A PUBLICATION OF AICC, THE INDEPENDENT PACKAGING ASSOCIATION
January/February 2024 Volume 28, No. 1
ASSOCIATE ISSUE VII THE INDEPENDENT’S ONE AND ONLY ANNUAL SUPPLIER GUIDE
ALSO INSIDE Cautious Optimism for 2024 50 Years of AICC: 1974–1979
TABLE OF CONTENTS January/February 2024 • Volume 28, No. 1
COLUMNS
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CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE
106 MEMBERS MEETING 128 THE ASSOCIATE ADVANTAGE 132 THE FINAL SCORE DEPARTMENTS
104 WELCOME, NEW &
RETURNING MEMBERS
111 AICC INNOVATION
ASSOCIATE ISSUE VII 4
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130 INTERNATIONAL CORRUGATED PACKAGING FOUNDATION
THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE VII The independent’s one and only annual supplier guide
6 EQUIPMENT 66 DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES
74 INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES
82 SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING 89 SERVICES 98 SOFTWARE AND ELECTRONICS 116 CAUTIOUS OPTIMISM
The state of converting today—and expectations for the year to come
124 50 YEARS OF AICC
1974–1979: Stronger together
116 124
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. ©2024 AICC. All rights reserved.
Visit www.NOW.AICCbox.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: Matt Davis, Packaging Express, Colorado Springs, Colorado First Vice Chairman: Gary Brewer, Package Crafters, High Point, North Carolina Vice Chairs: Finn MacDonald, Independent II, Louisville, Kentucky Terri-Lynn Levesque, Royal Containers Ltd., Brampton, Ontario, Canada Joseph Morelli, Huston Patterson Printers/Lewisburg Printing Co., Decatur, Illinois Immediate Past Chairwoman: Jana Harris, Harris Packaging/American Carton, Haltom City, Texas Chairman, Past Chairmen’s Council: Gene Marino, Akers Packaging Service Group, Chicago, Illinois President: Michael D’Angelo, AICC Headquarters, Alexandria, Virginia Secretary/General Counsel: David Goch, Webster, Chamberlain & Bean, Washington, D.C. Administrator, AICC México: Veronica Reyes DIRECTORS West: Sahar Mehrabzadeh-Garcia, Bay Cities, Pico Rivera, Califormia Southwest: Jenise Cox, Harris Packaging/American Carton, Haltom City, Texas Southeast: Michael Drummond, Packrite, High Point, North Carolina Midwest: Casey Shaw, Batavia Container Inc., Batavia, Illinois Great Lakes: Josh Sobel, Jamestown Container Cos., Macedonia, Ohio Northeast: Stuart Fenkel, McLean Packaging, Pennsauken, New Jersey AICC México: Sergio Menchaca, EKO Empaques de Cartón S.A. de C.V., Cortazar, Mexico
OVERSEAS DIRECTOR Kim Nelson, Royal Containers Ltd., Brampton, Ontario, Canada
PUBLICATION STAFF Publisher: Michael D’Angelo • mdangelo@AICCbox.org Editor: Virginia Humphrey • vhumphrey@AICCbox.org
DIRECTORS AT LARGE Kevin Ausburn, SMC Packaging Group, Springfield, Missouri Eric Elgin, Oklahoma Interpack, Muscogee, Oklahoma Guy Ockerlund, Ox Box, Addison, Illinois Mike Schaefer, Tavens Packaging & Display Solutions, Bedford Heights, Ohio Ben DeSollar, Sumter Packaging, Sumter, South Carolina Jack Fiterman, Liberty Diversified International, Minneapolis, Minnesota
EDITORIAL/DESIGN SERVICES The YGS Group • www.theYGSgroup.com Vice President, Association Solutions: Craig Lauer Creative Director: Mike Vucic Managing Editor: Therese Umerlik Senior Editor: Sam Hoffmeister Copy Editor: Steve Kennedy Art Director: Alex Straughan Account Manager: Frankie Singleton
EMERGING LEADER DELEGATES John McQueary, CST Systems, Atlanta, Georgia Jordan Dawson, Harris Packaging, Haltom City, Texas Evan Clary, National Corrugated Machinery, Hunt Valley, Maryland
SUBMIT EDITORIAL IDEAS, NEWS, AND LETTERS TO: BoxScore@theYGSgroup.com
ASSOCIATE MEMBER DIRECTORS Chairman: Tim Connell, A.G. Stacker Inc., Weyers Cave, Virginia Vice Chairman: John Burgess, Pamarco/Absolute, Roselle Park, New Jersey Secretary: Jeff Dietz, Kolbus America Inc., Cleveland, Ohio Director: Mike Butler, Domtar Packaging, Fort Mill, South Carolina Immediate Past Chairman, Associate Members: Greg Jones, SUN Automation Group, Glen Arm, Maryland ADVISORS TO THE CHAIRMAN Al Hoodwin, Michigan City Paper Box, Michigan City, Indiana Gene Marino, Akers Packaging Service Group, Chicago, Illinois Tim Connell, A.G. Stacker Inc., Weyers Cave, Virginia
CONTRIBUTORS Cindy Huber, Director of Conventions and Meetings Chelsea May, Education and Training Manager Laura Mihalick, Senior Meeting Manager Patrick Moore, Membership Services Manager Taryn Pyle, Director of Training, Education and Professional Development Alyce Ryan, Marketing Manager Steve Young, Ambassador-at-Large ADVERTISING Taryn Pyle 703-535-1391 • tpyle@AICCbox.org Patrick Moore 703-535-1394 • pmoore@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
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
Grateful for Our Associate Members
T
his is always my favorite issue. Ask yourself, “What did my plant look like five years ago, and what is it going to look like in another five years?” I have always been one to dream. I love to look at how our box plant has evolved over the past 25 years, and this issue inspires me to think about what the future can hold. I love to flip through this issue and see where our industry is going and imagine what box plants of the future might look like. Early in my career at Packaging Express, my older brother, Pete, who is now the general manager at DeLine Box & Display, was selling ink for BCM. My younger brother, Tom, now a managing partner at Brown Brothers Harriman, was selling gluers and stitchers for Bahmüller. It was a special time for our family because we believed that the Davis brothers had three facets of making a box covered. Plus, seeing each other at industry events had a new meaning. It was during this time that I realized the importance of the supplier relationship. Over the years, we have grown fantastic partnerships with our Associates. In many ways, we are only as good as our equipment and the solutions the suppliers bring to us. I have also appreciated the expertise each one brings to us. Associates are on the ground and in a wide range of box plants every day, and they bring great perspective to us as owners. These pages also remind me that making a profit in our business is an art. Each of us is presented with a unique market, and our Associates help us find solutions to best fit our customers and their needs. We are all in this together. As chairman, I wholeheartedly understand that I represent the boxmakers and the Associate members. I value our relationships with our vendors so much. I want to take this opportunity to thank the Associates for supporting and sponsoring AICC events and education as well as donating to the Foundation for Packaging Education. We like to support the companies that support us. We always look first to an AICC Associate member when we are getting ready to make a purchase. We also look to our peers in the box business with similar machines and see how their experience has been. In my opening remarks at the fall meeting in Louisville, I shared that my grandfather, T.J. McLaughlin, bought a corrugator in 1940 for $29,473. Next time you make a big purchase, keep a copy of the purchase order. Your grandson or granddaughter might get a kick out of seeing it 84 years from now.
Matthew M. Davis President, Packaging Express AICC Chairman
My grandfather received this purchase order for a corrugator he bought in 1940 for $29,473.
BOXSCORE www.AICCbox.org
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ASSOCIATE ISSUE VII
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THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE, now in its seventh year of publication, is a venue for AICC Associate members to communicate who they are, what they do, and how their products and services support independent paper-based packaging businesses. The opportunity to submit a company article was opened to all AICC Associate members in good standing, and more than 70 companies provided material.
Associate members have always been welcomed in AICC. The Association often relies on them to keep us updated on the market and technology, as suppliers, as expert speakers and educators, 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, including free education through Packaging University, advocacy, networking opportunities, and much more. AICC’s goals with this annual edition of BoxScore—the only such guide in our industry—are to help members see opportunities and gather information and materials that will guide the future of their businesses. We hope the Big Associate Issue will yet again serve as an effective tool for informing you of all of the useful, innovative 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 you and your Association. When you speak with Associate members, please let them know you saw their article in BoxScore to allow us to continue to offer this member benefit. When you invest in and engage with AICC and its Associates, you commit to the continued growth of our great industry.
BOXSCORE www.AICCbox.org
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EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
EAM-Mosca EAM-Mosca Adds Movitec Stretch Wrapper to Complete Its Line of Corrugated Solutions Well known for highly successful bundling and unitizing strapping systems, EAM-Mosca introduces the addition of Movitec rotary ring stretch wrappers to its competitive portfolio for the Americas. As a Mosca company since 2021, Movitec is recognized for its outstanding stretch wrapping systems, providing unparalleled protection and stability for palletized and unpalletized loads with throughput capabilities of up to 160 loads per hour. By combining systems, customers can expect to benefit from maximized product security, reinforced protection, efficient load containment, and increased damage prevention. STRAPPING SYSTEM PORTFOLIO
EAM-Mosca’s latest squaring bundler, the MAX-Q, reinvents the conventional Tandem System for squaring and strapping bundles by combining proven technologies with new designs and product handling. The Max-Q, which is designed to be used behind a box slitter, integrates two strappers whose position can be varied inside a fixed-length chassis to align with the strap-to-strap distance of adjoining bundles. This unique design allows it to strap two bundles simultaneously without separating the bundle after slitting. By simultaneously strapping, the MAX-Q increases bundle throughputs by 50% from 32 per
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minute in the current SQ4A Tandem System to 48 per minute. In addition, the MAX-Q features an innovative, patent-pending variable-length roller conveyor that enables a 48% reduction in line space compared with the SQ4A Tandem System, from 160.8 inches to only 83.6 inches. The space-saving shorter footprint simplifies the highspeed conveying of unstable small box bundles that complicate conventional bundling systems. EAM-Mosca’s next generation of bundling systems enables boxmakers to take advantage of faster flexos and bundle splitters in response to increased demand for small boxes. The five-headed CTV-SoniXs® is an all-electric unitizer designed to allow high throughput when strapping units requiring closer strap spacing, a higher number of straps per unit, or more units per hour. The CTV combines the speed, reliability, and longevity of prior EAMMosca SoniXs® unitizers with a narrower version of the SoniXs® strapping head that allows strap spacings as close as 9 inches with up to five heads per unitizer. Heads and tracks may be placed at spacings of 9, 9, 23.5, and 15 inches. Three straps can be applied in a single hit within 18 inches, and up to five straps can be spaced as wide as 56 inches. The benefit is a higher percentage of single-hit units, enabling the system to approach peak production levels for a broader range of unit load variation and strapping requirements. Importantly, the narrow version of the SoniXs® sealing head is a reconfiguration of the previous
SoniXs® unitizer head that has been the key component for the Mosca Unitizer program for well over a decade. Thus, the narrower version provides customers with all the performance and reliability of the current SoniXs® unitizer head while accommodating the required strap patterns of small loads with a single platen hit. These latest offerings will allow corrugated customers to future-proof their production and offer one-stop shopping for end-of-line packaging solutions. Given the increase in e-commerce shipments and related small box demand, EAM-Mosca has a proven solution to fill the need for faster throughput to maintain bundle or unit load integrity. EAM-Mosca constantly strives to be forward-thinking with the goal of helping customers be prepared to handle current packaging trends and to be ready for upcoming changes that might occur six months or six years down the road. Mike Murphy Director National Accounts–Corrugated mike.murphy@ eammosca.com 570-401-7360 Jimmy Dodd Director National Accounts–Corrugated jimmy.dodd@ eammosca.com 256-393-4428
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EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
EMBA Machinery Upsize your output with the new 295 QS Ultima™ The latest model in the Ultima™ machine family has been delivered and fully prototyped. We are pleased that machine numbers 3, 4, and 5 carry US ZIP codes. The 295 QS Ultima™ brings flexibility and top-class performance to the large box segment. EMBA Machinery now offers machine range that will cover all of our customers’ size needs. In addition to the outstanding output, the 295 QS Ultima™ delivers all the features and benefits of the Ultima™ servo platform, including quick-set, true no-crush converting, clean print technology with either variable speed doctor rolls or dual reverse angle chambered doctor blades, and the well proved heavy duty top and bottom die cut unit. The 295 QS Ultima™ features the special DualBox™ innovation in its standard configuration. Equipped with the extended four shaft Magna XL VSC Slotting enables making all slots of both sheets in the slotting unit at speeds up to 27,000 boxes per hour without any tolerance variations between the boxes. DualBox™ is already available as an option for the 245 QS Ultima™. The 295 QS Ultima™ includes the latest addition to our Ultima™ controls
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platform: CareControl™, a full condition monitoring system containing production data and statistics, full historic machine data for enhanced support, automatic countdown to EMBA Sales For sales inquiries, contact: George W. Linn, Sales Manager George.Linn@ embausa.com 770-329-8586
next maintenance, dynamic on-screen maintenance manuals, plus machine “fingerprint”—a regular health check tool for machine function analysis, and building data for real predictive maintenance.
Scott Davidson, Western Region Sales Manager Scott.Davidson@ embausa.com 713-542-7202
General Sales inquiries usa-sales@embausa.com For complete information on our range of EMBA and McKinley products and services, visit us at www.embausa.com.
DualBox
TM
Two-in-one productivity
Revolutionising box production with the EMBA unique solution enabling double production capacity of RSC boxes: TwinFeed™ + XL Slotter = DualBox™ = 2x Output TwinFeed™ is an option for the EMBA 245 QS Ultima™, which feeds two identical sheets from 280 mm up to 520 mm in running direction in a single machine cycle.
The extended 4 shaft EMBA Magna XL VSC enables making all slots of both sheets in the slotting unit at speeds up to 30 000 boxes per hour – with no tolerance variations between the boxes. Like having two machines in one. The DualBox™ innovation combined with the intelligent Ultima™ platform, unique Non-Crush Converting™ and Quick-Set™, makes EMBA 245 QS Ultima™ unbeatable. Converting knowledge into productivity.
www.emba.com
Liljedal Communication 2021
To double your output: EMBA 245 QS Ultima™ with DualBox™
EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
Geo. M. Martin Optimized Output for Rotary Die Cutters, Flexo Folder-gluers, and Flatbed Die Cutters Maximum efficiency and productivity of any die cutter or flexo folder-gluer line comes from a combination of optimum operating speed and sheet size. In other words, run as fast as you can, with the biggest sheet possible, and produce as many finished blanks as you can in the shortest amount of time. The Quik-Break™III (QBIII) nicked bundle breaker makes it possible to maximize the output of your rotary die cutter, flexo folder-gluer, or flatbed die cutter. QBIII’s dual airbag platens provide an even and positive gripping force to maintain the integrity and stack quality of nicked bundles during the separation process. A unique gapless upper platen prevents edge rolling and marking on small width bundles, even when running uneven bundle heights side by side. The QBIII also features automatic platen offset for nested bundles and automatic bundle height sensing to minimize breaker platen travel and allow faster cycle time. To maintain bundle integrity during transit, the QBIII features adjustable speeds and smooth acceleration and deceleration
for tall bundle stability. “Batch Mode” improves breaker cycle times on narrow items by indexing between separated bundles and discharging them as a group. The QBIII is offered in a 68" (1727mm) model and an extra-wide 92" (2337mm) model. The 92" model can accommodate two 46" (1168mm) wide bundle logs side by side, making it the perfect highperformance machine for pizza boxes, wraps, and other wide-format die cuts. It offers faster separation of wider sheets/ bundles, lower bundle counts, and thicker board calipers through its ability to break multiple side by side units. KEEPING PACE WITH THE FASTEST DIE CUT TERS
The Geo. M. Martin LBX: SCRUBBER® Stacker is the industry leader in high-performance rotary die cutter stackers. It has created a new performance standard for the corrugated industry, raising the average production to 80 to 100 MSF/ hour, with top performers reaching 200 to 400 MSF/hour. Martin’s latest stacker technology combines unmatched sheet control and superior scrap removal to produce perfectly square, virtually scrap-free stacks and bundles at
maximum die cutter speed. The LBX: and SBX: SCRUBBER Stackers offer a wide range of standard and optional features that allow custom configuration to meet the converters’ specific needs. CONTINUALLY INNOVATING
The SQC System automatically removes sheets from the stacker’s board line at all rated press speeds. SQC can be integrated with external QC systems and our LQC system for automated operator-side ejection of sample sheets and rejected sheets for safe and easy quality inspection. The SQX System combines the features of SQC with additional scrap removal capabilities. Placed behind an LBX: SCRUBBER, SQX further enhances the Scrubber’s already superior scrap removal capabilities to deliver virtually scrap-free bundles and stacks (well under 1%). The LQC System is excellent for quality-conscious converters looking to automate the quality control process of their RDC. LQC scans for sheet skew, and sheet length variation per a predetermined tolerance. When an out-of-spec sheet is detected, the sheet is automatically ejected. Jason R. Smith Vice President of Sales jrsmith@geomartin.com 510-652-2200 www.geomartin.com
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AUTOMATED SHEET SAMPLING SQC/SQX DIVERTER with optional SCRUBBER
®
TECHNOLOGY
QQ High-speed sampling QQ Outstanding board control QQ Automatic set-up QQ Enhanced scrap removal QQ LQC - Length Quality Control System
LEARN MORE www.geomartin.com
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
The Martin logo and the word Scrubber are Registered Trademarks of the Geo. M. Martin Company.
EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
Global Boxmachine Global Offers More! We offer equipment to give you More Boxes Every Minute … Period! But that’s not all. Global Boxmachine not only offers the latest technology in high-speed converting equipment, but we also offer quality, highly rated service. We are honored to serve as exclusive American distributor for Keshenglong Carton Machinery Manufacturing as well as the sole North American distributor of the Zihong ZH Quest 2800 Specialty Gluer. This partnership allows us to bring their high-quality products to our customers in North America. At Global, we pride ourselves on providing highly reliable and comprehensive service to our customers. With our 24/7 phone support, you can count on getting the assistance you need whenever you need it. Our ever-growing inventory, which includes over 4,000 parts, ensures we are likely to have what you need. The expertise of our team is evident through the successful completion of more than 20 machinery installations in 2023. We are committed to delivering top-notch solutions and consistently exceeding our customers’ expectations. “Global Boxmachine has been a fundamental support for the startup and operation of our machine. They have a team of highly trained people with excellent service. They are a very professional company with a high sense of customer service. We have had experiences with several machinery suppliers, and the support and service that Global offers is far superior to all others.” —Cesar M., Owner “After sharing the urgency of needing a part, they went to work and made a miracle happen quick! Not only did they get us one coming overnight, but they
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were also able to get several coming. They prevented downtime because of the quick response and making something happen now rather than later.” —Justin B., Plant Manager Our exceptional partnerships with KL and ZH have enabled us to provide tailored solutions and custom builds specifically designed to meet your company’s requirements. By leveraging our relationships with these partners, we can offer unique sizing options and customized machinery. KL boasts a dedicated team focused on new machine production, ensuring that your equipment will be delivered within a matter of months, rather than years. With this streamlined process, you can enjoy the benefits of purchasing and installing your new machinery within the same 12-month period, maximizing efficiency, and minimizing downtime. OUR MACHINES
K7 Flexo Rotary Die Cutter The K7 offers inside/outside printing and the ability to print on both sides of the box in a single pass! Sizes from 66" x 110" and up to 66" x 190" are available, with up to five colors on the inside and as many as you need on the outside. K1-X Jumbo Flexo The Jumbo series of flexo folder gluers were designed to withstand the rigorous needs of the Jumbo boxmaker. The K1-X is built with heavy duty components and will run non-stop with the optional prefeeder. Sizes from 86" x 210" up to 98" x 230" are available. Shinko Super Alpha OC High-Speed Flexo Folder Gluer The Super Alpha OC is a servo-driven machine that offers an open and close
feature that allows for inside and outside printing. This machine offers high-speed production with run speeds of up to 350 SPM. Shinko Super Alpha High-Speed Servo Driven Flexo Folder Gluer The Super Alpha offers labor and energy saving versatility by providing better feeding performance, tighter print registration, unmatched folding accuracy, quick order change, and high-speed production. This fixed architecture model offers set while run technology and provides setup in under two minutes and run speeds to up to 450 SPM. ZH Specialty Folder Gluer The ZH Gluer comes equipped with a vacuum stream feeder, motorized folding rails, HHS 4-gun glue system, servo-driven backfold system, auto-lock, 4- and 6-corner gluing capabilities, a squaring system and compression section. Each ZH is equipped with a monitor camera and can come in sizes of up to 110". Used Equipment Global’s extensive network allows us to provide unmatched value for trade-in equipment, presenting our customers with exceptional opportunities. Our focus lies in meeting your specific needs and ensuring a tailored solution. At Global, we are committed to delivering exceptional equipment, service and support helping you produce more boxes every minute … Period! Contact our sales team at 847-949-5900 or sales@boxmachine.com.
EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
Hitek Equipment, Inc. Hitek meets challenge to boost employee retention in manufacturing Going into 2024 is not so different from 2023. One of the biggest concerns for manufacturers is boosting employee retention. It is detrimental to the manufacturing process if you cannot keep qualified employees working in your plant, whether managers or operators. Hitek had to look at what we could do to help our customers battle this trend. After working with our partners, we found our equipment needed more automation, a simpler training process, and a decrease in the need for maintenance. All our engineers jumped at the opportunity to implement changes. BCM Transtech, the manufacturer of the most advanced storage systems for rotary dies, flat dies, and print plates, took on the challenge and ran with it. They simplified their controls on automatic and semi-automatic systems, making them easier to use. Training a new operator takes minutes, not days. Improvements in their storage systems keep your valuable assets protected even with a new hire. In addition, their Mobilator, which makes flat and rotary die handling easy, decreases fatigue and injury to your new operators.
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The Mikawa engineers, the manufacturer of the Marumatsu line of flatbed die cutters, took the challenge to a new level. They made their CM line of die cutters so advanced they almost set themselves up. On repeat orders, it’s as simple as entering the order number, putting the sheets in the feeder and the cutting die into the chaseless mounting system. You’re up and running in two minutes. Training is a breeze; we can get a new operator up to speed in as little as four hours. Lian Tiee had already upped their game with many innovations to their Flexo Folder Gluers and Rotary Die Cutters, but there is always room for improvement. Lian Tiee has updated their control system to optimize saved orders for accurate and quick repeat setups. In addition, the software automatically reminds staff that maintenance is needed, eliminating the need for personnel to keep track. A Lian Tiee in your plant will keep your employees happy and content. Cavec has engineered their MaxiBox Boxmaker to be an operator’s dream. On a repeat order, the operator enters the order number using a touch screen, and the machine sets itself up. Only the printers and creasing knives need to be set manually. The MaxiBox can run at
production speeds, so running 1 box or 10,000 is no problem. Add in that required maintenance is minimal, the stress levels in your plant will be low. CJ MMC, the builder of the KT line of flatbed die cutters, has outdone themselves by making a machine that is so simple to run and maintain everyone will be fighting to be the operator. Setups are as little as five minutes. With the ability to run many different materials and sizes (0.01" to AB Double Wall), even your designers and salesmen will love it. The CleanFlex automatic print plate washing system removes the need for hand scrubbing your print plates. The machine can wash and dry a 100" plate in about two minutes. The CleanFlex does all the work while letting your operators perform other tasks. If you need help retaining people or to train new hires faster, call us; we might have a solution for you. Ryan Ashley Sales Consultant ryan@askhitek.com 262-842-1700 www.askhitek.com
BCM has the most unique solutions to your storage problems. They can take advantage of space in your plant you previously thought unusable.
The newly designed Lian Tiee Mini is stronger and faster! The Lian Tiee is now capable of running 350 sheets per minute while holding tight registration. The redesigned folding section gives precise joint control at every speed.
The Maxi Box is the only high speed box making machine that fits into a true production environment. If you would like to produce both large and small boxes with runs from 1 box to 10,000 boxes, take a look at the Maxi Box!
The KT series of large format display size die cutters is one of the most flexible die cutters available today. With fast set-ups, the ability to run a variety of material and its one man operation, the KT is truly unique.
Contact Hitek today to learn more! www.askhitek.com info@askhitek.com 262.842.1700
The Marumatsu was designed from the ground up to set up fast, run fast and last a lifetime, making it the leader for short or long run production.
EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
JB Machinery Green, Efficient, and Cost Effective With interest rates climbing and some suppliers still addressing pandemic era backlogs, many boxmakers are looking for ways they can immediately increase or maximize their efficiency and productivity without investing millions on a completely new production line. JB’s products and upgrades offer a cost-effective, retrofittable solution for most existing rotary die cutters and flexo folder-gluers. SAVE TIME, ELIMINATE THE WORRY
Popular as a retrofit on existing equipment, as well as an option for new machines, InKomand® precise ink management control lowers setup times, dramatically reduces material waste, and eliminates the operator task of constantly monitoring the ink condition during the run. InKomand continually monitors and automatically makes finite adjustment to ink characteristics (temperature, viscosity, and pH) to maintain perfect printing parameters. By automatically managing the ink, the use of ink and chemical adjusters are greatly reduced. If it becomes necessary, InKomand, without operator intervention, adds the precise amount of adjuster needed. Automating ink management allows operators
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to address other production-focused functions. It also eliminates dramatic viscosity and pH swings which lead to color variation, inconsistent drying, jams, sheet wraps, and spoiled ink, all of which contribute to significant waste of product, material, and time. SAVING GREEN WHILE BEING GREEN
AutoDryer Control™ (ADC)—recipient of the 2023 FEFCO Silver Award for Best Innovation—is available as an upgrade on all new ColorDry XL3000 systems as well as being a popular retrofit for existing ColorDry installations. ADC eliminates the over-consumption of energy due to over-powering IR drying systems. Users of the system report minimum energy reductions of 20% with many reporting dramatically higher savings. How does it do that? ADC eliminates the guesswork in selecting the proper power setting for optimum drying efficiency. Different inks and different ink/substrates combinations require different power settings to deliver the most efficient drying. Certainly, setting all dryers to 100% power will virtually guarantee dry ink. However, max power is seldom necessary to provide optimum drying. ADC uses a learned algorithm that analyzes data for the substrate, ink, speed, and environmental conditions of the user’s facility. Using this information, ADC automatically sets and adjusts the power to maintain a globally set surface temperature target. The system requires minimal operator interaction during the initial job setup and virtually eliminates
operator intervention once the job is running or during repeat orders. This allows operators to focus their attention on tasks such as quality control or next order makeready. SAVE TIME, WATER, AND ELBOW GREASE!
JB’s AutoWash™ automatic plate washing system performs pre, during and post run plate washing of all plates, simultaneously in less than four minutes. Manual washing can take five to 10 minutes per plate! AutoWash reduces plate washing time by 80% to 90%, but more importantly eliminates manual washing. The system also includes a 1.5 second print defect (hickey) removal cycle that runs without interrupting production, while rendering no more than seven to nine waste sheets. And if you’re concerned about the amount of wastewater produced by cleaning plates, AutoWash uses a “moist brush” approach, only using enough liquid to properly clean the plates, instead of washing gallons of water down the drain. JB Machinery products are engineered to help you maximize the efficiency, productivity, product quality, and profitability of your operations, but they also contribute to your goals of being a green member of your community. For more information on JB Machinery and their products, visit jbmachinery.com. Dave Burgess Sales Director—The Americas dburgess@jbmachinery.com 203-544-0101 www.jbmachinery.com
™ for ColorDry XL3000®
For a greener planet and more green in your pocket!
X
Dramatically reduces energy usage and costs (by minimum of 20%)
X
Uses the latest AI technology to eliminate operator intervention
X
Significantly increases efficiency, productivity and profitability
X
Available for new and existing ColorDry XL3000® systems
Winner of the 2023 FEFCO Silver Award for Best Innovation
Productivity — Quality — Profitability JB Machinery Inc. | +1-203-544-0101 | jbmachinery.com AutoDryer Control, ADC, ColorDry XL3000 are either trademarks or registered trademarks of JB Machinery Inc.
EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
Kento Kento Hybrid® a true corrugated box plant machine Combining flexo with single-pass inkjet into one machine, Kento developed the first and only hybrid printer specifically designed for corrugated. Recognized with an innovation award during the 2021 FEFCO Technical Seminar, this technology promises significant cost savings and increased operational efficiency. With active hybrid printers and demo sites in North America and Europe, Kento Hybrid® added an inline rotary die cutter option in 2023, making Kento Hybrid a true corrugated box plant machine and a game changer for the corrugated printing industry. A WIDESPREAD PROBLEM
Plant owners know that traditional flexo printing isn’t cost-efficient for all projects. Printing plate costs turn too expensive in short and mid-size printing runs, and the long setup times take a toll on the overall operating efficiency. Digital single-pass may seem a viable choice, but digital inks are too expensive for solid backgrounds and high coverage designs, limiting their profitable use to small runs or specific high-end packaging projects. LOWER PRINTING COSTS AND HIGHER ROI
Kento Hybrid will boost the return on investment—ROI and the overall equipment efficiency—OEE of any plant, while delivering quality graphics on corrugated. A Kento Hybrid line uses from one to three flexo units to print solid backgrounds or spot colors with affordable analog inks and prints high-resolution graphics with a single-pass inkjet module, reducing the need for printing plates and saving up to 80% in digital ink costs. Combining the best of both worlds, Kento Hybrid will match the performance
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of any single-pass digital printer, and— compared to flexo printers—will be unbeatable in printing runs up to 100,000 square feet, which account for many of the projects in an average corrugated plant. You will also be surprised by its TCO—total cost of ownership—with a lower initial investment than most printers, and a faster ROI that you’ll get with the improved margins and efficiency, becoming more competitive in existing and new markets. NEW IN 2023: IN-LINE ROTARY DIE CUTTING
Contact us Headquartered in Spain, Kento has offices in North America to serve its customers in commercial and technical matters. Contact Mr. Lloyd Kent, or visit www.kentodigitalprinting.com to get a digital brochure or to schedule a personalized live demonstration near Valencia, Spain, or near Chicago, USA.
As an enhancement to its unique printing capabilities, Kento offers the world’s first in-line rotary die cutter on a digital printing machine, adding extra advantages in efficiency, speed, cost-effectiveness, precise and accurate cutting results, and amazing versatility. A true end-to-end print and die cut solution for casemakers.
Lloyd Kent Vice President Sales and Operations— North America lloydkent@ kentodigitalprinting.com 713-828-8699
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Designed to satisfy the needs of today’s markets, ƵŶďĞĂƚĂďůĞ ŝŶ ƉƌŝŶƚŝŶŐ ƌƵŶƐ ƵƉ ƚŽ ϭϬϬ D^&
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We are corrugated info@kentodigitalprinting.com • www.kentodigitalprinting.com • +1 (713) 828-8699
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Koenig & Bauer Celmacch Offers Highest Level of Innovation and Solutions With Its High Board Line Corrugated Products As the corrugated packaging market continues to expand, boxmakers are seeking the highest level of innovation, automation, sustainability, and investment solutions. Their choice? Koenig & Bauer Celmacch. Koenig & Bauer Celmacch’s extensive line of corrugated equipment includes the ChromaCUT X Pro, ChromaCUT High Tech, and ChromaCUT Smart rotary die cutters. The most recent innovation from Koenig & Bauer Celmacch is the new Chroma 2S, a new machine to produce inside/outside print in a single pass. The ChromaCUT X Pro rotary die cutter for corrugated board is Koenig & Bauer Celmacch’s top-of-the-range machine. The ChromaCUT X Pro comes with presettable print units, which
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together with a presettable die cut unit, enable hyper-fast setups. It handles sheets with a width of up to 110.24 inches and a thickness of 0.354 inches, running at speeds up to 12,000 sheets per hour. The ChromaCUT High Tech features many advanced technologies, including zero-defect technology, which ensures the best print quality and highest levels of productivity. Owners of the ChromaCUT High Tech enjoy its competitive operating costs and fast return on investment while operators are pleased with its quick setup capabilities as well as its remote maintenance function and on-board diagnostics. Print quality, die cutting precision, and productivity can all be found on the ChromaCUT Smart machine. This rotary die cutter with direct drive motors represents a perfect combination of innovation and functionality that can meet the highest expectations and quality standards. It is equipped with
Koenig & Bauer Celmacch’s quality control system. Corrugated converters will find that Koenig & Bauer Celmacch can satisfy their growing needs at all price and performance levels. Their products can fulfill short makeready times, modern and intuitive handling, and advanced automation. Koenig & Bauer will continue to play a leadership role in the corrugated market and introduce new products and solutions to support the growth of corrugated converters. Its philosophy is to keep customer requests always in focus. Kevin Erbe National Sales Manager— Corrugated for Koenig & Bauer Celmacch kevin.erbe@ koenig-bauer.com 303-718-0023
The best of two worlds Two companies team up for your success! Koenig & Bauer Celmacch’s expertise with converters have enabled us to develop machines for you with the highest technological standards in the industry. This supports maximum reliability, quality and flexibility. Our range of products meet different investment strategies and productivity requirements, ranging from entry-level models to machines that are equipped with the highest levels of automation, sophistication and the highest throughput. Contact us for information on how you can become the next success story. kevin.erbe@koenig-bauer.com
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Pamarco Pamarco continues to expand. There are many things to reflect on as 2023 ends, and we look to our 80th anniversary in 2026. Yes, we are approaching 80 years of servicing the corrugated industry as the premier anilox roll supplier. Many things have changed in this time; however, one thing remains constant, and that is Pamarco’s culture of service. Our global team has obviously changed over the years as the next generation joins our seasoned technical team, but our service level has never faltered, and our collective knowledge allows us the privilege of being the go-to resource for this growing industry. To ensure Pamarco’s ability to service this growing market we have made significant investments in our European footprint in 2023. This includes the acquisition of a base manufacturing facility in the United Kingdom to further enhance our ability to service our expanding customer base quickly and efficiently. Delivering the highest OEM quality, directly to the OEMs or to the end users for spares and replacement rolls. To further complement this growth and to position ourselves to service our customers on continental Europe we have acquired TLS Anilox located in Salzkotten, Germany. Andre Willeke and the TLS team will be joining the Pamarco family, to provide the same level of service and quality that both organizations are known and respected for. The TLS manufacturing location has unique technology that we’ll be sharing with you in the coming months. Our expansion does not stop with investments made in our European divisions; we are also significantly committed to strengthening our
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Shows a good, well maintained Anilox.
Needs attention, beginning to show wear and plugged with ink.
businesses in the Americas. In early 2024, Pamarco will be installing new laser capability in our Atlanta, Georgia, location and in our La Palma, California, location. This added capacity combined with previous expansion, in our newest facility located in Batavia, Illinois, will ensure that Pamarco can provide superior quality products to our expanding customer base throughout North, Central, and South America. Those of you that have invested in digital print or are of the many that will make the investment, Pamarco is ready to service your needs regarding pre and post coating. For over 30 years, Pamarco has been a leader in what is often referred to as offset coating. Providing anilox rolls for matte, gloss, and scuff-resistant top coatings as well as specialty coatings like soft touch and sandpaper. So, if you have questions
or a desire to expand the offering to your clients, we’re here to provide the technical knowledge, helping you get the maximum impact from your digitally printed work. As you look to 2024, talk with your Pamarco technical sales representative about scheduling an anilox audit. You will receive a comprehensive report on roll condition and recommendations on next steps. A few examples are on this page. Based on the findings, we may recommend a training seminar for your production team, focused on care and handling, to get the maximum value from your investment in Pamarco anilox. John Burgess President john.burgess @pamarco.com 856-829-4585
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Solvent & UV Based Cleaning Products
CARE® Pads & Brushes
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Zünd Step into the Future of Digital Packaging Production
WHY ZÜND FOR PACK AGING PRODUCTION?
ZÜND AND ZUND AMERICA: WHO ARE WE?
Zünd is known for its multi-capable, highly adaptable and efficient cutting solutions for packaging manufacturers looking to expand their digital cutting
Zund America, with HQ in Oak Creek, Wisconsin, is the U.S. sister company of Zünd Systemtechnik, the family-owned manufacturer of multifunctional digital cutting systems based in Switzerland. For the past 40 years, Zünd has been developing and manufacturing modular, single and dual-beam, multifunctional and highly adaptable cutting solutions for applications ranging from custom manufacturing and prototyping to high-volume digital production at an industrial level.
capabilities in anything from samplemaking to fully automated, short-run production. High-performance tooling for all popular packaging materials (incl. up to 4" thick foam on machines with extended clearance) and a full range of
Q-Line with BHS 180 Board Handling.
1.8 m
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automation/robotics, make Zünd an exceptionally versatile and productive offering with an unmatched ROI, both short and long term, and low cost of ownership. ZÜND Q-LINE: STEPPING INTO THE FUTURE
With the recent launch of the 4th generation of Zünd digital cutting systems, the future has arrived! Q-Line with BHS180 is the latest addition to the Zünd digital cutter family. It is a complete, fully automated system designed exclusively for industrial, pallet-to-pallet production and features smart machine-control technology, unprecedented cutting speeds (without loss of accuracy), and reliable, advanced automation. The Q-Line with BHS180 is a comprehensive, advanced system solution that takes digital production to a new level, enabling fully
automated, uninterrupted and unsupervised, “lights-out” digital processing. Zünd Q-Line with BHS180 redefines digital cutting performance in many ways. The linear drive system generates impressive speeds of up to 2.8m/s (more than 9 ft/s), with an astonishing 2.1g acceleration. The new Q-Line substructure is made from heavy and extremely
stable mineral cast. This stability ensures smooth operation and optimal precision, even at very high speeds—concrete performance, by definition! For more information on Zünd cutters and all available personal demonstration options, reach out to our sales team at 414-433-0700, infous@zund.com.
