeeders, pallet handlers, specialty folder gluers, and more.

Richard Wilkinson Vice President of Sales and Marketing rick.wilkinson@alliancellc.com 509-535-0356 www.alliancellc.com

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

C&M Conveyor

S

ince 1982, C&M Conveyor has led the way to innovate robust and safe automation material handling products and systems to address the industry’s ongoing desire for increased quality and throughput, while constantly improving safety.

C&M Conveyor has a formal Voice of the Customer (VOC) process to truly listen to and understand our customers’ needs and values. With this information, our cross-functional teams develop new products, services, and solutions to deliver increased efficiency and velocity while enhancing safety. Our mesh ball rotator and bundle conveyors are examples delivering on these values. C&M’s mesh ball rotator conveyor provides a rollerless surface that utilizes a modular ball-belt and integrated worm gear driven rotational disc. This highly effective design allows us to rotate units at a higher speed and hold the load integrity.

C&M’s mesh ball bundle conveyor allows our customers to achieve transfer rates in excess of 20 bundles per minute and gives them the ability to side-shift, right-angle transfer in one or two directions, and rotate and load build in a smaller footprint. Efficiency at the load former or robotic layer former is improved by grouping bundles together, side-by-side, rotating orientation and reducing operator or machine interface.

Another example of how we boost efficiency is with our shipping and distribution systems, which offer higher throughput @240-plus loads per hour.

This system also features an automatic dunnage transfer system for the automatic application of top sheets to finished units to remove the operator constraints.

One additional option with the dunnage transfer system is to digitally print load information on the dunnage prior to

application to the load. This further removes obstacles within your plant by removing the need for an operator to insert the load tags manually. Our shipping and distribution system utilizes a camera to scan the load for size and shape information and has larger capacity to store customer custom strap patterns.

C&M’s next generation Computer Inventory Management System (CIMS) offers full-plant automation and can identify processes that are not running efficiently or are generating more waste. It communicates with the customer’s scheduling system and has decision-making software to move material based on the schedule. CIMS also enables strapping systems to interface with scheduling systems and offers scrap tracking capabilities.

With our integrated controls and the pending introduction of predictive maintenance diagnostics, we are looking to prevent unplanned failures while only repairing/replacing equipment and components when maintenance is truly necessary.

In combining Ohio Blow Pipe with C&M Conveyor, we have a tremendous understanding of industry needs and can provide the complete package of customized and integrated material handling and scrap removal systems. We strive to safely and efficiently manage your entire material flow from roll to bale to shipping, and everything in between!

Brett Jaffe CEO bjaffe@cmconveyor.com 216-681-7379

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Durst Group

Durst SPC 130 – a New Generation of Digital Printing with Durst Water Technology Inks The SPC 130 is based on the latest generation of single-pass printing systems that Durst has successfully developed for markets including ceramics and narrow web.

Durst has been continuously developing single-pass technology since 2005 and has a broad installation base with over 700 single pass printing systems around the world. In April of 2019, Durst took development one step further, signing a joint venture agreement with Koenig & Bauer. The combined key technologies and market expertise of Koenig & Bauer Durst creates the new generation of print press: The SPC 130.

With the SPC 130, Durst has adapted single-pass technology to the corrugated board industry. The SPC 130 combines a well-engineered mechanical design with easily accessible sub-assemblies and selected components to guarantee durable

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quality, high performance and reliability. It is a printing system that offers unrivaled versatility, low maintenance requirements and 24/7 reliability.

Durst Water Technology inks are an integral part of the long-term Durst strategy of offering sustainable, digital printing systems as an alternative to conventional printing systems for the packaging and display sector. Entirely in synchrony with the requirements of the corrugated cardboard and solid cardboard industry, these are ecofriendly, marking-free, water-based, organic-pigmented and monomer-free ink systems. They represent the next technological milestone in water-based ink systems, as they allow high-quality, odor-free, indelible, glossy and non-fading end products to be produced in a single process.

The SPC 130 meets the stringent requirements for food safe primary packaging utilizing our proprietary water-based ink technology and is designed with core technologies to

provide automated, productive, food safe printing systems.

The SPC 130 includes options for expanded gamut printing with Orange and Violet, an inline quality inspection system, inline priming for uncoated board and unrivaled productivity with options for non-stop automated feeding and stacking. The SPC 130 is an all in one solution for high speed, high quality corrugated board printing.

The packaging industry is looking for new, more efficient production opportunities that do not compromise quality. The SPC 130 provides shorter response times, more variants, shorter run lengths, and also answers the increasing customer demand for brand security and sustainability. The Koenig & Bauer Durst partnership delivers the necessary digital solutions, from Pixel to Output.

Steve Lynn Director and GM, New Markets Steve.Lynn@durst-group. com 224-217-2252

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Baumer hhs Quality Control and Corrugated Case Production The control of quality in a corrugated plant is increasingly critical to ensure that the cases delivered to customers perform reliably in automatic case erecting machines and make up accurately.

Baumer hhs offers a wide range of proven quality control solutions to manage the quality on Flexo folder gluers and Specialty folder gluers.

Flexo folder gluer applications use our rugged and reliable non-contact triple valve. The automatic, integrated water bath prevents the glue in the nozzles from drying out so that the first box through the machine is glued correctly to minimize waste and maximize quality. Optical glue detection options include the cost-effective MLT and our fully featured Xcam. Machines with only a single side glue frame can benefit from our Inverto, which is capable of top down and bottom up glue from a single glue station. Inverto can be optioned with integrated glue detection if desired. As our most cost-effective solution, Baumer hhs has introduced a new and very competitive FFG GO glue system that cuts cost yet still retains our performance advantages of high pressure, non-contact application.

Flexo folder gluer applications can also use our Box Monitoring solutions to control the manufacturers’ GAP as well as slot depth monitoring. Both GAP and slot real time trend lines may be displayed on the screen to provide immediate feedback as the operator sets up the machine for optimal box quality. Our real time results are accurate for finished boxes, even after passing through the counter-ejector where it is

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“spanked” with a squaring device before ejecting the bundle.

Bundle reject signal options can be applied to any of these quality devices, allowing them to interface with most commercially available bundle reject solutions.

Specialty folder gluer options pair our proven high pressure non-contact glue application with our Xcam camera solution to scan for glue, anti-glue, skew, folded flaps, print and other targets. Our wide view application places the cameras out of harm’s way and reduces the need to reposition the QC cameras during a setup change. Fast and easy QC setup is accomplished via the large format touch screen.

Defects may be sprayed for manual removal from the product stream, or optionally interfaced with an ejector for fully automated removal.

For more information on how Baumer hhs can improve your quality, contact our sales team at sales.usa@baumerhhs.com or 937-886-3160.

Richard Pallante became President of Baumer hhs’ USA and Canada subsidiary in January 2020. Pallante joined the company in 2017 as Business Development Manager – Packaging.

Richard Pallante President – Baumer hhs USA and Canada rpallante@baumerhhs.com 937-886-3160

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

Emmeci Emmeci info@emmeciusa.com 401-431-1496

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Engineered Recycling Systems, LLC

Engineered Recycling Systems, LLC Advances Vacuum Transfer and Scrap System Dust Control Technology with Simple and Safe Measures Engineered Recycling Systems, LLC (ERS) is the industry leader in dust collection, scrap removal and vacuum transfer air filtration systems. The team is comprised of the industry’s top engineers and system integrators, who incorporate the finest equipment technology with expansive industry knowledge and expertise to provide customers with the most innovative integrated systems in the world.

ERS scrap removal and dust collection systems encompass proven technology of the past along with efficient, cost effective technology of today. ERS considers current market trends; workplace safety, health (OSHA) and fire (NFPA) regulations and guidelines; existing and new production equipment; facility layout; and manufacturing requirements to empower customers with a comprehensive approach of system integration for air conveying systems.

ERS systems are custom-designed to meet the needs of today and the challenges of tomorrow with the CCM® Filter. As air, dust and scrap enter the system through the ERS LPS Separator or Cyclone, with scrap depositing into the baler, a balancing fan neutralizes down pressure in the baler chute, ensuring balanced energy

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throughout that adjusts automatically with fluctuating air flows. Thus, the system uses only the amount of horsepower necessary to operate.

The remaining air and dust are then pushed through CCM® Filter, which includes rotating and oscillating suction nozzles to continuously vacuum any dust and waste from the filter media. The deep filter cleaning every 2-3 minutes results in low pressure loss. The dust is then conveyed to a high efficiency dust collection cyclone which discharges into a dust pucker or bin. The entire system is compliant with workplace safety, health (OSHA) and fire (NFPA) guidelines without additional equipment.

Updated system designs and modular approach allow for a smaller system footprint within plants and more direct access to problem areas. The CCM® Filter can easily be installed on a platform or in proximity to conveyors and die cutters to mitigate dust accumulation resulting in higher throughput.

ERS recognizes the importance of simple and safe measures to keep plants running efficiently, with fewer instances of downtime. Advancements to the filter media attachment and replacement system for the CCM® Filter have made maintenance even easier. With a new, patent-pending filter media change out design, a filter change out requires fewer people, no tools, no ladders, and no scissor lifts. Within minutes, the old media is replaced with the new media, and the system is back up and running.

With ERS systems, production facilities globally have resulted in more manageable and marketable operations, with valuable end products.

Mike Carver is the Managing Member of ERS. Mike leads the team of system integrators, with the goal of providing customized solutions for challenges faced by ERS customers. He adheres to a “learn your customers’ processes, needs and challenges first” philosophy, then pairs that with his strong engineering background to design customized solutions. He believes the success of his customers is rooted in the highest quality equipment and technological advances available. He works with trusted partners to create systems that best suit the needs at hand but are also nimble for future modifications.

As a leader in the corrugated, paper and paper converting industries, Mike conceptualized the Continuous Cleaning Modular (CCM ®) Filter for Vacuum Transfer and Dust Control, revolutionizing plants globally. Having been around the box business for 30 years, Mike understands the ever-changing needs and challenges of the industry.

Prior to ERS, Mike was a partner at SC Environmental, LLC, as well as a partner at Birchwood Systems, LLC. He founded ACES and Equipment Company, managing the company during his tenure there. He started his career with Blower Application Company, Inc., leaving the company as the Vice President, Sales and Marketing.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Marquette University.

Mike Carver Managing Member info@engineeredrecycling. com 770.954.8780 Atlanta engineeredrecycling.com

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

Felins, Inc.

Packaging’s Hidden Costs SIMPLIF Y. SOLVE. SUSTAIN.

Increasing labor costs? Excessive packaging waste? Rework clogging your production line and profitability? Felins is all too familiar with seeing the hidden costs of their customers’ packaging pains from destroyed edges, ripped corners, jams from residue buildup, irreversible damage, and additional costs from compensating for lost product. The Felins team can help you solve these issues and implement a turnkey solution with their Corrugated Packaging Machines, which are designed with one important goal in mind: optimize product bundling to save both you and your customers time and money.

PACK AGING THE PACK AGING

The equipment utilizes ultrasonic banding technology which works well to automatically secure boxes, unitize cartons, bundle

die-cut and printed 4-point, 6-point and crash lock boxes, as well as POS displays.

While it is common to use narrow, rigid plastic straps to bundle corrugate and printed stacks, this leads to damaged edges on the top and bottom pieces of the product, creating waste and increasing production costs. Felins’ corrugated packaging equipment provides a clean solution, with zero damage to the product and a material that is easily recyclable, promoting a sustainable packaging process.

is the world-class service and support that each customer experiences even after the point of sale. Felins’ team prides themselves on not just getting the solutions in place, but building relationships and trust with their clients. This white-glove service matched with their passioned commitment to sustainability and professional playbook of non-traditional solutions has spoken for itself in the last 100 years in business, undoubtedly, securing Felins and their customers in a position to thrive for another 100.

100 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

Next year, Felins will celebrate 100 years of service as a long-standing leader of innovation in the packaging industry – continuing to empower companies, large and small, to simplify operations, solve inefficiencies, and sustain effective packaging processes with powerful solutions that reduce waste and maximize throughput (and profits)!

Felins’ full-service team of dedicated packaging professionals work around the clock to implement and maintain the best systems possible for each customer’s unique situation. Not only is the equipment high-quality, what sets them apart

Seth has been with Felins since 2012. He focuses on working with end customers and distribution channels to help identify bundling solutions that help reduce material costs, labor, and increase throughput. Reach out today to see what we can do for you.

Seth McNally Midwest & International Sales Manager sales@felins.com 414-581-7227 www.felins.com

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Equipment Finance Corporation

E

quipment Finance Corporation has provided long term, fixed rate financing for new and used Paper Converting machinery since 1993.

Our commitment to the industry continued throughout the Covid-19 shutdown/slowdown period by providing payment extension and rewrites to alleviate our clients’ cash flow concerns. Unlike commercial banks, we are not paralyzed by the fear of the virus slowdown and are lending as always with financing of up to 100% of the total project cost of new machinery with amortization terms of up to 15 years. Loans for used equipment typically include 100% of the cost of equipment, including rigging, shipping, and installation costs with terms of from five to eight years.

As Winston Churchill is credited as once saying: “A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.”

We share that optimistic view. We believe that the corrugated packaging industry is stable and growing and we are ready to provide the capital required by our clients to take advantage of their opportunities.

We are not hampered by bank regulators and Fed regulations which can result in banks being overly conservative in both their lending availability and programs in the current environment.

Our loan options include early prepayment, annual additional paydown and loan term adjustment options allowing our clients to take advantage of the low monthly payments of a long amortization repayment term, while having the options to shorten the loan term later, make additional principal paydown, or early prepayment. Therefore, you can have low payments without locking yourself into a long term commitment.

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Investment in upgraded equipment continues to be an ongoing requirement for corrugated operations in order to satisfy customer requirements, improve production speed, capacity & efficiency and reduce unit labor cost. The need to acquire more efficient, productive and less labor intensive equipment will only increase in the future, as will the cost of machinery. EFC’s 30+ years of industry knowledge and experience allows us to offer qualified clients longer repayment terms plus financial flexibility not available through commercial banks or bank leasing/finance companies.

In addition to loans for newly acquired equipment, we provide debt refinancing to reduce existing loan payments, fix floating rate debt or reduce higher rate debt. Unlike bank lenders, our financial terms and structures are set based on the parameters which best serve the needs of each individual borrower, not a regulatory agency. With our historical knowledge of the resale value of packaging equipment, our credit requirements are also much more flexible than other institutions.

We do not burden clients with blanket asset liens, restrictive loan covenants and personal guarantees as are typically required by banks and other lenders.

You have worked hard for many years to build a strong, successful business. We recognize that and provide lending terms which you deserve based on your financial strength and time in business, not terms determined by federal bank auditors.

While repayment terms and structure flexibility are extremely important, so is interest cost. Equipment Finance Corporation offers fixed rates which are equal to or less than those of commercial banks, bank leasing & finance companies or other financial institutions serving

the Packaging Industry. Our large financial services volume allows us to access funding at below market rates which we can then pass on to our clients in the form of lower rates, but with the attractive long term, flexible repayment plans which are not available through regulated banks and bank owned capital and leasing companies.

Contact Ed Gargiulo at 800-469-1082 or 770-714-0662 or ed@efc-finance.com.

We will be pleased to provide you with a list of your colleagues who we have had the pleasure to assist in the past. They can advise you how Equipment Finance has helped them, and can help you, grow your business and improve your bottom line.

Ed Gargiulo Executive Vice President ed@efc-finance.com 770-714-0662 Office: 678-319-0333 ext. 13

You’ve invested years of your blood, sweat and tears in building your successful business. You’re not ready to retire, nor do you want to sell. You want to continue growing by investing in new machinery, but you don’t want to feel forced into making borrowing decisions based on onerous terms from traditional banks that can put the future of your business at risk.

You’ve earned the luxury of choosing financing that doesn’t penalize but rewards your success.

EFC offers longer term, fixed rate financing — 7, 8, 10, 12 and 15-year amortizations — and: • NO Loan Covenants • NO Blanket Asset Liens Typically, traditional banks require both.

At EFC, we work for you in ways banks and other financing companies do not.

Contact Ed Gargiulo to find out how: 800-469-1082 x13, 770-714-0662 or ed@efc-finance.com

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

G.F. Puhl

Trim and Dust Collection Systems, New for 2021 BUSINESS IS GOOD … IN SPITE OF COVID.

Puhl has been blessed with the good fortune of continuing to operate at full capacity during the pandemic. We received a waiver to continue operations early on due to our servicing critical operations in several industries including pharmaceuticals, US Mailing Operations, and more.

Replacing older systems has seen an “uptick” this year with several cyclone system replacements using Puhl PTS screen separators. The image shown here shows the old system in the background.

The new system has 3 grade segregation.

RECENT INNOVATIONS

Puhl engineering has developed a new V3 Floor Sweep shredder, a lower cost option for sheet plants needing to shred heavy sheets. Our shop testing shows that this new shredder can handle up to 5 sheets of single wall at a time.

Using our new 3D CAD/Printer we have been able to develop and deploy a new generation of photo eye lenses with 360 degree “surround” air blast. The 360 degree air blast is more effective in removing scrap from the lens.

Laser Scanning / 3D Cad. If you have a tight space that needs to hold

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additional equipment, we can now laser scan the room in 3D and load that image into CAD for the optimum engineered solution for fit.

New Catalog. In June of 2020, G.F. Puhl’s new catalog has been released in printed and online versions. Check it out if you need blower performance tables, dimensional data and cut sheets on our product offerings.

Training Videos. As of this date, we’re currently working on a training video for our customers who are purchasing multiple systems. The training video is a basic overview and a supplement to the already included Operations Manuals supplied with each system.

COMPLIANCE UPDATES

Dust Hazard Analysis. Effective 9/7/20, all users/owners of systems that handle combustible dusts are required to have a Dust Hazard Analysis or “DHA” including a laboratory dust test for Kst. Puhl offers DHAs on a request

basis. After 9/7/20, an OSHA inspector can ask for your OSHA 300 log and your DHA. We recommend that you be prepared instead of reactive on this to avoid potential delays and/or shutdowns should your local inspector ask for your DHA. Ready to find out how our innovations can benefit you? Give G.F. Puhl a call today!

G.F. Puhl 240 Airport Road Gallatin, TN 37066 615-230-9500 sales@gfpuhl.com www.gfpuhl.com Gregg Puhl President and Owner sales@gfpuhl.com 615-230-9500

Turn Trim Waste into Revenue Replace your old Cyclone system with a new Separator System

4 Grades of Paper Segregation | Switch over in less than a day | Removal of old cyclones and filter

Balers • Shredders • Trim Collection Systems • Dust Collection Systems • Cyclones • Trim Separators Spiral Duct • Used Equipment • Filters • Briquetters Follow us on LinkedIn 240 Airport Road | Gallatin, TN 37066 | 615.230.9500 | FAX 615.230.9590 | sales@gfpuhl.com | www.gfpuhl.com

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Hitek Equipment, Inc.

Let Hitek Equipment get your production time and bottom line where you want it to be.

Hitek has been in the industry for 30 years supplying high-quality products and helping their customers run their production smoothly. Hitek is dedicated to assisting converters in making their plants more efficient by decreasing costs and increasing profits.

One of the ways to do this is with the Bizzozero Dual Head Stitcher XC 32 series. This machine can either stitch or glue both dual and single boxes. It comes with two stitching heads that can stitch corrugated from 3/16" to 1 1/4" thick (Triple Wall). The easy to use control panel allows the operator to run the machine in different configurations, such as stitching with 1 or 2 heads, gluing with 1 or 2 heads, and gluing and stitching simultaneously.

For inline converting, Hitek offers the Lian Tiee Flexo Folder Gluers and Rotary Die Cutters. The state-of-the-art touch screen has order memory storage capacity for up to 10,000 orders. The counter ejector is top-loading, so you don’t have to worry about the boxes becoming smeared or scuffed up. The folding accuracy is one of the best in the industry. The rotary

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die cutters come with all the available technology you will need. The new Lian Tiee machines are accurate, durable, and have a long life span.

Hitek also has a few other die cutters to consider, like the KT Semi-Automatic Platen Die Cutter. It has a chaseless die system that allows the machine to set up in as little 5 mins. The KT’s most significant advantage is that it can run many different types and thicknesses of materials, making it one of the most flexible die cutters in the market.

The Marumatsu Diamond Flat Bed Die Cutters run efficiently when running short or long runs, but they really shine on the short runs. With fast set-up times of under 5 minutes and run speeds of over 4,000 sheets per hour, it can finish an order before other die cutters are even set up.

The Marumatsu Diamond has advanced technology such as the chaseless die system, cam activated registers, and an efficient sweeper bar system, making it unique in the corrugated converting industry. If you need a quick set-up die cutter and want to make a profit, then Marumatsu Diamond Die Cutters are the perfect machine for you.

Need storage for all of your cutting dies and print plates? Then let Hitek introduce you to the BCM Storage Systems. BCM

Storage Systems can be customized to fit your plant’s needs, optimizing the space you have available. Just tell them what you want to store and how big of an area you have to work with and Hitek will come up with custom solutions. Systems can be manual, semi-automatic, or fully automatic, which allows them to make a safe, ergonomic environment for your employees.

Finally, the CleanFlex Plate Washing Machine can wash and dry a 100" print plate in under two minutes with no operator intervention. First, dirty print plates are hung on the self-advancing conveyor.

Then the plates are fed automatically into the machine. Once cleaned, the operator takes them off the conveyor and puts them into storage. No more scrubbing by hand and wasting a lot of water. If you have not seen this remarkable machine, get online now!

Contact Hitek at 262-842-1700 or go to www.askhitek.com.

Ryan Ashley Sales Consultant ryan@askHitek.com 262-842-1700 www.askhitek.com

CUTTING DIE STRIPPING DIE BLANKING DIE CUTTING PLATES MAKE READY SAFELY IN CASSETTES

Manual or Fully Automatic Flat Die Storage Systems by BCM

Rack up more space, productivity and efficency WhyAgonize.com Info@AskHitek.com 262-842-1700

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Inspire Automation

I

nspire Automation delivers the “one supplier” advantage by combining material handling and automation solutions from two long standing brands in the industry: Systec & Automatän.

The combined product line is the most comprehensive in the industry, offering customers fully integrated turn-key automation solutions.

The benefits can’t be ignored. Focusing on providing customers with full plant automation solutions, Inspire Automation introduced its new automated palletizing systems which include the Load Palletizing Device and Robotic Pallet Dispensing Systems. Combined with the Systec automatic strapping control system (VAPS), the devices interface with the plant scheduling system to automatically strap, wrap and palletize without operator intervention, while easily maintaining plant production requirements. This system is the most innovative, leading choice for automated palletizing solutions.

With more than 70 installations, the AutoFeed robotic pre-feeder continues to be an industry benchmark. During a recent, extensive uptime test of the AutoFeed robotic pre-feeder on a rotary die-cutter, the AutoFeed enabled the plant to set records in production with virtually no downtime. Along with the ability to run at maximum machine speeds, the AutoFeed has the lowest operating and maintenance cost of any pre-feeder available, delivering a return on customer investment, particularly when compared to a traditional pre-feeder.

The combination of the Automatän AutoStak robot with the Systec FastPal load former has proven to be a very

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powerful combination as well, allowing for full integration of the equipment with conveyor, pallet dispensing, etc. The all-electric load former features userfriendly operator controls, along with new features focused on operator safety.

Other new Systec products released in 2020 include APICS and our Ball-Mesh Transfer Device. APICS is an Advanced Production Inventory Control System for automatic routing of corrugated sheets from the corrugator to the finishing centers. This program runs without operator intervention, routing loads efficiently and seamlessly based on production demand.

Systec’s Ball-Mesh Transfer Device is designed for heavy loads and effortless rotation in several configurations.

Inspire Automation has the technology, experience and expertise to provide its customers the solutions they need by increasing automation, reducing costs, and improving safety. By adding these innovative products and solutions to the existing product catalog, including Automatän’s industry leading line-up of

Litho-Labelers, Inspire Automation is committed to maintain the most comprehensive solution catalog in the industry, and our “One Supplier” Advantage.

Visit us online at InspireAutomation.com, call today: 800-578-1755, or email us at sales@inspireautomation.com.

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

Ohio Blow Pipe

S

ince 1932, Ohio Blow Pipe has led the corrugated industry in helping box and carton manufacturers improve safety, sustainability and productivity. Ohio Blow Pipe has the most experience and expertise on NFPA and OSHA compliant solutions of air handling for scrap and dust, coupled with innovative and robust designs that keep your operation running efficiently.

For close to a century, Ohio Blow Pipe has earned the reputation of standing by our installations, ensuring years of safe, reliable solutions.

As featured on SuperCorrExpo What’s New Products, we are proud to introduce the innovative AIRSCREEN® Micro, a ductless ambient air cleaner that effectively filters molecular dust AND, when optioned with a MERV 13 filter or greater, will combat and reduce the spread-risk of COVID-19, coronavirus or other contaminants. The AIRSCREEN Micro does not require outside venting, providing substantial energy savings. It is a perfect solution to improve the air quality and health of your employees, especially where source capture of dust is not practical or working, such as converting equipment, baler or shredder.