Concrete Performance in digital cutting.
infous@zund.com T: 414-433-0700 www.zund.com
BOXSCORE www.AICCbox.org
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EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
AES Convey with Confidence™ Founded in 1989, AES is your premier provider of integrated conveyance systems specializing in scrap, trim, and dust. With expert engineers, designers, sales consultants, and installation and maintenance technicians, our in-house team delivers top-quality components and tailored solutions for all conveyance needs, from concept to completion. We’re your onestop provider for customized solutions that increase scrap management efficiency, safety, cleanliness, and profitability. SCRAP COLLECTION AND BALING SYSTEMS
Your facility depends on fast, efficient removal of scrap to keep production running smoothly. AES provides custom-built, automated scrap collection and baling systems that help you meet your production goals, maximize scrap revenues, and support efficient and sustainable manufacturing. We understand that factors like proper equipment selection, grade segregation, bale integrity, bale weight, and labor efficiencies all contribute to a profitable scrap program. Our expert system engineers have helped hundreds of customers in your industry achieve a cleaner, leaner, and more profitable recycling program with our automated scrap management solutions. Turn to AES for a custom-engineered solution that delivers years of reliable service, with built-in capacity to meet future needs as your business grows. AES AIRSHARK ™ AIR-MATERIAL SEPARATOR
The AES AirShark™ is our robust, versatile air-material separator, combining a high air handling capacity and compact footprint. With its low-profile design and air handling capacities of up to 64,000
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CFM, the AirShark is the ideal replacement for bulky cyclones or traditional screen separators. This innovative separator eliminates down pressure at the material discharge chute, and the fully sealed v-apex rotor requires no adjustment for material type. The AirShark is the only separator of its kind made in the USA. It can be installed indoors or out, in new installations or retrofits, and is purpose-built for continuous operation. NFPA-COMPLIANT DUST CONTROL
Combustible dusts are among the most significant safety risks for box and corrugated production. AES provides expert solutions to control fugitive dusts and mitigate fire or explosion risks in your plant. We offer baghouse and cartridge-style collectors, HEPA filters, enclosureless dust collectors and systems, industrial dust testing, and consulting services. Our comprehensive range of dust solutions and fire and explosion protection products are designed to help our
clients achieve their safety and compliance goals. Our dust control experts can tailor solutions to help you meet today’s evolving NFPA regulations and insurance requirements while enhancing the safety of your operations. YOUR PROCESS IMPROVEMENT PARTNER
With 35 years of innovation in material separation and air conveyance, AES has consistently developed cutting-edge solutions that help our customers operate their businesses more efficiently, safely, and profitably. We have completed hundreds of successful system installations across North America, continue to develop and install innovative products like the AES AirShark, and offer turnkey services from design to installation, commissioning, and after-sale service. Contact Jeff Dietterich and the team at AES for all things conveyance. Jeff Dietterich President aesjeff@aesales.net 215-723-7200;24 www.linkedin.com/in/ jeff-dietterich-946a2b65/
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Alliance Machine Systems International Moving Forward With Alliance As Alliance Machine Systems moves into 2024, we continue to grow and improve our machines, processes, and service. We thank all of the customers who placed their trust in our products and service this past year. We are a proud American manufacturer and build our machines in our Washington state facilities. FUTURE GROW TH AND CHALLENGES
The corrugated packaging industry is growing and in light of that growth, Alliance continues to improve service and efficiency and provide new solutions for the industry. Alliance is combining modern computer technology, advanced industrial robotics, and adaptive vision systems with proven corrugated automation equipment. From a relatively straightforward semi-automatic LoadMaster, prefeeder, or conveyor and pallet systems, to a fully integrated customized converting line optimized for high production per labor hour, our knowledgeable and experienced sales team can customize a solution to fit your particular needs. Like most industries, manufacturing was affected by the pandemic and resulting supply chain issues. The lack of parts and increased shipping time added pressure to produce quality machines in a reasonable time frame for our valued customers. As we move into the new year, we are encouraged by the improving supply chain and increased shipping speeds but know that struggles are still occurring and remain committed to mitigating delays and delivering high quality products to our customers.
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PREFEEDER INNOVATIONS
At the 2023 CorrExpo, we introduced our Prefeeder Innovations on the “What’s New” stage. This focused on three of our prefeeder offerings: • The BPBFe — The BPBFe features a three belt extendo, extendo active track, and modular design. Being electrical, it is environmentally friendly and has increased speed and smooth motion profiles. • The ITF — The ITF was designed to feed top print machines with a continuous flow capable of keeping up with press speeds up to 500 kick/ min with three distinct sizes to fit a wide range of top feeding applications. • The Digital Prefeeder — The Digital Prefeeder was designed to present board to the digital press oriented 90 degrees compared to what a traditional press would require. It can also accommodate the digital press dual lane printing capabilities using a specialized extendo. • We are also in the process of creating electric versions of our tried-and-true machines and will be introducing those in the future. LOOKING FORWARD
Looking to the future, Alliance is increasing both capacity and reliability. To accomplish this our
manufacturing business practices are being redesigned with a focus on the future and anticipating disruptions. Business growth, productivity, and capacity goals will not be achieved by just adding more people, but by a commitment to education, training, and ongoing support. “Our focus for 2024 is to build trust. We will do this by improving communications, setting clear, achievable expectations and then executing. Just having a great plan doesn’t guarantee the results, so when we recognize a deficiency, we immediately acknowledge and correct it. Actions are much more powerful than words.”—Marius Batrin, President and CEO Our greatest asset is people: those within Alliance, the corrugated industry, and our customers. We thank all those who have and continue to place their trust in our products. Andy Olson Sales Director, North America Andy.Olson@alliancellc.com 509-979-3184
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Baumer hhs CorrBox Solution from Baumer hhs— A totally new approach to gluing and quality control of corrugated packaging Sustainable packaging regulations, zerodefect production, rising cost pressure, the increasing shortage of skilled workers, and the instability of global supply chains—a number of challenges affecting the industry right now prompted the industry to rethink adhesive application and monitoring in corrugated packaging production. The result is the revolutionary CorrBox Solution system for flexo folder-gluers (FFG). The CorrBox Solution is made up of the new PGD 1000 sensor with camera-like properties that set new standards in monitoring the gluing process. Previously, adhesives were mixed with additives that fluoresce under UV light to appear blue, yellow, or green. The purpose of the additives was to create contrast between the surface of the packaging and the glue beads so that cameras and sensors could detect the adhesive. In view of the wide variety of packaging surfaces—white, brown, printed—this task was always quite a challenge. The additives can make the adhesives up to 50% more expensive. The PGD 1000 sensor reliably detects adhesive on corrugated board without any fluorescing additives whatsoever, and it doesn’t matter if or how the surface of a substrate is printed. Eliminating the need for fluorescing additives in the adhesives offers yet another advantage: Corrugated packaging producers can use a wider range of different adhesives. Having a flexible choice of adhesives is an advantage for the CorrBox Solution. In view of the dramatic impact that global supply chains can have, customers benefit even more from this kind of flexibility. Similarly, Baumer hhs has set another milestone in the market with its new
multi-application head for the CorrBox Solution. It is based on the innovative technology behind the Baumer hhs PX 1000 cold glue applicator, which is significantly more forgiving of viscosity fluctuations thanks to a new coil design that achieves a 42% higher closing force than previous offerings. With its high closing force, even adhesives that have thickened after long idle periods can be reliably dispensed. The nozzles on the multi-application head can be lowered into an optional water bath that effectively prevents the nozzle tip from skinning over, even over extended periods, and greatly reduces any contamination or residue buildup. The PX 1000 multi-application head displays excellent startup behavior as a result and doubles run time due to reduced cleaning.
Another advantage is up to 60% reduction in glue consumption without any negative effect on bonding. Baumer hhs has made these significant savings possible by using an optimized stitching algorithm that works hand-in-hand with the speed of the PX 1000 application head. With this method, the continuous line of glue applied previously is divided into a series of short segments. It results in significant savings on adhesive and even increased adhesive strength. Additionally, reduced glue consumption reduces the plastic footprint of the packaging making it more sustainable. The CorrBox Solution offers better KPIs, OEE, and a more sustainable future for corrugated packaging operations. Contact us at 937-886-3160 or sales.usa@ baumerhhs.com for more information.
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EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
CST Systems, Inc. Moisture Control for Corrugated Board On a continuous quest for innovation and with a constant dedication to improving industrial processes that will increase productivity and safety in various industries, including corrugated and converting industries, Renova has built a solid reputation for meeting the needs of companies worldwide. CST Systems, Inc., the exclusive North and Central America representative for all Renova products, is proud to introduce the newest revolutionary Renova system for corrugators, the advanced Nebula Moisture Control Integrated System. Nebula’s Moisture Control results from the synergy of advanced monitoring and control technologies combined with an intuitive interface designed for significant optimization of quality and efficiency of production processes in the corrugated industry. Because moisture enables the cardboard to heat without losing elasticity, allowing the glue to penetrate more efficiently while reducing starch consumption, precisely optimizing humidity levels can lead to a significant reduction in the required amount of starch, up to 20%. The Nebula emits a mixture of air and heated water. This action prevents the cardboard from over-drying, while moisture retention helps stabilize temperatures on all layers of the paperboard for an extended period. The Nebula Scanner, together with the “Nebula Warp Scanner,” can monitor real-time changes in temperature, humidity, and even the warp of the cardboard, at a controlled rate. This capability allows The scanner is equipped with a humidity and temperature sensor that allows a real-time reading of the values on the line.
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immediate measures to be taken through dynamic closed-loop control to ensure optimal production conditions. THE NEBUL A INTEGRATED MOISTURE CONTROL SYSTEM FEATURES
A SIMPLIFIED CONNECTIVITY: An optimized solution for essential connections, all in one connector. WATER FLOW RATE REGULATION: The flow rate of the spray is adjusted to adapt both to the speed of the line and the characteristics of the cardboard. SINGULARLY ACTIVATED NOZZLES: Nebula has 16 to 18 moisture management points according to the application width, and each can be activated separately. ANTI-DRIP SYSTEM: Nebula Moisturizer has advanced technology to operate in challenging environments. The anti-drip study that prevents condensation and eliminates the risk of water droplets falling on the line. AUTOMATIC ANGLE ADJUSTMENT: The automated motorized system allows working on
different layers of cardboard, adapting to production needs. CONTACTLESS DETECTION SENSOR: The Nebula scanner uses a non-contact detection system. INSTALL ATION
The Nebula System can be installed at several points of the line. Together with the customer, it will be determined which application points are best suited to the plant’s needs and based on the expected results of the final product, the best Nebula combination will be suggested. Please contact the CST Systems Sales Team at 770-425–3353 or visit www. cstsystems.net for more information. CST Systems, Inc. 1590 N. Roberts Rd. #201 Kennesaw, GA 30144 John McQueary Vice President, Sales John@cstsystems.net 770-605-7657
Humidity control scanner that, with an “S” movement, measures the data both in transversal and longitudinal directions. (The scanner is also available in a fixed version.)
The water mist prevents the board from over-drying during the heating process. Moisture keeps temperatures constant longer across all corrugated board layers.
EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
Domino Experience the Domino Difference WHY DOMINO?
Domino is a leading manufacturer and distributor of digital printing and product identification solutions. Celebrating our 46th year in business, Domino is a global organization with world headquarters in the UK, North America headquarters in Gurnee, Illinois, and Domino provides local service and support. Domino has 25 subsidiaries, representation in more than 120 countries, and over 3,200 employees worldwide. Domino has a long history of innovation and continuous growth, and 46 years of inkjet technology experience. With over 1,000 industrial inkjet installations globally, Domino is heavily invested in digital technology, is financially strong and stable, and is a trusted business partner. As of June 2015, Domino is a Brother Group Company. WHY DIGITAL?
Benefits for the Converter … With the proliferation of SKUs and shorter run lengths, digital offers “game changing” benefits for converters. • Digital provides quicker changeover, less make-ready, faster throughput, increased productivity, efficiency, and capacity. • Digital helps decrease cost, inventory, waste, and material. • Digital helps increase print jobs per day and profit per job. • Digital creates new opportunities and the ability to go after new business and enter new markets. Benefits for Your Customer … the Brand Owner • Utilize multiple SKUs/versions (i.e., flavors, colors, varieties, sizes, etc.) for brand differentiation and provide more choices to the consumer.
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• Utilize Variable Data Printing for anti-counterfeiting, track and trace, brand protection, consumer engagement, loyalty and promo programs. • Reduce inventory on-hand and have packaging delivered JIT from the converter as needed. • High quality printing that has color consistency and repeatability with every run, every time. • The ability to pivot quickly with changes in branding and market messaging. As an example of “Why Digital?,” Finn MacDonald, president of Independent II, explains, “Over the last 15 years our business philosophy has not changed, but the landscape of our business has changed dramatically. Our customers’ products spend less time in the warehouse, and more time in retail and on doorsteps. We had to recognize and embrace this change and invest in the resources to evolve from a brown box company to a brand and packaging company, and now to digital.” “Digital was an opportunity for us to get there faster, and to take our customers there more quickly and successfully. We now have the ability to bring that dynamic digital energy to our customers with the Domino X630i. This is a single-pass 4-color aqueous-based press designed specifically to live and thrive in a manufacturing environment. That press is user friendly, it’s supportable, and it’s expandable,” says MacDonald. MacDonald concludes, “Everyday digital is what we want to bring to our customers, to our market, and to our own internal operations. “Everyday digital is an opportunity for us to take existing flexo process and find efficiencies, and consistency, and more user-friendliness in the print operation. That’s where we stand
today. The Domino X630i is supporting our everyday digital business with our customers, with our market, and certainly inside our own operation.” WHY X630I?
Domino X630i digital aqueous inkjet corrugated press: Built, serviced, and supported in the USA. Small footprint 10' H x 38' L x 21' W. Climate-controlled environmental enclosure. Sun Automation lead-edge, servo-driven feeder. Utilizes a max sheet size of 63" x 118" (max image size 53" x 118"). Prints on coated and uncoated liners without primer. Polymer-based technology. 600 x 600 dpi print utilizing 4-color CMYK. AQ95 water-based inks that are Swiss Ordinance, Nestlé, and EuPia compliant. Choice of stacking and OPV options. And acquiring the Domino X630i has never been easier with our In-House Leasing Program! IN-HOUSE LEASING PROGRAM
Domino In-House Leasing Program provides attractive low rates. Fixed monthly payments. No large cash outlay. No personal guarantees required. No banks or third-party leasing companies involved. You’re dealing directly with Domino. Ramp up program with deferred payments. Bundled with service, maintenance, training, printheads, and Digital Solutions Programs. And a future-proof trade-in guarantee. The benefits are endless with this simple, easy, flexible program. We welcome you to “Experience the Domino Difference.” Matt Condon Business Development Manager matthew.condon@domino-na.com 847-596-4816 / mobile 224-223-2340 dominodigitalprinting.com
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Elitron Empowering Customers in the Packaging Industry: Elitron’s Cutting-Edge Technology Takes Finishing to the Next Level The large-format digital print market is set for continued growth in 2024 and beyond, with notable increases expected in packaging applications for corrugated, cardboard, and other flexible materials, too. In this scenario Elitron is leading the way from a finishing perspective. Elitron’s Kombo TAV-R, the fully automatic cutting system first launched in 2012, has today evolved into the most advanced, unique system that is able to offer packaging and display customers nonstop productivity with the underside camera system to center the cutting file with the print, the dual cutting heads, the unique Airo Panel unloading system, and the option of roll-in, roll-out automatic pallet management for enhanced 24/7 production. In addition, Elitron has a vast range of different sized automatic fixed and conveyor multi-tool cutting systems that offer many unique and often patented optional features, which offer greater flexibility and increase productivity. Just this year alone, Elitron has launched two new systems for automatic feeding and unloading/stacking. Elitron’s stand-alone cutting systems, both for sampling and production, can now be equipped with the latest automatic Elitron Feeding System (EFS), and unloading Elitron Stacker System (ESS). They can also incorporate the patented Seeker System underside camera for automatic reference point identification, image recognition,
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and immediate cutting, without any operator intervention. It’s also possible to opt for different gantry heights, to cut materials up to 4.7 inches thick, to have even greater flexibility. In addition, Elitron has a new, optional PMH, Protective Material Handling system that ensures printed sheets are handled and loaded with the utmost care to avoid any damage and scratching of printed boards when they are being loaded. The tooling can certainly be customized to meet the individual customer requirements and their type of jobs. As and when different tooling is required, for new jobs or different materials this can be added to the multi-tool cutting head. Elitron offers a full range of tools, including fixed and oscillating knives, milling modules, creasing wheel kits, kiss cutting, V-Cut options, including the patented DL45 for V-cutting in just one pass, cut and crease, circular knife, pen module and laser pointer. Elitron’s automatic sheet turner, Reversa, is a stand-alone or integrated system that turns printed sheets so that these can be cut and creased with the print side facing downward. Two of Elitron’s most popular options are: • The Stressless Working Technology for immediate cutting: Digital dies are projected onto the material/s using a powerful video projection system and then cut immediately without any lengthy setup. This is ideal for instant sampling
(prototypes) and to use up otherwise waste material/s. • The Underside and Topside Camera System: Elitron’s patented Seeker System reads printed reference marks and printed images, loads, and aligns the relative cutting file/s, all in just one click! Elitron’s innovative and highly technological cutting systems are unique in that they all have a powerful, highly sectorized vacuum working area. This vacuum system guarantees that all sheet and roll materials are firmly held in place during cutting and milling to produce the best quality finish for all materials. Divided into individual sectors, fully managed by the software, the vacuum power is only activated and concentrated where the cutting head is working. Looking to reduce energy consumption both internally and for our customers, from 2023 all Elitron systems now come with the NEW EPMS, Elitron Power Management System that maximized the vacuum power for maximum material hold, while reducing the energy consumption by up to 50%. Interested to find out more, and to take your finishing to the next level? Visit www.elitron.com and email elitron.usa@elitron.com to arrange a meeting with the Elitron America team. elitron.usa@elitron.com 844-354-8766
THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE EQUIPMENT
Equipment Finance Corporation “Large Enough to Serve You, Small Enough to Know You” Equipment Finance Corporation (EFC) has been providing long term fixed rate financing for new and used Packaging machinery since 1993. Unlike commercial banks and bank-owned finance companies, our financial terms and structures are set based on the parameters which best serve the needs of each individual borrower, not a regulatory agency, allowing us to be a true “Relationship Lender.” We typically provide up to 100% of the total project cost of new and used machinery projects with amortization terms of up to 15 years for new and five to eight years for used equipment. The corrugated packaging industry is stable and growing. EFC is ready to provide the capital required by our clients to take advantage of their opportunities. 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.
Investment in upgraded equipment is an ongoing requirement for packaging operations in order to satisfy customer demands; improve production speed, capacity, and efficiency; and reduce reliance on unreliable labor resources. 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 35+ years of industry knowledge and experience allows us to offer qualified clients structured and extended 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. 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 and finance companies, or other financial institutions. Our large financial services volume allows us access to funding at below market rates, which we 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 lenders. In the current rising rate environment, we provide options, including fixed-rate loans for the entire loan term or, in the event you feel rates will decline in the future, loans with a rate adjustment at some point during the loan term. 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 whom 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.
BOXSCORE www.AICCbox.org
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EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
ERS Pioneering Dust Control and Trim Removal Solutions Engineered Recycling Systems, LLC, (ERS) continues to be a leading force in providing the paper converting industry with cutting-edge dust control and trim removal solutions. Based in Atlanta, ERS is committed to delivering comprehensive services that include equipment design and manufacturing, on-site system installations, and unwavering maintenance and customer support throughout the life span of our products. In a world increasingly reliant on corrugated and paper products, the demand for efficient production is greater than ever. Production lines bear the weight of this demand, making air filtration an integral part of the system. A dust collection issue can bring your entire operation to a halt, underscoring the importance of a dependable air filtration solution. At ERS, our team is a collaboration of industry-leading engineers and innovators, allowing us to tap into a vast pool of expertise. This, coupled with valuable feedback from our customers, has led to ingenious dust control and trim removal solutions that meet the needs of today’s industry. Our flagship product, the CCM® OCT dust collector, is a testament to our commitment to innovation. It boasts an impressive 80% reduction in downtime compared to traditional filtration systems on the market. Unlike conventional baghouse and cartridge filters that often require over 20 hours of standard preventative maintenance, our engineers have designed a solution that minimizes workflow disruption. With the CCM® OCT, a complete preventative maintenance session requires just four hours of downtime (for a 50,000 CFM unit of equivalent
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capacity), effectively freeing up 16 hours of valuable production time. Every maintenance operation translates to unlocking 16 hours of potential profits for your company. Addressing a common concern among plant managers, the CCM® OCT is designed with a window that allows for real-time monitoring of the machine’s internal operation. It’s like having a see-through vacuum cleaner! This innovative feature ensures that problems can be identified and resolved promptly, preventing catastrophic events. Not only is the CCM® OCT highly efficient, but it also stands as the safest dust collector on the market. We’ve eliminated explosion hazards that have plagued previous models, featuring fewer moving parts and zero explosion risks. In essence, the CCM® OCT is a filtration solution that delivers peace of mind. With maintenance costs at half that of a baghouse and a quarter of a cartridge filter, the CCM® OCT stands out as the most sustainable, safest, and user-friendly filter available. ERS is renowned for designing stateof-the-art equipment, and our customer support system mirrors the same level of excellence. In response to supply chain challenges, we’ve proactively addressed potential shipping delays by investing in a spacious 55,000-square-foot warehouse, meticulously stocked with equipment and spare parts. Our most critical spare
parts are readily available for expedited shipping from our Atlanta warehouse. Furthermore, in our commitment to unwavering support, we’ve recently launched a 24/7 customer portal, offering comprehensive online support for our customers. You’ll always have access to technical data for your ERS equipment, ensuring that you’re never left in the dark. At ERS, we stand by our products, as our satisfied customers can attest: “They stand behind their system. There’s no finger-pointing.” Meet the Driving Force at ERS: Meet Mechanical Engineer Mike Carver, the managing partner at ERS, who has devoted over 30 years to serving the paper, paper converting, and recycling industries. His extensive background and technical expertise make him an outstanding team leader and an expert engineer. Mike’s philosophy is simple: “The customer’s success is our success. We will do everything we can to keep your operation running smoothly.” Mike Carver Partner mc@engineeredrecycling. com 630-484-4811
For the paper converting industry’s most advanced dust control and trim removal solutions, trust ERS to lead the way. Your success is our commitment.