At Ohio Blow Pipe our customer’s safety is our top priority, and mitigating the risk of a dust explosion is paramount.

With our in-house expert consultants, we can assist you to comply with NFPA 652 and offer a dust hazard analysis (DHA) and training courses.

At Ohio Blow Pipe, we are proud to help our customers better the environment and support the corrugated industry’s sustainability efforts to produce recyclable packaging solutions. We are continuously innovating products and solutions that safely and efficiently capture scrap to be

recycled such as the Core Monster®, a lowmaintenance, high-output core shredder, which can process 110" paper cores in under seven seconds. It allows cores to be recycled and eliminates material handling, disposal and associated freight costs. If using a hogger or large shredder for cores, it pays for itself by reducing maintenance and wear and tear on more expensive shredders.

Other unique solutions include mechanical conveyance products such as our pit belt conveyors both continuous and direct-to-baler slider bed and elevated conveyors.

For air separation, OBP provides under and above-roof systems. The revolutionary AIRSCREEN® and AIRSCREEN®+ air separators involve less energy consumption and can be installed indoors. In addition, our cyclones can be piped to return air to the building thus consuming less energy and providing substantial cost savings.

Ohio Blow Pipe has a formal Voice of the Customer (VOC) process to truly

understand our customers’ needs and values, develop new products, services and solutions to deliver those values.

In combining Ohio Blow Pipe with C&M Conveyor, we have a tremendous understanding of industry needs and can provide the complete package of customized and integrated material handling and scrap removal systems.

We strive to safely and efficiently manage your entire material flow from roll to bale to shipping, and everything in between!

Brett Jaffe CEO bjaffe@cmconveyor.com 216-681-7379

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

People’s Capital and Leasing Corp.

Are You Positioned to Meet the Needs of a Changing Marketplace?

Where will your operation be in five years? Amid the historic challenges of today’s business climate, the growth forecast for the corrugated packaging industry is strong due to a number of drivers that include: • Already explosive growth in e-commerce, from direct ship-to-buyer to buy online/pickup in-store, accelerated by pressures stemming from the global pandemic • Rising need for sustainably produced biodegradable shipping and storage materials • Increasing demand for packaging that helps businesses stand out in a crowded, highly competitive marketplace.

All of these represent tremendous opportunities. But realizing them will mean meeting the challenges that come along with them, such as: • Economical production at scale • Thinner yet stronger packaging • Customized, retail-ready printing with high impact and at a competitive cost Succeeding in this environment will require an unprecedented level of innovation and agility, driven in large part by advanced production technologies and people who can get the most from them.

But how will manufacturers get equipped and train their teams to stay on the cutting edge without driving their financial position to the bleeding edge, especially considering today’s economic conditions?

At People’s Capital and Leasing Corp, we believe a strong financial partner with real expertise in the corrugated packaging industry will be key to positioning manufacturers for strength and results without

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compromising budgets, cash flows, and operational flexibility.

With a packaging team that has worked with the industry for more than 80 years, People’s Capital and Leasing Corp. deeply understands not only the current challenges and opportunities in the corrugated packaging marketplace but also the context and history that inform a strategic path forward.

What will that path look like?

Affordably acquiring the needed technology, keeping it up to date, and ensuring that teams can fully utilize it will require the kind of financing strategy we’ve developed for the industry – one that includes elements like these: • The flexibility to choose from loans, leases, and SBA agreements as the situation warrants, along with expert insight on the relative merits of each option in a given scenario • 100% financing for equipment to relieve the upfront cash burden of equipment acquisitions and position businesses for maximum flexibility as opportunities arise and evolve • Customizable terms that include options like progress payment financing, competitive fixed or floating rates, synthetic leases, operating leases, and other alternatives that give manufacturers a best-fit solution to their needs now and the agility to modify their solution as business needs dictate • Local decision-making from a financial partner that holds transactions in its own portfolio • Asset-secured lending that doesn’t require businesses to secure acquisitions with blanket liens or real estate Is your business positioned to fully leverage the opportunities presented by an evolving marketplace? As a lender

committed to facilitating growth in the corrugated packaging industry and a member of AICC for more than 20 years, People’s Capital and Leasing Corp is here with industry experience, finance resources, and strategic insight to help you drive exceptional results now and in the years to come. To start a discussion, contact us today.

Tom Davies, SVP Bridgeport, CT 203-232-6018 Tom.davies@peoples.com Tom Emery, VP Atlanta, GA 678-576-8166 Thomas.emery@peoples.com Tony Castellanos, VP Overland Park, KS 913-484-4444 Tony.Castellanos@peoples.com Jeff Morrison, VP Bridgeport, CT 203-339-1006 Jeffrey.morrison@peoples.com

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

Signode

Latest Innovations from Signode are Primed to Increase Your Margins at the End of Line We are all too familiar with the old cliché “time is money,” but it is challenging to find an industry where it rings more true than in corrugated. Mere minutes of downtime resulting from routine jams or changeovers can cost thousands of dollars in lost profits. Such is the daily peril in a high-volume, low-margin space.

At Signode, we listen to the needs of our customers in the corrugated industry, and are excited to unveil our newest endof-line innovation, specifically designed to cut out the sources of downtime that eat into profit margins industry wide: the SIG-VCS Tandem Automatic Bundler System. This automatic corrugated cross strapping and squaring bundler leverages the power of two bundlers and conveyors to increase efficiency and throughput and is capable of up to 36 bundles per minute at busy box plants.

Perhaps the most significant benefit of the OEM-agnostic SIG-VCS Tandem, which is ready to seamlessly integrate into any production line, is its versatility and efficiency in handling changing production needs. The bundler is capable of refeeding the strap up to three times without operator support. It is also equipped with bundle diversion

technology, allowing it to divert all work to the functional bundler in the event that the other is not operational. Both of these innovations keep downtime to a minimum, maximizing profits and efficiency.

Beyond bundling, Signode has much more to offer in the way of comprehensive, innovative equipment that unifies and optimizes output and maximizes profitability and cost savings. Our highly intuitive Octopus™ Twin Series automatic rotary ring stretch wrapper has become an asset to box plants around the country. It has the ability to accommodate variable load sizes and features multiple machine options to save money while meeting varying packaging challenges. With the ability to wrap up to 150 loads per hour, the Octopus™ Twin features the classic ringtype method of wrapping, coupled with a unique dual film cartridge design, offering maximum efficiency and reliability.

The machine’s ring design allows unlimited wrap patterns, because it can begin and end film cycles at any vertical point on the load. This versatility and flexibility alone reduces film usage by up to 25% and reduces film roll changes by 50%. The Octopus™ Twin is not limited to traditional rotary wrap methods, either.

It also offers the ability to wrap using the innovative “s” wrap pattern, which improves pre-stretch levels and can better

handle a variety of films and lower the overall cost of ownership.

These two leading-edge technologies are just a few of the unique unitizing solutions that Signode can deploy to your facility to optimize profitability by maximizing throughput and minimizing bottlenecks.

From KD cartons to triplewall or point-ofpurchase displays, specialty boxes, gaylord boxes and more, Signode’s corrugated box plant unitizing and bundling solutions offer unparalleled performance, simple maintenance and increased uptime to the corrugated industry. Visit www.signode. com to learn about what we can do for your operations.

With over $2B in revenue, 80+ manufacturing facilities across 6 continents and over 7,000 employees worldwide, Signode is a leading manufacturer of a broad spectrum of transit packaging consumables, tools, software, and equipment that optimize end-of-line packaging operations and protect products in transit. Signode brings this extensive product portfolio together to offer complete transit packaging solutions to its customers.

Bryce Key Corrugated Segment Manager bkey@signode.com 800-323-2464

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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SOLEMA USA

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he leader and the partner you need in the graphic arts and paperboard converting business.

With over 35 years of experience, our company is proven in using our talent, ambition, and creativity to serve our customers in new & unique ways.

Give us your needs and we will provide: • Tailor-made machines & systems • Innovative technologies • Supportive after-sales services Call us to find out more.

C. Scott Ellis President of SOLEMA USA Cell: 765 376 2280 solemausa.com

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THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

AG Stacker Manufacturing, Inc.

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GS Manufacturing, like the rest of the COVID-19 world, found that 2020 presented some massive and unprecedented challenges. AGS customers have been able to gain extreme benefits from the continued innovation and development of new and improved products. “Committed to Innovation” remains the guiding principle for the engineering team at AG that through constant customer collaboration have led AG to design and develop the following as our latest innovations.

The AGS Manufacturing ICS (Infeed Conveyor System) is a semi-automatic solution for the infeed of all converting machines. Utilizing the technology offered by the pit-less X-12 scissor lift eliminates the ergonomic issues inherent on manually fed machinery. This system has a fork truck station that receives loads from a fork truck and fully automates the indexing and lifting of stacks of corrugated sheets so that operators merely move handfuls of sheets to the feed table without any bending or lifting. This system is typically configured at a total length of between 24'–32' and frees the operator from the task of needing to index loads forward or raise and lower the lift with controls or foot pedals. A “fast down” mode allows the lift table to lower in less than 3 seconds, maximizing the ability to cycle loads. The system is safety guarded and fully motorized to open and close independently of the machine. Multiple orders can be loaded on the system at the same time and no set-up time is required for order changeovers.

The AGS SRS (Scrap Release System) is a new subsystem for the lay-boy that offers the same superior sheet control as the XRI and G3 lay-boy models. This new design provides supreme scrap removal via redesigned lay-boy arms;

combined with a high velocity engineered air knife system, this option provides supreme control and scrap removal that is both effective and simple. The system allows for scrap pinched under a belt or between belts to be removed without losing blank control. The engineered air knives along with variable speed air control effectively remove scrap without the need to modify existing dies or reduced production speeds.

The AGS SQR (Sample, Quality Control, Rejection) module for stackers automatically and safely ejects sheets without interrupting production. The SQR is the most productive solution for removal of set-up sheets or finished product to complete QC checks, double printed sheets as a result of missed feeds or rejection of out of tolerance sheets identified on press inspection systems.

The AGS DSS (Divert, Separate, Sort) module for stackers provides the ability to control and automatically divert and separate unnicked boxes. This system is adjustable from the HMI without interrupting production. The diverting arms and angles are saved with the order recipe for automatic set-up on repeat orders that include diverting of 2, 3 and 4 out blanks.

This module eliminates the need for the manual set-up of lay-boy arms. When combined with our Servo Tamp, order changeover times for the stacker can be achieved in less than 2 minutes.

SERVO TAMP is a favorite among AG Stacker customers seeking to run a high percentage of 2, 3 and 4 out boxes without the use of a bundle breaker or suffering through long set-ups. SERVO TAMP provides auto set-up and recall of stored recipes for the entire hopper section, dividers, side tampers, backstop, rear tamping.

Our High-Speed Hopper Ejector (HSHE) functions like an FFG counter

ejector while running nicked logs of bundles.

The HSHE offers the fastest bundle cycle times in the industry with no feed interrupt at speeds up to and over 12 m/hr. The HSHE is critical for achieving no interrupt of feeding while running bundles, regardless of speed.

Must include the X-12 lift table and bundle conveying system for diverting to a secondary line for automatic bundle breaking or manual breaking of nicks.

The AGS X-12 scissor lift table is a patented design that is pit-less (12" T.O.R.) and capable of operating within a range of between 12"–48" from the floor. The X-12 lift table allows for faster and easier down-stacking allowing the main stacker deck to remain in an upright position while the lift lowers for the building of full loads or bundles.

The AGS Bundle Conveying System (BCS) is built on the patented X-12 lift and is capable of conveying stacks and/ or bundles. Accumulation of multiple stacks or bundles on conveyor possible if required.

A brand new and patented ball belt transfer table is available as a Stage 2 option for our BCS and includes the capability of lowering cycle times for running multiple bundle lines while gaining ergonomic and maintenance advantages as a bonus.

Come see what’s next @ SuperCorr in Orlando – Booth #1713 Tim Connell Director of Sales tconnell@agstacker.com 973-495-2355

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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American Corrugated Machine Corp.

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n industry leader since 1985, American Corrugated Machine Corp. is a broker of new and used equipment from industry leaders such as Torosian Tech Services, Sechang (SECO) Machinery Company, RJE Machinery, Engineered Recycling Systems, Potdevin, and Marumatsu. American Corrugated Machine also specializes in expert ASA appraisals.

As always, ACM is here to serve all of your machinery needs.

Please call or visit www.acm-corp.com for more information on this machinery & all available ACM machinery offers.

ACM American Corrugated Machine Corp 110 Liberty Lane P.O. Box 357 Indian Trail, NC 28079 Toll-Free 800-528-2331 or 704-821-6799 Fax 704-821-6831 Patrick Szany President pszany@acm-corp.com 800-528-2331 www.acm-corp.com

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THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

BOBST North America Inc. BOBST’s new industry vision is shaping the future of the packaging world The BOBST vision is shaping a new reality where connectivity, digitalization, automation and sustainability are the cornerstones of packaging production.

BOBST continues to deliver best-in-class machines, and is now adding intelligence, software capabilities and cloud-based platforms, to make packaging production better than ever.

Connectivity: Imagine a world in which your entire packaging production line is connected. Brand owners, converters, toolmakers, Packers and retailers are all part of a seamless supply chain.

Accessing data across the entire workflow, all the machines and tooling talk to each other through a cloud based platform.

Transmitting data online, every step is fully monitored to provide control points throughout the entire process.

Digitalization: Imagine a world where all processes undergo a coherent digitalization of the workflow.

Transforming the way information is exchanged, printing and converting

are digitalized for maximum efficiency and agility to allow even faster time to market and speed up every single production step.

Automation: Imagine a situation in which your entire production line is automated. Smart systems perform key operations which increase quality and save time, manpower and cost.

Sustainability: Imagine a world where we really respect the environment.

Work with all forces, which will be a sustainable value proposition inherent in your production, allowing you to deliver environmentally competitive packages and meet the demands of brand owners and consumers.

The synergy of these four cornerstones introduces intelligence and advanced capabilities to your packaging production, enabling you to become efficient and more sustainable.

Brian is a visibly active member of the Bobst North America team, serving as the Vice President of the Sheet Fed Business Units (Corrugated Board and Folded Carton). With an education in finance, Brian has been with Bobst North America for 18 years.

Brian oversees a team of sales managers, but that does not stop him from being present to meet with customers and prospects alike. “I go where the customers are,” says Brian. “I find great satisfaction in preparing our equipment for demonstration for our North America market, no matter which coast you reside.”

Brian Kentopp Vice President Business Unit Sheet Fed 1-973-226-8000 www.linkedin.com/in/ brian-kentopp-2a215a17

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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Baldwin Technology Top Three Technologies for Corrugated Printing AUTOMATE AND ENHANCE YOUR PRINTING PROCESS WITH INTELLIGENCE

With the increase of e-commerce and the higher amount of sent goods, the demand for corrugated production is sky high, yet, the market is fragmented with many corrugated printers and tough competition. Besides the need to differentiate oneself in this tough climate with faster, safer, and sustainable processes, a corrugated printer needs to satisfy increased customer demands for high quality packaging. Thanks to three key technologies from Baldwin, you will improve sustainability, safety, production speeds, waste reduction, and more. Learn about the top three technologies in this free webinar: https://bit.ly/35bC84a!

With more than 100 years’ experience building equipment for printing presses, it is impossible to find another manufacturer of allied equipment for printing that can match Baldwin’s pedigree.

Baldwin’s products are used by high-graphics corrugated printers across the globe to automate common cleaning tasks, as well as for curing and drying of inks or coatings as part of print-production processes. Baldwin also provides consumables (such as cleaning cloths and detergents), parts and aftermarket service, making Baldwin a single-source solution with cleaning, drying and curing technologies.

Baldwin manufactures a full portfolio of capital equipment and related consumables that help printers achieve better results every day. The solutions work in tandem with presses, whatever their make, and Baldwin’s expert team ensures that printers get the expected return in operational efficiencies.

presses running corrugated materials – the FlexoCleanPick™, and the FlexoCleanerBrush™. The FlexoCleaner automated system can fully clean and dry all printing plates in less than four minutes and pick hickeys in seconds.

Besides not having to stop production for manual cleaning, printers can now regularly have multiple plates cleaned more efficiently, both during and between print runs. As a result, printers increase their production capacity and dramatically decrease their downtime. Learn how the FlexoCleanerBrush operates – sign up for this free webinar https://bit.ly/3kdgXF1.

TECHNOLOGY 2 – LED UV CURING SYSTEMS

Baldwin builds UV curing systems that are primarily used to cure coatings as part of the corrugated printing process. The reliable designs are known for providing exceptional curing, which leads to more brilliant appearance of coatings. Baldwin’s X Series™ LED curing equipment consumes up to 80% less energy than conventional UV systems. It dramatically increases gloss levels. Learn more about LED UV curing https://bit.ly/31kvuYj. TECHNOLOGY 3 – IR DRYING SYSTEM

TECHNOLOGY 1 – CLEANING SYSTEMS

Baldwin manufactures two leading solutions for cleaning high-graphics

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With more than 10,000 installations, Baldwin is one of the printing industry’s leading suppliers of IR drying systems.

Designed for corrugated flexo printing presses, the FlexoDry™ infrared drying system is an ultra-efficient IR solution that delivers high-quality printing and significant productivity gains. It uses infrared energy generated by patented Diamond IR lamps, and an optional integrated hot-air knife airflow system, to achieve perfect drying at top speeds. FlexoDry systems can be retrofit onto existing presses, or integrated as part of a new press installation. Learn how the FlexoDry operates – sign up for this free webinar https://bit.ly/3j5Ov6M.

Lee Simmonds is the Sales Manager for Baldwin for Eastern US & Northern Europe and has been with Baldwin for over 5 years; prior to this he was a Technical Sales Director in the UK for Bfs Pressroom Solutions. His history in print started over 27 years ago in Commercial Web Offset for the largest print group in the UK after gaining City & Guilds qualifications in Lithographic, Gravure & Flexographic printing. “I have a passion for helping people and helping companies achieve their goals.”

Lee Simmonds Area Sales Manager US / EUROPE lee.simmonds@ baldwintech.com +44-7788-247041

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

BW Papersystems Productivity and Flexibility for Today’s Market BW Papersystems is your committed partner to achieving your goals in 2021 and beyond. BW Papersystems’ corrugating and finishing machines are designed for maximum productivity and flexibility to meet the wide range of unique challenges of today’s market.

Various solutions are available to meet these challenges.

The Fusion Knife & Stacker delivers high speed performance for corrugators and is available in single, double and triple level configurations, including an up-stacker version. The Fusion features superior cut length accuracy, sheet control and stack quality. Innovative mechanical design and precise controls provide extremely short order operation. For the best possible productivity and flexibility, explore the Fusion Dry End. In addition to the Knife & Stacker, the reimagined RPS Express Slitter Scorer and SE1000 Shear combine for operator friendly controls and high-level automation. The Fusion Dry End delivers 1500 foot per minute performance with the choice of natural gap or no-gap order change.

The most recent innovation in rotary die cutters from BW Papersystems is the ServoPro. Based on the proven robustness of the MarquipWardUnited product line, this die cutter is built for versatility and productivity, capable of handling the full range of heavyweight and lightweight boxes at

speeds of up to 200 sheets per minute. speeds over 200 sheets per minute. With The ServoPro’s true direct-drive servo an actual working width of 128 inches system offers improved accuracy and (printing and die cutting), and a fixed includes an ultra heavy-duty die cut architecture design for fast changeovers section for today’s increasingly rigorous between jobs, MaxPro truly delivers die cutting requirements. Single-pass maximum productivity. inside print (single or multiple colors) is As the industry’s only “starch to available on the ServoPro rotary die cutter, finish” supplier, BW Papersystems also adding improved efficiency, increased offers VortX Starch Systems. The VortX productivity and enhanced quality while “Clean & Green” storage tanks, unique supporting your customer’s markethigh-shear mixing system, and available ing efforts. water filtration option provide increased The MaxPro Rotary Die Cutter was efficiency through short batch mixing designed for maximum productivity. times and reduced waste.

This set-up while run machine sets To learn more about these machines and the industry standard for rotary die other options for increased productivity cutter production. The MaxPro is the and flexibility, contact BW Papersystems industry’s fastest die cutter, rated at at sales@bwpapersystems.com.

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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Corrugated Solutions

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orrugated Solutions (CS) provides its customers services & products to help build, run, and maintain a successful box plant. CS partners with many vendors to provide these services.

Michael Klear, President, stated, “We pride ourselves by working with the best suppliers in the corrugated industry to provide our customers the services they need to keep their plants running efficiently and profitably.”

CS is excited to now represent Latitude Machinery Group which includes their high-speed Flexo Folder Gluers. With over 100 installations in the US, the LMC machines are very well established and now backed by the service & support of SUN Automation Group. “We are thrilled to offer LMC machines to our customers. The total cost of ownership is incredible,” said Nick Antique, Southeast Sales Representative.

Kristian Dillard, Midwest Sales Representative, says, “Through SUN, we offer products that can bring new life to older machines. We offer new ink systems, digital registers, feeder upgrades, set-up computers, & PLC upgrades. It’s a great option for plants looking to extend the life of their current machines.” One of the more

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exciting opportunities for plants right now is Inside Print. CS is able to offer retrofits to existing machines to give customers the ability to print on both sides of the box in one pass.

CS can also build plants from the ground up by partnering with ARCO/ Murray, who provides design-build services to the corrugated industry.

ARCO offers services that range from site selection & greenfields to full renovations of existing facilities and they recently completed a 1.2mil sq ft building in Monroe, LA. “We’re always looking for new innovations and solutions for our customers.

We want to offer our customers the best solutions to problems they face every day in their plants,” said Michael Prassel, COO. Simply Packed, a sister company of CS, can offer corrugated box plants any of their consumable products at very competitive prices. Box plants could see significant cost savings on stretch film, strapping, tape, shrink film, & many other consumable supplies that may be needed.

To learn more about Corrugated Solutions, please visit corrugatedsolutions.com.

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

CST Systems Inc.

CST Systems launches its latest innovations in safe roll and material handling ST Systems Inc. has partnered with Renova to further expand its celebrated line of battery-powered roll movers and launch a brand new line of battery-powered cart handling equipment. Renova’s Moviroll (MRE) roll movers, distributed in the USA exclusively

by CST Systems, have long been praised throughout the corrugated industry since their launch in 2014 for their groundbreaking true lithium-ion battery that boasts an impressive 2-year warranty and the ability to hold a working charge for 24-36 hours, one of a kind “freewheeling” design, and heavy-duty motors backed by an industry-best, 2-year warranty. CST is now proud to announce the release of the 2021 Renova MRE XS Compact lithium battery-powered roll pusher. Now operators can be confident in their ability to navigate tight spaces between rolls or cramped working conditions to safely handle rolls up to 44,000 lbs. without sacrificing the maneuverability, power, or reliability that the Renova MRE is known for.

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Building upon the success of their roll pushers and the desire to constantly innovate for their clients’ success, CST is also thrilled to launch the all new Renova MCE Cart Mover. The MCE is a battery-powered cart mover designed to safely and easily push or pull carts on wheels or rails. Complementing its ease of operation, the MCE also comes equipped with three different cart gripper heights to move a variety of cart sizes, and an available handle extension to safely work with long or protruding loads without needing to use multiple units.

Thanks to their clients and a hardfought reputation as a top tier and honest innovator within the corrugated and converting industry for the last 18 years, CST Systems has built itself up from a one-man shop to a national team of experienced field and support staff helping clients safely and efficiently reach their production goals in all 50 states. Contact CST today to learn more about the MRE XS and MCE models and learn why there is nothing more important to us, than our client’s success.

Do you know what’s possible?

John McQueary is the National Sales Manager for CST Systems. He, and the rest of the CST team, specialize in working with clients to find productive solutions and implement continuous improvements to their corrugator and converting machinery and processes.

John McQueary National Sales Manager john@cstsystems.net 770-425-3353 sales@cstsystems.net; www.cstsystems.net

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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DPi

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or industrial box makers who may feel left out when the industry talks about the “digital printing revolution,” there is a new solution to consider.

Digital Print Inc. (DPi) is now offering high speed, low cost digital printing to the industrial/brown box market. DPi designs and builds custom stand-alone ink jet printing machines, or can retrofit your existing corrugator, flexo folder gluer or die cutter with ink jet technology, allowing corrugated converters the economics of flexo, with the advantages of digital printing: • No printing plates • No set-up or wash-ups • No flute crush • Speed to market • Variable printing for bar codes, date codes, etc.

DPi’s economical and simple to use technology can be made in almost any width and number of colors, with print speeds that can exceed 1000 feet per minute. DPi’s systems also use environmentally friendly water-based inks

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engineered for high speed printing on the kraft and mottled white linerboards typically printed on today.

Contact DPi today to discover how our low cost, high speed technology can bring the benefits of digital printing to your box plant.

Stu Brownell Director Corrugated Applications 859-414-4888 Stuart.brownell@outlook.com www.digitalprint.com

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

Dücker Conveyor Systems Dücker Controlled Movement – Totally Integrated and Fully Automatic Systems – Digitalization – Simulation – Efficiency and Productivity – Organized Systems The Dücker Group is a privately owned family business which was originally founded in 1848. This long history started more than 170 years ago.

Dücker is a global manufacturer with high quality products. The company is active in many countries in terms of manufacturing solutions for the Corrugated Industry. The international companies include Dücker Robotics (Italy), Dücker Corrpal (Sweden), Dücker Prefeeder (Netherlands), Dücker Ringwood Automation (USA) and BHS Dücker Systems (China).

The company develops, designs and manufactures fully automatic material handling systems in particular for the Corrugated Board industry.

Reel Handling: Our automatic material handling systems in reel infeed, reel preparation and reel return transport increases the speed in the area of the wet ends.

Discharge: The discharge from the corrugator is highly efficient. By means of accumulation, doubling and turning of the stack, we can ensure ideal packages for the transfer cars.

WIP: High speed transfer cars ensure the transport in and out of the work-inprogress storage.

Finished Goods: Our pallet inserter enables the use of pallets precisely at the point at which they are really required.

Sheet Line: We effectively place your sheets on the pallets.

Robotics: The robot systems are offered for flexographic folding and gluing lines up to a width of 3,000 mm and for die-cutter lines up to a width of 2,100 mm.

Automation: Today’s technologies rely on electronics, mechanics and computer science. Correspondingly, the continuous technical change requires an ever larger integration of mechanical, electronic and programme-technical elements, be it in the execution of individual components, as machine or as complete systems.

Dücker lives Industry 4.0 and is known for its reliable premium products with outstanding quality. Based in

Langenfeld in between Cologne and Düsseldorf in the Rhineland we easily serve not only Germany, the Benelux countries and France but also our customers worldwide. www.duecker.com

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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Elitron America

Fully automatic industrial digital cutting with Industrial pallet management “Rolling IN and rolling OUT” describes the pallet logistics management system from Elitron. This automatic pallet logistics system can be made-to-measure for each individual production site, taking into consideration the space available, any restrictions and the desired level of automation required today, but with an eye to the future, and possible upgrades too.

For a seamless workflow, pallet management and pallet transportation, automatic sheet loading, cutting, and creasing, right through to the finished pallet post cutting, with a nick-free perfect cut.

Elitron’s industrial Kombo TAV-R is a true workhorse: specifically engineered to meet finishing requirements of short to medium sized production runs, 24/7.

Not only does the Kombo TAV-R come with an integrated automatic pallet management system, but it is also integrated with the pallet logistics system, and it

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ensures a continued, non-stop workflow, totally unmanned.

Simply set up the pallets and files and Kombo will cut through the rest: perfect digital finishing, time after time, without any bottleneck.

Elitron has certainly not rested on its laurels, and last year it launched an innovative sheet turner, Reversa, which can be integrated in-line with the logistics system and the Kombo TAV-R, or it can be used as a standalone system.

As digital printers become ever more present, so too is the need to turn sheets coming out of printing prior to going into cutting. Printed boards come out of the printer print side up, and Reversa then automatically turns all formats of boards and perfectly aligns these, ready for finishing or reverse printing. This pallet-to-pallet system is taking the weight out of sheet turning, and further automating finishing departments.

Automatic pallet logistic management – Continued workflow Non-stop 24/7 productivity – Efficient and rapid turnaround of jobs Digital cutting for short-medium sized runs – reduced costs and reduced production times

Digital flexibility – business diversification for greater competitive advantage Digital management – multiple shortrun jobs per pallet Print inside and outside the box using Reversa for sheet turning – greater competitive advantage for your customers.

2021 will be an exciting year for Elitron, with new product launches on the horizon. Find out how we can help improve the way you do business. Contact us to discover how automation and industrial cutting can give you the competitive edge in 2021 and beyond.

Elitron America Inc. america@elitron.com 844-ELITRON

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

Fosber America, Inc. COMPACT LINE

Fosber Offers 3 Corrugated Lines Fosber America is the leading manufacturer of corrugated machinery and services for North America.

Offering 3 corrugator lines: 400 high speed line, Compact economic line, and the Quantum micro-flute high-graphics line.

The Compact Line corrugator utilizes a modular machine design for speeds of 1000fpm. A standard modular design reduces cost in electrical packages, engineering, and installation. The WetEnd configuration can be single, double, or triplewall and DryEnd configuration is offered in single or double level. The Compact Line is a cost-effective corrugator that meets the needs of traditional box plants.

in the industry. Our staff is committed to your success. We work harder than anyone in the industry to make you happy. We do this the old fashioned way. Hard work, honesty, integrity, and excellent service. Our staff is secondto-none and is here to serve you. Our Lines have been designed to guarantee maximum flexibility of the production process in terms of performance level and the quality of the finished product.

Fosber’s Complete Corrugator technology is “Simple Better.”

QUANTUM LINE 400 LINE

The 400 Line corrugator is highspeed offering flexibility in configuration, installation, machine features, and speeds of up to 1500fpm. Machines can be installed as stand alone, a zone, or as a complete corrugator. The WetEnd configuration can be single, double, or triplewall and the DryEnd is offered in single, double, or triple level. The 400 Line provides the most options for your current needs and allows the most flexibility for future modifications or changes to your corrugator.

The Quantum Line corrugator is specifically designed for high-graphics, micro-flute corrugated at speeds of 1000fpm. The design of the SingleFacer, DoubleFacer, and the layout of the Quantum reduce paper stress and thermal cycle during the bonding process. The WetEnd configuration is singlewall and the DryEnd is offered in single or double level. The Quantum Line is a microflute corrugator that meets the needs of high-graphics plants.

Fosber’s Corrugator Lines, offering state-of-the-art technology, supported with the best service, parts and training

Contact the Fosber Sales Team: Paul Hrubesky, VP Sales – hrubeskyp@ fosber.com Mike Sullivan, West Coast Regional Sales Manager – sullivanm@fosber.com Tony Battaglia, Northeast Regional Sales Manager – battagliat@fosber.com Bob Lantz, Midwest Regional Sales Manager – lantzb@fosber.com Joe Slattery, Southeast Regional Sales Manager – slatteryj@fosber.com Tom Allen, Southeast Regional Sales Manager – allent@fosber.com Neels Compion, Canada Regional Sales Manager – compionn@fosber.com

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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Greene House Group LLC Greene House Group | Modern Machinery for the Western Boxmaker Greene House Group LLC provides best-in-class corrugated solutions and support to Western USA Boxmakers. A representative of numerous well-known manufacturers and suppliers, Greene House Group is committed to serving western US converters seeking to improve capacity, productivity and box quality. Founder of Greene House Group, Frank Greene has served the corrugated converting industry with knowledge, care and diligence his entire working life. After getting his start in the corrugated industry in North Carolina, Frank moved across the country to California to further his career in corrugated and fell in love with West Coast living. After years of corrugated equipment sales, Greene went on to become an independent manufacturer’s representative in the mid ’90’s. Ten years later, Greene House Group was formed and continues to grow to this day as a family business, with a reputation of providing top-tier corrugated solutions and support to Corrugated Converters in Western USA. The manufacturers, represented by Greene House Group, all pride themselves on building corrugated equipment with safety, quality, productivity and the environment in mind and we strive to be your knowledgeable sales partner in navigating the purchase of one or more of these best-in-class solutions. Greene House Group’s Solutions Partners offer a wide variety of corrugated equipment and supplies, manufacturing products for converting, stacking, cleaning, printing, robotics, automation and more! At this time, Greene House Group LLC represents the following companies: • Absolute Engineering • A.G. Stacker • Bahmüller / BGM • CleanPrint Solutions/EchoChem • Dücker Robotics • Dücker Ringwood Automation • Engineered Recycling Systems • Göpfert • JB Machinery • Pamarco • Ringwood Company • SUN Automation Group Greene House Group LLC sells and services Converters located within the following states: • Arizona • California • Colorado • Idaho • Nevada • New Mexico • Oregon • Oklahoma • Texas • Utah • Washington Thank you for taking the time to learn more about Greene House Group LLC. We welcome all Western USA Boxmakers to the GHG family and look forward to serving you best-in-class corrugated solutions with diligence, knowledge and respect. To learn more about Greene House Group and our Solutions Partners, to download brochures and to request a consultation with Frank Greene, visit our website at www.greenehousegroup.com.

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THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

JD Engineers Tanabe JD BoxR A machine with high output and accuracy and at the same time, more functionality through improved Industry 4.0 controls from JD, combined with the well known sturdy mechanical design of Tanabe.

JD also offers you a total solution for your e-commerce box-styles with all systems (silicon paper spender, barcode labeling, tear-strip, barcode positioning control and readable barcode detection) integrated to the JD BoxR control and E-com unit.

A risk assessment is a thorough look at your workplace to identify those things, situations, processes, etc. that may cause harm, particularly to people. After identification is made, you analyze and evaluate how likely and severe the risk is.

When this determination is made, you can next decide what measures should be

in place to effectively eliminate or control the harm from happening.

Doeke Holtrop President Sales@jdengineers.nl +31-(0)88-552-1100 www.jdengineers.nl

HEALTH AND SAFET Y IN COMBINATION WITH RISK ASSESSMENT.

“JD engineers in the Netherlands with so many years experience with Specialty Folder Gluers, offering solutions for technical problems encountered on almost a daily basis with older equipment. Having developed these retrofit solutions, it became clear that they could market these products as complete units as opposed to just offering them as a quick fix.” Risk assessment is a term used to describe the overall process or method where you: • Identify hazards and risk factors that have the potential to cause harm (hazard identification).

• Analyze and evaluate the risk associated with that hazard (risk analysis, and risk evaluation).

• Determine appropriate ways to eliminate the hazard, or control the risk when the hazard cannot be eliminated (risk control).

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

JS Machine

The Game-Changer The JS Folder flexo-folder gluer is the game-changer of the corrugated industry. With speeds reaching 350 sheets per minute and 2 minute setups, ROI is reaching new levels. The vertical integration of JS Machine is crucial in their ability to deliver value to each of their customers. With a 7,000,000 square foot manufacturing facility and state of the art manufacturing practices & equipment, JS Machine is able to day in and day out produce consistent quality.

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The JS Folder is the modern workhorse flexo folder gluer. With minimal spare parts consumption in comparison to the rest of the field, this machine will continue to generate profits for its owners without high maintenance costs and costly downtime.

JS Machine is a technology and service driven company. With the latest in remote diagnostics and 24/7 communication with engineering and technical staff, the primary goal beyond delivering world-class equipment is to ensure customer success after the installation.

As one of the newer suppliers in North America, we understand that individual

customer success is vital to our longevity in this marketplace.

We specialize in replacing the productivity of 2 or more with the JS Folder in a cash flow positive situation for our customers. To learn more, or to schedule a visit to see a JS Folder in the United States, please contact Evan Clary at 443-3887153 or eclary@ncm-jsmachine.com.

Evan Clary North American Sales eclary@ncm-jsmachine. com 443-388-7153

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

Kernic Systems Trim and Scrap Recovery Experts Kernic Systems is a Global Designer, Integrator and Installer of complete Recycling Systems, including Baling and Shredding, Air Conveying and Dust Collection, Recycling Equipment and Industrial Vacuums.

We have been serving many industries for over 40 years, with an emphasis on Corrugated, Folding Carton, and Printing.

During this time, we developed our unique OneSource™ for Simplicity Design, resulting in truly integrated systems with safe operation, optimized performance, and maximized ROI. Kernic Systems delivers customized projects, using high-quality equipment, which is integrated by our experienced team and engineered to work together flawlessly. Our own factory-trained crew has successfully installed many systems throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, South America and Africa.

HOW WE HELP THE CORRUGATED INDUSTRY

Our team is dedicated to forming a partnership with your company, providing helpful insights into the pros and cons of each available solution and to helping you minimize costs while maximizing productivity.

Our Trim and Scrap Recovery Systems are designed to pneumatically collect and convey scrap generated by your production machinery, including Die-cutters, Flexo presses, Corrugators, Sheeters and Shredders.

The collected material is then sorted by different grades, using cyclones or separators.

The sorted materials are then fed to Baling Machines to be converted in saleable bales.

Particle-laden air is carried away to Dust Collectors for treatment, returning only clean air to the atmosphere or the facility.

Design options include both above-roof and below-roof systems, with single-grade separation of waste and multiple balers to allow for back-up capabilities.

Our Scrap Recovery Systems are of the highest quality; they deliver long life, provide superior reliability, meet current safety levels and generate the lowest total cost of ownership (TCO).

Visit our website and social media to learn more about our installations: • Automatic Tie Extrusion Balers • Horizontal Feed Sheet Shredders • Vertical Balers • In-Line Floor Sweep Shredders • AirVeyor Die-Cutting Scrap Transfer • In-Line Corrugator Trim Cutters • Core Paper Reel Shredders • Complete Dust Collection Systems • Fire and Explosion Protection Systems for compliance with OSHA, NFPA and local regulations • Turnkey Scrap Handling Systems including Cyclones, Separators, Fans and Diverters.

We value our relationships with our customers and we are proud to have long term business relationships with many companies in AICC. Our commitment to you is to be an ethical partner, supplying modern, high-quality solutions that fit your budget needs along with best-in-class service. We also have an inventory of quality used equipment.

No matter what your project may be – big or small – we are here to serve our friends at AICC. KERNIC USA Bob Koch U.S. Sales Director bkoch@kernicsystems.com +1-440-250-8560 KERNIC SYSTEMS John Jurk Vice President jjurk@kernicsystems.com +1-905-638-0562

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

KPI Incorporated

World Class Upgrades and Service KPI Incorporated (Indianapolis, IN) – a United States market representative of high-quality engineered products and services. KPI differentiates itself with extraordinary customer service, engineering support, and forward communication.

KPI offers warehouse storage and factory trained technicians to “service what it sells” to the corrugated box industry.

Below is a list of its partners.

BRICQ Corrugator Belts (Montbron, France) – Established in 70 countries Worldwide, BRICQ specializes in corrugator belts for all OEM corrugators.

Depending on customer equipment type and board mix, BRICQ offers three different belt options to fit your needs: Power™ – Heavy Duty Woven (9mm) as well as its Needled Felt – Four™ (8.6mm) and its Lightweight Solution (5.5mm) Speed™. Its Siliconized Track™ offers superior tack for board control. Stock parent rolls are stored in Indianapolis and cut to length for emergency service.

Seams can be integral flap or traditional flocked. KPI’s offers drum lagging and belt repair through its field service team.

JKSP AirBond (Warrington, Cheshire, UK) – AirBond is a modern solution to improve board quality and deliver long term value on the corrugator. AirBond is an upgrade to a conventional double backer heat transfer system and has been engineered to increase the production speed of flat, well-bonded, dry sheets on the corrugator. Its advantages over traditional heat transfer systems is lowered energy/

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maintenance cost and reducing waste off the corrugator and through converting equipment. The modular and lightweight formed aluminum frames can be fitted to any OEM corrugator and installed over a weekend shutdown.

PIC Precision Industrial (Washington, USA) – is a Nationwide leader in corrugated equipment construction projects.

With over 30 years’ experience, PIC has built its reputation as a full-service industrial contractor for larger projects and when time matters most. PIC offers a single source provider for concrete foundations, full line corrugator installations, factory relocations, and green field construction projects. The PIC field team manages a variety of projects ranging from caustic to concrete services and from corrugator to converting equipment rigging.

Equipment is mobilized out of its Pacific Northwest location or its Midwest hub.

Vokore Machine Knives (Remscheid, Germany) – Since 1961, Vokore machine knives have been seen on corrugating equipment all over the World. Until recently, these slotting heads and razor slitting knives have been unavailable in the United States. Vokore quality comes from the higher density steel it uses as its base metal. The knives are considered precision for their tolerances and offer longer life run time between changes. KPI stocks inventory in Indianapolis for select OEM equipment.

Visit www.kpiincorporated.com to view the KPI the complete product and service offering or call us directly at 317-288-0470.

Michael Harris President mharris@kpiincorporated. com 317-288-0470

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

W.H. Leary Leary Boosts E-Commerce Packaging Quality W. H. Leary Company offers gluing and quality assurance solutions for the demands of the specialty corrugated box market. Leary’s gluing and quality assurance solutions focus on the rising demands of e-commerce packaging consisting of high quality graphic corrugated boxes produced on Specialty Folder Gluers.

Leary’s patented solutions guarantee every box is inspected by each detection station on the folder gluer. The new Sempre-i cold glue valve and UV40 glue detection sensor ensures +/- 1 mm accuracy. The slim valve design is equipped with adjustable mounting hardware and heavy duty guides for precise product containment. Choose dual Sempre-i valves for increased application and stronger adherence. Application patterns and detection can be controlled individually or combined for efficient glue savings and precise tolerances.

Detect for glue presence, placement and volume with ease, set up detection and make fine-tune adjustments remotely. Monitor for mixed copy and verify customer code readability at 2,000 scans/sec, reading each code multiple times to guarantee reliability.

Guarantee box quality with missing or dropped flap detection. This solution monitors absence and presence of flaps, inspects for hanging scrap and correct cut outs as well as detecting

dropped 45° crash lock or 4/6 corner flaps.

Reliable rejection devices ensure that defective products are correctly identified for delivery of 100% quality product to your customer.

Leary also offers a complete pressure sensitive adhesive and silicone release liner solution to converters producing e-commerce and other mailing products.

Using the Robatech FK IT coating head along with either Enpro or Straub tape applicators and a simple controller, Leary offers solutions for high-speed, long run and cost-effective short run applications. Package options include: Concept hot melt tank, FK IT coating head, iTac IR-2L hot melt detection, tape applicator and controller. Improve packaging services offered to your

customers with these silicone release liner options.

Schedule a demonstration of Leary’s glue application and quality assurance solution in our Demo Center in Tinley Park, IL. To learn how Leary solutions can improve your specialty folder gluer box quality and processes, contact W. H. Leary at sales.us@whleary.com or +1 (708) 444-4900.

For more information visit us at www.whleary.com/corrugated-specialtyfolder-gluer.

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Longreach International, LLC

Providing Professional Representation since 2010 Longreach International, LLC, is a manufacturer’s Representative organization representing manufacturers of capital and specialty equipment serving the corrugated packaging industry.

We are proud to represent the following organizations: (In New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, West Virginia, and Virginia): Absolute Engineering – Manufacturers of the original, woven, carbon fiber, dual-blade system, offers a variety of products including both chambered and single-blade ink metering systems; SONO, the world’s first and only ultrasonic on-press cleaner; and INKSAVE, a PLC controlled ink recovery system that makes wash-up quicker, easier, and more economical.

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(In Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Vermont, Maine, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Arkansas): Bahmüller – Manufacturers of Specialty Folder-Gluers featuring TURBOX, TOPMATCHER, and POWERPACKER, as well as Stitchers for the corrugated industry. Bahmüller products are perfectly suited to the manufacture of retail ready and e-commerce packaging at speeds that are unmatched in the industry.

TCY – Manufacturers of Corrugators and a full range of converting equipment from mini to jumbo offering a full range of servo-driven machines as well as the capability of doing inside and outside printing in one pass. TCY was founded in 1959 and is one of the top 10 corrugated industry

suppliers with a worldwide service network and customers in more than 70 countries.

(In Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Arkansas): BRICO corrugator belts and Vokore cutting knives offered through KPI.

Gregg Diethorn, founder and Principal of Longreach International, LLC, has been working in the corrugated machinery business for nearly 30 years and has extensive experience in the sale of capital equipment and ancillary products.

Gregg Diethorn Principal Gregg@longreachinternational.com 540-763-2069

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

Macarbox

Flexo Folder Gluer with in line Stitcher Macarbox line FFG 1676-3600 with in line stitcher has been successfully commissioned inside Font Packaging Group in Barcelona – Spain.

The future of corrugated carton packaging is being well explored by Font Group, with the installation of a new generation full automated line in their plant of Torrelavit in Barcelona.

Innovation, efficiency, efficacy, sustainability, trust and passion for a high level performance, jointly with a minimum impact on CO2 footprint; have clearly been key aspects for the line acquisition decision.

EU community intends to reduce the CO2 emissions by 50–55% by 2030, so that 2050 can be neutral in the ambitious project we all are involved for the fight against climate change.

“No doubt Macarbox is in line with our values and ambitions. They had received

an important prize from the corrugated sector, such as the 2019 FEFCO Gold award to innovation. Considering that this award is given by other professionals from the sector, is providing particular importance to it,” said the Operations Director from Font Packaging Group recently in an interview.

Macarbox follows the challenge of developing, assembling and commissioning high performance machines in line with the environmental respect, starting from the raw materials to the final end delivery.

In that sense, 94% of the mechanical parts are manufactured in local industries, just a few kilometers away from our facilities. Additionally to that, not only converting machines, but also digital printing line, all of them use water based inks and varnishes.

Our machines cover recycling packaging solutions in all variants

and corrugated carton types. They are all fully equipped with maximum level of automation and electronic regulation.

Our project started from a high qualified young entrepreneur team, with a vision of achieving a reliable product, with high performance and efficiency, and at the same time friendly use, flexible and attending the potential particular requirements from customers.

Customers are in the center of our strategy; our mission is to keep the innovation path towards new added value solutions. Collaboration is the way to satisfy our common objectives regarding sustainable development.

Contact us at macarbox@macarbox.com or comercial@macarbox.com macarbox@macarbox.com / comercial@macarbox.com +34-943-697-233

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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My Press Needs Die Cutting, Reimagined Imagine a die cutting press that produces high-quality results every time on myriad substrates with no make-ready. Plus, it’s easy to use for even an inexperienced operator. A pipe dream?

Since its founding in 2000, My Press Needs’ (MPN) dream – and mission – has been the development of the no more make-ready, high-quality, reliable press. We’ve reimagined and reengineered our platen presses, and today our advanced Crest™ Clamshells and patented Widemouth™ and Soft Cut™ technologies are revolutionizing die cutting.

NO MORE MAKE-READY, MORE PRODUCTIVIT Y

Is no more make-ready really possible?

Absolutely! Our Crest Clamshells stay flat and parallel while die cutting, virtually eliminating make-ready, and enabling faster and easier setup. We developed the presses using finite analysis engineering to study how the clamshell reacts under load while die cutting. Our design increases press/die load for greater productivity, resulting in more jobs run per shift. With an average speed of 800-1,000 sheets/hour, the Crest Clamshell outperforms tables two to five times faster with comparable quality.

All our presses – from our smallest 20 x 26 to our 3M – have advanced safety features, including a minimum of one Top Laser Safety Scanner. The Crest exceeds North American and International Safety Standards, and meets or exceeds ANSI, OSHA, CSA, and CE. “IMPOSSIBLE” POSSIBILITIES, NEW OPPORTUNITIES

Our Widemouth and Soft Cut technologies offer new capabilities and market

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opportunities to corrugated, plastic, board and foam converters. Widemouth runs all existing dies steel-to-steel, and enables our clamshells to switch from traditional .937" rule to up to 3" steel rule easily, maximizing Crest’s versatility.

MPN’s Soft Cut System coupled with Widemouth amps up production possibilities even more. Soft Cut replaces traditional metal cutting plates with urethane pads and a serrated knife.

Color-coded pads of varying hardness are matched with the correct knife profile to achieve zero make-ready. The change to Soft Cut dies takes less than two minutes.

With Soft Cut you can run all existing and traditional substrates with zero make-ready. Widemouth technology also die cuts “impossible” substrates – Falconboard, Ultra® Board, Foam Boards, and rigid plastics without heating the cutting die – with edge appearance comparable to steel to steel.

Rick Putch, Director of Technical Services and Process Improvement at National Steel Rule, tested Soft Cut at MPN’s Research & Training Lab. “Companies that utilize Soft Cut in platen die cutting will see significant improvement in improved edge quality, reduced cutting force, less machine abuse, prolonged tool life, elimination of ‘angel hair,’ and most important, much faster setups with zero make-ready,” said Putch. “Any company who converts corrugated paper, plastic, solid board, and even foam will be pleasantly surprised at the profitability their clamshell die cutter can provide when switching to Soft Cut.” DIE CUT TING, REIMAGINED

The dream is real; the possibilities endless. Reimagine your productivity and

profitability with MPN’s advanced die cutting technology.

—Rob Weidhaas, Founder and President, My Press Needs

Rob Weidhaas, Jr. is the founder and president of My Press Needs (MPN) LLC. He has more than 25 years’ experience in the converting industry, and is an active member of various industry organizations.

Rob Weidhaas President robw@mypressneeds.com 570-840-1636 mypressneeds.com

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

Roberds Converting Company Right size, right price, right now!

You give us your size, we sheet it however you’ d like • Custom-sheeted to your job • All 1st line material • Rapid turn times on all orders • Savvy Customer Service team • Abundant paperboard grades • Domestic 70/80/95# C1S • Contract sheeting • Family-run for 40 years Give us a call, shoot us an email, or visit our website to learn more! We are happy to answer questions or inquiries!

Contact Phil Weinrich for help. philipw@roberdsconverting.com 513-348-6211 113 Northeast Drive, Loveland, OH 45140 www.roberdsconverting.com

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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SERRA SERRA, 5 machinery product lines for the Corrugated Cardboard Industry SERRA is a machinery manufacturing family-owned company that will celebrate its 40th anniversary next year, proud of having delivered a broad variety of solutions for the corrugated board industry during these four decades. With the recent inauguration of the new building, SERRA has tripled its production capacity and is now able to produce series of machines from its 5 product lines.