CCM OCT ®
STATE-OF-THE-ART, HIGHLY ADVANCED DUST COLLECTION SYSTEM
SAFEST DUST COLLECTION SYSTEM ON THE MARKET Engineered Recycling Systems takes decades of engineering experience and system integration expertise to provide our partners turnkey solutions. We engineer, design and install world-class scrap collection and dust extraction systems providing our customers with equipment and system designs that deliver unprecedented levels of quality and craftsmanship, our solutions increase production and cut labor costs.
Safety-Driven Design SIGNIFICANT ADVANTAGES OVER CONVENTIONAL DUST FILTRATION TECHNOLOGY • No compressed air, water, explosion vents or high-speed abort gates required • No ladder or lifting equipment needed for servicing • System operates without housing, ensuring it is not considered a confined space • Lower maintenance costs • Less production downtime • Minimal time required for changing out filter media • No makeup air required • CCM® OCT Filters = SAFE to operate and maintain
www.engineeredrecycling.com
info@engineeredrecycling.com
EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
Haire Group Exclusive North American Partner and New Machine Launch “Two thousand and twenty-three has been a year of growth and Italian innovation for Haire Group, as Haire not only introduced a tremendous addition to their team, Danny Lopez, but also unveiled the sleek and sophisticated Encore FD 821,” said Mike Mulroe, President of Haire Group. “Customers consistently look for ways to improve operations to better serve their clientele. In turn, Haire does the same by providing next-level technology that will further enhance the efficiency and product quality capabilities of existing and future customers. Haire also continues to build their team of experts to best serve our clientele, so the addition of Danny Lopez as the Director of Business Development was no happy accident.” Prior to joining the Haire Group team, Danny worked his way from Application Engineer to Product Engineer to Senior Territory Manager over the past 16 years at Alliance Machine Systems
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International. This powerful combination of business acumen, industry expertise, and engineering makes Danny uniquely qualified for his new position at Haire. “Danny Lopez is a tremendous addition to the Haire Group team. As we continue to grow and add to our team, it’s critically important that we do not lose sight of what has made us successful: a commitment to our core values and a philosophy rooted in taking care of the customer. Danny is the perfect fit for Haire. He is a high-integrity professional, extremely knowledgeable, and has a passion for taking care of the customer. We’re excited he’s on our team and taking on his new role for Haire,” said Mike Mulroe, President of Haire Group. When asked about the new Encore 821, Mulroe said, “Plants no longer have to choose between quality and speed during the boxmaking process because you can have it all with the FD 821, including less downtime on the production floor. The Encore FD 821 flexo folder gluer’s combination of efficiency, set-upwhile-run, and world-class design make this machine second to none. Customers are sure to take notice of the high-quality output. From prefeeder to palletizer, there’s beauty cooked into the process.” Every Encore RDC boasts an incredible speed of
up to 200 sheets per minute. With dual one-to-one creasing, revolutionary “rotary shear” glue tab, and “only one” motor technology for precise positioning, worldclass printing in one pass is attainable. Its unique modular design makes it fully scalable, so its capacity grows as your business grows. Encore machines come with a built-in Ethernet connection, giving customers a direct line to Haire Technical Group (HTG), Haire Group’s service department, for 24/7 service and support. HTG’s highly trained and experienced technicians are the best in the industry and are available to Encore owners for the life of the machine. In a competitive marketplace, you need the clear advantage of an Encore. As President at Haire Group, Mike and his management team run the day-today operations of the business with overall responsibility for the company’s operating performance. Though a relative newcomer to the industry, he joined Haire in early 2021 with a vast amount of operations, quality improvement and leadership experience, most recently as Vice President of Operations for one of the nation’s top academic medical centers. In addition to leading day-to-day operations, Mike oversees the company’s ongoing strategic growth and is the leader in communicating and implementing the mission, vision, and overall direction for the company. Mike Mulroe President mmulroe@hairegroup. com 219-947-4545
Ciao bellA!
Say hello to Italian innovative excellence with the Encore FD 821 flexo folder gluer. From prefeed through palletizing, there’s beauty cooked into the process. Increased versatility and efficiency are a beautiful thing. READY FOR NEXT LEVEL INNOVATION? REACH OUT TODAY.
hairegroup.com
EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
HP Elevate Your Corrugated Packaging Game With HP’s Revolutionary Press Portfolio HP’s PageWide Press Series is spearheading the digital print revolution, featuring an extensive line of tried-and-tested presses such as the T1195i, T700i, T470S, and C550. Designed to serve a wide array of corrugated and paper-based packaging applications, this lineup delivers not just high-quality prints but also costeffective solutions, from short runs to bulk production. The T1195i sets the standard for high-volume corrugated preprint production, offering both speed and cost-efficiency. With the T700i, you get unbeatable economics for visually rich litho-lam, corrugation, and folding carton projects. The T470S provides consistent, top-quality prints while reducing manufacturing costs, ideal for litho-lam and folding carton use-cases. Meanwhile, the C550 is your go-to for versatile post-print solutions, capable of economically handling custom, one-of-akind prints as well as bulk orders directly on corrugated sheets. The PageWide Press Series brings speed, adaptability, and the ability to craft distinctive campaigns to the table, equipping brands with the agility they demand in today’s fast-paced market. HP’s PageWide Press Series gives you the tools to enhance your product offerings, uplift your corrugated packaging game, and become an industry front-runner. Combining the best of digital flexibility and vibrant graphics, HP PageWide presses employ thermal inkjet printheads with millions of nozzles and built-in
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redundancy, ensuring unparalleled print quality. What’s more, our exclusive water-based inks produce vivid colors and support a circular economy, making these presses as sustainable as they are effective. Choose sustainability and superior quality; choose the PageWide Press Series. Whether it’s direct board printing or liner printing, our presses are designed for industry compatibility, enabling you to deliver high-impact, cost-efficient boxes without sacrificing your commitment to the environment. For more information, contact HP at corrugated.packaging@hp.com.
PageWide Corrugated Digital Presses
Scan to learn more
Quality and Sustainability with a Splash of Innovation
HP's True Water Based Ink
The most complete digital print portfolio for the corrugated industry
HP PageWide C550 Press
HP's Thermal Inkjet Technology
HP PageWide T1195i Press
Accurate Media Motion
HP PageWide T700i Press
HP PageWide T470S Press
EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
Valco Melton How Valco Melton Continues to Make Quality Visible. For over 75 years, Valco Melton has been a leading manufacturer of state-of-the-art adhesive dispensing and quality assurance systems in the market. Throughout this time, our unwavering commitment to quality has enabled us to expand our operations to more than 95 countries, making us a renowned name in the world of corrugated manufacturing. Currently, we are at the forefront of camera-based inspection systems, and our glue stations have become the industry standard for sealing manufacturers’ joints. The constant concern for corrugated manufacturers is ensuring their customers receive boxes that meet their specific standards. This is where we step in. In addition to our range of sensor-based inspection solutions, ClearVision, our camera-based quality inspection line, can meticulously inspect every aspect of your boxes. Whether you’re grappling with adhesive application problems or your die cutting process is causing jams in your box former, requiring valuable production time for maintenance, ClearVision has a solution for you. One of our ClearVision solutions, GapChek, ensures that gaps align with your customer’s specific requirements before
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delivery. This solution captures a photo of the front and back of each corrugated box bundle, followed by an inspection of the manufacturer’s gap for all boxes to ensure they meet the specified job criteria. The optional bundle ejection system removes bundles with defective gaps from the production line. An operator can then sort the defects out of the ejected bundle. Another standout solution from our ClearVision line is PrintChek. Representing a groundbreaking advance in print detection for the corrugated industry, our PrintChek cameras are capable of detecting defects down to 2mm and thoroughly imaging every box across the entire press before the die cutting process. With PrintChek’s
full-sheet corrugated inspection, you can zoom in on specific areas such as printing and logos for closer scrutiny to ensure they are flawless. Complementing our ClearVision quality assurance solutions, our BoardRunner and 3NCR glue stations have established themselves as the industry standard for adhesive application. Furthermore, our technology is supported by expert installation and startup assistance worldwide, providing you with peace of mind that your conversion process will be both safe and seamless. To delve deeper into how Valco Melton can enhance your box manufacturing processes, please explore our website at ValcoMelton.com or contact your local office.
THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE EQUIPMENT
Air Systems Design, Inc. The Past Few Years For the past 41 years, ASDI has been providing quality Pneumatic Conveying and Mechanical Belt Conveying Systems for the Corrugated Paper Industry. There are several different types of systems being “turnkeyed” in this industry. The most popular over the past few years are the cyclone system, the indoor separator system, and the mechanical conveyor in a trench system. For the Sheet Plants, the sequential system using one fan for as many as four to five machines has offered them savings on the electrical power and starting investment by using less CFM. Regardless of the type of system that is used, ASDI provides a design that is safe and maximizes the production for each machine. Corrugator Plants themselves are now using shredders in different areas of the corrugator. ASDI has installed shredders at the “rotary shear” section and the waste eject at the “cut-off knife” area. ASDI has used a wide conveyor to take reject sheets from one area to another allowing the use of one shredder instead of two. More
shredders are being used at the wet end. The new plant systems over the past few years have been using as many as three shredders, all able to run at one time, demanding a larger baler for the plants. The dust that comes from shredders and paper handling fans is becoming more of a housekeeping issue than ever before. ASDI had been using state-of-the-art filters with bags or cartridges as well as three different style drum filters. All of these are under negative air and use a clean air fan with a VFD to match the CFM that is coming from the cyclone or separator system. This keeps the baler room very clean, and the dust captured is going to a briquetter. All filter equipment meets the NFPA guidelines. Addressing noise on the roof and/or inside the plant has also driven our corrugator customers into new projects. Some of the noise is caused by the board hitting the fan wheels and/or coming out of the cyclone discharge. ASDI has a full line of fan sound jackets, sound enclosures and we make the new cyclone quieter by using a proven sound board in particular areas
of the cyclone that suppresses the noise. Also, we use in-line silencers on the fans when we do this, which also helps lower the noise coming from the cyclone. Air Systems Design, Inc. 50 East Court, Mandeville, LA 70471 Sales@airsystemsdesign.com 985-875-7777
BOXSCORE www.AICCbox.org
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EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
A.G. Stacker Reimagine A.G. As Your Full Line Solutions Partner Don’t waste the potential of your greatest assets! Corrugated productivity is not siloed to one machine. Your full line must be designed without bottlenecks and synchronized to run top quality at rated speeds to achieve maximum profitability. Even more, your team must be equipped with the knowledge and support to keep all systems running in harmony. It’s time to re-imagine what productivity can truly be with innovative material handling systems and technology from A.G. Founded in 1996, A.G. is more than stackers; we are a leading manufacturer and innovator of corrugated material handling equipment and technology. Our full line solutions include the G3™ Stacker, the fully electric eBREAK™ Bundle Breaker and eZF™ Load Former, the NEW eXT Front End System, as well as the patented X12™ pitless lift conveyor and bundle line conveying system with patented ball belt transfer technology. A.G.’s fully electric, fully integrated eSERIES line of equipment has impressed converters with each successful installation in the market. With more than two dozen machines running in the field and installed across North America in the past 24 months, A.G.’s new systems have exceeded market expectations. Scan the QR code for an exclusive video of new A.G. equipment. Full line productivity requires a knowledgeable
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production team. Don’t let legacy knowledge retire with your employees! The GO AG™ digital application is the perfect solution to capture and distribute key information to your production staff and beyond. With GO AG™, your team has access to custom and standard manuals, equipment models, training videos, troubleshooting guides, work instructions, and more. Follow us on LinkedIn for special software and parts promotions throughout 2024! Reimagine your shop floor with SIMCORRA™, a custom factory simulation and visual planning tool tailored to the corrugated industry. This technology was developed by A.G. to create and test custom factory layouts, production runs and more in a risk-free digital environment. See into the future with SIMCORRA™ and digitally manufacture your most productive factory environment for real-world application. This year, reimagine A.G. as your full line solutions partner. With
over 25 patents and counting, visit us at SuperCorrExpo Booth #1115 to see innovations engineered for ultimate productivity and innovation. We proudly manufacture all equipment and parts in the USA and offer tailored A.G. MAX Service Programs to help you achieve your production goals. To learn more, contact our team at 540-234-6012 or schedule a consultation at www.agstacker.com/ sales-quote. Tim Connell Director of Sales tconnell@agstacker.com 973-495-2355
THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE EQUIPMENT
American Corrugated Machine Corp. Presents…
Counter Stacker
Die Cut Unit
Glue System
Vacuum Transfer System
THE SECO JUMBO FLEXO FOLDER GLUER SIZES FROM 66 X 157 TO 92 X 216
An industry leader since 1985, American Corrugated Machine Corp. is a broker of new and used equipment from industry leaders such as Torosian Tech Services, Engineered Recycling Systems, Sechang Machinery Company, RJE Machinery, and Potdevin. American Corrugated Machine also specializes in expert ASA appraisals. ACM American Corrugated Machine Corp. Patrick Szany 110 Liberty Lane President P.O. Box 357 pszany@acm-corp.com Indian Trail, NC 28079 800-528-2331 Toll Free 800-528-2331 or 704-821-6799 www.acm-corp.com Fax 704-821-6831
BOXSCORE www.AICCbox.org
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EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
Baldwin Technologies Baldwin Investments in Curing, Drying, and Plate-Cleaning Technologies Delivering by a “Wide Margin” for Clients 2023 witnessed Baldwin Technologies finding wide adoption across the corrugated industry, thanks to the company’s ongoing investments in the latest curing, drying, and plate-cleaning technologies—epitomized by its Ultra Wide FlexoCleanerBrush™ and FlexoDry Infrared Drying System. Boxmaker needs for higher production, improved quality, and reduced downtime, with a focus on wide-format settings, continue to drive their competitiveness and profitability. “Our investments continue to pay off handsomely for clients as they navigate challenging labor markets, the drive for improved quality to compete, and the need to find productivity gains across the operations,” said Craig Black, Vice President of Sales, Baldwin. “Wideformat applications and equipment especially benefit from our technology advancements.” Baldwin’s flagship Ultra Wide FlexoCleanerBrush continues its winning ways. The fully automated flexo plate-cleaning system can be deployed up to 126 inches (3.2 meters) wide and is highly regarded for optimized print quality and improved worker safety in corrugated printing. It automatically removes dust and contamination from the plate in seconds during production without stopping the press. It also performs complete end-of-job plate cleaning and drying in four minutes or less, meaning increased uptime, reduced consumables
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spend, and the potential for truckloads of additional capacity each year. Fully automatic and spanning the entire width of the plate cylinder, the FlexoCleanerBrush improves safety by eliminating routine operator contact thereby reducing the risk of operator contact with wash agents and cylinder nip injuries. The carbon-fiber core ensures a stable, uniform, and consistent flexo plate cleaning throughout the whole width of the plate, keeping the system to a minimal weight. The company’s FlexoDry Infrared (IR) drying system is proving impressive results. Maximized press throughput, boosted production speeds, and reduced energy consumption result from the system’s focused IR radiation thanks to its Diamond lamps, which employ unique ceramic reflectors, directing all light to the substrate—resulting in 30% energy savings when compared with other IR lamps. Finally, the XP Max LED-UV system rounds out Baldwin’s advanced portfolio. It is engineered to cure wide substrates moving past it on a corrugated rotary die cutter, manufacturing conveyor belt, or printing press. XP Max uses myriad 20-inch (508 mm) modules, forming a continuous UV curing array that spans any required press or conveyor width,
as compared to a long commodity LED array. Its LED modules are installed at an angle to allow for overlap of the LED emitting area, substantially reducing energy and downtime while improving operational safety. LED-UV technology instantly cures ink instantly and virtually eliminates drying time, using less energy than either IR or arc UV. Additionally, its modules can be turned off and on to cover specific conveyor areas. Another reason this new approach is gaining wide adoption is that it enables discrete maintenance, allowing the removal of a single module without needing to shut down the full system for repairs. LED window temperatures are significantly cooler than both traditional IR and arc UV, enhancing worker safety and reducing fire risk when corrugated substrates fall onto lamp heads. “Beyond our technology leadership, Baldwin’s commitment to customer focus pushes us to provide optimized service and support, and we continue to invest in additional resources and training in that part of our business,” said Black. To “Go Wide” with Baldwin: baldwintech.com.
THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE EQUIPMENT
Barberán
BARBERÁN’S NEW JETMASTER 2.0 High-graphic corrugated sheet printing is a tough business; budgets, schedules, and quality expectations are tighter than ever. There’s an old saying in commercial printing: “Speed, Quality, Price: Choose any two.” But we say, “Choose Barberán.” Developed for package and POP sheet converters, independents, and integrateds alike, the all-new Barberán Jetmaster 2.0 is the most customizable and most productive, single-pass sheet-fed digital inkjet printer on the market—lowering costs and driving efficiency without sacrificing quality. Speed: Makeready is eliminated. Graphic rotation is instantaneous. Production proofing is 1:1. And with a max output of 141MSF/hr, response time, speed-to-market, and capable-throughput are unmatched. Quality: New Epson S3200 recirculating, variable drop, continuous-inkjet printheads with 600x600 resolution deliver near-offset quality.
Price: Operating and maintenance cost-savings are unparalleled. Openmarket inks promote competitive pricing. And on average, moving lower-volume litho jobs to a Barberán Jetmaster improves margin by 28% and reduces material waste by 20% while freeing litho capacity for longer and more profitable press runs. ABOUT BARBERÁN:
Established in 1929, Barberán develops commercial finishing solutions for multiple industries, with commercial machinery operating in over 3,000 factories across 60 countries, and with digital inkjet devices being Barberán’s fastest growing sector. Barberán first employed single-pass digital in 2007 and was the first to apply the technology to fiberboard and paperboard sheet-fed printers with the Jetmaster Series. Today, Barberán is the most prevalent name in single-pass sheet-fed corrugated digital printing, with
more years and devices in-market than anyone else. LEARN MORE:
Contact us today to request samples and discover how Barberán can improve your output, quality, and margins—advancing your organization into the digital age with the all-new Jetmaster 2.0. Call or email VP of Barberán Corrugated US, Chuck Slingerland. 413-813-7813 cslingerland@barberan.com Or scan the contact QR below:
BOXSCORE www.AICCbox.org
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EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
Custom Steam Solutions We are Custom Steam Solutions or CSSI Steam System Integrators that design and build Steam specialty manufactured products. Founded by two gents who have spent their entire careers in the steam industry with a hands-on, in-depth knowledge of steam and a strong engineering background. Last month, we moved our entire operation from Cambridge to Paris, Ontario, for more manufacturing space and capacity. After eight successful years of continued growth in Canada (Ontario) we are now in the lower 48, located in East Dundee, Illinois. Now serving the entire North American continent. We have our own line of valves, pumps, traps, screens, and control
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panels. We provide the following: Engineering Services, PNID, 3D SolidWorks products, design and build control panel, programming, trap audits, energy audits, complete rental container boiler rooms, the manufacture of vessels i.e. Feedwater/hotwell tanks, DA Tanks, headers, economizers, PRVs, SCRs, etc. We are ASME-approved with the appropriate stamps of manufacture and welding in galvanized and stainless steel for SIP, CIP, and more. Capable of manufacturing small to very large systems and vessels. We proudly serve
the corrugated industry and other steam user industries. Give us a call, and you will not be disappointed. DON BOGARDUS Business Development Manager don.bogardus@ customsteam.com 331-286-8363
THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE EQUIPMENT
EFI Industrial digital printing for corrugated packaging and displays Single-pass digital printing is a transformative technology that will allow you to increase the capabilities of your plant and create new business models. EFI Nozomi industrial inkjet printers offer the perfect balance between the latest technology and everyday operational needs. Created to produce fine graphics more efficiently, these award-winning technologies drive efficiency while freeing up flexographic and offset capacity. EFI Nozomi digital printers handle nearly all flute types and deliver
proven, reliable, and robust industrial productivity, thanks to a powerful transport system, integrated machine vision camera, and high-performance printheads that maximize equipment effectiveness (OEE). EFI Nozomi printers use genuine EFI UV LED inks that are 100% recyclable and repulpable and provide high color saturation and coverage. The highperformance EFI Fiery print server used with Nozomi printers offers advanced imaging technology. And Nozomi printers are certified to the highest industry standards: Fogra and G7.