• Flexographic lines: Customized machines and retrofits are part of Serra’s DNA in which SERRA proves its high capacity of innovation.

• Peripherals for digital printing is a very important segment being the world leader supplier in terms of variety of equipment and number of installations.

• Conveyor Systems are a new product line extending our peripherals with automatic infeed and outfeed for any converting lines, and especially, due to new developments, for digital printing.

• Die-cutting: SERRA products cover the complete die handling process, from the die storage solutions (SERRASTOCK) with the option of manual, semi-automatic or automatic configurations to the die handling set up (SERRARM) for safety and productivity.

• The quick die-cutting forms change system, the SERRAPID cylinder, and the counter-die cylinder, SERRANVIL, have become standard retrofits to increase productivity and die-cutting quality.

Product lines, from left to right.

The Robot Pre-feeder is one of SERRA’s latest developments as a single-pass digital printing peripheral.

This innovative design reduces manpower need, increases productivity and opens many possibilities in terms of layout flexibility.

Additionally, the Robot enables the option to flip or not flip the bundles, which is a relevant key fact to enable printing on any side of the board.

For more information, please contact SERRA at: info@serra.com.es info@serra.com.es +34 93 775 40 12

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THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

XEIKON

Xeikon and Flint Group build digital manufacturing solution for the Corrugated Industry.

Strategy and management consultancy firm McKinsey’s latest figures on the global packaging industry give a figure of $900 billion and upwards in annual revenues worldwide. Equally the corrugated sector is rapidly increasing with estimates of global corrugated shipments already reaching unsurpassed levels. It is no secret that we are seeing rapid change in the behavioral patterns of consumers, brands and retailers.

Underlying forces such as the exponential growth of e-commerce, changing consumer preferences, FMCG and retail margin compression backed right up to the converters and an increasing pressure on sustainability are driving creative innovation in the digitization of packaging and demand for ever higher levels of efficiency and flexibility.

Earlier this year Xeikon and its parent company the Flint group formally announced the launch of an innovative, digital platform called IDERA. The

single-pass digital press, built for speed and productivity, uses food-safe, water-based inks on corrugated sheets up to 63 inches wide by 110 inches long at up to 492 ft per minute on uncoated board. This choice of press is Xeikon’s solution for the needs of the corrugated box market where lot sizes continue to decrease, sustainability is a priority and demand for flexibility, high quality and creative, personalized graphics on boxes and displays is growing apace.

In developing IDERA, Xeikon utilized the digital manufacturing knowledge and corrugated experience of its parent company, Flint. The Flint Group already had a deeper understanding of the corrugated market as the number one supplier of inks for this sector. Xeikon is a respected and long-standing leader and innovator in digital printing technology, designing and developing digital color presses for label and packaging applications as well as document and commercial printing. Their printing machines work with different imaging technologies,

both dry toner and inkjet, Xeikon’s powerful open workflow software and application specific consumables. The most important thing to recognize about Xeikon is that the company is streets ahead in terms of knowledge of all digital processes, digital production and the impacts on the complete supply chain. With more than 30 years of innovation and experience in digital printing today they are recognized as a trusted, technology agnostic advisor in the digital transformation that print manufacturing processes are undergoing.

Xeikon is now bringing its knowledge and expertise to the corrugated market with its digital manufacturing solution – IDERA. Xeikon believes it’s not just about choosing the right equipment, it’s about working with a trusted partner.

Sébastien Stabel Market Segment Manager sebastien.stabel@flintgrp. com +32 475 75 71 44

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

PRINTRON

2019 FTA Best of Show, WestRock Adams.

2017 FTA Best of Show, Advance Packaging.

PRINTRON Partnering for Success!

Since 1963 Printron has provided customers with quality prepress, printing plates and cutting dies for the corrugated industry and more recently the flexible packaging industry.

In an ever changing economy, businesses thrive on agility. As a one-stop

resource, Printron can tailor services to your unique requirements. By putting Printron’s line of award-winning services to work for you: File editing, image optimization, prepress, printing plates including Printron’s Quantum plate, and cutting dies, we can succeed together.

We firmly believe in the concept of Partnering! It certainly isn’t a new concept. In a manufacturing business like all of ours, there are three groups of people that can either make your business grow, or help it to fail. You need good, quality people to make your product; you need good, reliable suppliers to provide you with quality materials; and you need loyal customers who continually buy from you. If all three of these groups of people work together as a team, your business will prosper, as will your supplier’s business and your customer’s business.

What does it take to create this partnership?

Time to learn each other’s businesses.

Time to learn what products and services will allow us to become better at what we produce, increase efficiencies and allow all of us to grow and prosper.

2018 TAPPI CorrPak Corrbie Award Best of Show, McLean Packaging.

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Trust in the fact that our suppliers will price their products and services fairly, and not take advantage of our trust. Profit, however, must not be thought of as a dirty word! Profit is essential for sustainable growth. Without it, nothing else matters!

A true partnering process will help you be successful and a better printer. Focus on your core business while building partnerships that will give you products that will help make you successful.

After all, “We are all judged by your customer’s success!”

In the past 35 years Printron has partnered with companies from coast to coast, learning from each other and watching them have great success in the high graphics market. Since 1996 Printron customers have won 18 Best of Show awards in the major print competitions!

Samples of the most recent four items are shown here.

All of these printers are true partners and we enjoy working with each of them!

For more information contact: Rick Pomerenka Sales Manager rickpomerenka@printron.com 920-725-3077 Visit us at www.printron.com

2020 FTA Best of Show, Great Northern Corporation Chippewa Falls.

Helping You

SUCCEED Prepress • Plates • Cutting Dies

Printron provides graphic services, flexographic plates and cutting dies for the packaging industry. From file building to print, cutting dies to custom apps, digital assets to lean and dedicated workflows; we help you succeed.

We manufacture Baysek, flat, rotary and Bobst cutting dies to precise specifications and tolerances. We do not use a “one size fits all” approach to cutting die manufacturing. We consider the specific machine capabilities, and working together - determine which materials work best on the equipment, and specifically, on each individual project.

Prime Cutting Die Board

Quantum Digital FMD Sheet Photopolymer

Engineered to optimize press specifications for speed, durability and cutting die consistency.

Chemically applied top coat rubber reduces friction, foam wear down and heat allowing the corrugated sheets to release more quickly from the die board. More effective board stripping and higher run speeds!

Our proprietary printing plate features flat top dots, in addition to cushion between the plate material and substrate, allowing the photopolymer plate to conform to uneven, irregular surfaces (corrugated fluting).

Conventional Digital Plate

Quantum Digital FMD

Providing sharper, clearer print, reduces dot gain and visible fluting in corrugated direct printing!

We supply our clients with tools that give them the best opportunity to exceed their customers’ expectations including:

For more information contact: Rick Pomerenka, Sales Manager • rickpomerenka@printron.com www.printron.com

DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Pamarco Challenges Turned Opportunities 2020 has brought challenges, a level of uncertainty, and a new way of doing things for everyone, including Pamarco and our corrugated clients. Due to many new safety guidelines we are unable to enter some customers’ locations, so we’ve introduced an anilox self-audit program. Keeping your anilox rolls in their best condition is important so we have provided many customers with the training and tools necessary to audit their anilox roll inventory. We have shown again and again that if an anilox roll loses more than 15% to 20% of its volume, to hit your Delta E targets and be able to hit the LAB for your spot color work you need extensive press side ink toning. So, it’s critical that your team know the condition of the rolls, whether they be plugged or worn, and be able to take the corrective action to resolve that problem. Pamarco’s auditing process, whether done by a Pamarco representative or the self-audit process, produces a professional report that gives you the data to control your printing process.

Growing our cell design portfolio this year, we added EZflo: a 30-degree channeled engraving that is recommended for applying either waterborne or UV coatings; it is also an ideal product for doing flood coating. This 30-degree channel carries the coating to the surface of the plate and then on to the substrate in a smooth, uniform fashion that provides the highest degree of gloss or smooth lay of the coating. Our 30-degree channel is ideally suited for high solids content/higher viscosity coatings that have slower flow characteristic. The EZflo engraving provides the ability of that coating to be applied at the proper coat weights. Our Eflo technology, 75-degree extended engraving, is ideally suited for lower viscosity/lower solid content coatings.

Through a rapid response from our hardworking team, we have been able to

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keep plants open and services available to meet the needs of our clients. Maintaining the daily operations of our facilities in Atlanta, La Palma, Walton, Roselle, and Palmyra has created many challenges, but we are proud to say that even in the face of all of this uncertainty, we were able to open our new facility in Batavia, IL, on time and on budget! The 36,000 square foot greenfield facility offers a streamlined production flow and plenty of room for continued growth. We are currently investing further in the future by adding more coating equipment and installing a new laser in Batavia for 2021. We are exceptionally proud of the strength and

resilience of our dedicated employees as they continue to focus on the needs of our global clients. Our sales team has not slowed down and is out servicing the market every chance they are safely able to do so. We are positioned to continue to support and remain a leader in this industry well into the future and are looking forward to what 2021 has to offer.

John Burgess President of the Flexo Division john.burgess@pamarco. com 404-691-1700

DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Dicar, Inc.

F

or over 50 years Dicar has provided outstanding products and customer service to corrugated converters around the world. Headquartered in Pine Brook, New Jersey, with manufacturing facilities in New Jersey and Texas, Dicar is a world-class supplier of durable urethane components for the paperboard packaging industry. Dicar’s offerings include Anvilok® diecutting covers, lead edge feed wheels, Crushless® rollers and creasers, anvil system, die-making and diecutting supplies and much more.

Maintaining a network of Technical Sales and Service Managers and Diecutting Experts around the world, Dicar provides Global coverage with Local support.

A family owned independent business, Dicar maintains a dedication to innovation, product development and customer service. From a humble start with a single product, Dicar now offers an expansive range of products engineered to enhance the efficiency, productivity, quality and safety of corrugated diecutting operations around the world.

Popular Dicar products include…

Anvilok ® 2 die cutting covers, the latest version of the popular Dicar Urethane die cutting covers, are available in sizes to fit virtually every available rotary diecutter size. Our product lines include conventional bolted and Boltless® designs in both standard and Xtrawide widths. All Dicar blankets are cast and cut to precise specification to provide outstanding quality and performance.

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®

Anvilok ® 3 glue Lap and Hand Hole system converts steel to steel to the soft cutting of glue laps. This saves excessive wear on shaft bearings and extends the life of cross cut knives. Further, it prevents damage to the head through excessive knife pressure. This system can also be adapted to existing soft cut systems.

Equalizer™ G4, the latest version of the popular Equalizer anvil system uses Dicar’s patented Snap Sleeve “split bearing” design.

This design allows removal of individual bearing sections for easier and more efficient mounting and rotation especially in close quarters. The design accommodates thermal expansion maintaining consistent cover mounting and allowing the bearing to easily slide along the cylinder for simplified installation and rotation.

AnviLatch™, Dicar’s ergonomically friendly modern anvil cover mounting technology, eliminates the need to use a mallet when mounting or rotating.

A simple indexing of the die cylinder secures the covers to the cylinder.

Dicar’s Emba Die Cut Bearing Upgrade brings a new level of ease-of-use and efficiency to Emba diecutting stations. Based on the Equalizer G4 design, this upgrade offers the same benefits and advantages of the G4.

Dicar’s Geo. Martin Scrubber Replacement Wheels feature a Wrap-on™ design for simple and quick removal and installation, meet or exceed the OEM specifications and deliver optimum wear and sheet control without marking the sheets.

SpeedStrap™ reusable magnetic pull bands for printing or diecutting provide a quick and cost effective way to maximize sheet control through the printing and diecutting stations for enhanced registration, fewer jams and higher quality of the finished product.

Visit www.dicar.com for more information on Dicar products or to shop at our online store.

Shawn Spencer VP Sales & Marketing Shawns@dicarinc.net 1-800-240-4157 www.dicar.com

Industry Leading Performance, Quality & Innovation

Our Soft Anvil Rotary Diecutting Blankets made us an industry leader. Our dedication to performance, quality, innovation and customer service keeps us on the cutting edge.

Most Trusted by OEMs... Preferred by Converters Dicar, Inc. 

30 Chapin Road, Pine Brook, NJ 07058

800.323.4227

www.dicar.com

DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Quest7, Inc.

W

hen I was growing up my dad worked at box plants. He started off his career helping run machines while advancing in leadership roles. I remember the unique smell of a plant during my visits. A smell that today reminds me of when I would get to visit my dad at work. All I ever wanted to do was listen to those headphones or walk along all the conveyors—neither of which I was allowed to do.

In March 2003, our family embarked on a new adventure—my parents were starting their own business in our garage.

At first, I will admit it was scary. Owning a family business would take a lot of work, and we would be faced with many challenges along the way. We have learned a lot over the last 17 years, but I would say the last 12 months have been the toughest.

In last year’s issue my dad wrote about how grateful he was for the people that had encouraged him over the years and the mentors that had influenced him.

The fall of 2019 our family broke ground on a new state of the art manufacturing facility. For a small company starting in a garage, this was a large undertaking which took a lot of faith. We had fun picking out cabinets, paint color and the overall design. My dad and Jake spent hours researching new machines and determining their perfect locations. The excitement continued to build when we hosted our manufacturing employees

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Christmas luncheon at the new building, and they were able to see it. It was really happening.

January and February were spent organizing riggers to move machines, and strategically coordinating dates for the new ones to arrive. March was here, and all of us were finally in our new location. And then COVID-19. I have to say the months of March and April were exhausting. The daily phone calls, emails and news briefings started to take a toll. It seemed like a horrible nightmare as I thought “I cannot wait for this to be over”… and we are all still waiting. The last 10 months have been tough. We have all been through a lot.

This article isn’t to remind us of all our trials. I want to share with you the resilience I have seen in our employees and our customers. I watch our employees work tirelessly to get orders out to customers, so they can provide essential products around the world. When other companies were cutting hours, we were working overtime. When schools went online our son and his friends came and helped us. I considered this an odd blessing. During this whole season, we never laid anyone off, we have hired additional staff, and thankfully have all stayed healthy. We are beyond grateful for the successful year Quest7 is having. We never want to take for granted the orders we receive, the customers we help, the

families we employ, or all that has been given to us to steward.

We are a true family business. The owners Tim & Laurie Burns are my parents. My husband Jake oversees all manufacturing. Our son Jaxon (18) has learned multiple positions. Because of the influences he has been around his entire life, he looks forward to pursuing a degree in Accounting and Business Administration fall 2021. Our daughter Taylin (14) also comes and helps with various jobs. But it’s not just our immediate family. I currently work with 2 uncles (Dexel Burns & Jerry Storm), an aunt, a cousin, and a brother in law. We also employ two sets of brothers, a mother and her daughter (Sarah Pfieffle) along with many others who are like family.

I wanted to share this because I want you to know how important this business is to us. Our customers are not just a number, we know them by name. We know about their families. We understand the special needs plants have. They know they can contact us nights and weekends. They know we will always do our best to meet their needs. Our customers mean the world to us and we are forever grateful.

Tiffanie Armstrong Executive Director of Operations Tiffanie@Quest7.us 815-316-8803

New state-of-the-art manufacturing facility completed spring 2020

to the corrugated box industry.

Jake, Tiffanie, Jaxon & Taylin Armstrong

Tim & Laurie Burns

9843 North Alpine Rd Machesney Park, IL 61115 815-654-7737 www.Quest7.us

DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

ARC International

A Material Difference in Anilox Performance Founded in 1984 by Micheal E. Foran, ARC International began as the Anilox Roll Company, Inc. Mechanically engraved and chrome plated anilox rollers were the only products the company engineered back then. The anilox roller is still the core product of ARC International.

Of course, today those rollers are mostly laser engraved and crafted at facilities located in Charlotte, NC and Las Vegas, NV. The anilox roller is often called “the heart of the flexographic press” as its job is to provide a specific volume of ink to the printing plate. Unfortunately, not every anilox roller accomplishes this objective. Neglected, worn, or damaged rollers are usually unable to deliver the amount of ink needed to achieve precise color density and clarity. Because of that, ARC provides seasoned field specialists whose purpose is to inspect and audit, together with your converting personnel, your flexo equipment. This includes a thorough analysis of your anilox rollers.

The detailed information they gather

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helps you determine whether your rollers need a thorough cleaning, refurbishment, or full replacement.

In the early nineties ARC pioneered the development of solid-state laser engraving equipment, applying single-hit technology with thermally treated cells for a longer lasting roller surface, specially designed for the corrugated industry. This prompted further development of timeand cost-saving YAG laser technology and eventually the fiber optic lasers that are common today. Whether your laser engraved ceramic anilox roller needs to be reconditioned or newly fabricated, you can rest assured that ARC will use the latest laser technology and highest quality chromium oxide ceramic in its production. This includes both steel and carbon fiber roller construction.

To ensure that high quality board is delivered to the flexo, ARC offers cladded stainless-steel glue rollers engraved with Starch Saver™ hexagonal cell tooling for more efficient starch application. These rollers come with a five-year guarantee against corrosion and delamination. In the flexo feed section, ARC’s feed rollers

display a “visual wear grid” that lets your operator know when it’s time to be replaced, thus avoiding crushed board.

ARC personnel will thoroughly inspect every bearing or gear step, bore, keyway, thread, bolt hole, and more, on every journal, and then refurbish them, as needed, to OEM specifications. This helps to ensure that your crews will experience a smooth installation, minimal downtime, and outstanding print quality. Visit their website at www.arcinternational.com or call 800-526-4569 to schedule an audit of your anilox rollers today.

Contact Steve Woodard.

Steve Woodard Vice-President of Corporate Services swoodard@arcinternational.com 704-469-4791

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DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Anilox Roll Cleaning Systems

Anilox Roll Cleaning Systems – Now Open in Greensboro, NC & Grand Rapids, MI Anilox Roll Cleaning Systems (ARCS), is known for its industrial expertise in laser roll cleaning services. ARCS has now expanded into two new facilities: 1427 Boulder Ct, Ste B, Greensboro, NC 27409, and 322 Terminal Street, Wyoming, MI 49548, to better meet the anilox roll cleaning needs of their customers nationally.

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Plans to develop operations in Greensboro, NC and Wyoming, MI were initiated by customers’ requirements in the Southern and Midwest regions for easy access to our products and roll cleaning services. These new locations are the second and third locations for ARCS, which will feature our state-of-the-art Eclipse® Laser Cleaning System. This system is the best on the market because of its proprietary, circular, non-hot spot

laser scanner. Also available for sale are new or used baking soda systems. For customers who do not want to do the cleaning themselves, these new locations will allow ARCS to expand its reach physically, as customers will be able to request cleaning rolls at their facility, off-press/ on-press. Customers also have the option to ship their rolls to any ARCS location for a cleaning with location offering a fast 24-48 hour turnaround time.

ARCS continues to offer the same reliable and friendly service out of their headquarters in Hatfield, PA. Amanda DiGiovanni Customer Service Manager amanda@aniloxrollclean.com 800-699-3722

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES

SGS & Co a vast array of plate materials to ensure the right solution for every print environment.

The Complete Package Our roots run deep in design, technology and production, allowing us to offer a holistic solution of integrated services to our clients. Through coordination, process and technology, we ensure brand intent is delivered across processes, geographies, packaging structures and substrates.

UNPARALLELED FLEXO EXPERTISE

We are the leading supplier for the wide and narrow-web flexographic packaging and corrugated industries. We invest heavily in technology and automation to reduce error and partner with material providers to influence, understand and secure access to product innovation first.

Our facilities in Atlanta, Florence, Minneapolis and Toronto operate a total of 26 CDI imaging devices and four Kodaks, outputting an industry leading 576MM square inches of polymer annually. These Flexo Centers of Excellence offer full-service plates for the corrugated industry from simple to complex, including Basic Corrugate, Amazon FFP/ SIOC and High End Displays. Additional offerings include Kongsberg plate patchers, conventional & pin mounting for up to 200 mounts per day, corrugated press tech teams and cutting die partnerships.

COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABILIT Y

Now, more than ever, brands, businesses and consumers alike are searching for a path to a more promising future. We want to support those who are bold enough to make a difference by helping identify sustainable packaging initiatives, commitments and actions that create real impact.

GET IN TOUCH

We’d love to share more about how SGS can deliver the quality, consistency and integrity you’re looking for.

Daniel Fournel Vice President of Sales daniel.fournel@sgsco.com 803-603-9516

A COMPETITIVE EDGE FOR CORRUGATE

We are passionate about what’s next, which is why we’ve enhanced our plate offering to achieve previously unreachable results. With our new performance plates, we combine our closed loop color management with innovative, proprietary, high resolution screens in

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Stafford Cutting Dies, Inc. Stafford Cutting Dies Enhances Delivery System As our environment has changed so has Stafford Cutting Dies. One change is all products are being manufactured under one roof generating efficient manufacturing while assuring the same consistent quality, regardless of destination.

To achieve this, we needed to focus on delivering our products further in a safe, quick, self-reliant, and efficient manner.

We expanded our current transportation system to more than 14 delivery vehicles utilizing a multiple spoke and hub system.

This lets us deliver tooling over 600 miles from Charlotte next day in our exclusive vehicles. Since our delivery vans do most of their work between midnight and mid-morning, it also allows eight extra production hours in today’s tight turnaround expectations.

Additionally, this system allows us to pick up your cutting dies in need of repair or revision without the necessity to package them or contract with outside couriers. Our driver loads your tooling in our vans, takes them to our nearest service center for repair or revision, then returns them as requested, generating efficient and timely turnaround times.

All three remote service locations are outfitted with the equipment, materials and trained technicians needed to repair the full array of tooling we produce. This offers confidence knowing turnaround of an emergency repair should never be an issue.

We use the Verizon Connect Reveal System to track our vehicles, monitor our employees’ driving habits and view any unusual activity via web cameras mounted inside our delivery vehicles.

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All delivery vans are equipped with Tablets using custom software that provide our drivers with directions, specific instructions for each customer on where to go, where to place deliveries, record digital signatures and take photos of items when signatures are unavailable.

You can view info including signatures or pictures online via your secure login on our website.

Give us an opportunity to show you how our delivery system can make your job easier.

Guy Earley Sales/Marketing Manager guye@gostafford.com Office: 704-821-6330 Mobile: 704-905-7343

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES

The VT Group

The VT Group – Evolution By Design The VT Group, headquartered outside of Philadelphia on a 45,000 square foot campus, is a multifaceted suite of three complementary POP, design and manufacturing companies consisting of VT Graphics, Inc., Digital Impact, LLC, and Ocean Design Group, LLC. Founded in 1966 as a plate-making trade shop for corrugated converters, the VT Group has evolved into an industry leader servicing various Fortune 500 and top name brand companies. Facilities house state-of-the-art technology and equipment that offers the latest in product packaging design and print solutions.

The VT Group has invested extensively in high-tech software and equipment to offer its expanding client base a virtually endless array of possibilities, which include:

• Flexographic Pre-Press & Plates • Large Format Digital Printing & Converting • Creative Design Services Built on a reputation of quality, service, integrity and innovation, the VT Group continually strives to provide innovative and cost effective solutions for its customers. By combining creative graphic design, exceptional color management, flexographic plate-making and short to medium-run digital printing and converting, the VT Group continues to offer customers evolutionary cutting edge solutions for the POP/POS, In-Store, and commercial markets.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR NEEDS

We know that consistent high-quality graphics and brand identity enforcement

are critical in engaging your customers, promoting increased sales and capturing long-term consumer loyalty. VT Graphics delivers a deep understanding of brand asset compliance, color management and state-of-the-art technology that brands, CPC’s and converters need to produce market-leading packaging and displays that enhance brand loyalty and provide increased sell-through.

Allow the VT Group to share with you why we are the best in the game.

For Additional Information on our products and services please contact: Carlton Boon VP Sales & Marketing cwb@vtgraph.com 610-259-4090

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Cascades Sonoco

A Natural Partnership: EcoTect® 100% recycled packaging board and FlexSHIELD® fully Recyclable, Repulpable and Compostable barrier coating As consumer demand for sustainable packaging continues to grow, Cascades Sonoco, the joint venture of Sonoco Products Company and Cascades, has responded to the marketplace with economical and environmentally friendly solutions. The combination of Ecotect® recycled packaging board and FlexSHIELD ® barrier coating provides a functional barrier to water, oil and grease while supporting company sustainability goals as recyclable, repulpable and compostable. Folded containers made from EcoTect and FlexShield are ideal for a wide range of applications like food service trays and takeout bakery products as well as any non-food product where leakage of the contents could affect goods stored in proximity to the container.

FlexSHIELD® is a water-based coating designed to be flexible and resist cracking throughout the folding carton converting process. It is engineered to survive multi-directional scores, folds and creases without surrendering its barrier properties. FlexSHIELD coating has been extensively tested on EcoTect packaging board and has passed all recyclable and repulpable testing based on FBA Protocol Procedures. It is FDA, CFIA and EUR compliant, and is microwavable with dry, aqueous and fatty foods. FlexSHIELD is now available in a heat-sealable version.