EFI Nozomi C18000 Plus The first complete and best-equipped line for industrial single-pass printing of corrugated cardboard boxes and displays. • Colors: CMYK, CMYK+W, CMYKOV, CMYKOV+W • Max. board size: 1.8 m x 3 m • Resolution: 360 x 720 dpi • Max. speed: up to 75 linear m/min • Feeder: bottom continuous, double line printing included • Primer: roller • Stacker: full pallet stacker
This is also a highly sustainable technology for the corrugated market. EFI Nozomi printers consume 35% less energy than traditional flexographic printing and have more efficient processes: no cleaning water, no overproduction, no emissions, and less waste. For more information about EFI and EFI Nozomi, please contact info@efi.com or 800-875-7117. info@efi.com 800-875-7117 www.nozomi.efi.com
EFI Nozomi 14000 LED A very compact solution, easy to adapt to the space available on the floor for converters making the step to digital technology. • Colors: CMYK, CMYK+W, CMYKOV, CMYKO+W • Max. board size: 1.4 m x 2.4 m • Resolution: 360 x 720 dpi • Max speed: Up to 75 linear m/min and up to 100 linear m/min for uncoated and unprimed papers • Feeder: continuous bottom, optional double line printing • Primer: roller • Stacker: complete pallet stacker or in packs
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Friese North America Friese Corrugating Rolls— German Engineering in America A world leader in the manufacture of corrugating rolls founded in 1992, with sets equipping over 400 corrugators in over 60 countries. Friese corrugating rolls produces stronger board, with less fiber consumption, at greater speeds, and at a lower cost than our competitors. Apart from being competitively priced, the rolls have some unique attributes, which are provided below. Friese has perfected the application of their Rockwelle tungsten carbide coating. The coating is triple polished, smooth as chrome, provides stable flute geometry, and lowers medium tension to create stronger combined board. Friese recently unveiled Rockwelle 4.0, the first innovation to roll coatings in decades. Rockwelle 4.0 is a tungsten carbide based coating that is currently for micro flutes such as E, F, and G/N. It boasts a 10% higher material hardness compared with the previous tungsten carbide coating. This will significantly increase the life expectancy of the corrugating roll. It has proven to be much smoother than the previous coating. If your current rolls
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are uncoated or chrome coated, they can be upgraded to Rockwelle 4.0. Friese offers flute profile optimization and can manufacture any profile on a set of rolls. Friese can work up a Profile Analysis and Comparison Estimate (PACE) that compares the current profile to the suggested optimized profiles from Friese’s engineers. The suggestions are based off the customer needs but most companies want to save medium without sacrificing ECT values. Friese can generate a PACE for any set of rolls on any single facer. Lastly, an advantage of Friese is the CCS/Thermogrooves. The CCS/ Thermogrooves are the most effective condensate removal system for conventionally heated rolls. The Thermogrooves collect the condensate while the siphon removes it from the roll. This system reduces cold spots and provides better heat transfer at higher production speeds. Customers will see no banana effect and no running in of the rolls. There is no need for maintenance and adjustments to the system for the life of the roll. The CCS/Thermogrooves are also compatible with all existing current steam systems so modifications are not necessary. www.friese-rockwelle.de/en.html
Friese has been selling corrugating for rolls in the United States for the past 20 years. Friese North America was founded in 2021 and Christian was brought on board as the first official employee. He handles the day-to-day operations of the company. Christian Rodriguez Sales crodriguez@ friese-NA.com 757-752-4909
THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE EQUIPMENT
Greene House Group Solutions and Support for Western Boxmakers Greene House Group (GHG) serves as an independent sales representative for top manufacturers in the corrugated industry. Led by father-and-son duo Frank and Hayden Greene, the California-based company has developed a reputation of knowledge, diligence, and respect in the western United States. NEW TCY MACHINE INSTALLS 2024
We are proud to announce GHG has officially sold our first Flexo Folder-Gluer from TCY Machinery! The new asset is in transit and will be installed very soon. “TCY is looking forward to the visibility it will bring to their reliable, robust flexo folder-gluer and rotary die cutter solutions in the U.S.,” states TCY sales representative, Nina Li. Stay tuned for more updates and contact GHG to discuss TCY’s FFG and RDC solutions, now with US-based parts and service right here in California! THE BEST IN CORRUGATED SOLUTIONS AND SUPPORT
been a leading and innovative force in industrial stacking machinery for corrugated sheet operations in America. • J.B. Machinery — Holding over 60 years of industry experience, J.B. Machinery provides infrared drying and UV curing system designs for the modern boxmaker. • Absolute Engineering — Absolute is the world’s premier supplier of woven carbon fiber-chambered doctor blade systems. Absolute is a specialist in ink doctoring and system management within the Flexo industry. • Pamarco — For over 75 years, Pamarco has served the corrugated and flexible packaging industries with innovative anilox rolls, glue sets, and press accessories, along with audits and service options. • Dücker Ringwood Automation — As the North American arm of the Dücker Group, Dücker Ringwood Automation is a leader
in conveyer automation for the corrugated industry. • Ringwood Company — The largest manufacturer of starch adhesive equipment in the world, Ringwood Company has installed equipment in over 500 plants, in over 30 countries. • CleanPrint USA — A provider of environmentally safe industrial cleaner solutions, CleanPrint USA designs custom-made cleaning solutions for corrugated converters. Greene House Group works diligently to develop partnerships with world-class solutions providers and manufacturers. GHG welcomes boxmakers in the western US to learn more about their solutions. To download product brochures and request a consultation, please visit www.greenehousegroup.com. Frank Greene frank@greenehousegroup.com
Greene House Group takes pride in partnering with manufacturers that have a distinct focus on quality. GHG currently represent the following companies in the western United States: • TCY Machinery Mfg. Co., Ltd. — Established in 1959, TCY Machinery Mfg. Co., Ltd. is among the largest manufacturers in flexographic printing equipment. • A.G. Stacker — Since 1996, A.G Stacker has
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Isowa America On Time. As Promised. • Speeds up to 350 Boxes/Minute • Precise Servo Control • Changeovers Under Two Minutes • Low Annual Cost of Ownership THE FALCON AND THE IBIS
The Isowa mid-size fixed-position FALCON FFG cruises at 21,000 sheets per hour and employs patented Isowa technology enabling sub two-minute run-to-run times. Key features include Isowa Servo or SUN Lead Edge Feeders, integrated sheet cleaning and dust collection systems, servo-controlled roller vacuum transfer (no full-width vacuum transfer belt!), fixed/ elevating print units with the sustainable Isowa SuperFlex Plus ink system. Customizable options include a choice of roll-to-roll or chambered blade ink metering, dwell sections, dual slotting sections, heavy-duty die cut sections with pin stripping; full vacuum folding sections with recently reduced minimums,
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automatic folding bar adjustment, a dedicated gap control device, two-up functionality; and a true skip feed servo counter ejector capable of running RSCs, HSCs, trays, and die cuts at speed. The Isowa large-format fixed-position IBIS FFG utilizes many of the same technologies on the FALCON to run larger sheets easily at 15,000 sheets per hour with the same two-minute changeovers. The Ibis is designed to provide maximum flexibility to run a great variety of box and sheet types quickly and efficiently. With a sheet width minimum less than 12" and sheet maximum out to 63" in skip feed, the Ibis can run sheets up to 120" across the machine. YOUR LONG-TERM PARTNER
Isowa is an independent, family-owned supplier that has continued delivering
quality machinery across the globe for over 100 years. Isowa America, Inc., serves the North and South American corrugating industry from Phoenix, Arizona. Our expanded warehouse boasts greater depth of coverage of all critical customer needs, and a knowledgeable support staff that is ready to assist. Our industry-known install team boasts a full-time installation project manager and dedicated trainer, and we are fully staffed to handle all support needs of current customers. For more information, please email Scott Sander, Territory Sales Manager, at sanders@isowa.com or sales@isowa.com and find out why over 70% of new machine sales are repeat customers.
THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE EQUIPMENT
Kadant Johnson LLC ThermoZone™ Condensate Handling Station Expands Double Backer Window of Production Are you looking to increase your production footprint while maintaining flat board? As demand for corrugated packaging increases, so does the need to offer various grades and more customizable packaging. You may need lower hot plate pressures or multiple pressure changes for different board grades. If pressure is too low, you risk flooding the hot plates; if pressure is too high, you may warp the corrugated board. Additionally, multiple grade changes may cause costly delays caused by slow hot plate pressure and temperature changes. The lack of system monitoring can compound these issues. To maximize the performance of your double backer, Kadant Johnson has introduced the ThermoZone condensate handling station. It uses readily available motive steam pressure to move condensate from a hot plate zone to the condensate return line, removing steam traps and the risk of flooding.
system controls and rapid relief valves that can quickly lower hot plate pressures and temperatures with grade changeovers. Scalable to meet your needs, one- and two-zone configurations are available, or you can combine for three or more zones of coverage. Kadant Johnson’s integrated performance monitoring gives operators visibility into system performance and detects issues before they become board defects. Visual and integrated system alerts notify personnel of current and potential issues affecting the condensate system. The easy-to-use operator interface screen allows the user to monitor performance, access trends, and read alarms. System diagnostics provide quick insight into troubleshooting and preventive maintenance locally or remotely.
WHAT CAN THE THERMOZONE CONDENSATE HANDLING STATION DO FOR YOU?
IS THE THERMOZONE CONDENSATE HANDLING STATION DEPENDABLE?
With the ThermoZone condensate handling station, you control the environment. It enables corrugators to operate their hot plates without the risk of flooding. Anywhere from near zero steam pressure up to 250 psi is possible with the use of a single high-pressure return line. Unlike diverter stations, a low-pressure return line is not required. There is no need to change setpoints on the ThermoZone station or adjust for different pressures and grades. In other words, the user doesn’t have to adjust for it to operate under different conditions. The optional rapid temperature response package includes steam
Designed for corrugators, the ThermoZone condensate handling station is built to operate in the demanding environment of a double backer. Easy-to-remove, heavy-duty panels provide protection from contaminants while premium valves and controls offer stout durability. Guided wave radar level sensing continuously monitors condensate levels without immersion in the condensate, eliminating the potential for sensor fouling. Visibility into the condensate system allows for planned maintenance when service is needed. The ThermoZone station also functions as a steam trap for the condensate return line, without the maintenance nuisance of a steam trap. No
more steam trap maintenance, no more flooding, and no more guessing. The ThermoZone condensate handling station gives you control over your condensate system, while enabling low pressures and rapid grade changes. Ken Lahrke Director of Industrial Sales ken.lahrke@kadant.com 269-278-1715
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KPI Incorporated From Concrete to Conveyor KPI Incorporated (Indianapolis, IN) — Here to help you on your next equipment project with rigging, concrete foundations, utility service drops, and material handling equipment. With over 30 years of experience in factory layouts and equipment installation, KPI represents the following partners. PIC Precision Industrial (Washington, USA) — Nationwide leader in corrugated equipment installation and construction projects. With almost 40 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
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foundations, full line corrugator installations, factory relocations, equipment installations, and green field construction projects. Equipment is mobilized out of its Pacific Northwest location or its Midwest hub. GTC Conveyor (Indianapolis, IN) — High-quality and quick ship conveyors for your box plant. In-house manufactured Plastic Meshbelt Conveyor, Lineshaft “Bundle” Conveyor, Chain Transfers, Powered Accumulating Roller Conveyor, Turntables, Pivots, and Field Controls. Full-Service field support with PLC troubleshooting, installation/removal, preventative maintenance, and strapper controls. With 50 years of experience in material handling
systems, GTC Conveyor also manufactures overhead conveyor systems for flexo plate storage systems. Michael Harris President mharris@ kpiincorporated.com 317-288-0470
THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE EQUIPMENT
Leary Company Gluing and Quality Enhancements Deliver Sustainable Packaging W. H. Leary’s advancement in gluing and quality assurance solutions are in response to a need for overall improved efficiencies and customer requests. Greater quality demands, new and innovative paperboard packaging designs and a continued rise in e-commerce packaging use have customers looking for ways to improve their specialty folder-gluers to deliver drastic results. Leary’s Monet software user interface drastically reduces training needed as evident with the simple and quick New Job Setup. Using box-style intel and machine learning, less pages and less button pushes are needed to deliver quick and efficient startups. The latest Monet 2.12 release features a more secure approach to maintaining box quality and eliminating human error for repeat jobs by storing defined best-practice settings as a default. Pertinent variables, consistent from job to job are protected from operator changes, when exceptions are needed these changes are easily made through a password retrieval system that generates
a unique short-term password for log-in privileges. Changes are recorded, and at the end of the production run, Monet defaults these settings back to the original, ready for the next run and preserving the baseline setup for the future. Advancements in glue application and quality assurance offer a more handsoff approach, improving automation in a way that maximizes quality and efficiency. The Sempre-i cold glue application valve allows for automatic tip-seal technology to maintain precise application and minimize equipment maintenance at each machine startup. Quality assurance options include glue detection, flaps detection, code reading, box skew, and more. These inspection options require minimum setup and maintenance delivering 100% quality product. Monitoring production output at all times creates an environment of
improved productivity. iQ Status, a new addition to Leary’s range of visual management solutions, monitors production output at all times by displaying important production details on a large flat-screen display. The customizable flat-screen display delivers instant detail about downtime, spoilage, production counts, and more. This notification method is fitted above each machine and is a simple add-on to existing iQ data solutions delivering a significant impact in identifying productivity. Leary’s solutions have been intuitively designed to remove human touch points and improve automation in a way that maximizes customers’ quality and efficiencies.
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Longreach International, LLC Providing Professional Representation since 2010 Longreach International, LLC, represents TCY machinery in the eastern US and Absolute ink systems in the mid-Atlantic area.
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Gregg Diethorn, Founder and Principal of Longreach International, LLC, has been working in the corrugated machinery business for more than 30
years and has extensive experience in the sale of capital equipment and ancillary products. Contact Gregg at 540-763-2069 or gregg@longreachinternational.com.
EMBRACE THE POWER OF AI
AI Xperience May 14-16, 2024 | Chicago, IL Co-located with Chicago TAPPI Trade Fair Questions? Contact Taryn Pyle, 703.535.1391 or tpyle@AICCbox.org
www.AICCbox.org/Xperience
EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
Rigorous Technology New Breed of Robots for Corrugated Manufacturing Rigorous Technology was founded in 2020 by Colin and Diane Riggs to help independent manufacturers better leverage robotics and automation to achieve business goals. Whether a novel development program, or the Box Hopper prefeeding robot, Rigorous robots are designed for operators. We design robots to increase the efficiency of your team by relieving your team members of the heaviest and most repetitive tasks. Rigorous is based in Williston, Vermont, and serves corrugated customers across the US. THE BOX HOPPER
In 2022, Rigorous deployed the first Box Hopper, a novel prefeeding robot that is tailored to your operational requirements. The Box Hopper is a high-speed prefeeding solution for folder-gluers and other converting equipment. Developed in partnership with Accurate Box Company, the Box Hopper has a compact footprint, advanced software, and optional pallet management to provide a fully supported, turnkey feeding solution. OPERATOR-CENTERED DESIGN
In a world where downtime is the most expensive outcome, machines have to be easy to use and keep running. Our robots are delivered with best-in-class technology, built on a modern software architecture. Operators use easy-to-follow directions on an intuitive, no-code user interface with advanced safety controls. Our digital controls leverage vision systems to sense the environment. Operators rely on features like auto-centering, automatic fault detection, and resolution. TAILORED TURNKEY
In order to successfully leverage robotics to meet business goals, manufacturers
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must ensure a robot can be paired with their specific operational process, speed requirements, and product mix. Rigorous partners with clients to ensure shared success. Corrugated manufacturers supply their requirements, constraints, and operational process. The design process must include significant customer input along the way, not just during the proposal stage. To Rigorous, an integration is a success when it is working in the field day after day, year after year, helping customers meet business goals. Rigorous robots are built on a digital platform that links to pre-built, robust, field-tested software components. This means that when your Rigorous robot is installed, its core system is production-ready. Customized programs and features are run through simulation software and then rigorously tested in our robot lab. SUPPORT AND DATA ANALY TICS
Rigorous is committed to supporting our operators for the lifetime of our machines. Our customers can increase machine productivity over time by leveraging realtime, customer-facing data analytics. In addition to on site maintenance services, Rigorous offers remote monitoring and support from our command center in Vermont. Rigorous’ digital controls allow for secure, remote log-in so we can see what your team can see with the system. Instead of waiting for a technician to be deployed on site, we can help your operators and maintenance team members diagnose and resolve issues in real time. We offer support packages based on input from our customers, including support-by-text, preventative maintenance plans, and curated data to optimize performance and inform best practices.
Rigorous is proud to offer an increasing number of software applications that create visibility into machine operations to facilitate ongoing improvements. To learn more, visit www.rigorous.co. Looking to understand how robotics may help you achieve your production goals? Reach out to talk robots with the Rigorous team. Ana von Turkovich Sales Manager sales@rigoroustech.com 802-870-3700
Diane Abruzzini Co-Founder and COO diane@rigoroustech.com
Colin Riggs Co-Founder and CEO criggs@rigoroustech.com
THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE EQUIPMENT
Sauer System Solutions for folding a square box Box customers across the country are demanding higher quality finished cartons as their needs change. Sauer System provides a comprehensive lineup of tooling, upgrades, and services that help converters improve their machines and processes to fold a square box. G3 male scorers and precisionground bonded polyurethane female scorers. Proper scoring is essential to folding a square box. Sauer System’s proprietary G3 male scorers are the industry leading male scoring profile concept, allowing for a deep and precise score line without the risk of liner cracking. G3 scorers can be customized to specific applications. Sauer System bonded female scorers are designed to run against the male scorers. They feature polyurethane that has been ground to a precise finish to ensure even score pressure across the shafts. Precision manufactured heads and yokes. To achieve a square box, sheets must be fed through the machine without skewing. Sauer System heads are designed with exacting outer diameter tolerances for proper board transfer. In addition, the heads must have proper alignment on the shafts. Sauer System provides yoke upgrades that are designed to help maintain proper alignment. Folding section sheet control solutions. The folding section presents opportunities for boxes
in the folding process to twist or skew. Sauer System offers several upgrades that prevent this from happening. Roller Eliminator Upgrades replace pressure hold-down rollers and other loose independent rollers in the folding section with a continuous spring-loaded pressure shoe that maintains continuous nip pressure on boxes transferring through the folding section. FRX Adjustable Folding Rod Upgrades allow box flaps to fold correctly in a smooth motion. Field service and training. This final step in the process is to ensure that the converting machine is in proper working order and that the crews running the
machine are aware of how to run it correctly. Sauer System’s team of experienced technicians create customized programs and work alongside maintenance teams and operators to ensure everyone involved understands the process of folding a square box. Visit www.sauersystem.com to learn more about solutions for folding a square box. Peter Sauer Vice President of Sales peter.sauer@sauersystem.com 636-861-9500 www.sauersystem.com
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Signode Signode Improves Customer Success With New Testing Facility and Suite of Automated Corrugated Equipment For over 100 years, Signode has been a leading global supplier for the corrugated community, known for its well-established knowledge and continued innovations in strapping, wrapping, and packaging solutions. Signode helps its clients achieve success from conceptualization to integration of new or upgraded equipment, followed by ongoing support and maintenance via the Packaging Plus™ Reliability Services Team. Signode’s 360,000-square-foot stateof-the-art facility in Roselle, Illinois, features the Customer Experience Center (CEC), a training facility and expanded equipment manufacturing testing area. The facility includes an International Safe Transit Association (ISTA)-certified Packaging Lab, where real-world transit conditions are replicated to validate effective load containment methods. The ability to see Signode equipment in action in the Packaging Lab provides customers the opportunity to discover the benefits of automation for their own operations. Signode’s versatile product portfolio includes signature offerings like the SIG-CORR, SIG-VCS Tandem, and GCU-3 Unitizer Strapping System, which can be seamlessly integrated into most production lines.