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SurfSHIELD® coated boards and papers are a water-based family of functional and barrier coatings that are designed to provide protection for corrugated structures as well as folding carton and food service applications.

With state-of-the-art facilities strategically located from coast to coast, Cascades Sonoco is North America’s leading supplier of customized coating and lamination solutions. Due to increasing market demands, we made the decision to design and install a new state of the art water-based coater at our Birmingham AL operations. Our new 110" wide coater was dedicated in May of 2019. The capabilities we built into our newest coating line have opened the door to new markets and are allowing us to supply these markets with new and innovative and environmentally friendly on a multitude of paper substrates. With the demand for paper-based packaging increasing dramatically, our decision to invest was timely.

Cascades Sonoco has extensive capabilities with film and foil lamination applications. PET, MET PET, Aluminum Foil as well as Polyethylene extrusion and lamination are our specialty.

For more information, visit www. cascades-sonoco.com or send inquiries to ecotect@sonoco.com or 888-203-6548.

Jeff is responsible for leading Marketing and Business Development as well as the Strategic Growth Platforms for Cascades Sonoco. Jeff has over 30 years of experience in Sales and Marketing with Sonoco and

Cascades Sonoco. Jeff led the business transformation efforts beginning back in 2010 which helped Cascades Sonoco evolve from a Roll Packaging company into a leading coating and lamination innovations company. Jeff holds an Economics degree from Muskingum University.

Jeff Stacy Market Segment Manager jeff.stacy@sonoco.com 888-203-6548

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES

Astral Adhesives & Coatings, Inc.

Astral Introduces New Durable and Recyclable Coatings NEW PRODUCT ELIMINATES NEED FOR PLASTIC, LAMINATED PAPERBOARD AND STYROFOAM

A groundbreaking new product recently launched by Astral Adhesives & Coatings, Inc., gives the simple takeout container a much-needed high-tech upgrade and has the potential to eliminate plastic, PE laminated paperboard and Styrofoam.

Recyclable and durable, Astral’s two new multipurpose coatings are changing the way consumers bring home meals and essential food items. Specifically designed for takeout containers, AstralCoat 51 and AstralCoat 52 are FDA compliant for direct food contact and substantially minimize cracking at the fold line, which helps prevent leaks.

Due to safety concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic, more people are staying at home and purchasing meals and food to go, creating an increased demand for takeout containers. In response, restaurant owners and grocers asked for a food-grade product that is also environmentally friendly. AstralCoat 51 and AstralCoat 52 became the answer.

These recyclable coatings applied to paperboard substrates help create an environmentally friendly take-out container that stands up to heavy use.

“These coatings are game-changers in many ways because they are addressing a market need for more environmentally friendly solutions,” said Vikas Singhal, president of Astral Adhesives & Coatings, Inc.

“Our customers in retail and restaurants have been asking for a durable and recyclable product for a long time. Feedback from customers includes high marks for the products’ pliability, while offering excellent performance at the fold line. I think this is our future.”

Astral’s new industry-leading coatings can be applied at “bending chip” CRB mills or at offline coaters on any folding carton substrate such as SBS. They are also cold set glueable and printable. Some of the additional new offerings from Astral include a bakery-white coating, bake-in silicone release and an industry-leading, low-Cobb combination that will not block or scuff.

Astral is a leading supplier to the packaging industry, specializing in providing customized coatings for the paper and paperboard market. Astral’s principals have more than 50 years of experience in the coatings business and are committed to finding solutions to the most challenging projects. Innovative technologies in the paperboard industry and coating formulas come together to create a sustainable, superior product.

The new product line is just one example of how Astral leads the way in the paperboard packaging industry.

The key to delivering what is needed at the right time is listening to clients, Singhal said.

“I think that’s what sets us apart; we are always changing and growing as a company, and these extraordinary times are calling us to be even more innovative,” he added. “By partnering with clients to deliver what they need, when they need it, we offer exemplary customer service that is personalized and efficient.”

Vikas Singhal President vikas@astralcoatings.com 562-676-5607 www.astralcoatings.com

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

BCM Inks USA, Inc.

Mother Nature’s Answer to UV Coatings Environmentally sustainable products are important. They will become even more important in the years ahead. BCM Inks USA, Inc. recognizes this. We have placed a top priority on the development and distribution of eco-friendly products since our inception in 1988. This year we are pleased to announce the introduction of another breakthrough sustainable product. It is a product developed specifically for the corrugated print market. It is called DuaKure.

DuaKure is an alternative to UV coatings. It is a water based OPV (overprint varnish). It is made from a natural secreted plant product. Therefore, it meets BCM’s rigorous environmental standards.

It offers numerous benefits versus UV and standard water-based coatings/ varnishes. Benefits are as follows: • Safer than traditional UV coatings – no inhalation issues or special PPE needed • Easy disposal – same disposal method as any other water-based coating/ varnish • Minimal odor – a slight sweet odor in comparison to UV coatings • Less expensive than typical UV coatings • Higher gloss levels than conventional water-based coatings/varnish (+ 43% on average) • Low VOC’s (.08%) • Excellent rub resistance (high slide angle) and glue ability • No special handling

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DuaKure also meets the needs of printers without UV capabilities who want to achieve gloss levels similar to UV. DuaKure takes its name from its unique dual curability feature. DuaKure can be cured easily with any IR drier and/or with a combination of IR and UV lamps. Combination of IR and UV lamps is proven to enhance gloss.

DuaKure can enhance the look and feel of your corrugated package or display. If you want to try a bucket or find out more about this innovative eco-friendly product, contact BCM Inks USA, Inc. at sales@ bcmiks.com or call toll free at 1-800-678-6238.

BCM Inks is a multinational leader in the manufacture and marketing of environmentally correct water flexographic printing inks and varnishes for the value-added corrugated packaging and POP industry.

View BCM Inks’ innovative products and services on its website www.bcminks.com.

Sales Team sales@bcminks.com 1-800-678-6238 Visit our website: www. bcminks.com

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES

Flint Group Packaging Inks Committed to excellence with the right people, products & services!

Flint Group Paper & Board is dedicated to providing exceptional products and expertise to packaging converters worldwide through its People, Products, and its focus on Sustainability.

To enhance its products and services for the future, Flint Group’s corrugated pre- and post-print development experts work together as a global and regional team to identify market needs and develop products, services and solutions to meet those requirements. With a knowledgeable team dedicated to Paper & Board printing, the company is committed to creating value for its customers and reducing complexity for corrugated printers. With the recent addition of Poteet Printing Systems, Flint Group Packaging Inks gains a customer-focused and responsive partner who further enriches the company’s value proposition to the corrugated market.

Michael Mosley, Vice President and General Manager Packaging Inks North America for Flint Group, explains: “Our objective is to understand our customers’ unique needs and deliver the right ink for their application. Our team, made up of experts from AIC, ACS, Flint Group and Poteet Printing Systems, have the know-how, the means, and the dedication to provide irrefutable value to corrugated printers throughout North America.

“With a seasoned focus on corrugated, we understand what works for all facets of this essential package printing process.

With a global team of experts, we are able to design water-based technology that offers best in class print quality while providing industry-leading environmental and cost savings benefits.”

In 2020, Flint Group Paper & Board introduced its AquaCode range of products in North America. AquaCode is

a full technology range that embodies the very heart of Flint Group Paper & Board.

The products under the AquaCode umbrella have been developed to improve printers’ and converters’ production efficiencies through outstanding product stability and performance. This low maintenance series offers real cost in use savings while providing the superior print quality.

With the AquaCode range, Flint Group presents a global water-based technology designed to reduce total cost of print.

Of particular note, during 2020, Flint Group launched its TerraCode range of inks based on bio-renewable raw material and chemistry. This range presents a dynamic bio-renewable product offering that can be tailor-made for converters’ individual printing needs. The TerraCode corrugated ink and coating range has been specifically designed to maintain the print

and resistance properties of conventional inks – with maximized renewable content!

TerraCode is only one of the building blocks in achieving the company’s sustainability vision: To support packaging markets with responsibly built products and sustainable solutions designed for circular economies.

To learn more about AquaCode, TerraCode, or Flint Group’s focus on Sustainability, email info.packaginginks@ flintgrp.com.

We’d love to hear from you! Contact our marketing department and we’ll connect you with the right person.

Deanna Klemesrud Global Brand, Content & Promotions Director – Packaging Inks Deanna.klemesrud@flintgrp.com +1-763-238-9216

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

INX International Ink Co. Natural-based Inks help printers and brand owners achieve sustainability goals and help consumers feel confident in their product choices.

INXhrc natural-based inks are formulated to replace petro-chemically derived ingredients with clean, renewable and sustainable ingredients without sacrificing machine, processing, and end use product performance. They contain 50 to 90 percent natural ingredients and are free of allergens, nanomaterials, fluorochemicals, fanal pigments, heavy metals, latex, and PTFE. By voluntarily eliminating those chemicals, brands reduce their regulatory risk and demonstrate their commitments to consumer health and safety.

More than ever consumers are concerned with the environment and desire to support businesses who use environmentally conscious practices. They are growing increasingly aware of what they consume, the waste they create and the businesses that are aligned with this philosophy. Brand owners are looking for every opportunity to win over a variety of interest groups, from questioning consumers to finicky financial analysts.

This is why INX considers the ingredients, end use and disposal of our products along with specified performance requirements and value proposition. The ability to provide a natural-based ink system that fulfills customers’ goals and improves their bottom line while helping consumers do their part to minimize their negative impact on the environment means that those customers will come to trust in and depend on INX International for help in achieving their future sustainability goals.

Through the use of renewable materials that are responsibly sourced and considered for their end of life recovery, INXhrc natural-based inks provide a path to measurable, reportable CO2 savings.

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They have a 25 to 30 percent lower CO2 footprint than standard aqueous inks.* *Based on EUPIA dry ink baseline for aqueous based inks of 3.092kg CO2/kg dry ink.

Jim is Director of National Accounts at INX International Ink Co. based in Chicago, and he has worked in the printing ink industry most of his life. Originally from Pittsburgh, he grew up in Canada and went to the University of Waterloo and York University.

He has been involved with paper packaging and corrugated in North America for over 40 years. During this time he has been a member of the Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry (TAPPI), AICC (The Independent Packaging Association), the Packaging Association of Canada (PAC),

the Paper Shipping Sacks Manufacturing Association (PSSMA), the Flexographic Technical Association (FTA) and the Glass Packaging Institute (GPI) GCMI Color Guide Committee. He has written several articles on paper packaging subjects and has participated in numerous conferences and conventions making presentations, moderating sessions, and chairing committees; all as a part of both learning and giving back to the industry. He has spent recent years fine tuning skills related to the digital process and corrugated packaging.

Jim Wegemer Director of National Accounts jim.wegemer@inxintl.com 630-624-8781

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES

J.M. Fry Printing Inks Proven Over Time, More Relevant Than Ever J.M. Fry Printing Inks’ story began in 1936 when founded by entrepreneur Justin M. Fry. After more than eighty years of innovation and passion our performance driven products are engineered for the “Here, Now and Tomorrow.”

This has never been more evident than today with the introduction of our new FryFlex 2.0 product lines. FryFlex 2.0 is specifically engineered to respond to the rigorous demands of high speed converting with: • Superior Coverage on today’s lightweight and recycled liners as well as inside print.

• pH Stable for consistent performance and color consistency.

• Low Viscosity for “Pump and Go” run-ability.

• Easy wash-up for fast and effective make-readies.

ALL IN

At J.M. Fry we know no limits in supporting our customers’ success. Whether the needs are for low maintenance performance products, qualified remote

and on-site technical support, choices in advanced technologies in color management and dispense options we have the people and skill sets necessary to support our clients’ success.

Jim Moncure Vice President of Sales jim.moncure@jmfryinks.com 804-236-8100

CUSTOMERS SAY IT BEST

Subject: Meeting Hugh and Mike.

Just a note to say thank you for today’s training. I received several comments this afternoon about the great info presented.

Hugh you did a great job. I also want to say what a great job J.M. Fry does for our facility. That is not luck. You have a valuable team and culture. On my end.... it is my desire to be your best customer.

Safe travels.

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Poteet Printing Systems, LLC

Poteet Printing Systems: The Performance Choice!

Started in 1998 by Roger Poteet, Poteet Printing Systems has grown into an ink company respected in the paper packaging industry for expert customer service, ink quality, and quick order turnaround. It has carved out a distinct niche in the United States corrugated market as a water-based ink supplier.

Poteet Printing Systems is a bright success and Roger Poteet knew a plan for the longevity of the company was required to sustain employees and customers. After many conversations and diligent research, Poteet agreed to partner with Flint Group Packaging Inks in 2020.

This acquisition has allowed Poteet Printing Systems to establish long-term business continuity for his team and customers. Additionally, this brings more resources to Poteet Printing Systems such as new product options, material sourcing, improved shipping reach to customers, and all while maintaining the “Poteet touch” that customers value.

This expanded tool box of resources will allow Poteet Printing Systems to serve customers better than ever!

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“Our combined customer focus, products, and excellent technical knowledge, along with the infrastructure of Flint Group Packaging Inks, will benefit our current clients and enable us to grow our business with new customers,” said Roger Poteet.

Fear not! Poteet Printing Systems is still the ink company that printing and packaging customers have been loyal to for 23 years. “Our key priorities are to maintain and enhance the quality of our materials, manufacturing processes, and high levels of customer service,” said Roger Poteet.

Looking to the future, Poteet is excited for the new tools and technologies they will be rolling out next year for their packaging customers in collaboration with Flint Group Packaging Inks.

NEW HIGH OPACIT Y WHITE INKS

In addition to the new partnership, Poteet Printing Systems has continued

to innovate. One such new product is Select High Opacity White Ink – their highest opacity white yet. This white is excellent on kraft board for fine-printed areas and a white that stands out. Colors printed on this white “pop” for an eyecatching graphic.

A new High Opacity Cascade White was also created for the wax cascade produce market. Customers are very pleased with this intense and costefficient white!

We would love to hear from you!

Reach out and we will connect you with the right person for your print performance success!

PoteetSystems.com info@poteetsystems.com 704-588-0005 Social: Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES

Quantum Ink Company Bridging the Gap We hear the term “business partnership” thrown around a lot in the modern workplace. It’s a term that is very loosely used, and more times than not, is simply said in order to make a sales pitch sound better. Far too often, this partnership lacks substance, and is little more than smoke and mirrors that doesn’t include the necessary action. True partnerships should benefit both parties and create a situation where everyone has the chance for success.

As with most manufacturing sectors, sales and production are the driving factors for any company. Many times, these two sectors can have differing ideologies that can conflict with one another. At Quantum Ink, we strive to bridge the gap between these two departments to ensure our customers are satisfied. By unifying the vision of sales and production, we’ve found we can ensure our customers are satisfied with the packaging solution they have chosen.

The technical sales staff at Quantum Ink are well versed with the knowledge and understanding necessary to assist printers to achieve the best overall product possible. Many factors must be considered in order to get the best end product possible. What separates Quantum Ink from its competitors is the ability to “Ink Differently.” From our position as a supplier, it’s our goal to maintain a true business partnership with our customers, while at the same time, providing service that is totally unique to Quantum Ink. We strive to connect the dots by taking the end requirements of our customers, then ensuring our production and sales

ink different.

Quantum Ink The Best Print Performance You’ve Ever Seen or We Pay a Competitor 502-364-8900 | www.QuantumInk.com

approach are tailored to have the greatest possibility of success. Here at Quantum Ink, we truly care about our customer’s needs, and we’d love an opportunity to show your company firsthand what our team is all about.

Ben Quinton National Accounts Manager bquinton@quantumink. com 502-377-9222

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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Huston Patterson

H

uston Patterson has been providing unparalleled value and performance through the use of craftsmanship and technology by incorporating the principles of trust, integrity and commitment since the late 1800’s. This is something not many people in this country can say, regardless of the industry. We can though as Huston Patterson is the longest standing, privately owned package printer in North America.

What makes us stand out? How have we not just survived all these years, but also thrived? We could have included endless pictures including the fleet of state of the art Koenig & Bauer printing presses we have invested in over the past

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decade giving us the capability to handle almost any print need. We could talk about the multi-million dollar expansion that was completed at the end of 2018.

We thought about featuring our in-house sheeting capabilities, giving us the ability to reduce the cost and turn times for our clients because we can sheet our own paper. We also thought about highlighting the fact that we are one of only a few printers in our sector that supplies litho and top sheets from coast to coast. Our strategic location and large capacity for work allows us to hit our clients in all corners of the US and everywhere in between in a timely manner. Finally, we could have decided to talk about our

talented team of sales representatives who have the experience and knowledge to help your business succeed.

Instead, we decided to go in a different direction and highlight something totally unique to us. Something that I truly believe makes us stand out as a company.

Our people. It is these people, some of whom have been with Huston Patterson for decades, which make our success possible. They are fathers, mothers, grandparents, hobbyists, risk takers and sports fans…but together, they make up the backbone of our team.

Huston Patterson values our clients and is thankful for the business we have done together over the last 100 years. We have built our company with the foundation of our people and the commitment they have made to our company and our clients. Without these real people, HP wouldn’t be where it is today at the forefront of innovation in the large format print and packaging industries.

Sincerely, Tonya Kowa-Morelli President Huston Patterson Printers Tonya Kowa-Morelli Title: President tonyak@hustonpatterson. com 217-429-5161

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING

Litho Press Inc. Our dedication to serving you never changes.

The building, machinery, people and even the logo have changed since our start in 1953, but we’ll always strive to be the easiest place to buy your labels and topsheets.

Saving you time and money is our daily goal over the last 68 years of serving the corrugated and display industry. Please call or email today and let me know how I can help you.

Lisa Milborn National Account Manager lm@lithopress.com 317-679-2267

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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ND Paper, Inc.

N

D Paper is a North Americanbased manufacturer of various types of high-quality pulp, paper and paper-based packaging materials. Its mills in Rumford, Maine, and Biron, Wisconsin, are integrated paper & pulp facilities, while the mill in Fairmont, West Virginia, is one of only three in the world that produces air-dried, recycled pulp. ND Paper’s fourth mill, in Old Town, Maine, produces unbleached softwood kraft pulp. ND Paper’s 1,400 employees produce more than 1.2 million short tons of pulp & paper annually and the company is headquartered in Oakbrook Terrace, Ill. ND Paper is your supplier of choice for all your pulp, paper, and now

packaging needs. Our proud heritage in papermaking spans more than 100 years in resource-rich Maine, Wisconsin and West Virginia. Our paper products boast a well-earned reputation for durability, dependability, and consistent performance for a wide variety of applications.

Our greenfield old corrugated container (OCC) pulp processing plant and newly rebuilt paper machine in Biron, Wisconsin, has been optimized to meet your containerboard needs. OCC processing is more complex than just screening and cleaning. Our new facility not only thoroughly cleans the incoming raw material, but also optimizes fiber characteristics to provide the strength and printability required in today’s corrugated

containers. Teaming up with the new OCC plant is our completely rebuilt paper machine, which has flexibility to produce both corrugated medium and linerboard products from 16# to 42#. Our linerboard products exhibit excellent bonding on one side, with superior printability on the other, without sacrificing any of the strength and durability you expect.

Joining our containerboard expansion is our family of virgin bleached and natural kraft products from our Rumford, Maine, mill. The fiber basket in northern Maine provides the raw material to meet the needs of this growing area for ND Paper.

These new packaging products join our renowned printing and specialty papers to provide a variety of optimal product solutions for your evolving business needs – ensuring your operations perform at maximum efficiency.

We are investing in our mills to ensure we can continue serving as your supplier of choice, now and for the next 100 years.

Sustainable paper for everyday life.

Learn more about ND Paper products and our 100-year outlook at us.ndpaper.com.

Bauer@us.ndpaper.com

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A SMART CHOICE for your packaging needs.

ND Paper has grown into the packaging business with new products to meet your containerboard needs. Our newlyrebuilt machine in Biron, Wisconsin now has the optimal ability to produce both corrugated medium and linerboard products from 16 to 42 pound basis weights. We’re also expanding the offering in our Rumford, Maine mill, which will soon produce high-strength kraft liner.

If you want a reliable product, tailored to your business and produced by a sustainable company, your choice is ND Paper.

Learn more at us.ndpaper.com

Safe. Scaled. Sustainable.

SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Orora Visual

Orora Visual would like to earn your business!

We are a graphic sheets provider to the corrugated packaging and display markets. Our focus is on litho-labels and top sheets. We do this through a best in class national footprint using standard approved materials and processes. Orora Visual has invested heavily in training, equipment and technology to ensure our quality standards are maintained. We are G7 Master certified and can print sizes up to 60 x 81" at all locations. These advantages allow Orora Visual to deliver consistent, very high-quality products without limitations of size, colors or coatings. We believe our ability to produce our products from New Jersey, Chicago and Los Angeles provides a great deal of value to many of our clients.

Give us a try and let us show you the Orora Visual advantage.

David Nolte Senior Vice President of Packaging Sales david.nolte@ororavisual.com 847-910-4124

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THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING

Atlantic Packaging Products DID YOU KNOW? Drive Your Customer Value with Atlantic Pre-Printed Linerboard Your customers live in a fiercely competitive retail environment where product packaging design can often make all the difference. That’s why we continue to invest in our HD pre-print division, and are proud to announce that we are in the process of installing our 3rd wide web flexo press. Offer your customers Atlantic pre-print, and help them stand out and drive sales at retail!

Atlantic Pre-Print Overview: • 98" wide web flexo press (x2) • 88" wide web flexo press • Up to 8 colors + varnish • Full high definition graphics capability • In-house plate-making & ink kitchen • Brand & color management systems • In-line print scanners ensure quality • In-house art & graphics team • Dedicated sales and customer service Atlantic’s pre-print team is ready to help take your product offering to the next level. Contact us today to learn more about our pre-print capabilities, and how we can make you more competitive with pre-printed linerboard. www.atlantic.ca • 800-268-5620

• 93% of consumers make purchases based on visual appearance.

• On-shelf product only gets a 2-3 second window to get noticed by consumers.

• 84.7% of consumers cite color as the primary reason they buy a particular product.

Source: Shortstack, Kissmetrics

Aaron Barker National Sales Manager, Pre-print Division aaron_barker@atlantic.ca 800-268-5620 www.atlantic.ca

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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Georgia-Pacific

A

s the only packaging supplier in North America to offer 110-inch wide web digital inkjet printing, Hummingbird™ digital print solutions allows you to connect retail to marketing in real-time, with unprecedented control, quality and clarity of message.

Hummingbird can provide quality packaging design that lives up to your brand – with CMYK full process color gamut capabilities, creative omni-channel messaging, flexibility and crisp, stunning graphics.

Hummingbird® is ready to provide the extra capacity you need to handle last-minute or seasonal print jobs. Our digital web inkjet press offers large-format printing on 110 inch wide rolls, uses sustainable water-based inks, and touts superior print quality to traditional print methods.

Whether you need digitally pre-printed rolls, rolls corrugated into sheets, or sheets converted into corrugated packaging, Hummingbird® fulfills your specific packaging needs.

Hummingbird™ is part of Georgia-Pacific’s Packaging business.

Georgia-Pacific is a global leader in forest and consumer products and one of North America’s leading corrugated packaging manufacturers. GP Corrugated offers innovative, customer-focused packaging solutions that help brand owners tell their story in a way that is as unique and compelling as their product. A commitment to building a better box for customers is demonstrated through an ongoing focus on safety, sustainability and consistent quality in manufacturing high graphic and traditional corrugated packaging. Georgia-Pacific Corrugated operations across the country offer a

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range of products and services, including CubeLogic®, Greenshield®, ColorBox®, Litho-Corr™ and Brand Ready Packaging®. The company’s Innovation Institute® simulates retail and packaging environments, allowing customers to experience sustainable innovation and novel package design solutions in action.

For more information on how Hummingbird and GP Corrugated can

take your packaging to the next level, please visit www.gphummingbird.com or www.gpcorrugated.com.

Johann Perera Area General Manager Johann.Perera@GAPAC. com 404-386-9293

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING

H.B. Fuller Choose an Adhesive Supplier with Sustainable Solutions In support of the circular economy movement, H.B. Fuller is enabling customers to improve their products and processes through solutions that help achieve their sustainability goals.

REDUCE

• Lower basis weight and transportation cost by utilizing H.B. Fuller packaging reinforcement solutions— ideal for e-commerce demanding supply chain journeys.

• Decrease plastic stretch wrap usage during the palletization process. H.B. Fuller palletization adhesives stabilize pallets to prevent product damage, rework or employee injury during shipping and in-store merchandising.

Our multipack bundling solutions for aluminum cans, PET bottles and liquid cartons replace stretch wrap and plastic ring carriers.

• Use less energy, improve efficiency, and increase operator safety with low application temperature hot melt adhesives.

REUSE

• Extend the life of corrugated boxes with H.B. Fuller Sesame® String score line reinforcement to support retripping and reuse applications.

Plus, H.B. Fuller Open-Sesame® tape technology supports frustration-free packaging box designs — two functions in one sustainable package.

• H.B. Fuller Advantra® advanced-performance, and low-application-temperature hot melts extend the life of adhesive dispensing equipment. Plus, the adhesives dry clear to preserve packaging aesthetics.