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With six-sided squaring capabilities and strapping speeds up to 30 bundles per minute, the SIG-CORR Automatic Squaring Bundler has proven to be a valuable asset for boxmakers. It can quickly adapt to changing production needs, with storage capabilities of up to 5,000 bundle configurations. The SIG-VCS Tandem Automatic Squaring Bundler is an ideal solution for corrugators and box manufacturers looking for a high-speed, in-line redundancy bundling solution. Autobundle technology enables high-volume corrugators to handle changing production needs while providing unparalleled package reliability. SIG-VCS Tandem Automatic Bundler Systems are operating in more than 200 boxmaking plants across the U.S. The GCU-3 Unitizer Strapping System suits most customers’ needs to compress
and secure their materials onto pallets. Capable of processing up to 200+ pallets per hour, this corrugated unitizer uses sensitive compression and variable head tension to optimize load integrity —a first in the industry. Signode continues to grow true partnerships with its customers well after equipment implementation. The Packaging Plus™ Reliability Services Team conducts on-site evaluations of existing equipment and provides flexible and fast support, maintenance and operator training, and parts shipping. Jerry Vivlamore Corrugated Bundler and Wrapping Segment Manager sales@signode.com 800-323-2464
EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
TCY North America MAKE IT RIGHT. MAKE IT TCY. Based in Chino, California, TCY Machinery North America is a global manufacturer of reliable corrugated converting equipment. We offer a diverse range of flexo folder-gluer and rotary die cutter equipment, built tough and reliable for the evolving needs of the North American packaging industry. With a commitment to reliability and customer satisfaction, TCY has made significant investments in our solutions, technology, infrastructure, and global support network to ensure the success of corrugated converters in the US and around the globe. US-BASED PARTS AND SERVICE
TCY Machinery has invested in a Chino, California, facility to serve customers with US-based spare parts and prompt service. We offer English-speaking remote support, direct machine connections, on-site service, and various levels of diagnostics and troubleshooting, quickly and securely. TCY is a member of AICC and partners with local, reputable sales agents throughout North America. IN-HOUSE MANUFACTURING
TCY manufactures our robust equipment in-house using high-quality Japanese steel and patented and proprietary technologies. We hold multiple facilities around the globe, including a dedicated
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manufacturing site for JUMBO machinery. The company boasts over 300+ employees, including 35+ global service technicians, and has about 2,000 machines in service throughout the world, with many in production for over 25 years! NEW US INSTALLS
Coming in 2024, TCY has several equipment installs planned at reputable boxmakers in the U.S. The company is incredibly proud of this accomplishment and is looking forward to the visibility it will bring to their reliable, robust flexo folder-gluer and rotary die cutter solutions in the US. Stay tuned for install press releases and customer testimonials in 2024.
our solutions, visit our customers, and see the reliability and productivity of our equipment firsthand in Orlando, Florida. With equipment on display and knowledgeable sales and service team on site, don’t miss the TCY booth this fall 2024. With in-house manufacturing, expansive production capacity, innovative technology, and US-based parts and service, TCY North America is much more than a Taiwan-based corrugated OEM. We are your reliable solutions partner, eager and prepared to service you with proven converting equipment solutions and local parts and service. Contact the TCY team or your local sales representative to learn more today. www.tcy.com
SUPERCORREXPO BOOTH #1301
Our SuperCorrExpo booth is going to be BIGGER and BETTER than ever before! Visit us at Booth #1301 to test
Nina Li Sales Representative—North America nina.li@tcy.com
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Tiruna Trusted Partner for the Corrugating Industry Tiruna America, Inc., located in Green Bay, Wisconsin, has grown to be a market leader in the North American corrugating roll industry since its conception over 20 years ago. In 2022, Fosber completed its 100% acquisition of Tiruna. “We are excited that the synergies and growth have strengthened the relationship between Fosber and Tiruna,” states Jeff Pallini, Fosber CEO. Tiruna, an industry leader in new and refurbished corrugating rolls, also offers cartridge rebuilds, parts and service, and several new products to assist on any OEM single facer. Building on our 20-year history, Tiruna is a trusted partner for the corrugating industry. Our trained service technicians are available to assist with roll installations, troubleshoot run ability issues on all type single facers, and problem-solve and make on-site repairs. We offer roll depot programs, which contributes to quick turnaround times, and our cost-effective pricing on parts and services supports your bottom line. With a strong inventory of parts at our disposal, our service technicians have the expertise to save time and money by extending the life span of your corrugating rolls. Tiruna America utilizes our test bed for the proprietary testing process for all rolls prior to shipment. Tiruna also offers cartridge rebuilds. Cartridges are the workhorses of your operation with life spans typically far in excess of the rolls they hold. Inevitably,
your cartridges will start looking their age and impacting the quality of your output. That does not necessarily mean they are ready for the scrap pile. Our experts can help determine if your cartridges merit full replacement or whether a costeffective rebuild is a better option. Tiruna is always looking toward the future and have scheduled a large-scale
capital investment in machinery and will be expanding the production floor in 2024. We thank our customers for all the continued business and support. We always look forward to today and know our future is bright. Please visit us at www.tirunaamerica. com, or contact our Green Bay facility at 920-338-6650.
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TRESU – Partnership Performance TRESU is a leading flexo technology life cycle partner offering flexible, customized solutions of flexo printing press machines and ancillary products and parts for flexo, digital, and offset printing to the graphic industry. TRESU has 40 years of experience and expertise in the development and production of engineered solutions for this industry and supplies directly to end customers, OEMs, and partners. At the upcoming Printing United in Atlanta, TRESU (booth B951) will be showcasing a proven range of highperformance automated printing systems, ancillary equipment, and dampening water coolers optimizing both ink and coating supply but also the Overall Equipment Effectiveness—OEE. HIGH PERFORMANCE ANCILL ARY PRINTING EQUIPMENT
TRESU meets today’s demands with high-performance solutions that optimize the performance in flexo, offset, and digital printing with a complete program of equipment for regulating
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ink and coating circulation for flexo machines, drying systems, as well as genuine Spare Parts available from our Global Webshop. TRESU supplies high-performance circulation systems with a complete line of third-generation ink and coating circulators enabling both sheet-fed and web printers to save resources while exploiting high-speed coating, with full control and minimized risk of micro-foaming and blisters. Visit us at Printing United to hear more about the new H5i G3 circulation pump. Genuine TRESU chamber doctor blade systems are available for WB, UV, or solvent-based inks and coatings and are available in carbon fiber, aluminum, and a ceramic surface alternative is also available. The high-performance and proven TRESU chamber doctor blade systems are available in widths from 185mm to 6000mm and feature Pressure Control Technology enabling clean blister-free print with fast drying characteristics and improved gloss values at high print speeds. With the TRESU XL blade holders, a fast shift to thicker polymer doctor blades is enabled. TRESU dampening water circulators offer an innovative control
platform that easily integrates to any sheet-fed or web offset printing press. NEW MODUL AR SERVICE CONCEPT
TRESU introduces a modular condition-based service program, where customers can choose the modules they need as part of a unique service agreement optimizing OEE throughout the entire product life cycle. The industry’s fastest change of blades, a full line of polymer, carbon steel, stainless steel, or tool steel doctor blades together with a genuine range of end seals in felt, foam, or EPDM together with a comprehensive range of cleaning detergents complete the picture of TRESU’s consumables portfolio for the printing industry. If you have any questions or would like to inquire about sizes, materials, surfaces, or suspensions matching any space requirement, application, or size, please feel free to reach out and connect—or set up a 1:1 meeting with the TRESU team at Printing United—Booth B951. Nick Gerovac, Head of Sales, TRESU Ancillary Americas Mike Stock, Sales Director, TRESU Americas Jim Fink, Aftersales Manager, TRESU Americas Scott Hibbs, CEO and President Follow us in LinkedIn, or sign up for our newsletter at www.tresu.com.
THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE EQUIPMENT
VEGA SRL 77 years of expertise in the packaging field Vega has been projecting, developing and selling machineries for folding and gluing boxes in solid and corrugated board, since 1947, when Mario Nava founded it near Milan in Italy. Ambassadors of “Made in Italy” in a sector highly driven by multinational groups, Vega has always been managed by a member of the Nava Family. The company entered in the packaging business with its first project, manufactured in 1947, the first Folder Gluer mod.PM350. This company now boasts not only an important production of reliable and well-known folder-gluer machines but also end-line products and a high technological double feeder. Vega’s machines can be adapted to the most diverse requests for folding and gluing boxes in all types of cardboard and of course all of them work in compliance with Industry 4.0. Vega really cares about clients’ needs; in order to offer the best and tailor-made solutions, all Vega machines are composed with standard and extra modules. This means that it is possible to obtain the best personalized solution; moreover, it is possible to add one or more extra modules during the years improving the production according to the changing needs. Aquila is the ideal machine for a first plant, works perfectly for solid and light corrugated cardboard. Polaris is available in two sizes, 90 and 110 cm, and in different configurations for processing straight line, lock-bottom, double wall, 4- and 6-corner boxes, and many more boxes visible on Vega’s box book. It’s perfect for solid cardboard and for N-E corrugated cardboard. The new Bellatrix will be released in 2024.
Rigel is the perfect machine for high performance and can be positioned on the high market segment, it’s available in two sizes, 145 and 170, to meet the different production needs of the solid board market (300–1200 g/m2) and corrugated cardboard market up to the EB flute. Altair is a historical machine for Vega, developed in over 20 years, keeping the same name to identify a product that aims at excellence in corrugated box production and keeping up with innovation. Altair is a folder-gluer created to process corrugated cardboard; it is available in four sizes, 170, 200, 240 and 290 cm. Altair GT is the newest version, an even more performing machine with implemented safety and technological aspects. It is compatible with end-line products, not only produced by Vega but also from third parties. Altair can turn into Altair AFD, combining the highest possible combination of workable box types in one single product, when connected to Vega’s double feeder ADF. ADF is a concentrate of technology designed to match two die cuts of maximum format from 170 to 290 cm with great precision and speed, able to work also alone. Here are the end-line products, extremely helpful to optimize the production time and the working life of the operator: Vega Easypack counts and separates the shingled boxes right from the pressure belt of the gluer to create parcels of boxes. Through a careful and
accurate analysis of the customer’s box types, it offers a wide choice of collecting solutions for parcels, starting from semi-automatic collection with single or fully automatic strapping with counting, package formation and package ejection with automatic strapping in line by means of two heads. Vega Rotopack rotates, flips, or overlaps each single bundle, and prepares it for the best palletization process. Vega Rotopack can palletize up to six semi-bundles in one unique pack of boxes, before the automatic strapping operation. This solution is the state-ofthe-art in automatic box collection. It is fully automated; it can be connected to any strapping unit on the market and used in line with any Vega folder gluer. If the boxes to collect are smaller than 200 mm or larger than 1200 mm, the units can be set aside and the standard collection can be easily set up. It’s possible to find any information and to download all machine brochures on the Vega website, www.vegagroup.it. SALES TEAM comm@vegagroup.it +39 02 99046212 Jeffrey Jensen — Stitching and Gluing Solutions USA and Canadian Distributor Jeff@stitchingandgluing.com 001-513-588-3172 www.stitchingandgluing.com
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DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES
THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
ARC International ARC International Jumbo Rollers ARC is on a roll … a jumbo roll! ARC International offers the latest laser engraving technology for the largest anilox rollers in the corrugated industry. Just walk into any grocery or home improvement store and you’ll see lots of large, corrugated bins with 4-color process printing! The demand for high quality graphics continues to be critical, regardless of the size of containers. The ability to handle rollers that range in face length from 179" to 225" requires more than just the laser engraver itself. Heavy-duty overhead hoists, rigs, and grinders that can accommodate rollers that weigh 4,000 to 6,000 pounds are an absolute necessity for production purposes and safety concerns. The production machines that are used for blasting, undercoating, and chrome oxide application are constructed with heavy-duty bearings that allow for an efficient and consistent surface application. This plays a key role in the manufacturing process prior to grinding
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the surface to achieve critical TIR and taper specifications. Box plants usually require riggers to assist in the removal and installation of the jumbo rollers. This is certainly a big expense. With that being the case, many plants choose to go the extra mile and have a cladded stainless steel underlayer beneath the chrome oxide ceramic to allow for even more corrosion-resistance and hopefully, a longer life. ARC offers this option, as well, along with every ceramic roller receiving a proprietary infused surface protectant (ISP™) to eliminate porosity. If the jumbo anilox rollers are metered/ doctored with a wiper roller, ARC can fabricate or recondition these in-house with their 25-foot infrared dry heat autoclave. ARC knows the required specifications for crowns in wiper rollers that are designed to maintain an even wipe across the roller in jumbo print stations. ARC also offers 100% carbon fiber doctor blade units with dual-blade chambers or mono-blade units. This can
be for conversion of a two-roller system or the replacement of older, corroded aluminum chambers. In order to achieve these critical graphics, the corrugated sheet must be delivered to the print station from the feed section without any crush. ARC can supply new and reconditioned pull rollers or feed rollers in a variety of elastomeric compounds and durometer hardness. Today, the majority of box plants utilize feed roller surfaces in the 25 to 35 Shore A hardness range. Let ARC International handle your next jumbo flexo machine requirement. Call them at 800-526-4569 or email at sales@arcinternational.com. Micheal Foran has been in the roller industry over 50 years. Micheal Foran Founder, President/ CEO mforan@ arcinternational.com 800-526-4569
THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES
STAFFORD CORRUGATED PRODUCTS Stafford Corrugated Products has our Customers Covered! As we ponder our 37th year of serving the Corrugated Box Market, Stafford Corrugated Products looks at the changes that have taken place since. Earlier this year, we were fortunate to celebrate the Grand Opening of our new World Headquarters in Indian Trail, North Carolina. This state-ofthe-art facility is over 50,000 square feet and houses our main offices, warehouse, and manufacturing floor. What is truly amazing is that this new structure replaces the previous facility, which was opened in 2014. In just nine short years, we outgrew one facility and moved into a new one that is 21/2 times the size. Stafford’s growth is reflected in the Corrugated Container Industry. At the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Boxmakers were deemed to be Essential Suppliers and were allowed to continue to operate. As a premier supplier to these plants, Stafford was able to maintain product inventory and continuously provide to our customer base without interruption. From the very beginning, Stafford Corrugated Products offered a few different hardware items necessary for Rotary Die Cutting. Today, our
portfolio of products is reflected in our nearly 100-page catalog highlighting the various products and services we offer. Tony D’Aprile, Founder and CEO of Stafford, says, “This explosive growth comes from our customers, who would ask us if we could make a particular part for them. Seeing the need for an alternative supplier of wear and consumable parts is what drives us to provide even more. And now, with our new building, we have the warehouse capability to stock even more products. Providing solutions for our customers is what it’s all about at Stafford.” In keeping with this philosophy, Stafford is proud to announce we have formed a strategic partnership with TRESU, a European-based manufacturer of customized flexo printing systems. TRESU manufactures Chambered Doctor Blade Systems along with Ink Delivery Systems and can be found as standard equipment on several different OEM machines. TRESU offers upgraded Chambered Doctor Blade Systems to replace existing systems, which are beginning to deteriorate. In addition, TRESU can retrofit an older, roll-to-roll print system into a Chambered System for significantly improved print quality. TRESU is a
respected leader in its field, and Stafford is pleased to announce its association with them. We look forward to introducing this fine line of equipment to our customers. Along with a courteous and knowledgeable Customer Service Staff, Stafford has seven outside Technical Sales and Service Representatives who call on the contiguous 48 states. By making frequent in-person visits to our customers, we are able to understand the needs of the industry and can react to any changes that come about with speed and efficiency that no one else can match. Our outside Sales Team has over 260 years of combined industry experience. Along with the various products we provide, Stafford is proud to offer the RODICUT Die Cut Anvil Blanket for all makes of Rotary Die Cutters. Want to learn more? Contact your Stafford Rep today or email us at www.go2stafford.com. We can be reached by phone at 800-282-5787. Ian Carlton Manager Technical Service ianc@go2stafford.com Cell: 856-761-4500 Company: 800-282-5787
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DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES
THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
Anilox Roll Cleaning Systems ARCS: Providing On- or Off-Press Anilox Laser Cleaning Services and Equipment Anilox Roll Cleaning Systems (ARCS) helps printers, packaging manufacturers, and converters improve their print quality and reduce their operating costs by cleaning out dried ink, coatings, and adhesives from their printing and coating rollers. ARCS is known for its industrial expertise in laser roll cleaning services. ARCS is a turnkey Roll Cleaning Service and System provider. We can clean your rolls for you at your place or ours. For companies who wish to perform roll cleaning themselves, we offer for sale several equipment options from which to choose. Our SERVICES DIVISION offers nationwide coverage. Our on-site roll cleaning service can perform both on-press and off-press cleaning
using either our unique Eclipse® Laser Cleaning System or specially formulated “Anilox” baking soda. We offer roll cleaning out of our three warehouse locations: Hatfield, Pennsylvania; Greensboro, North Carolina; and Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our deep cleaning process is effective on all types of rollers and residues. We can even clean out completely plugged rollers! Only need a few rolls cleaned? No problem—send
them to one of our shops for fast, efficient service—we will restore your volumes to their original specs and have them on their way back to you within 24–48 hours! Our SYSTEMS DIVISION offers Laser Roll Cleaning Equipment providing a cleaning technology using a unique, proprietary, circular, non-hot spot laser pattern. These easy-to-use systems only require electricity to work—no compressed air, water, or media are ever required. Laser cleaning also helps companies achieve their sustainability initiatives and move away from the use of chemicals and other processes that produce waste during roll cleaning operations. Proudly MADE in the USA! Also available: New Dust-Free ARCS Pro-Series Baking Soda Cleaning Systems and high quality refurbished Soda Systems. Amanda DiGiovanni Customer Service Manager amanda@ aniloxrollclean.com 800-699-3722
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THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES
Apex International Mastering Corrugated With Apex Roll Solutions Apex International is a leading manufacturer of innovative roll solutions designed to master corrugated manufacturing and printing. With seven global production facilities, a strong portfolio of clients in over 110 countries, and a highperformance continuous improvement culture, Apex is committed to developing solutions that meet the needs and goals of today’s converters. Manufactured with the highest TIR and OD tolerances, all Apex anilox rolls and glue sets are engineered for the highest quality and performance. GT T 2.0 ANILOX ROLL FOR MASTERING CORRUGATED PRINT
Apex has refined their patented GTT 2.0 open slalom channel anilox engraving to help corrugated printers master quality and consistency and meet the demands of today’s brands. The patented open slalom channel geometry has a reduced channel depth and no wall obstructions to allow ink and coating to easily flow throughout. This eliminates many common print defects such as ink spitting, foaming, pinholing, mottling, and more. The GTT innovation is extremely durable, optimizes ink laydown, reduces ink waste, and requires less cleaning than traditional HEX geometries. With GTT 2.0, boxmakers run the press faster with less drying time, avoid print defects and ink waste, achieve elaborate print designs, and extend anilox usage with minimal cleaning downtime. Scan the QR code to learn more on our blog.
possible in board manufacturing, down to 0.007". Manufactured to the tightest TIR and OD tolerances, Corrugators utilizing Accora save on starch consumption while achieving a quality bond across the board. The high-performance Apex glue sets enable faster production speeds, reduced glue consumption, easier cleanup, job repeatability, and longer roll life. The durable Apex construction also resists flaking, scoring, and corrosion, impacting board quality tremendously. Scan the QR code to learn more on our blog.