RECYCLE

• H.B. Fuller supports closed loop recycling initiatives. Corrugated boxes that contain H.B. Fuller Sesame products and case and carton sealing adhesives are recyclable. H.B. Fuller tapes and adhesives are separated out during the Old Corrugated Container (OCC) re-pulping process,

which allows the paper fiber to be fully recycled.

RETURN

• H.B. Fuller supports easy returnable packaging design with our CloseSesame™ system.

ABOUT H.B. FULLER

During a time when competing adhesive manufacturers are pulling away from supporting the packaging industry, H.B. Fuller is investing in new innovations and support services specifically for packaging makers—helping businesses succeed in e-commerce and other growing market sectors. With fiscal 2019 net revenue close to $3 billion, H.B. Fuller is a leading global adhesives provider. Visit hbfuller. com/sustainable-packaging to learn more.

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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Kruger

• • • •

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Extra High-Performance Linerboard XTR as low as 18 lbs.

Delivering high strength at lower cost to the industry Rightweighting is part of our DNA Utilizing the latest European paper technology

BOXSCORE January/February 2021

Serge Desgagnés Vice President, Sales – Containerboard 514-231-5781 Serge.desgagnés@kruger. com

Maxim Côté Account Manager 514-268-2119 maxim.cote@kruger.com

François Asselin U.S. Sales Manager 609-423-9000 francois.asselin@kruger. com

Jim Piette Technical Representative 843-276-0476 james.piette@kruger.com containerboard.kruger. com

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING

Metsä Board

Metsä Board: Taking You Forward Retail-ready packaging is flourishing, and the importance of e-commerce will continue to grow. The environmental characteristics of this packaging also serve to enhance the consumer experience. Metsä Board’s White Kraftliners offer a variety of design and structural options for retail-ready, sales-enhancing packaging that perform equally well during transportation and at point of sale.

With the right liner choice and our knowledge, you can meet the most demanding packaging needs responsibly, quickly and cost-efficiently. All our White Kraftliners are made from fresh fiber and are suitable for packaging food and other sensitive products.

Our dedicated Americas team is expanding, and continues to provide superior customer service. Currently, we

are managing the transition of the sales responsibility from Kemiart (US) Inc. to Metsä Board Americas Corporation. This transition was set to be completed by the end of 2020. As we continue to develop and transition the White Kraftliner business, it is our pleasure to introduce you to our sales team!

Greg Baker Sales Manager Greg.Baker@metsagroup. com +1-203-957-1354

Robert Vaenerberg Sales Director, White Kraftliners Robert.Vaenerberg@ metsagroup.com +1-475-747-0125

Joseph DePalma Sales Manager, B2B Sales Joseph.DePalma@ metsagroup.com +1-201-241-0422

Liette Gagne Sales Manager Liette.Gagne@metsagroup.com +1-514-543-6237

Joe Nellis Sales Manager, B2B Sales Joe.Nellis@metsagroup. com + 1-414-698-1519

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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Precision Digital Printing

P

recision Digital Printing is making strides to become a best in class, direct to the trade digital printing service provider. Our EFI Nozomi C18000 was strategically installed in a state-of-the-art, climate controlled, 100,000 sq. ft. facility in Jonesboro, Arkansas.

Specializing in vibrant, photo-realistic digital printing services, Precision Digital Printing has been partnering with sheet plants and converters in several states to provide high quality displays, packaging, and more. Our standard is to provide outstanding quality and white glove service that delivers innovative, cost-effective digital print solutions

that set a new bar for your high-quality graphics projects. We are laser focused on digital printing – in fact, that’s all we do! One of the first questions our current partners asked was if we planned on implementing any converting equipment in the future. Absolutely not! Our direct-to-trade model gives our partners the advantages of digital print without the hassle of adding another large piece of expensive equipment to their production floor.

We purchased our EFI Nozomi C18000 back in the spring of 2018 and designed our facility from the ground up to optimize efficiency and productivity. We have had extensive training for our staff direct

from EFI and can confidently say that we believe we have one of the most experienced teams in the world when it comes to the EFI Nozomi. Day in, day out, our sole focus is giving our partners and customers the absolute best quality and service that digital printing can offer. We believe that digital is the future – and with the vision, equipment, service, and experience we’ve gained over the past year, we are ready to help our partners and customers navigate the challenges and reap the rewards that digital printing has to offer.

James Best President james@precisiondigitalprinting.com 870-393-5060 Send us an email, give us a call, or stop in for a visit and see what Precision Digital Printing is all about – our door is always open and we would welcome the chance to partner with you for all of your high quality graphics needs.

Justin Best Vice President – Graphics & Production justin@precisiondigitalprinting.com 870-393-5060 Troy Best Vice President – Sales & Operations troy@precisiondigitalprinting.com 870-393-5060

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THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING

Roxcel Corporation Better Packaging, Better World At Roxcel Corporation, that is the philosophy we follow. We own two paper mills and represent many other ones based in Europe. Therefore, as a business partner, we are able to bring suppliers and customers together.

Our sustainable, fiber-based products for the flexible packaging industry are an excellent replacement for unwanted single-use plastic packaging. Both as inner bags and as outer packaging, our specialty papers offer optimum protection against unwanted influences and thus maintain the quality of the packaged goods. The papers are environmentally friendly and help customers as well as consumers to make our planet a little greener.

It’s our job to provide technical support from our mills and supply your team with samples, creative solutions, and paper that will meet or exceed your product specifications.

We work with you, the independent converters, to select the correct grade of paper for the product, rolls or sheets, considering the environment you are working in.

Trust and long-term relationships are at the core of who we are and that is why we do not convert any products… We provide paper, technical support, creative solutions and resources to you so we can help you compete as an independent in this market.

Paper products we provide: • Flexible packaging paper • Corrugated virgin liner in kraft and white top • Recycled Corrugated medium and liners • Paper board of all shapes and sizes from 12pt and under to 30pt plus.

• Label paper • Technical specialty papers • Newsprint • Cover stock • Many more....

If it’s made from paper, we will be able to provide a solution out of virgin fiber, recycled or wood free products we have to offer. Let us know how we can help you!

POINTS OF DISTRIBUTION: US

CANADA

Baltimore, MD

Montreal, QC

Boston, MA

Toronto, ON

Chicago, IL Dayton, NJ Houston, TX Los Angeles, CA Philadelphia, PA Savannah, GA

Contact our Sales Team: PHILIPP FLAUDER Director of Sales Philipp.FLAUDER@roxcel.com 516-395-8970 www.linkedin.com/in/ philipp-flauder-79101ba7/ SHAD PYPER National Sales Manager Shad.Pyper@roxcelcorporation.com 801-615-1229 www.linkedin.com/in/shadpyperlinkedin/

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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Verso Corporation Productolith® Pts. put a finer point on everything you do.

Our Productolith® Pts. is a gorgeous bright-white solid bleached sulfate (SBS) paperboard that will do your brand proud.

Optics and choice, printability and price, Productolith® Pts. has it all.

FEATURES:

• Smooth fine-paper non-glare finish • Solid bleached construction provides better consistency and stability than multi-ply boards • Selection of C1S and C2S stocking items available • Custom size three day PressDate® Service • Sheets made with chain-of-custody fiber: FSC®, SFI®, PEFC™ • Manufactured with 10% post-consumer waste (PCW) recycled fiber upon request with upcharge • Backed by our guarantee of full customer and technical support from start to finish • Manufactured in the USA by an American-owned company PRODUCTOLITH® PTS. PRINT IT. LAMINATE IT. STAMP IT. SCORE IT. FOLD IT. CONVERT IT. DISPLAY IT. LOVE IT. WE ARE VERSO.

Verso’s distinguished product line, streamlined supply chain and flexible manufacturing capabilities make us ultra-responsive to market demand, extending our ability to get you the products you need, when you need them.

Verso offers the best quality printing papers with a broad selection of certified and recycled options for all types of printing applications. The Quinnesec and Escanaba mills in the Upper

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Peninsula of Michigan support availability and enable us to efficiently serve major printing hubs. We provide expert customer support, on-press technical service and insightful solutions that bring added efficiency and productivity straight to your business.

Our family of sheetfed grades offers the best available in premium, SBS paperboard through economy grades available for applications, including high end brochures, annual reports, corporate collateral, direct mail, folding cartons and general commercial printing.

Verso has been a leader in manufacturing digital papers since digital printing technology first emerged, offering specialized expertise, dedicated production capacity and one of the broadest offerings of digital-specific products in the industry.

From the industry leading premium to economy minded products we have served the laser and ElectroInk, color and black

& white digital offset technologies market with the very best in coated papers for more than two decades. And when it comes to coated web papers, our breadth and quality of web products is second to none.

Our manufacturing capabilities and an unmatched commitment to product performance, delivery and service make Verso a preferred choice among commercial printers, paper merchants and brokers, converters, publishers and other end users.

For more information, visit us online at versoco.com.

For more information please contact your local Merchant or Verso Sales professional. To request printed or unprinted samples please email Verso ExSamples® at exsamples@versoco.com or by phone at 800-638-3313.

800-258-8852 versoco.com

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

SERVICES

Johnson, Kendall & Johnson, Inc.

Safety & Risk Management Product demand in the corrugated box industry has spiked as online shopping is no longer the exception but the rule, and the market is now projected to reach $317 billion by 2023. In addition, this market enjoys a 90%+ recycling rate, making it one of the most sustainably sound products around.

Johnson, Kendall & Johnson (JKJ) has long understood the value of this unique market. An insurance brokerage and risk management firm handling programs for the packaging industry for more than 15 years, JKJ has developed the program insights and expertise necessary to offer reliable insurance and risk management guidance to our

clients, with particular focus on these critical areas: • Workers Compensation Safety º Lock Out Tag Out º Machine Guarding º OSHA Compliance º Confined Space º Forklift Training • Property Insurance Coverage and Guidance º Flood º Warehouse Storage / Racking º Sprinklers Systems º Dust Collection • Auto Insurance Including Driver Safety • Client Contract Analysis We also provide Employee Benefits offerings, including strategic consulting, brokerage and administration services that deliver maximum value to our clients and provide a best-in-class experience for their employees, excel in the health and welfare marketplace, and reduce the long-term costs of insurance.

The Johnson, Kendall & Johnson family of companies, for over 60 years, has grown to be one of the premier insurance brokerage firms in the United States. We’re focused on providing value-added and unique solutions with the most creative talent in the industry. Our associates work with our clients to address their unique issues and needs with service-oriented, value-driven and affordable risk management and insurance solutions, helping them to achieve their goals. Learn more about www.jkj.com.

Insurance — Risk Management — Employee Benefits — Safety To learn more about our service offerings, please contact Doug Friel.

Doug Friel Vice President, Commercial Insurance dfriel@jkj.com Office: 215-579-6439 Mobile: 215-962-9757

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SERVICES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

APPI Energy

APPI energy

APPI Energy: Thinking Outside the ‘Box’ for AICC Members Since 2003 WHO WE ARE

For the past 17 years, APPI Energy has proudly served AICC Associate members through their AICC-endorsed energy consulting program, a strategic partnership that has yielded significant savings for participating members.

With over 23 years in business, APPI Energy has time and time again been one of the top independent energy consulting firms in the U.S. As an independent energy consulting firm, we pride ourselves in being unbiased, striving to help clients and AICC members to reduce and manage electricity and natural gas expenses through the procurement of competitive energy supply contracts. Decisions about when to buy and contract length are based on data, analytics, and expertise.

Our consultants pride themselves in crafting solutions that fit each client’s needs. We don’t believe in a cookie-cutter, one-size-fits-all approach, and challenge ourselves to think outside the box, be innovative in our approach when it favors our clients, and to continue to push the envelope on crafting customized solutions that make sense. We have put in the hard work to build an extensive

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knowledge and expertise in the corrugated, folding carton, and rigid box industries, and continue to layer in our historical knowledge of the business interests of AICC members to make tailored recommendations.

WHAT WE DO

As the trusted energy advisor for AICC, APPI Energy provides comprehensive solutions to reduce energy expenses and create budget certainty.

Additionally, APPI Energy offers unbiased, apples to apples comparisons of supplier prices and contracts, evaluating AICC members’ energy-use history to negotiate favorable contracts with our stringently vetted suppliers.

Moreover, our work for AICC members does not end when the contract is signed. APPI Energy continues to monitor the market for future opportunities, as well as provide on-going customer support.

APPI Energy takes a holistic approach to energy management going beyond procurement to assist clients with energy efficiency, demand reduction, and sustainability. We are product and technology agnostic, and the solutions we put forth are financially and functionally vetted to decrease energy costs, reduce demand, and improve resiliency and sustainability. We work with your organization to explore, identify and formulate powerful energy solutions, including LED lighting, solar PV, renewables, demand response, combined heat and power, energy conservation measures, and battery storage.

HOW WE DO IT

APPI Energy’s operations team gathers competitive pricing from our 36 vetted and approved supplier companies to present the best possible energy solutions for our clients so they can make informed and customized purchasing decisions. We maintain a proprietary database of more than 250 million records, enabling our consultants to compare historical and realtime prices in every deregulated energy market. APPI Energy’s customer service team will guide clients through every aspect of the procedure and throughout the lifetime of their contract. They assist with account adjustments, verify bill accuracy, evaluate government policies for financial incentives and reimbursements for clients, and even determine if a client qualifies for energy sales tax exemptions.

We don’t disappear once the contract is signed, and remain truly committed to a lasting partnership that serves both your business, and the AICC as a whole.

To learn more about APPI Energy, visit appienergy.com or contact Carolyn Johnson, Senior Energy Consultant and dedicated consultant for AICC members at cjohnson@ appienergy.com or 443-614-4448.

Carolyn brings over 20 years of industry expertise, with a strong knowledge base in the paper-based packaging industry.

Carolyn Johnson Senior Energy Consultant cjohnson@appienergy. com 443-614-4448

Thank You, Education Investors These companies are making a significant contribution to the online education available to all AICC members.

For more information, contact Mike D’Angelo, President, 703.535.1386 or mdangelo@aiccbox.org.

SERVICES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

ARCO/Murray Experience a Better Way to Build At ARCO/Murray, we perfected our design-build methodology to provide clients with the best construction experience. As your single point of contact from day one, we provide you with a streamlined project delivery. Our in-house team of experts and trusted alliance partners collaborate to understand your business, anticipate your challenges and create a custom design and construction solution to fit the needs of your corrugated facility.

Our preconstruction services include land due diligence, entitlements for site selection, and existing building feasibility evaluations. Using the latest industry technology, we manage each project’s process design, including facility design layouts and the most effective equipment solutions. Our integrated project team handles a complete design solution as well as the procurement of all necessary building permits – all leading up to the seamless construction of your corrugated facility.

Whether it’s re-tooling, plant build-outs, expansions or green field construction, we have the capabilities to bring your corrugated vision to life One Company. One In-House Team. One Single Point Of Contact. One Contract.

Our true design-build approach brings together an integrated, in-house team of experts, eliminating the need for you to manage multiple relationships and coordinate the back and forth communications of traditional bid-build construction. This direct relationship with a single company, who’s responsible for every aspect of your project, means you’ll get firm pricing sooner and results faster, with much less risk.

25% Faster Project Completion 10% Lower Total Cost 30% Fewer Change Orders Let Us Build Your Next Corrugated Facility www.arcomurray.com | info@arcomurray.com 630-816-2082

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THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

SERVICES

Athena SWC

Virtual New Business Development Process For Packaging Manufacturers Since the pandemic hit, most packaging manufacturers are rethinking their strategies around traditional selling and marketing. Our customers tell us that traditional face-to-face networking with customers and building new business has been non-existent or highly limited for their sales departments.

Today, when it comes to building pipelines and supporting new account development efforts, we are seeing a big trend in diverting investments from those traditional sales resources to new virtual methods. The challenge with these virtual programs is measuring ROI and effectiveness.

ATHENA TOTAL SOLUTION MODEL

Athena provides a best practice process for both inbound and outbound marketing activities that is focused on the front end of the sales cycle. As a Certified Thomas Agency, we provide a unique blend of inbound and outbound sales and marketing strategies, including the people, processes, and tools to support all your front-end sales needs.

These marketing strategies are designed to generate highly qualified sales-ready leads that meet your company’s specific growth requirements, whether based on industry, geography, potential revenue, or other criteria. Pricing is based on a

simple monthly fee and designed based on your specific sales goals over 12 to 18 months. Customers can terminate the program (with or without cause) with a 60-day written notice.

Athena’s virtual new business development process model has helped packaging manufacturers fill their sales pipelines with a consistent flow of sales-ready qualified leads. The process provides for compressed sales cycles, increased sales rep productivity, and of course, an increased

flow of new business opportunities. With our process, you can clearly quantify and link your marketing investments to improvements in both sales productivity and increased sales revenue.

Todd Zielinski Managing Director & CEO tzielinski@athenaswc.com 716-799-9324

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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Corrugated Chemicals, Inc. Building Partnerships Through Chemistry, Process, and People Since opening our doors, we spent over 40 years committed to improving the corrugated industry – growing from a regional manufacturer to a global supplier of specialty products.

Our growth has been fueled by the ever-evolving needs of our clients while focusing on the bottom line. No matter your situation, we have a solution for you!

One of Corrugated Chemicals’ newest chemistries – MLS™ Series – helps your starch adhesive perform in overdrive so you can run at “Maximum Line Speed.” Use with any starch formula, even low solids, to allow for a quick tack for heavyweight and lightweight board grades. We recommend using this product if you are experiencing green bond, edge delam, slitter damage, or other bonding issues. As a Corrugated Chemicals Premium Liquid Bond Enhancer, this product has proven to run both lightweight and heavyweight grades at O.E.M. rated lined speeds.

Consider using this product if you are not getting the asset utilization you require on your corrugator.

CHARACTERISTICS:

• Improves run speeds on heavyweight combinations • Aggressive bond will typically allow for lower gap settings

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• Typically provides a firmer sheet off the machine • Works with light to heavyweight SW, DW and TW • Addition to starch can be automated • No change to gel or viscosity • Reduces loose edge problems • No adverse reaction with resin Contact us for more information on this and other products or services we offer.

513-561-7773 • solutions@ corrugatedchemicals.com • www.corrugatedchemicals.com Corrugated Chemicals, Inc. • 3865 Virginia Avenue • Cincinnati, OH 45227

I have been involved in the corrugated industry for over 32 years in a sales/sales

management position. Started career with Keytech/Vinings Industries selling into corrugated plants and paper mills. Vinings Industries grew from a 20 million dollar company to over 200 million dollars in sales. I took a position and part ownership of CGT Corporation start up chemical company. In 2005 sold the company and accepted a position with Corrugated Chemicals. With the vision of Tod Sistrunk, we have grown CCI from a regional specialty chemical company to a global supplier exclusively for the corrugated industry.

John Stein Business Manager jstein@corrugatedchemicals.com 865-300-2055

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

SERVICES

Detroit Box Company Tyndell Launches New Division—Detroit Box Company—and Expands Custom Products and Services With more than 40 years of experience in the packaging industry, Tyndell is proud to introduce a new division of custom packaging products and services—the Detroit Box Company. Under the leadership of Ben Tyndell, President & CEO, and Thom Hornby, Sales Director Custom Packaging Division, the Detroit Box Company offers custom packaging solutions and finishing services to meet your needs.

We specialize in manufacturing rigid boxes and folding cartons. Our capabilities include: • Rigid boxes • Turned edge rigid boxes • Folding cartons • Die cutting • Folding & gluing

• Mounting • Foil stamping • Debossing • Laser engraving • Print At the Detroit Box Company, we understand the importance of packaging. You will find our services are very flexible to suit your needs. We will work directly with you—from concept to final product—to design the perfect packaging solution for your business. Or, we are happy to partner with you, and add value to your supply chain with our exceptional finishing services.

Family owned and operated since 1978 in Livonia, Michigan, Tyndell is recognized as the leader in the photo packaging industry. We are excited to expand our capabilities beyond this scope. With our expertise and experience in manufacturing the possibilities are endless.

Contact our Sales Director to discuss packaging solutions for your business.

Thom Hornby Sales Director | Custom Packaging Division thom@detroitboxcompany.com www.detroitboxcompany.com 734-812-0241

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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SERVICES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America How Computer Based Training Extends the Value for EVOL Customers Before, During (and After) COVID-19 The ongoing and substantial investments in advanced customer support by the Corrugating Machinery Division of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America (MHIA) continue to reap rich dividends for the North American customers of our premium line of EVOL Machines, enabling them to optimize and maximize the productivity, operations, and efficiencies.

While in-plant and in-person support will always be crucial, leveraging interactive technology programs is growing in importance; lessons learned and relearned amidst the COVID-19 response, challenged with bringing new equipment during which travel to and multi-day operators up-to-speed in today’s competvisits with many independent box plants itive work environment, where customers was impractical. are seeing a high level of personnel Although launched well before the turnover. It has also served as a useful stresses of COVID-19, MHIA’s exclusive “refresher” course for current operators Computer Based 3D Training Program who are tasked with the operational (EVOL CBT) proved to be invaluable and proactive maintenance procedures in keeping EVOL customers’ machines required to keep the boxes kicking at high performing at high levels. Designed to output in our high-volume, low-marassist machine operators in learning and gin industry. implementing best practices, the subCustomer feedback, and EVOL CBT scription program’s advanced instruction, is currently in productive use at more interactive Q&A, and testing protocols. than 60 plants across North America, is The program is composed of six that the learning is not confined to the discrete modules to help operators machine operators — facility heads and achieve maximum production efficiencies: upper management are also partaking EVOL Daily and Weekly Cleaning, of the courses, gaining better insight EVOL Safety and Unit Descriptions, in how to keep our machines in profitEVOL Preventive Maintenance, EVOL able operation.

Unit Control – Pushbuttons, EVOL Even as some travel restrictions have FE and CE Touchpanels, and EVOL been lifted — and I’ve been so pleased Basic Calibrations. to start seeing customers again face-toWe developed the new program at the face and work with them on optimizing request of current customers who were their EVOLs — we’ve been receiving a

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great amount of productive feedback on how to expand on our current six CBT modules, ensuring that we can take advantage of their insight and learnings to provide even greater instruction in the classroom.

Levi Colvin started at his first box plant in 2003. He worked his way up from machine operator and lead operator to superintendent and plant manager for box manufacturers across the United States.

With MHIA for the past six years, he brings a wealth of experience to every EVOL customer, leveraging this unique amalgam of mechanical, electrical, operational, and management expertise.

Levi Colvin Senior Field Service Engineer LColvin@mhicorr.com

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SERVICES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Mid America Paper Recycling Generating Maximum Cash Flow from Recyclables As a full-service recycling company, Mid America Paper Recycling recognizes customer challenges in securing reliable revenue streams. Understanding the characteristics of a quality load of recycled paper and paperboard can be difficult for corrugated converters, as each paper mill has a different “recipe,” or set of criteria, based on its specific needs. Thus, some incoming loads to a mill may not truly fit into its process. Through education and regular communication, we assist each party in recognizing quality materials, so such materials flow through to the appropriate material stream. That allows the mill to maximize the value for corrugated and paperboard, providing converters with confidence in the material quality at the mill, and securing a buyer for the waste.

Paperboard is a highly renewable resource, so recovery is crucial. Corrugated has one of the highest recycling rates of recyclable materials. But too many contaminants can ruin an entire load of what appears to be high quality used, recycled board. To combat this problem, Mid America Paper Recycling will present a robust recycling program that features consultation services, documentation, quantification, and the presentation of specific and overall value that can be realized from your waste streams.

With an eye on continuous improvement, we work closely with folding carton and corrugated converters as well as other businesses that generate paper waste. Our objective is to identify where their waste is generated, establish key collection procedures, and set goals that will continually improve their waste stream’s revenue contribution to the business.

Mid America Paper Recycling walks through hundreds of facilities, waste

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generators and paper mills. So we understand your operations and the equipment used, pairing your scrap to a mill’s specific material recipe that creates its finished product. Often, multiple grades are used to establish the strength and folding characteristics required to manufacture the various layers of a finished product.

“We work with customers to design solutions that align with their individual growth objectives. We meet each quarter with the operational teams, setting goals and objectives that are important to their businesses,” explains Mid America’s President Paul Pirkle. “We track our progress and carry out the initiatives. We also submit documentation and analysis to our suppliers, using the information to shape the initiatives that will bring tangible value to our client’s business. We then review past objectives to ensure we are completing them or making progress. This proactive communication helps continually improve customer relationships. It’s a differentiator.”

Mid America keeps tabs on facilities that source the various materials. “When we go to a supply point, we assess all of the material available, and factor in what’s best suited to each customer, documenting those requirements, and that’s what we deliver,” Pirkle adds.

Sourcing strategies, a long history, experience, insight and relationships give Mid America Paper Recycling the tools to grow “value streams” with its suppliers and provide paper mills and corrugated and paperboard converters with reliable service.

We have contact with hundreds of mills and converters around the country; this gives us unique insight into these processes.

The manufacturing operations of a typical paper or container board plant can generate thousands of tons of pre-consumer, high-grade, recyclable paper, production trim waste and paperboard waste annually.

In 2018, the folding carton industry alone shipped about five million tons of product.

This can generate significant revenues for clients of Mid America Paper Recycling.

“Our goal is to find every option available to minimize waste and grow customer revenue from that waste,” Pirkle summarizes. “When recyclables are wasted, no one benefits.”

Mid America Paper Recycling provides recycling solutions for partners ranging from small businesses to large multinational corporations. Founded in 1926, the fourth-generation independent broker processor and exporter of recovered paper in the Central United States uses waste handling processes proven effective in its own headquarters facility in Chicago. We utilize our own fleet and select freight partners to transport waste between suppliers, warehouses, and buyers. Let us help you transform your waste streams into value streams.

To learn more about our complimentary recycling audit, call Paul Pirkle, President, at 630-730-9055, email at ppirkle@midamericapaper.com or visit www.midamericapaper.com.

A 25-year veteran of the printing industry, Paul Pirkle has reaffirmed our strategic focus on continuous improvement principles and established partnerships with many large printing and packaging companies to turn their waste streams into growing value streams.

Previously, Paul served as President/CEO of Modagrafics, Inc., Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Buhl Press, and Vice President of Commercial Web Sales with Manroland.

Paul Pirkle President ppirkle@ midamericapaper.com Office: 773-890-5454 ext. 11 Cell: 630-730-9055

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

SERVICES

Oberg and Associates, LLC

T

he landscape of the Corrugated Industry is changing at an exciting pace.

The issues you manage as a business owner are complex and dynamic: mergers and acquisitions, market shifts, digital printing, capital investments, and succession planning, just to name a few.

The solutions you develop to address these challenges are all based on one

common assumption: having the right talent available to execute your vision.

The perfect company vision is useless without the right team to drive it home. A team with industry experience, a motor to rise to challenges as they arrive, and the ability to see your vision through.

Neither Microsoft nor Amazon would have made it out of the garage without the help of strong and willing teams. I imagine none of your companies did either.

Do you have the time, or knowledge of the invisible talent market to provide yourself the means to execute on your vision?

We’ve been recruiting in the corrugated industry for over 30 years now, and there are several things we still can’t do: We can’t remove warp from your board. We can’t reduce your returns and allowances.

We can’t lower your $/msf.

But, we can partner with you to identify, attract, and hire the talent that will.

We will provide certainty of outcome.

It all starts with a conversation …

Oberg and Associates, LLC, is the dominant recruiting resource in the North American Corrugated Industry.

We are located in Addison, TX. Our client and employee relationships are based upon three non-negotiable principles: 1. Open and Honest Communication 2. Mutual Respect 3. Hard Results Roy Oberg has been recruiting in the Corrugated Industry for over 30 years. He has authored numerous articles and presentations on the topics of recruiting, employee retention, and talent trends. He can be reached at roy@obergassociates.com or 972-239-3315 ext. 1.

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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SERVICES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Price & Pierce International Inc., Division of OVOL Price & Pierce International, Inc. – Independent Global Partner for Containerboard, Paper, and related Substrates and Services representing Hamburger Containerboard – Europe’s market leader in coated and uncoated white top testliner Since 1869, Price & Pierce has been synonymous with global supply chain for premium containerboard, paper, and related substrates. Our value to the independent box manufacturing communities is unparalleled, bringing the world to their plant! Our experience has resulted in long-standing relationships with customers, suppliers, and organizations with capabilities that allow us to transact in any market worldwide.

Price & Pierce is part of OVOL, a global network with annual revenues exceeding USD $5 billion. OVOL (Japan Pulp & Paper) is one of the world’s largest independent distributors of forest products in the world.

• 50 offices—In 22 countries, staffed with experienced professionals who understand how to deliver what is needed in their local markets.

• 10 divisions—Each providing a full spectrum of paper, pulp, and consultative supply chain services.

• Customer focus—We provide systems, insight, and support to help you meet your overall business goals, not just your delivery date.

Though we are global, our strength is how we execute on a local basis. Our

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people welcome the opportunity to help our customers find the right mix of price, quality, and service. Each customer enjoys a platform that is constructed around their unique requirements. Our services extend beyond price … mill/product strategic sourcing, demand forecasting and production planning, financing, logistics, and staying current with international trading terms and customs requirements.

We deliver a comprehensive global supply chain management program so that you never run out of paper.

Our products are custom-matched or developed to our customers’ most exacting requirements along with custom warehousing options for customer dedicated stock. We are excited about paper packaging and have a wide offering of substrates in both virgin kraft and recycled containerboard/testliner, both brown and white top (coated and uncoated), and our products perform for a range of conversion and printing techniques, including digital print. Just ask us!

In the North American Market, we proudly represent Hamburger Containerboard which is part of the Austrian based Prinzhorn group. With over 2.47 Million TPY of production capacity and box plants of their own, Hamburger Containerboard is one of Europe’s leading corrugated manufacturers. As an integrated company Hamburger Containerboard will have a greater understanding of your plant and will provide higher quality technical

sales service than a non-integrated producer can.

As requirements for print quality evolve along with environmental concerns, Hamburger’s White Top grades made from 100% post consumer waste should be an important consideration for your substrate needs. Hamburger is the market leader in coated and uncoated white top testliner. With the major investments they’ve recently made, they are about to get a lot better.

At their Trostberg mill in Germany they have successfully installed a new curtain coater which will improve the quality of the smoothness, gloss, color shade, and overall runnability and printability of their coated grades. With these improvements Hamburger plans to re-launch its coated white top product line next year.

At their Spremberg mill, also in Germany, Hamburger is expanding their production capacity another 500,000 tpy.

This will be one of the most modern and efficient paper mills in Europe producing high quality white and brown containerboard grades.

Please contact us to find out more.

James Costenbader President, Price & Pierce JCostenbader@ovol.us 212-301-8687

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

SERVICES

Printers 401k® Sponsor a Better Retirement Plan One thing we have learned over the years is companies are focused on finding cost-efficiencies and ways to help reduce the amount of time employees are spending on administrative functions. We have found 401(k) administration is a chore for most employers.

In most 401(k) programs, the administrative burden falls solely on the employer and they are working with service providers whose agendas do not always align with theirs.

As a Plan Sponsor working with Responsible Plan Fiduciaries, you can solve these issues. Acting in the best interests of your plan or plan participants should be an easy standard to meet — after all it’s the right thing to do.

The Printers401k® Program provides a complete solution to retirement plan management. Including accepting Fiduciary responsibility and taking your name off the 401k Plan documents.

Therefore, shielding you from personal liability which as a Plan Sponsor you would normally be subject to. “If you sign your plan’s 5500 or are listed as the Plan Administrator you are the responsible party.”

We lighten your load by providing for easy administration and operation

– your responsibilities are to upload payroll files, which can be integrated with payroll, and provide year end data. The Printers 401k® Plan Experts1 manage the rest.

In our experience companies who participate in the Printers 401k® program have achieved these successful outcomes: 1. Peace of mind knowing the Printers 401k® Plan Experts take on additional tasks so their staff can focus on other responsibilities 2. A reduction in total 401k plan costs 3. Better investment options Your time is valuable, that is why the Printers 401k® Retirement Plan Experts do the work for you.

Joe Trybula, CFP®, AIF ® is the Vice President of Diversified Financial Advisors, LLC and a Registered Investment Adviser with more than 20 years of experience of providing professional management of corporate retirement programs.

Joe Trybula Vice President joe@printers401k.com 800-307-0376

1 Printers 401k® Plan Experts 402(a) Named Fiduciary: PISTL Service Corp (PSC) accepts the role of an ERISA 402(a) Named Fiduciary and assumes discretionary authority for nearly all the plan sponsor’s responsibilities.

ERISA 3(16) Plan Administrator: PCS accepts the role of the named “Plan Administrator” and principal fiduciary for administrative functions of the plan, relieving you and your staff of these plan administration duties and day-to-day operations.

ERISA 3(38) Investment Manager: Diversified Financial Advisors, LLC serves as the Investment Manager, taking full fiduciary responsibility and discretion for the selection and monitoring of the investments. They assist the Plan Sponsor through the entire process, from creating their specific plan provisions to enrollment for plan participants.

Discretionary Trustees: The Printing Industries 401k Trustees take the role as the Discretionary Plan Trustee and provide oversight on the plan service providers.

ERISA Attorney: Is retained to ensure the program is up-to-date and in regulatory compliance.

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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SERVICES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Pro Services, Inc.

Leave your production maintenance to the PROS • #1 Service Provider of professional skilled maintenance technicians for the corrugator industry • US Dept of Labor Journeyman apprenticeship program with corrugator specific industry training • Trained Journeyman Craftsmen for Corrugator Equipment installs and upgrades • Trained Journeyman Craftsmen for Support Equipment installs and upgrades • Leading supplier of trained Journeyman maintenance technicians for manufacturing industries

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MAINTENANCE SOLUTIONS

WORLD-CL ASS TRAINING

Since 1987, Pro Services Inc. has provided Skilled Trades and Production Maintenance Services to industrial, commercial, and residential customers nationwide. As a solution to the lack of maintenance talent within the manufacturing industry, Pro Services founded Pro FMT (Full-Service Maintenance Teams), which provides professional maintenance support services for many customers in the manufacturing and corrugated industries.

The Pro FMT division performs production maintenance in industrial environments specializing in the areas of production equipment, ancillary process support equipment, and all facility systems. Utilizing Pro FMT results in reduced unplanned downtime and decreased maintenance costs. Pro provides ongoing maintenance support, allowing customers to focus on their core competencies. Pro FMT consists of hand-selected individuals with specific skill sets, allowing Pro to make an immediate impact on unplanned downtime.

Pro Services has invested time and resources into industry leading training initiatives in support of the many nationwide industries they support. The investments they have made in education and training across many manufacturing industries are world-class and keep their technicians at the top of their game in support of their customers. As a key supplier to the corrugator industry, and with the addition of a new corrugator training program, Pro Services welcomes manufacturers from across the country to take a look at their services and see if there is something to offer you today or in the future.

To contact Pro Services, visit www. prosatwork.com, call 269-327-2322, or email info@prosatwork.com. info@prosatwork.com 269-327-2322

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

SERVICES

Working Well

Dammit!

Everyone is talking about it: “I can’t find people willing to work in manufacturing.”

“I can’t get the people I employ to use judgment to solve problems.”

“I have trouble retaining capable people.”

“I need to figure out how to get long term capable employees to give their best effort.”

Scott Ellis is doing something about it.

The two volumes in the Intentional Culture series, Changed People Change Process and the new book Dammit, Learning Judgment Through Experience, are practical guides to involvement of team members in the improvement experience that build buy-in and know-how.

These books tell you both why and how

to use the many planning, problem-solving, and project management insights they describe.

You may choose a single tool to begin engaging a team in problem-solving, planning, or project tracking. Many equip their training room with the whole array of tools. Durable dry erase versions of all the tools are available to help you make these activities second nature, a part of the way you get things done every day.

Working Well exists to train, coach, and build resources for leading, teaming, and working well.

Dr. Scott Ellis describes himself as a Culture Tech, “because my job is to help you fix what is ineffective about the way things are getting done and then I get out of the way. Also, because mention of the

term Organizational Psychology tends to induce yawning.”

Books, articles, and process improvement tools are available at Workingwell.bz and on Amazon. Working Well helps you make best practice common practice.

Scott Ellis, Ed.D., delivers training, coaching, and resources that develop the ability to eliminate obstacles and sustain more effective and profitable results. He recently published Dammit, Learning Judgment Through Experience. His books are available on Amazon. Scott can be reached at 425-985-8508 or scott@workingwell.bz.

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

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SOFTWARE AND ELECTRONICS THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Kiwiplan, Inc. Driving Cost Reductions On behalf of Kiwiplan Global, we welcome our fellow AICC members to 2021! I think we would all agree that 2020, one way or the other, was an extraordinary year. While we all continue to battle the pandemic, our industry is properly placed to directly contribute to the essential operations that drive the nation’s supply chain. Our discussions with you, our valued partners, reveal an inspirational story of change and resiliency. We salute and support you.

Flexibility and cost reduction are the order of the day. Kiwiplan’s successful 24/7 global network model has been further enhanced to extend our remote workforce structured to complement our customers’ daily business operations and their strategic objectives. Together, we are tackling every barrier to success with commitment and focus. Kiwiplan’s seamless project management, training, implementations, and technical support are available online, including a new suite of web courses tailored for our remote customers.

Current conditions emphasize the need for cost reductions throughout your enterprise. Kiwiplan tools are built explicitly for this purpose.

David Mitchell, Kiwiplan’s Director of Global Consulting, cites the following key areas: Drive cost reductions throughout your business with Kiwiplan • Reduce material cost and waste by automating your roll-stock ordering process, aligning your on-hand inventory for each season’s demand and your plant’s current performance—order the correct rollstock to minimize inventories and schedule for the lowest cost solution daily.

• Reduce converting waste and downtime on the factory floor through

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the advanced, automated sequencing of your complex order mix tailored to exploit your complement of high speed and conventional machinery and adaptable to ever changing productivity rates and order entry.

• Reduce labor and overtime costs with real-time views of load, lateness and machine hour utilization, designed to enhance your ability to make proactive, timely decisions in the scheduling of every machine hour.

• Reduce shipping costs through the automated dispatch planning for all orders to warehouses and customers with live views of 3D trailer loading solutions, route maps and order statuses with the ability to drive a total plant, pull scheduling solution with visibility for all departments.

Our software development emphasizes increased alignment of financial status and exposure, cost estimating, pricing management and automated customer service workflows. Manufacturing integration enhances plant automation and user interaction in key areas for seamless connectivity to machines to automate the collection of machine setup, production, quality, downtime and waste data with accuracy.

Dashboards allow management to replace laborious data collection with dynamic business intelligence that highlights requisite focus areas and priorities through actionable and timely information.

And as always, historical data is available for the calculation of calculating post-production costing in the business system which can be consolidated for single and multi-facility enterprise level analyses.

Additional cost reduction strategic development areas include: • Comprehensive Business Intelligence data warehouse

• Customer and sales force portal • Connectivity with industry design systems • Administration of solid fibre top sheet ordering, roll sheeter and laminator scheduling, and sheet/ roll consumption • Inline system connectivity for quality control and measurement systems with SPC performance statistics • Tactical dashboards for Consolidated Waste, Overall and Total Equipment Effectiveness • Key electronic links with digital printer equipment to support advanced automation, scheduling solutions and costing impact required for digital lines and operations AICC leaders remain committed to significant CapEx and OpEx investments.

New plants, new machines, infrastructure improvements and the evaluation of current ERP and Manufacturing Execution Software capabilities to enhance these investments are being made throughout our industry. As our current and prospective partners perform their due diligence, we appreciate the opportunity to share both a common vision for our future and a sustained partnership.

Please contact us to explore a solution for your business.

Dana is a 38-year IT veteran with 25 years in the corrugated packaging industry at Kiwiplan Inc. Dana Disney Sr. Account Executive Kiwiplan Americas

People | Knowledge | Software | Services

So you want to reduce material cost and waste, reduce converting waste and downtime, reduce labor and overtime costs and reduce shipping costs...

Improve production efficiency, quality and automation

The smart solution? ... smart software Reduce costs

Connecting you to smart software solutions

Increase visibility and communication throughout your business

Provide premier customer service

www.kiwiplan.com

 @KiwiplanGlobal #followkiwiplan

SOFTWARE AND ELECTRONICS THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Advantzware

Advantzware – Customers First, Customers for Life.

There are a lot of ERP systems in the market, but the difference is in how you choose your partner. A great ERP system is only as good as the people that provide you with extraordinary customer service when your company depends on it most. Choosing the right partner that will provide the software, support, and training for successfully implementing any ERP system is as important as selecting the right software.

For over 30 years, Advantzware has put our clients first. Our Customers First, Customers for Life is something we not only say, but is the foundation for everything we do. Our goal of meeting customers’ needs and creating experiences that lead to improved productivity and profitability with minimum levels of aggravation and stress drives us to innovate. Every new feature enhancement is based on our experience in working with our customers and getting their view and feedback before any changes are made. Depending on the customer’s business needs, configurations can be turned on if any new enhancements are desired whenever necessary, but until then they remain available but not active.

Updates with new features are included in all support agreements and are made available monthly. This ensures customers receive the return from their investment and a minimal amount of disturbance to ongoing operations.

The demands of being an essential business today come with the need for a partner

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with the experience, tools, and solutions to provide real-time visibility into their operations to better streamline production and save time and money. Advantzware sells only what is available to deliver today, without promises of things to come. A core set of modules, plus a configurable set of optional modules work seamlessly together for highly efficient data entry and information workflow from a team that cares about you, your business, and your success. The results with any ERP system should be focused on growth, profitability, reliability, and visibility with Advantzware that comes from a partner you can depend on for years to come.

It’s been a tough few months as we navigate a new normal and do it in different ways, but if anything, this is a case where the right partner can be critical to your success. Amidst all the uncertainty, the industry has seen growth and new challenges to many packaging companies of all sizes. It is abundantly clear that having solid partnerships is more important than ever as a shift in packaging offerings, disturbances in the sourcing process, challenges with operations, and remote working environments impact the industry. While the needs of each customer are admittedly different, collaborative business relationships are the undisputed linchpin of the packaging industry’s successful return to normal.

So, Advantzware has been working tirelessly alongside our customers to deliver solutions to shift production and demand patterns with innovation designed to address the requirements of an independent packaging plant, full converting operation or part of an integrated company. Having a flexible and comprehensive technology system actively built with you in mind will be absolutely critical to successfully navigating through these times.

WE’RE HERE TO HELP

At Advantzware, a team of experts are always on stand-by to work hand in hand with partners to identify goals, business requirements, and the resources needed to ensure the implementation of Advantzware is successful for any organization. Advantzware is dedicated to your success and they are ready to help in any way they can by providing customers with: • Live Help Desk • Customer Portal for real-time support details • Free “Ask the Experts” monthly training webinars • Quarterly Update webinars • Customer Audits to maximize the use of the system • Detailed release notes and documentation • Appliance and Hosted options for guaranteed system performance Whether your business is large or small, there are several ERP benefits your company can gain. To learn more about how Advantzware can help transform your company, get in touch and see the results.

Investing in Advantzware since 2015 and growing the organization to make a change in the way ERP systems were utilized in the industry has been our focus as most customers are still using a legacy system that lacks the needs of today’s environment. We are focused on the long term and look forward to speaking to you if you are interested in an ERP partner that puts you first and keeps you there.

Jay Farr CEO jay.farr@advantzware.com 215-369-7800 ext. 5 Advantzware.com

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

SOFTWARE AND ELECTRONICS

OMP S&OP for Paper Packaging Manufacturers OMP helps companies facing complex planning challenges to excel, grow and thrive by offering the best digitized supply chain planning solution on the market.

Hundreds of customers in a wide range of industries – spanning consumer goods, life sciences, chemicals, metals, paper and packaging – benefit from using OMP’s unique Unison Planning™ concept.

COMPLETE SOLUTION

OMP for Packaging is the leading supply chain planning solution for the paper packaging industry. Offering a user friendly, comprehensive and fully integrated production planning and control solution to shorten lead times, guarantee order reliability all the while minimizing cost of production. OMP delivers an extensive and fully integrated set of solutions for forecasting and S&OP, capacity planning, order promising, corrugator trimming, scheduling, transportation scheduling, shop-floor data collection, large displays, quality tracking and management reporting.

LONGER TERM PL ANNING IS NOW A MUST HAVE

Paper packaging manufacturers must continually evolve their products and services to their customers. As a long-term solution provider to the industry, OMP is also constantly broadening its offering to help its customers excel at delivering the perfect order. We deliver solutions that enable our customers to be proactive in their short and long-term planning, thus delivering a more stable plan for manufacturing execution, leading to higher efficiencies, less waste and happy packaging buyers. Corrugator trimming and conversion scheduling is no longer

enough of a differentiator in today’s competitive market. Packaging manufacturers, to remain competitive, must extend their planning horizon beyond the typical norm of hours and days, to weeks and months.

INDUSTRY FIRST

OMP’s Forecasting and S&OP for paper packaging manufacturers, a first for the industry, enables our customers to gain control of their longer-term planning.

S&OP is a planning activity that balances the commercial objectives of sales and marketing with operational capabilities and capacity. An optimal S&OP solution should not only balance sales with operations, it should also drive the business to target opportunities that generate healthy contribution margins all the while respecting customer service level agreements.

Paper packaging manufacturers operating multiple sites face tough decisions as to what plant should run what lines of business; by implementing S&OP, businesses are able to make decisions on the mission of each of their facilities, thus increasing consensus, profitability and throughput. We like to call it value based planning.

Box makers face a unique challenge when tackling an S&OP implementation.

They manufacture thousands of different products for myriad customers. Trying to plan on a longer-term horizon using individual SKU’s is just not practical.

OMP’s S&OP solves this problem with an out of the box solution.

The S&OP exercise includes decisions such as sourcing, capacity and resource allocation, inventory management, demand shaping and incorporates the domains of supply, manufacturing and distribution. Solving and evaluating such a wide array of cases requires a solution that enables comparison of different situations. The OMP solution enables this evaluation through scenario management by volume as well as financial comparison.

Plan to succeed by planning ahead!

Peter is leading the business development efforts for mill products industries in the Americas with a special focus on the paper packaging industry.

Peter Dobell Senior Business Development Manager pdobell@ompartners.com +1-770-956-2722

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SOFTWARE AND ELECTRONICS THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

WSA-USA, LLC Historically in the corrugated industry the conveyor on the shop floor was used solely as the carrier for physical product units from one operation to the next.

Factory automation was accomplished by attaching a paper tag with unit identification and characteristics, and a barcode.

Integration with external systems for shipping, finished goods, and other parts of the process would be accomplished by scanning the unit barcode with separate individual interfaces whenever customization to the manufacturing process was required.

In short, the conveyor carried the physical unit, but the tag and barcode carried the associated information. Indeed, the conveyor itself might be aware that it was carrying a unit, but it would typically not be aware of which unit it was carrying.

Enter iFAS iFAS changes this paradigm completely. iFAS communicates continuously with the conveyor PLC control systems, as well as with any customer-specific information system that describes how specific orders, and even specific units, are to be manufactured. Every change in every sensor and actuator on the conveyor line is communicated to iFAS. iFAS uses this information to know exactly where each and every unit is at all times. It also knows the specific behavior that should be applied to that unit at each step of the production process. iFAS additionally maintains an accurate to-scale visual representation of the entire

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conveyor line, which makes it easy for operators and maintenance personnel to understand why the line is behaving the way it is, and to know in advance the actions that will be taken for specific orders and units.

Triggers and Unit-Centric Behavior As a unit traverses the conveyor, any sensor on the conveyor line can be used as an iFAS trigger point. If a photo eye is covered, or uncovered, that can be implemented as a trigger point. Any trigger point can be attached to custom business logic which references customer order or scheduling information, to force a decision. This is the heart of how iFAS factory automation functions.

In legacy conveyor systems, operators will historically press buttons or flip switches on an HMI panel to change product flow and behavior for a custom case. This includes commands like load building parameters, implementing pad insertion, strapping configurations… iFAS allows assignment of triggers and

per-implementation business logic to automate each of these custom processes.

When a unit approaches a defined trigger point, the business logic looks at features on the order from ERP, or the schedule from the scheduling system, and automatically executes the desired logic.

This allows us to have truly unit-specific behavior at each step in an automated line.

Because iFAS is designed to be the hub that integrates information and carries it with units throughout the production process, it has been designed to be integrated with a myriad of customer specific shop floor systems.

Contact WSA USA to learn more about how iFAS can help automate your factory to Industry 4.0 Standards for maximized productivity and efficiency.

Doug Vandergriff North American Sales Director dvandergriff@wsa-usa.com 513-588-3188 info@wsa-usa.com

New & Returning Members

Welcome, New & Returning Members!

SOUTHEASTERN CORRUGATED, LLC PHILLIP CASE CFO 10901 Carpet St. Charlotte, NC 28273 980-224-9551 www.southeasterncorrugated.com

MID-STATES PACKAGING INC. JEFFREY DAVIDSON President 12163 State Route 274 Lewistown, OH 43333 937-585-5361 www.midstatespackaging.com

ATLANTIC PACKAGING SCOTT QUINN Executive/Sales 5101 Coosaw Creek Blvd.

N. Charleston, SC 29423 855-552-2697 www.atlanticpkg.com

IN N OVATIN G RELIABLE, PROV EN , COST-SAV IN G SOLUTION S FOR TH E CORRUGATED IN D USTRY SIN CE 1 9 3 2 Silver Sponsor

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AICC Innovation

INNOVATION Workforce Development

Bringing Qualified Candidates to Member Plants

A

ICC’s partner JobPath is an innovative online job portal designed to connect military veterans with employers and to help members solve their ongoing need for qualified candidates.

AICC members can post jobs for free or purchase discounted subscriptions to have their positions promoted to qualified candidates.

Launched in 2013, JobPath, the first employment engine in the market designed for military veterans and their families, provides companies a platform that uses advanced technology to help employers understand and connect with the most qualified veteran candidates.