• Apex created a new standard for anilox quality control with MicroDynamics. We look forward to another year of innovation and collaboration with our industry boxmaker partners. Contact our team today and master corrugated print and board quality with Apex roll solutions. To learn more, visit www. apexinternational.com. Farrah Nuzzo Global Marketing Coordinator fnuzzo@apexinternational.com 724-797-5903
2023 YEAR IN REVIEW
Apex International was proud to announce the following achievements in 2023: • Ruud Van Cuijk was appointed the new CEO of Apex International. • Apex fueled global growth with a major expansion of company headquarters and global production facilities.
Aaron Lessing VP of Business Development alessing@apexinternational.com 508-878-5614 Ken Ralton VP of Sales—North America kralton@apexinternational.com 239-823-9910
ACCORA GLUE SETS FOR BOARD QUALIT Y AND SAVINGS
Accora glue sets are engineered for the closest and most consistent gap
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DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES
THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
Pacificolor LLC Pacificolor brings VORTEX™ to the Americas The print solution to benefit your bottom line in 2024 VORTEX™ is an award-winning prepress technology making waves across Europe. In the ever-evolving landscape of corrugated packaging, the demand for sustainable and efficient print solutions is paramount. Among the innovative technologies making strides in this arena, VORTEX™ stands out as a game changer. Created by our global technical partner Reproflex3, VORTEX™ is a revolutionary sustainable printing solution specifically for corrugated packaging, delivering numerous advantages to cater for the exacting needs of converters and brand owners alike. COMPATIBILIT Y:
VORTEX™ seamlessly integrates within existing print conditions to optimize processes and deliver fast, efficient, precision printing. It works with the converter workflow to guide them in creating an “A” grade print output. The result is reduced dot gain, extended color space, production increases, and potential ink savings. ACCESSIBILIT Y:
VORTEX™ print technology is now exclusively available to converters in North America provided by Pacificolor. The technology has been created for ink on paper, corrugated board, and film. It uses a unique set of tools to stabilize the flexographic print process to create superior print consistently and cost effectively. SPEED:
One of its key benefits is the ability to boost production speeds. In a market where demand is up and
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THE THE meeting deadlines is crucial, VORTEX™ enhances the printing process with faster production speeds and cleaner plates, improving overall productivity and ensuring converters stay competitive in a globalized market. Potential reduction in drying time is another standout feature of VORTEX™. Traditional printing methods usually involve prolonged drying processes, consuming both production time and energy. VORTEX™ addresses this challenge by minimizing ink consumption, a critical aspect of sustainable printing practices. EFFICIENCY:
By optimizing ink usage, VORTEX™ reduces waste which significantly reduces the time required for inks to set, leading to essential cost savings for converters. These features are particularly relevant in an era where environmental awareness is driving the industry to adopt greener practices. QUALIT Y:
Beyond efficiency and sustainability, VORTEX™ excels in improving print quality. It enhances color accuracy, sharpness, and has the potential of increasing resolution on current equipment, to meet the highest industry demands. This ensures the final product not only satisfies the aesthetic demands of brand owners but also contributes to visually appealing and marketable packaging solutions. In essence, VORTEX™ is a win-win solution for converters and brand owners in the corrugated packaging industry. Its ability to boost production speeds, reduce drying times, minimize ink consumption, and save energy costs
TM TM
ADVANTAGE ADVANTAGE positions it as a cutting-edge, sustainable print solution. In 2022, VORTEX™ won “Best in Show” for technical innovation at the UK Flexographic Industry Association Awards and has gone on to receive a further 12 international print awards during 2023 and counting. Embracing solution-focused technologies like VORTEX™ is instrumental in meeting the demands of a dynamic packaging market while championing environmental responsibility. As the corrugated packaging industry evolves, the adoption of innovations is key to staying operationally competitive and environmentally conscious. Established in 1996, Pacificolor is a leading supplier of prepress services in the corrugated, carton, and wide web markets. We serve clients across the U.S. from state-of-the-art facilities in Utah, Colorado, and Minnesota. We are home to top-end infrastructure and expertise in prepress, color management, and plate making, and we are proud to partner with like-minded innovators in the global print packaging industry to bring our clients best-inclass print solutions and the very latest technologies to enhance quality and performance to build their bottom line. For more information, contact: Tim Hirsch, CEO tim@pacificolor.com Office: 801-294-4455 Cell: 801-309-0355
DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES
THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
Quest 7, Inc. Quest7, Inc. was established on March 3rd, 2003. Our 20+ year commitment to the corrugated box industry has established us as a proven leader in the manufacturing and distribution of essential components. Our current stocked product lines include corrugator cut off knives, slitters, stones, wicks, splicing tapes, flatback tape, reinforcement tapes, strings, and tear tape. We also manufacture custom-made converting knives, including male and female slotters and strippers. In 2020, we moved to our new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Machesney Park, Illinois, which has
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helped us provide faster service and increased inventory and has opened the door for additional opportunities in the future. We always strive to provide the best customer service in the industry. Being extremely responsive to customer requirements helps us to achieve our goal of exceeding customer expectation. As a family business, we acknowledge the relationship we have with employees and customers who are “like family” to us. This partnership and common bond strengthens Quest7’s focus and commitment to the corrugated box industry. To many, it is “just a box.” To us, it is the
way we “do life” together. We appreciate the friendships we have made and look forward to the people we will meet in the future. Please visit us at www.Quest7.us and contact us to learn more about the products we offer. Tim J. Burns President Quest7, Inc. 9853 N. Alpine Rd. Machesney Park, IL 61115 Tim@Quest7.us Phone: 815-654-7737 Cell: 815-979-7020
THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES
United Engravers Serving the corrugated packaging industry for 60 years, United Engravers continues to pair best-in-class service with the latest technology to provide our partners with prepress solutions, quality flexographic plates, digital print services, and more. Our offerings include but are not limited to: • Artwork • Design • Prepress • 3D renders and digitally printed samples • Flexographic plates (including our lightweight and sustainable I-Plates) • Digital print And more. Peter R. Cappas Director of Business Operations prcappas@unitedflexo.com 847-301-3740
A Division of United Engravers Inc.
A Division of United Engravers Inc.
For more information go to www.unitedprintsolutions.com
For more information go to www.unitedprintsolutions.com
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INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
Magnum Inks & Coatings The Corr of your printing success. Magnum Inks & Coatings® is an ink and coating manufacturer in Ohio that offers a comprehensive range of services and specializes in aqueous and UV-cured products. We are pretty proud of the fact that we have been able to provide our customers with solutions that are at the forefront of their respective industries for more than 20 years. Our company develops formulations for clients in the linerboard, corrugated, flexible packaging, narrow web label, and commercial markets. Additionally, Magnum Inks & Coatings manufactures a wide variety of water-based primers, overprints, and functional coatings in its expansive product line. KraftCoat™ opaque white coating on reclaimed kraft replaces mottled white and SBS (solid bleached sulfate). The innovative method outperforms mottled white paper. KraftCoat coating produces stunning graphics with excellent color integrity and performance on reclaimed kraft substrates. The coating beautifully covers a base that
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supports vivid digital, lithographic, or flexographic colors and captures the eye. CorrPrint™ RC rod coatings offer seamless application, excellent runability, and heat and scuff resistance. CorrPrint RC is available in Pantone® PMS, GCMI, and quantitative color measurementvalidated bespoke colors. There are also coatings available that are lightfast, pearlescent, and metallic. CorrPrint™ inks and coatings for corrugated printing feature GCMI and Pantone PMS colors, as well as custom color matching rapidly and accurately in our in-house lab. CorrPrint inks and coatings contain these colors. Our inks print consistently with precise colors and are easy to clean. The GCMI “Centerline” ink can match natural kraft and speckled white substrates so that you can use one series. CorrWhite™ is our waxable white coating that minimizes rod wear while maintaining the necessary after-wax brightness and opacity. Frequently used as a base coat on kraft liners for color applications, CorrWhite offers exceptional brilliance and a light coat weight, providing the best value in the market. Magnum Inks & Coatings’ entire workforce is committed to providing customers with personalized, quick, and technically sound service and customized solutions. Our products and services
will exceed your current needs, and our commitment to innovation will ensure your future success. Magnum offers a wide range of support services, including product creation, testing, technical assistance, color matching, and more. One of our most significant advantages is the speed with which we can modify our products to meet the unique performance requirements of individual customers or to conform to particular product standards. The goal is to become the most trusted business partner in the industry by delivering individualized solutions distinguished by superiority in both service and product. Your interactions with Magnum Inks & Coatings will make you feel like we are a local business partner, regardless of where you are located: down the street, across the nation, or around the world. Get in touch with us if you’re interested in learning more about our products and services and how the proper partner can make a world of difference in the printing and coating process you’re working on. Call us at our toll-free number 877-460-8406, visit us at magnuminks.com, or email sales@magnuminks.com to explore the ways in which we can help you with your ink and coating issues. Eric Cathie General Manager/Technical Director ecathie@magnuminks.com 513-431-7275 Peter Bernard Sales Representative pbernard@magnuminks.com 513-420-7735
SBS
KraftCoat
The opaque white coating on recycled kraft that can replace mottled white and SBS (solid bleached sulfate).
Discover a revolutionary breakthrough in liner surface coating that is set to raise the bar. Magnum Inks & Coatings’ KraftCoat Opaque White Coating is a cutting-edge solution developed to outperform regular mottled white paper. KraftCoat coating has distinct properties critical for producing spectacular graphics with exceptional color integrity and performance on recycled kraft substrates. The coating provides excellent coverage for a base that supports brilliant hues, printed digitally, lithographically, or flexographically, and wonderfully captivates the eye. KraftCoat Opaque White Coating from Magnum Inks & Coatings is the future of recycled kraft liner surface finishing, combining brilliance, clarity, and innovation. Get in touch to learn more!
MagnumInks.com | sales@magnuminks.com | 877.460.8406 ©2024 Magnum Inks & Coatings. All rights reserved.
INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
Astral Adhesives & Coatings, Inc. Astral Introduces Innovative New Product NEW RECYCL ABLE COATING DEBUTED IN 2023, CHANGING THE FOLDING CARTON MARKET
New applications, new products, new ways to do business—2023 was a time of innovation for Astral Adhesives & Coatings, Inc. Responding to a recent slowdown in the corrugated and paperboard market, Astral took the time to diversify its business with particular attention on developing new products. Most notably, while targeting the folding carton market, one area where they saw promising success was with a completely new venture—heat seal applications. “We finally have the technology that allows us to offer barrier performance at the fold line,” said Vikas Singhal, president of Astral Adhesives & Coatings, Inc. “That was not available to us previously. We developed new products that are on track to fully replace plastic laminated paperboard in the near future. We are so pleased by the performance. This technology is a breakthrough—the first of its kind.” Astral’s multipurpose coating line already features curbside recyclable and durable products, making a big difference in the way consumers bring
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home meals and essential food items. But the new high-performing product for the folding carton coating market that can be applied at a CRB mill level has generated praise from clients, with most saying how happy they are that this product will keep packages out of the landfill. In short, this new technology is a game changer. “Environmentally friendly and sustainable packaging is the whole reason we exist,” Singhal added. “By taking time this year to refocus on our core mission, we were able to run trials with new heat seal applications that are completely recyclable and perform extremely well.” A longtime industry leader, Astral’s principal staff members have more than 50 years of combined experience in the coatings business and look forward to finding solutions to the most challenging projects. And while
pursuing groundbreaking technology in the paperboard/coating industry is important, so is collaborating with clients who guide product development and contribute to the success of each innovation. “Working with our customers on product development—the trial and error involved in each step—this kind of attention to detail is what it takes to get coatings up to the expected performance level,” Singhal said. “Listening to our customers and working as a team is very rewarding and leads to exciting new products and breakthroughs. We are looking forward to many new advancements in 2024.” Vikas Singhal President vikas@astralcoatings.com 562-676-5607
THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES
BakerTitan Adhesives Stick With Us: BakerTitan Adhesives— The Most Trusted Partner in Adhesive Solutions In the world of boxmaking, the bond that holds everything together is crucial. Your choice of adhesive can make or break a project, and that’s where BakerTitan shines. With a rich history of delivering exceptional adhesive solutions, we’ve become the go-to partner for regional independent and national corrugated brands. At BakerTitan Adhesives, we take pride in our legacy of adhesive excellence. For over 40 years, we’ve dedicated ourselves to developing innovative, high-quality adhesive products that are versatile, reliable, and economical. Our passion for helping companies create, build, and innovate has led us to create a diverse range of adhesive solutions that cater to a wide spectrum of needs. VERSATILIT Y OF BAKERTITAN ADHESIVES
One of the hallmarks of BakerTitan is the versatility of our adhesive products. From virgin craft to coated stock, glue lap or litho mounting, our adhesives are designed to bond with precision and strength. This versatility extends across our range of formulations, allowing you to choose the perfect adhesive for your specific application. SPECIALIZED FORMUL ATIONS
BakerTitan Adhesives understands that different projects require different adhesive properties. That’s why we offer specialized, custom formulations to meet specific and unique needs. Whether you need fast-drying adhesives, water-resistant solutions, or highstrength bonding, we’ve got you covered. CRAF TSMANSHIP MEETS CONVENIENCE
We know that your time is valuable, which is why BakerTitan places a
strong emphasis on understanding your applications. Our adhesives are designed specifically for your needs, ensuring every drop goes exactly where you need it, minimizing waste and maximizing the strength of your bonds. Our products are formulated to run clean and remain stable in any system and throughout multiple shift production runs. QUALIT Y AND RELIABILIT Y
When you choose BakerTitan Adhesives, you’re choosing more than just an adhesive; you’re choosing a promise of quality and reliability. Our products are trusted across a wide range of industries, from paper converting to construction, and consistently deliver excellent results.
known competitors. We’re not just about providing products; we’re about building partnerships. Get ready to stick to success and build with confidence. With BakerTitan Adhesives, you’re not just using adhesive; you’re experiencing the art of sticking together. Jeffrey Zelman Vice President JZelman@BakerTitan.com 973-225-1070
CONSISTENCY IN PERFORMANCE
Our adhesives aren’t just a one-time wonder. They consistently perform well, project after project, and that reliability is what keeps our customers coming back. Visit us at www.BakerTitan.com to explore all of our lines of adhesives and read up on our current projects and past achievements. CUSTOMER SUPPORT
We pride ourselves on offering unrivaled customer support, which allows us to compete with our larger, better
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INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
BCM Inks Formulating for Success In 2024, BCM Inks is embracing our new tagline, Formulating for Success. We are doing this through a myriad of ways such as: • Introduction of Eekoflex II Inks and Varnishes • Introduction of Xtra II Inks and Varnishes • Introduction of Color ConneXion® 2.0 • Expansion of our Headquarters Facility • Distribution in South America EEKOFLEX II INKS AND VARNISHES
BCM’s water-based Eekoflex II inks and varnishes are made from paper residue along with other unique components. They contain no heavy metals, have little to no volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and are packaged in reground plastic buckets, reused 55 gallon drums, or returnable totes. They are also Swiss Ordinance Compliant. This means BCM Inks is using approved, environmentally correct raw materials to produce the Eekoflex II inks and varnishes. BCM Inks’ Eekoflex II inks and varnishes offer additional benefits. They provide improved lay down/print coverage/press speeds and reduced dryer usage. They also help the environment through a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions. (Audited/verified third party sustainability documentation is available upon request at sales@bcminks.com). XTRA II INKS AND VARNISHES
Xtra II products are high-strength inks that are Swiss Ordinance Compliant. This line allows printers to print on kraft, mottled or bleached white board without the use of fillers such as clay or calcium carbonate. Xtra II inks provide better gloss and color intensity than standard
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inks. Because they don’t have fillers, Xtra II inks have higher strength, allowing for finer anilox roll printing, have better rub, and are non-abrasive to anilox rolls or doctor blades. COLOR CONNEXION ® 2.0
BCM will launch Color ConneXion® 2.0 at SuperCorr 2024. The cloud-based Color ConneXion® 2.0 will continue to be the only color management software to specifically serve the corrugated industry. Since the introduction of Color ConneXion® in 2016, improvements were made to the software based upon customer recommendations. This input enabled BCM Inks to take the Color ConneXion® 2.0 to the next level with revolutionary technology. As with Color ConneXion®, you will still receive all the features and infinite seat licenses with Color ConneXion® 2.0. Some of these features include: • Record viscosity, pH, and dryer percent (and see suggested ranges per color formula) • View live color readings anywhere in the world • Reference and report on historical data • Upload print cards for easy visual reference • Take sample reads • Receive suggested color adjustments BUILDING EXPANSION AT HEADQUARTERS
In 2024, BCM is going through an expansion at our headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio, to help serve you better. Robert Callif, President of BCM Inks, stated, “In order to continue providing our growing customer base with the same exceptional service this company was founded upon, we recognized the need
to expand the production area within our headquarters. We are also excited to build a dedicated training room for our associates and customers.” DISTRIBUTION IN SOUTH AMERICA
BCM recently partnered with Davis Graphics (https://davisgraphics.cl/) in Chile to better serve South American customers. Davis Graphics has distributed products to the graphic printing industry in South America since 1960 while BCM has serviced corrugated printers in South America for over 20 years. “We’re thrilled to partner with Davis Graphics to supply our inks and varnishes to customers throughout South America. It made sense to partner with Davis Graphics because they have an excellent reputation, conduct their business with similar ethical standards to BCM, and are family owned like us,” stated Robert Callif, President of BCM Inks. To learn how we can Formulate for Your Success, contact BCM Inks at sales@ bcminks.com or 800-678-6238. You can also learn more on our NEW website at www.bcminks.com or follow us on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/ company/bcm-inks. If you prefer to visit us in person, stop by booth 1517 at SuperCorr 2024 in Orlando for live demonstrations of Color ConneXion® 2.0 and to discover Eekoflex II, Xtra II, and many of our other products and services.
THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES
Flint Group The paper and board industry continues to face exceptional demand, and the paper and board packaging sector faces wide-ranging challenges to raise its efficiency and productivity to meet ever-increasing needs. As a trusted partner to the North American Paper & Board industry, Flint Group seeks to support its customers by offering consistent, high-quality inks and coatings available on a global supply basis and backed by a sustainable and digital business model. To achieve this, the company has an overarching focus on product excellence. For Flint Group, delivering product excellence means truly understanding what our customers (and their customers) want, anticipating their needs in the future, and fundamentally understanding how they use our products and services to offer best-in-class solutions. It also involves the production of inks and coatings with optimum efficiency, minimal waste, and providing the best value. Securing right-first-time products and services, on time, every time, then serves up advantages for both supplier and customer. Flint Group focuses on specific aspects within its model for product development to ensure all products strive for excellence: SUSTAINABILIT Y
Every brand and its packaging supply chains face the challenge of meeting ESG (environment, social, governance) goals. Flint Group’s sustainability strategy supports these needs, offering responsible products and eco-friendly solutions for the packaging industry. Part of this strategy includes using water-based inks with renewable content and ensuring our products are recycling-friendly. Sustainability is a top priority in our product development process.