JobPath features multiple tools to bring veterans and employers together, including a Job Board, Candidate Database, and Candidate Matching, an automated matching tool that connects employers with candidates whose skills meet companies’ requirements, plus a Military Skills Translator, allowing companies to fully understand what job a veteran held in the military and how their skills may apply to

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open positions at companies. The platform will link to certain AICC Packaging School courses so that candidates can get an understanding of the packaging industry, another step to ensuring a good match.

AICC members will have access to special pricing for employee searches and job postings through the AICC JobPath portal. Learn more at www.aiccbox.org/jobs.

AICC Innovation

Leadership

Becoming a Leader Through a Crisis

BY LAUREN FRISCH

B

ecoming a powerful leader is challenging enough when the waters are calm. Leaders need to ensure that their entire team is rowing in the right direction, that high-quality work is being produced, and that team members receive the support they need and deserve to succeed. These are not easy tasks.

Then you add external complications that make becoming a great leader even more difficult.

I am going to call the entire year of 2020 a major disruption. The good news is that where there is disruption, there are opportunities especially for us up-and-coming leaders. 2020 shook us out of complacency with existing processes and habits, leading us to question all current practices. In the times of heightened anxiety and stress, our companies did (and are still doing) our best to cope with a highly uncertain and rapidly evolving business landscape. How we were running our businesses a year ago is very different from how we are conducting business today. The change in business has created a rare opportunity for us to rise to the challenges and become the strong and inspiring leaders you have dreamed of. I ask you to reflect on how you have personally handled the chaos, the uncertainty, and the challenges. Were you a problem-starter or problem-solver for your company? Did you step up to the plate, or did you sit on the bench?

This time in life is a defining moment, and what we do matters today and for the future of our companies. Leaders are not born, they are made. Leaders are forged through crisis. During a crisis, leaders are made more powerful with bigger impacts

than they are through stability or periods of great triumph. Crises are crucial for leaders and ultimately create the man and woman. Adjust your mindset to think of crises as a classroom where leaders are forced to learn, experience, grow, and change quickly through the turbulence.

My most significant revelation I learned through 2020 is to embrace uncertainty. As leaders need to be comfortable with confidently making the best decision you can at that given time with the given information.

Nobody has a GPS system that tells you exactly how to navigate your team to the finish line, but you need to keep moving from point to point until you get there.

Realize you may need to pivot and switch directions when you recognize there is a better path to get to your goal.

Switch directions, acknowledge your mistakes, learn, and quickly move to the next point. Embrace the idea of change and work with it, rather than allowing

change to make you feel powerless.

Courageous leaders understand they will make mistakes along the way and learn as they go. The only thing in life we can be certain about is where we have been and what we have done in the past.

Where we are going is always new and an uncertain adventure.

As a young leader, please remember that you are stronger than you know. You can do this. We will all be remembered for how we managed ourselves and others through the 2020 crisis. How will you, your team, and your organization persevere and progress? How will you emerge from these unprecedented times as a stronger leader?

Lauren Frisch is in sales at Wasatch Container.

She can be reached at lauren.frisch@ wasatchcontianer.com.

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NAVIGATING THE NEW NORMAL Looking back at 2020, preparing for 2021

By Robert Bittner

T

he year 2020 was unlike any other in living memory. In addition to an economic recession and the usual series of workplace challenges—from improving efficiency to engaging a younger workforce—COVID-19 fundamentally changed the way boxmakers did business.

For some, it even affected the kind of business they did, with once popular products slipping into the background as retailers and consumers alike adjusted to the “new normal.” There were bright spots as well, as manufacturers discovered that some of the solutions they initiated as a result of the coronavirus introduced efficiencies and other improvements that could be beneficial moving forward.

COVID-19 demonstrated how unpredictable the future can be, making it particularly challenging to predict the next 12 months. Adam Josephson, who tracks the containerboard industry as director of equity research/analyst for KeyBanc, says, “It’s difficult, if not impossible, to extrapolate much from what’s transpired in 2020 in terms of what to expect in 2021. We don’t know if we’re going to get a second massive government stimulus package. We don’t know what the COVID-19 situation will be like going forward. At this point [in 2020], we don’t know what the president’s

policies will be. ...We don’t know what the rest of the global economy will look like.” Despite these uncertainties, industry analysts and boxmakers believe there are some key takeaways from 2020 that can help to strengthen the industry and help manufacturers successfully navigate whatever 2021 might bring.

2020 Hindsight Taking a macro view of the global industry over the last year, Josephson says, “The U.S. market has been better than I think anyone thought it would be. Demand has been healthy amid a recession and pandemic. Brazil also has seen surprisingly good demand. Mexico and Europe haven’t been so good.

China’s been mixed. Demand trends have varied considerably based on the region.”

He believes the key factor driving these trends has been each country’s level of government deficit spending. “The two countries with the best demand trends this year—the U.S. and Brazil—have governments that spent an extraordinary amount of money to shore up their economies,” he says. Josephson credits deficit spending with having much more impact on the industry last year than, say, the growth of e-commerce.

Tom Weber, folding carton and rigid box technical advisor for AICC, notes that 2020 business varied dramatically among his clients, based on their core markets. “I have some clients that can’t keep up because demand is so high; they tend to be the boxmakers focusing on the food and medical segments. I have others that are running at 30%–50% reductions in volume, because they happen to be more general businesses, serving a wide variety of clients.”

That echoes the experience at StandFast Packaging Group, according to President Jay Carman, AICC’s current chairman. “When COVID-19 hit, we saw a surge in business, particularly with food-and-beverage and virus test-kit packaging,” he reports.

However, when the plant was hit by the virus in early March, despite following CDC safety protocols, productivity fell just as demand was peaking. (All of those who contracted the virus have fully recovered.) “We went from business being good to having a hard time meeting demand, causing our lead times to go out,” Carman recalls. “By April, we were having a really tough time. In May and June, we had to focus on putting additional health and safety measures in place and catch up with our backlog.”

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Since then, demand has steadily increased, and today business is strong— so strong, in fact, that an EVOL flexo folder gluer purchased a couple of years ago, which had been running at only 50% capacity, is now running two 12-hour shifts every day. Carman attributes that to a “sudden increase in demand for e-commerce packaging, along with a lot of business coming from food-and-beverage and cleaning-products/sanitizer companies.”

Even though StandFast does not do a large business in displays, Carman says he has seen the retail side of their business slow down as a result of the virus. That decreased demand at retail seems to reflect the shift in shopping patterns as a result of COVID-19 lockdowns; with months of little to no casual customer browsing in retail stores, there has been reduced value in customer-facing packaging and displays.

“People just aren’t going into stores and admiring the eight-color litho-printed box or browsing the in-store displays,” explains Ralph Young, AICC’s corrugated technical advisor. “People aren’t buying that way as much now,” he says, having been forced to purchase almost exclusively from online vendors during lockdown. “When you shop online, you see the products; you don’t see the box. The box is no longer a billboard helping to make the sale. This whole push that we’ve seen toward more eye-catching boxes is no longer as relevant.”

Continuing Challenges Of course, COVID-19 was not the only challenge to boxmakers in 2020 that will continue to resonate throughout the new year.

“I think the issue of recyclability is going to remain significant for the industry,” Young notes. “We’ve done a wonderful job when it comes to managing corrugated cartons, cereal boxes, things like that. But we still depend on waxed boxes when it comes to safely packaging meats and other food items, and wax boxes have always

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“I think paperboard packaging and corrugated packaging are perfectly suited for today, tomorrow, and decades to come. It remains a robust means to deliver product to market in a very graphic way. I only see it growing.”

—Tom Weber, AICC folding carton and rigid box technical advisor been difficult to recycle. That’s an area where we may see some improvement.”

Such developments should be paired with continuing efforts to promote the benefits of the humble box, Weber believes. “I think paperboard packaging and corrugated packaging are perfectly suited for today, tomorrow, and decades to come. It remains a robust means to deliver product to market in a very graphic way. I only see it growing. As we become more sensitive to our environmental responsibilities, I think people will begin to recognize even more deeply the impacts of using plastics and even semirecyclable items versus fully recycled and recyclable items like paper. It’s a strategic advantage that will continue to deliver great results.”

Perhaps the biggest concern for boxmakers this past year, though, has been ensuring the health and safety of their workforce by exploring a variety of new ways of conducting business, including moving office staff and others to work-from-home situations.

“Customer service people can speak to customers from anywhere,” Weber acknowledges. “With virtually every company shutting down supplier visits, salespeople are now off the road and working from home as well. And there are lots of hybrid situations, where some are working from home and some still need to come in to the workplace.

“I see some of these workplace changes becoming permanent,” he says, “because

leaders have found that they’re effective.

They protect their people and their client base, they provide much-needed latitude for employees looking for some flexibility in the workplace, and they help to keep costs down. Even a year from now, I think there’ll be 20%–40% of businesses that will still be operating this way because it works.”

Christine Walters, HR and employment law consultant and founder of FiveL Co., agrees. If employees are reacting positively to some of the changes, and productivity is where it needs to be, there may be no reason to return to the previous way of doing things. “This might be a new normal,” she says. “But that’s going to vary from company to company, based on what works for them and what doesn’t.”

Managing the New Normal With a “new normal” come new challenges. For example, while some positions can be moved successfully to home offices, no one will be running a flexo machine from their spare bedroom.

“Boxmakers are always going to need a certain number of people on the shop floor if they’re going to stay in business,” Walters says. “And yet there will be other members of that workforce—maybe in graphic design, product design, or in management positions—who can work from home. That can create a shift in what that workplace feels like, from a social perspective, as a community. The groups

that don’t have as much flexibility, because of the nature of the work they perform, resent the fact that they have to get up, get dressed, get in their car, etc., while some of their peers and colleagues get to work from home. The flip side to that is that, in some cases, managers are now managing teams that aren’t in the same building, people they can’t easily see. So they’re wondering, ‘Are they still doing their job?’”

The solution is to focus more than ever on communication. “Leaders need to help people understand what’s happening and why it’s happening,” Walters advises.

“I do think leaders will need, more than ever, an HR professional on the team, somebody who can help them navigate the federal, state, and local laws that may be implicated by some of these changes.

Because the staffing models are new, businesses have never faced some of these questions before. For a smaller company, maybe a family-owned company that doesn’t have a dedicated HR professional, the situation may be a bit more challenging. That’s where groups like AICC can be extremely helpful, giving them a sounding board and professional working groups where they can ask questions and share their practices with one another.”

For Carman, moving to a hybrid work environment—by late 2020, 50% of his office staff was still working remotely— ended up being surprisingly beneficial.

“Most people would think face-to-face

meetings were the best way to communicate with others,” he says, “but we’ve found that our staff had to present more accurate and comprehensive information to each other when working from home.”

Because all meetings had to be scheduled, and there were no opportunities for casually following up in the hallway or across cubicles, effective communication required thorough planning and real intention. “This resulted in better communication overall, as well as improvements in time management.”

This kind of hybrid work environment may offer long-term benefits going forward, Carman notes. It helps employees better manage their work-life balance, addressing issues related to child care and long commutes, for example. It may also solve some of the challenges involving hiring and retaining new employees. “These benefits may help attract new employees who are not within a close geographical proximity, which, in the long run, can substantially expand your hiring pool.”

Growing Forward Despite the lingering impact of COVID19 and the general political and economic uncertainty, boxmakers and industry analysts are optimistic about 2021.

“From a fiber perspective, I think it’s a good time for the packaging business,” notes Young, even though he still has concerns about the immediate future

“Most people would think face-toface meetings were the best way to communicate with others, but we’ve found that our staff had to present more accurate and comprehensive information to each other when working from home.”

—Jay Carman, president, StandFast Packaging Group, and AICC chairman

for displays, graphics-heavy boxes, and the litho business. “Independents are the manufacturers nimble enough to thrive at times like this. They can pivot into those niches where people have needs. I think that’s only going to continue as we move into 2021.”

Weber is convinced that it is just a matter of time before all segments of the industry rebound. “People are still adding equipment and running products that have the highest level of graphics I’ve ever seen,” he points out. “There’s still a desire to appeal to that consumer who recognizes value, branding, and high-quality graphics by providing a high-quality product. I expect that, in a year from now, most of us will be traveling back to our favorite stores and shopping. Retail stores will be overrun with people who just want to get out of their homes. I think the sales will recover for all of those products that have suffered as a result of the pandemic.”

“2020 was a phenomenally unpredictable year, and 2021 will be, too,” Josephson says. “The unpredictability is greater now than it ever has been, which makes planning for the future very difficult. Manufacturers should continue to invest in their business, of course, while being as low-cost and efficient as possible, and provide the best customer service they can.”

“I’m feeling positive about 2021,” Carman says. “I hope that employers will work hard to keep their employees safe and healthy and that the independents will keep growing and adapting to the demands of the market.” Because even though 2021 almost certainly won’t look like “business as usual,” it will continue to offer opportunities for every boxmaker prepared to embrace them.

Robert Bittner is a Michigan-based freelance journalist and a frequent BoxScore contributor.

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2021 SPRING 2021 2021 SPRING SPRING MEETING & MEETING MEETING & & 7TH ANNUAL 7TH 7TH ANNUAL ANNUAL CHARITY GOLF CHARITY CHARITY GOLF GOLF TOURNAMENT TOURNAMENT TOURNAMENT April April 26-28, 26-28, 2021 2021 April 26-28, 2021 Resort Omni Omni Amelia Amelia Island Island Resort Omni Amelia Island Resort Amelia Island, Amelia Island, Florida Florida Amelia Island, Florida

MEETING MEETING OVERVIEW OVERVIEW MEETING OVERVIEW The AICC 2021 Spring Meeting offers

The AICC 2021 Spring Meeting offers The AICC 2021 Spring Meeting offers those those in in the the paper paper packaging packaging industry industry those in the paper packaging industry with valuable general sessions with valuable general sessions and and with valuableproviding general key sessions and workshops, information workshops, providing key information workshops, providing key information and and new new trends, trends, while while also also connecting connecting and new trends, while also connecting peers through a variety of networking peers through a variety of networking peers through a variety of networking opportunities. opportunities. opportunities.

REGISTRATION REGISTRATION REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN! IS NOW IS NOW OPEN! OPEN!

WHY ATTEND AICC is working with the Omni Resort to help ensure a safe enviroment for all members who attend.

As part of our safety strategy, attendees can stream all sessions from AICC’s provided tented areas or from your device anywhere on the resort.

Educate your team at the Sales Manager’s Forum.

Participate in the 7th Annual Independents’ Charity Golf Tournament.

Connect with the members during multiple outdoor networking opportunities.

Training and networking for the industry’s Emerging Leaders

KEYNOTE PRESENTERS Steve Robinson

Former CMO & EVP at Chick-fil-A

Richard Phillips

Real Life “Captain Phillips” & Author

Gene Marks

Columnist, Author, Small Business Owner & CPA

FULL DETAILS AVAILABLE AT WWW.AICCBOX.ORG/MEETING

The Associate Advantage

Mitigating Disruption

BY JOE MORELLI

JOE MORELLI HUSTON PATTERSON PRINTERS VICE CHAIRMAN JMORELLI@HUSTONPATTERSON.COM

PAT SZANY AMERICAN CORRUGATED MACHINE CORP. CHAIRMAN PSZANY@ACM-CORP.COM

GREG JONES SUN AUTOMATION GROUP SECRETARY GREG.JONES@SUNAUTOMATION.COM

TIM CONNELL A.G. STACKER INC. DIRECTOR TCONNELL@AGSTACKER.COM

DAVE BURGESS JB MACHINERY IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIRMAN DBURGESS@JBMACHINERY.COM

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B

izarre. Challenging. Painful. Scary.

These are some words we’ve heard that describe the past year. The unique set of challenges this year has brought us has also opened the door for industry innovators to solve future problems in their own businesses. As I talk to people about how their businesses are changing, three process changes stick out to me as ways we all can turn problems from the pandemic into benefits.

Like many other suppliers in the industry who form great relationships with their clients, there were a number of facilities I was able to walk into almost freely.

I’d visit with whom I needed to visit, conduct my business, and walk around as I pleased. As much as I appreciate their trust in allowing me to do that, I don’t see that level of freedom with outsiders after the pandemic. One of the fundamental aspects of owning a business is to provide a safe work environment for all employees.

It sounds so simple. Emergency preparedness plans, workplace violence training, harassment training, evacuations—the list goes on. In talking to a number of box plant owners over the past few months, the safety measures we all now have in place are more than likely to turn permanent. Limiting visitors, limiting visitors’ exposure to plant employees, and conducting essential checks of visitors before entering facilities will all become commonplace, to be integrated into the normal lineup of preparedness plans.

Perhaps one of the more interesting byproducts of the pandemic in our plant was the improvement in efficiency. At Huston Patterson, early in the pandemic, we made a strong effort to adjust our processes in order to minimize the amount of human touches on specific materials in the plant to help reduce any chance of

cross-contamination. We reorganized our inventory in a manner that made more sense for our employees and readjusted some of our layout to keep things more organized to help our team make the most of their time. These steps were made to help minimize the amount of people who touched the product, but the post-analysis proved that the changes we made were more profitable and efficient than what we were doing before.

Many of us have had supply chain contingencies built into our daily processes for years. If one supplier goes down, we all have backup plans that would minimize delays in processes.

What I have found particularly interesting during the pandemic is the attention to detail when discussing emergency supply chain protocols. Not only are companies diversifying their supplier base, they are going into great detail with their current suppliers to understand what their protocols are, if there are disruptions in their supply chain, and what their reliance on foreign products is. It is something that will without a doubt become a part of their normal supply chain management, creating an all-encompassing protection plan for their businesses.

Challenges in life can obviously be problematic, but they can create a time for great opportunity. The pandemic has created all kinds of challenges for us all, but the way companies are adapting has provided a chance for us all to improve our day-to-day business. As we transition out of COVID-19, are there opportunities for growth in your business?

Joe Morelli is vice president of sales and marketing for Huston Patterson Printers and is vice chairman of AICC’s Associate board.

Foundation for Packaging Education

Donate, Invest in Your Future

I

n the middle of November, AICC announced the creation of its second 501(c)(3) education foundation, the Foundation for Packaging Education.

The resulting support offered from the independent community has been overwhelming.

AICC’s board of directors led the way, as they often do, by making multiple pledges while they were in the process of approving the creation of the foundation. Since the announcement, more AICC members have pushed the total value of pledges received, combined with monies from AICC’s match on the first $1 million, well above the $1 million mark. The foundation is therefore well positioned to meet its goal of getting started with $2 million in total pledged monies.

The AICC Million Dollar Match program is still on. Pledges received that bring the total up to the million-dollar plateau for match from AICC will be designated to have come from the foundation’s “Inaugural Donors.”

As a reminder, AICC has created the Foundation for Packaging Education to support the development and delivery of employee education and training resources for workers in the corrugated, folding carton, rigid box, and related supply chain industries. In other words, the foundation’s mission is to support training programs for your box plant employees.

The foundation plans to survey AICC members to get an understanding of the areas of focus that they feel need to be addressed relative to the training and education of the workforce. This will lead to the foundation setting funding initiatives that can go to those areas of need. Thus far, the short but growing list includes:

• AICC’s Packaging School • Certificate programs for production disciplines º By course º By track º By program • HR assistance • E-commerce Plans for AICC’s Spring Meeting, April 26–28, at the Omni at Amelia Island, Florida, are well underway. One of the most popular events at the Spring Meeting is the Independents Cup Golf Tournament. This year, the proceeds from the tournament

will go to two worthy endeavors: Driving Out Darkness, the nonprofit organization created by the O’Brien family in memory of longtime AICC member Steve O’Brien; and the Foundation for Packaging Education. While we continue to monitor all going on with the pandemic, we still hope to see you there.

It is not too late for you to join the Inaugural Donors program. Invest in your future. Please make a taxdeductible pledge to the Foundation for Packaging Education by visiting www.packaginged.org.

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International Corrugated Packaging Foundation I N T E R N AT I O N A L

PACKAGING

CORRUGATED

F O U N D AT I O N

ICPF Launches VIRTUAL Student/ Executive Dialogue Dinner

I

n response to the pandemic, the International Corrugated Packaging Foundation (ICPF) has taken its ongoing Student/Executive Dialogue Dinner series to a virtual platform.

The first virtual dinner was conducted on December 16, 2020. Over 35 students from 10 universities across the country (with education and interest in packaging engineering and production, sales, packaging design, graphic design, chemical engineering, supply chain management, and other related disciplines) participated. The students were joined by corrugated packaging executives from five ICPF corporate partners that included Green Bay Packaging, Hood Container Corp., Packaging Corp. of America, Pratt Industries, and WestRock. ICPF’s dialogue dinners are directed toward enabling top students who already have interest in corrugated packaging to learn more about the industry and its operations. Many of the participating students in each of the eight past years were recruited for internships and full-time positions through the company contacts they made during the dialogues and through referral to ICPF’s Career Portal. For those ICPF partner companies that have not posted 2021 openings, it’s not too late. Over 100 additional résumés are posted on the portal as well.

ICPF’s virtual dialogue dinner series is one of several new programs initiated by ICPF to expand its outreach during COVID-19 conditions. In early 2020, ICPF worked with colleges and universities to assist them in utilizing ICPF’s online corrugated packaging curricula as campuses around the country

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adjusted to set up distance-learning capability. ICPF additionally reached out to Arden and Esko to develop the capability for students to access design software remotely. Licensing previously required students to utilize Impact and Artios software directly from the computers located in the design labs on each campus.

This past summer, ICPF established a student advisory board that meets up to twice a month. The student advisors have provided valued input on the establishment of the virtual dialogue dinners and plans for converting ICPF’s annual Teleconference

on the Business of Corrugated Packaging & Displays and the Careers to a virtual format in February. Over 500 students from 20 campuses participate in the teleconference annually.

The student advisory board additionally has been helpful in this year’s expansion of ICPF’s program to identify and recruit ICPF student representatives on each university campus. Members also assisted in ICPF’s launch of a new industry mentoring program for students who are seeking internships and full-time positions during the reduction in the industry’s 2020 openings due to

Students from 10 universities across the country participated in ICPF's virtual Student/Executive Dialogue Dinner December 16. Their resumés, along with over 100 additional active resumés, are accessible to ICPF's Corporate Partners through ICPF's Career Portal's Resumé Bank at www.careersincorrugated.org.

International Corrugated Packaging Foundation

COVID-19. Most recently, ICPF’s new student program manager intern worked to identify available 2020–2021 scholarships for packaging students whose families may have been financially impacted by COVID-19. This

work prompted several scholarship programs to provide additional funding to reopen or extend application deadlines.

Visit www.careersincorrugated.org for more information on these and other ICPF programs.

Richard Flaherty is president of the International Corrugated Packaging Foundation.

This past summer and fall, ICPF's student advisory board discussed the best formats for ICPF's recently conducted virtual Student/Executive Dialogue Dinner and for ICPF's virtual Teleconference on the Business of Corrugated Packaging scheduled for later this quarter.

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

139

The Final Score

More Tunnel?

“Politicians are people who, when they see light at the end of the tunnel, go out and buy some more tunnel.”

—John Quinton

W

hen I saw this quote from John Quinton, I thought what better summary of the pandemic, with its government-induced economic dislocation and the never-ending election season in which we find ourselves? Hopefully by the time you read these words, everything will have been sorted out in regard to the election. Once it is, the divisions in the makeup of the electorate will be reflected in either divided government or a razor-thin majority.

Situated as we are in Alexandria, Virginia, in the middle of the “swamp,” the noise goes on whether we are in election season or not. I believe those in our industry, like the rest of the country outside of Washington, D.C., are just too busy. Not too busy to care about the noise, just too busy to be consumed by it.

All of us are working, dealing with the realities of the pandemic, and striving to do our level best for our families, our employees, and our customers.

Box plants are busy. Various grades of paper remain in short supply. Labor remains a big challenge. Yet there is a palpable optimism among AICC members. This is reflected not just in conversations that we are having with members, but in their remarks to the broader industry. We followed closely the presentations at the Fastmarkets RISI International Containerboard Conference. Of particular interest was a panel discussion with Eduardo Posada of Grupo Gondi, Greg Hall of Hood Container, Charles Malo of Cascades, and Greg Tucker of Bay Cities on November 5, ably moderated by George Staphos of Bank of America, titled “Executive Commentary on the Key Forces Driving Change in Corrugated.”

These leaders shared their vision, their challenges, and their confidence in the industry going forward. In a more than 45-minute discussion—topics ranging from new capacity coming online (including from some of the participants), to the pandemic and worker safety, to the fact that e-commerce has jumped ahead five years in volume, to mass customization and digitization, to the equipment converters need to meet these shifts—the discussion was lively and seemed to go by in the blink of an eye.

The discussion was a real pep talk, but not one given by a coach to inspire the underdog. Rather, the discussion was coming from a point of strength and optimism. More tunnels will be built, to be sure, as they have been throughout eternity. But our industry continues to move boldly toward the light.

As you leaf through this fourth Big Associate Issue, please keep in mind that AICC’s supplier members are another reason why so many converters have such confidence. Improvements in technology, equipment, consumables, and support services continue at a blistering pace. New equipment and services are being delivered into box plants routinely.

If you are buying from AICC Associate members, thank you. If you are not, you can see why you should in these pages!

Michael D’Angelo AICC President

140

BOXSCORE January/February 2021

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