AESTHETICS
Flint Group understands the value of print excellence for brands in today’s highly competitive CPG markets. Our team has a continuous improvement mindset ensuring the right color, first time, every time. Not only that, Flint Group backs this commitment with its VIVO Color Solutions platform—an intelligent digital database of colors and mixing recipes for any combination of ink type, printing method, and print media.
are accredited to a stringent range of quality standards. THE POWER OF PRODUCT EXCELLENCE
REGUL ATORY
Demonstrating the power of Flint Group product excellence, Flint Group’s water-based ink dispersion technology, OctaCode, is explicitly designed for a circular packaging economy. Part of the AQUACode range of water-based solutions for paper and board printers, OctaCode is a new powerful technology that both protects and performs, offering high color strength, high-quality graphics, and stability on and off press. Free of harmful minerals and solvents, the technology is safe for operators and end users alike and is suitable for a wide range of applications, including corrugated pre- and post-print, lightweight liners, paper sacks and dry food bags, shopping bags, gift wrap, aseptic and fresh packaging, and more. Furthermore, this technology can be paired with our trusted extender brands like GFX, StableFlex, and others! The wide-ranging color capabilities delivered by OctaCode mean brands achieve outstanding graphic performance on every job. With its high pigment loading, superb gloss, and transparency effects, as well as excellent performance on both porous and nonporous substrates, OctaCode is a surefire way for brands to stand out on the shelf. For more information about our solutions for Paper and Board in North America, visit us at https://bit.ly/477NeFS or contact us at info@flintgrp.com.
Flint Group’s inks and coatings are continually assessed for compliance with national and international legislation—both current and emerging. With ethical management of our supply chain, we ensure our suppliers
Deanna Klemesrud Global Director, Brand and Communication Deanna.Klemesrud@flintgrp.com 763-238-9216
FUNCTIONALIT Y
Packaging plays a critical role in protecting and preserving goods. We strive to develop inks and coatings with attributes that boost packaging performance. From durability to extending product shelf life to packaging convenience, our research and development teams are focused on delivering next-generation solutions that offer ultimate press and pack performance. EFFICIENCY
Efficiency is vital in today’s packaging printing industry. We optimize our inks and coatings for speed, minimal setup and waste, and consistent results. This focus on efficiency helps our customers meet fast turnaround demands. Flint Group knows press and equipment efficiency is critical for printer success, and we design our next-generation inks and coatings for maximum operational efficiency.
BOXSCORE www.AICCbox.org
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INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
Quantum Ink Company Innovation, Service Are Keys to Quantum Ink’s Success Quantum Ink is a family-owned company started in 1997 and currently owns and operates out of four buildings located in Louisville, Kentucky. The newest of these four buildings only began fully manufacturing this year in late spring and was built to create additional capacity and the ability to better service customers. In addition to the corporate headquarters, there are technicians scattered throughout the Midwest who work remotely to turn around projects for customers and potential customers. Quantum employees also spend a great deal of time on press servicing ink and giving printers hands-on assistance. Quantum Ink is striving to utilize ink as a tool to create consistent quality efficiently at printing operations through the “Exponential Theory of 98/2.” Through training, pinpoint ink quality and culture, 98% of a printed product’s cost (substrate, downtime, etc.) can be positively affected with the 2%–5% overall contribution ink typically factors into the overall cost. Quantum Ink president Adam Bland stated, “Our overall culture, dedication, and great leadership will make us successful short term and long term, in part by not losing sight of what made us successful in our past or has made us successful to this point by maintaining our integrity. As a result, our management teams see great growth opportunities for Quantum Ink in the coming years.” Much has changed in recent years, but Quantum Ink continues to emphasize what has brought them success over the years. The vision of the company and what it wants to be to the flexographic industry are very clear and have come to fruition specifically in the past several years. For ink companies to continually thrive, they
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must be attentive to their customers’ needs, whether it is providing excellent technical service or developing quality new products. Adam Bland noted that Quantum Ink puts tremendous emphasis on innovation and service. “I think you could easily say 50%, or more, of what we are doing daily is dedicated to innovation and service, service being the larger portion of that,” Bland said. Just in the past year, Quantum Ink has formulated at least eight very different and unique ink systems for the flexographic market, some of which are for new markets, some to create a higher quality end product, some to improve efficiency for customers. In addition, Quantum Ink has tech teams out in printing facilities nearly every day of the week either training, solving problems, helping customers maintain or obtain new business, or sustaining a culture around ink that makes it the valuable tool it can be. With over 25,000 formulations, ink can be made for specific customers, specific presses and whatever variables are needed from an ink perspective to make sure that ink works for exactly what it needs to be formulated for. Utilizing many years of lab and field work, Quantum has begun grinding pigments internally and plans to continue expanding that portion of the operation. This allows Quantum Ink even greater capabilities to meticulously tailor products to customer specifications. Quantum’s product lines have grown exponentially over the past years, and they are now supplying inks to nearly every piece of the water-based flexographic
market. Quantum Ink is focused on the packaging market, including corrugated/ folding carton, flexible packaging, pouch lamination, paper packaging, surface print film, envelopes, high-performance coatings, and many specialty products for unique applications. While the future is uncertain, Quantum Ink is able to positively make strides forward in a very defined direction. There is a unified plan in place to manage the growth rate while maintaining the root integrity the company was built upon. The focus will be to continue finding and training new talent, especially for the technical service portion of our company, so that as the company grows, customers’ needs in all shapes and forms are not neglected. Over the past four years, Quantum has aligned itself with several different organizations and universities, geared toward expanding growth and knowledge in the market as well as assisting others with long learned expertise. In short, Quantum Ink has worked over the past 26 years to create a company focused upon stronger, more sustainable, and higher quality ink options. As the second generation of ownership moves forward, there is never an instance when the needs of the customer are neglected. Adam Bland President abland@quantumink.com 502-364-8900
THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES
Sun Chemical Transforming Paper Packaging Sustainably With Sun Chemical Every year, 46 million tons of paper/board packaging waste is produced and only 68.2% of it gets recycled. Now more than ever, the opportunity is before us to reduce that waste and improve recycling rates. Sun Chemical is committed to supporting the paper packaging industry to achieve its sustainability goals with our unique knowledge and 200+ years of experience. Our approach to sustainable product development includes risk management and eco-efficiency improvements, as well as a proactive approach in working with suppliers, customers, and industry trade groups to promote best practices. Using our 5Rs framework (reuse, reduce, renew, recycle, and redesign) as a guide, Sun Chemical invests significantly in R&D to improve the eco-efficiency
and sustainability of packaging that utilizes its inks, coatings, and adhesives to support a circular economy. By choosing to operate more sustainably, your print operation will not only play a vital role in helping to reduce waste and lower global CO2 emissions, but it can also cut costs, boost business growth, and significantly enhance public perception. For the paper packaging market, we have developed inks with the highest bio-renewable content in the market as well as inks and coatings that are recyclable or certified and specified to be compostable. If the sustainability goal converters and brands want to achieve is to print packaging using mono-materials, we have the solutions to help achieve those goals. Our SunEco portfolio of products for the paper packaging market
has a wide variety of solutions to help you achieve your sustainability objectives. To learn more about Sustainable Paper Packaging listen to the recent podcast to learn more! We invite you to download our paper packaging infographic which explains: • What the sustainability landscape looks like for paper packaging • What that means for converters and brand owners • How our solutions can help meet your sustainability goals Reduce waste and improve training with Sun Chemical’s online troubleshooting guide that identifies common problems and solutions—this online guide is available in multiple languages and can help with on-boarding, training, and can help solve problems on press! Additionally, Sun Chemical has expanded the color management offer with SunDigiGuide—uniquely designed for the flexo corrugated printing market. • SunDigiGuide—designed with corrugated printers in mind based on how ink will look on final substrate— reduces the need for color proofs and speeds up the color selection process. Sun Chemical is committed to the market and continues to offer innovative solutions for Paper Packaging printers— learn more about our offering by visiting our site or contacting us for more details. Sun Chemical North America Marketing naimarketing@sunchemical.com Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/ company/sun-chemical/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ lifeatsunchemical
BOXSCORE www.AICCbox.org
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SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
Litho Press Litho Press Saves! Since 1953 Litho Press has been saving clients Time, Money, and Headaches. We strive to make ordering Labels, Topsheets, and Digital Displays easy for your team. Fast Online Pricing, quick turns, and free delivery are ways we can put a smile on their faces and let them tend to life’s other challenges. Call our team at 800-631-6468 to try us out! Find out more at LithoPress.com. Bernie Lacy President bl@lithopress.com 800-631-6468
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THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING
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
BOXSCORE www.AICCbox.org
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SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
Domtar Packaging Dedicated to Serving the Independent Corrugated Converter Domtar’s Kingsport, Tennessee, mill is home to a state-of-the-art containerboard machine, capable of producing 600,000 tons of high-quality recycled Performance Linerboard and Corrugated Medium annually. Our core competency as a fiber innovator allows us to offer our customers a full range
of performance recycled products with exceptional strength characteristics promoting superior runability and convertibility on the corrugator. Kingsport’s central location makes it geographically positioned to be the go-to supplier to independent boxmakers across the country. Producing containerboard products directly aligns with Domtar’s expertise
and 175-year legacy of turning fiber into useful products. We are leveraging our experience as global leaders in pulp and paper to serve the packaging industry by focusing on customers’ success and consistently delivering the highest quality products. We are approaching the market differently. We aren’t interested in being just another containerboard supplier. We want to become North America’s premium producer with deep and lasting partnerships with independent corrugators. We don’t have our own box plants. We are the independent’s paper mill offering unique rightweighting and lightweighting solutions. We’d love to help you grow your business. For more information, please contact Senior Sales Director Mike Butler at 804-366-7163 or via email at mike. butler@domtar.com. Find us at www.domtar.com/packaging. Mike Butler Domtar Packaging Sales and Marketing Director packaging@domtar.com 804-366-7163
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THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING
DS Smith
DS Smith North America Paper and Packaging DS Smith is a leading provider of sustainable packaging solutions, paper products and recycling services worldwide, operating in more than 30 countries. Our North America Packaging and Paper (NAPP) division is headquartered in Atlanta, with 15 box, sheet, paper mill, and recycling facilities across nine states east of the Mississippi River. Because of the skills and knowledge of our employees, we are able to provide our customers with strategic support across their entire packaging supply cycle. OUR CIRCUL AR BUSINESS MODEL
We are recognized around the world for innovation and for the quality of our packaging. Our products can improve transport and storage efficiency, boost retail presentation, and increase product sales for customers—and we do it with sustainable corrugated board. By recycling the paper fibers in our corrugated board, we can save over 360,000 trees every year from being cut down. In North America, DS Smith has a shining example of the Circular Economy in action at our Reading, Pennsylvania, plants—where we have recycling and paper manufacturing and corrugated manufacturing operations, all within a short distance from each other. This integrated operational capacity gives us the ability to go from box to box in 14 days.
Our integrated packaging, paper and recycling operations play a central role in the value chain across sectors, including fast moving consumer goods (FMCG), industrials and e-commerce. DELIVERING NOW AND LEADING NEXT
We are also helping to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon, Circular Economy with our ambitious Now & Next Sustainability Strategy. Partnering with our customers, DS Smith has already replaced 762m problem plastics with fiber-based alternatives since 2020 and created more than 30,000 circular-ready projects through our industry-leading Circular Design Metrics. In tandem, and in line with our goals to decarbonize, DS Smith also reduced CO2 emissions by 10% this past year. Driven by the DS Smith Purpose of Redefining Packaging for a Changing World, key developments to the Now & Next Sustainability Strategy and targets, are: CIRCUL ARIT Y
• By 2025, test up to five reuse pilots and continue to manufacture 100% recyclable and reusable packaging.
• By 2027, encourage 100% of our strategic suppliers (representing 76% of purchased goods and services emissions) to set their own science-based targets. • By 2050, reach Net Zero GHG emissions. PEOPLE AND COMMUNITIES
• By 2030, engage 10 million (an increase from five million) people on the Circular Economy and circular lifestyles. • By 2025, inclusive leadership workshops completed by all leadership teams across all sites. • By 2030, improve gender diversity toward 40% women in senior leadership and set an aspiration of other protected characteristics. • Strive to achieve Vision Zero—zero accidents, and ultimately, zero harm. NATURE
• By 2025, measure and improve biodiversity in our own forests and assess our dependencies on nature. • Set targets to regenerate nature taking a science-based approach. By 2030, reduce water-withdrawal intensity at mills at risk of water stress by 10% compared with 2019.
CARBON
• By 2030, reduce Scope 1, 2, and 3 GHG emissions by 46% compared with 2019–2020.
Doug Wagner Sales Manager doug.wagner@dssmith.com
BOXSCORE www.AICCbox.org
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SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
Metsä Board Together we make the perfect package As online sales continue to grow, high-quality corrugated packaging is playing an ever-greater role in the packaging landscape. Recognizing the wide variety of customer end uses, Metsä Board white kraftliners offer a wide range of options that can be used from lightweight microflute to heavy-duty corrugated packaging. It provides options for point-of-sale, retail-ready, and shelf-ready packaging that protects products during transportation and storage and catches consumers’ attention. Our kraftliners provide opportunities for lightweighting without compromising strength in different designs, even in very light basis weights. All our white kraftliners are made utilizing fresh fibers from 100% traceable wood sourced from sustainably managed Northern European forests. Our paperboards are available with PEFC™ or FSC® certification, and they are all suitable for packaging food and other sensitive products. Metsä Board also recently introduced a collaborative 360 Service program to deliver measurable benefits throughout the packaging value chain, from easy recyclability to brand impact, production and supply chain efficiency, reducing environmental impact, and beyond, to complement its extensive white kraftliner offering. With the right liner choice and supported by our knowhow, you can meet the most
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demanding packaging needs quickly, cost-efficiently, and responsibly. Contact our sales team for more information on how Metsä Board can assist with your needs.
Wayne Cooke Sales Manager, Midwest wayne.cooke@ metsagroup.com 203-249-4974
Joe Nellis Sales Director, Americas joe.nellis@ metsagroup.com 414-698-1519
Joseph DePalma Sales Manager, East joseph.depalma@ metsagroup.com 201-241-0422
Greg Baker Sales Manager, West greg.baker@ metsagroup.com 203-957-1354
Liette Gagne Sales Manager, Canada liette.gagne@ metsagroup.com 514-995-1977
THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING
Mid America Paper Recycling Keys to Recycling at the Highest Value Founded in 1926, Mid America Paper Recycling is a fourth-generation independent broker, processor, and exporter of recovered paper. The paper and containerboard waste we handle is either baled directly at the supply point, processed at our headquarters in Chicago, or at one of our national vendor-partner sites. Our handling processes are proven effective, and we work with many AICC members to build consistent revenue streams and meet their sustainability goals. Establishing recycling partnerships is important because when waste materials stay out of landfills and become new, valuable products, everyone in the circular economy thrives. Recently, we issued a 12-page guide that features various examples of our work to support the growth and recycling success of our customers and partners (contact me below for a copy). The guide reviews experiences in which we developed mutually beneficial projects and relationships between sellers of waste materials and buyers looking to upcycle. In addition, the guide illustrates how we help partners transform waste products that can be recycled and reused at the end of their useful life into new, sustainable options, diverting waste from landfills and furthering the circular economy. HELPING CONVERTERS REPURPOSE USED DIEBOARDS
Every day, wooden cutting dieboards at the end of their life cycle are purged, thrown in Dumpsters, and end up in landfills. This is a waste of money, space, and natural resources. Fortunately, we have developed a unique recycling process to repurpose these “unrecyclable” materials and eliminate disposal and waste hauling costs. Our upcycling partners
can transform the materials into lawn and garden mulch as daily cover in landfills or as aggregate in road construction. Mid America Paper Recycling can help you start and manage a dieboard recycling program every step of the way, from the initial dieboard plant audit through the handling and shipping process. We also handle all scheduling and billing with processors and regularly review and report on their operation’s progress. Our productive partnerships don’t end there. Other strategic examples include our work with Continuus Materials. We provide recovered paperboard cartons and plastic waste to their plant in Des Moines, Iowa, that they use to produce Everboard™ Roof Cover Board, a fully recyclable, high-performance composite roof covering. Developed for new construction, repairs, and renovations, Everboard is strong, durable, impact-resistant, and fire-resistant. It’s built to last for decades. Mid America Paper Recycling sends raw material supplies to Continuus Materials, which then sorts and shreds them before using pressure to press and form them into panels. The postconsumer plastic and paper waste they use would otherwise pile up in landfills. These are just a few of the ways we help our AICC member partners reduce the environmental impact of usable waste. It’s what Mid America Paper Recycling has been doing for decades, and we call it “growing the worth of your waste.” Our productive partnerships result in successes we can all celebrate. We work with hundreds of mills and converters around the country, providing quality customer service, and uncovering unique opportunities, sourcing
strategies, and the tools to transform their waste streams into value streams. Take our free Waste Audit Survey on our website to discover how we can help you generate more value from your waste stream. Don Gaines has been at the helm of family-owned Mid America Paper Recycling, one of the country’s leading independent recycling companies, for over 40 years. He has honed the company’s strategic focus on continuous improvement principles while he and his team have established partnerships with many large and small companies to turn their waste streams into growing value streams. Born and raised in Chicago, Don is just as comfortable in a production plant as he is in a boardroom. He has seen plenty of change and evolution in the recycling industry and has helped Mid America come a long way since its early days. Don Gaines Chief Executive Officer, Mid America Paper Recycling dgaines@ midamericapaper.com 773-890-5454 ext. 13 (or lauren@druckergroup.com 847-975-7429) www.midamericapaper.com
BOXSCORE www.AICCbox.org
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SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
Sharp International/Leipa Leipa 100% Recycled White-Top Linerboard With 175 years of sustainable paper and packaging expertise, Leipa is the European market leader in recycled white top linerboard. Leipa converts more than 1.5 million tons of waste paper back into high-quality paper and packaging solutions every year. Specializing in white-top test liner, Leipa is a one-stop
shop for coated and uncoated substrates in a wide range of grammages. Sharp International has been Leipa’s North American agent and partner for over 20 years. With warehouses at most major port cities, Sharp creates customized inventory programs for just-in-time deliveries. With a weekly email detailing available stock, incoming stock’s ETAs, and the dates of Leipa’s next production runs, Sharp makes it easy for customers to view their inventory at a glance and streamline their ordering. Leipa’s bestselling grades are Classic and Lux: • As an uncoated white-top test liner, LEIPA Classic white is our recommendation for all applications in the corrugated board segment: consistent run-ability offers
perfect processing results. Optimum printing results and high color brilliance experiences are achieved in flexoprint in both preprint and post print. As an uncoated corrugated base paper, LEIPA Classic white is particularly environmentally friendly and manufactured according to LEIPA’s highest standards of quality and sustainability on one of the world’s most modern paper machines. • Our white-coated liner LEIPA Lux plus sets real standards in the field of double-coated corrugated base papers: Suitable for digital and offset printing, optimized for flexo printing, it offers a perfect surface to show off not only information but above all colors, images, and details to their best advantage. It goes without saying that our LEIPA Lux plus also meets the highest environmental standards. It is the reason that LEIPA Lux plus is the world’s most widely used white top test liner. Leipa and Sharp International are FSC- and PEFC-certified to support our customers’ sustainability programs. Mallory started at Sharp International right out of college in 2008. She has had many roles at Sharp over the past 15 years but has been in sales since 2019. When she’s not selling paper, you can find her making art, doing photography, or hanging on her balcony feeding her crow and squirrel friends. Mallory Jarrell VP Sales and Operations mjarrell@sharpinternational.com 757-371-6476
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THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE SERVICES
ARCO/Murray We Design & Build Corrugated Facilities WHO WE ARE:
ARCO/Murray is a national designbuild general contractor specializing in industrial construction, with a specific team focused on the corrugated industry. We work with companies who want to build, grow, or renovate/retool their facilities but without the headache that comes with a typical construction project. Established in 1992 on the core principle that the construction process should be enjoyable, ARCO has grown into a robust $7.4 billion enterprise with offices in 38 major markets across North America. WHAT WE DO:
From building expansions and renovations to custom build-to-suit facilities, we specialize in bringing complex projects to life. Our engineers, project managers, superintendents, architects, and designers have successfully completed over 5,500 design-build projects and have experience building box plants and sheet plants. We seamlessly integrate the strength and reach of a national builder with the personalized attention of a small company. HOW WE DO IT:
Our true design-build approach means we have the in-house resources to ensure the success of your project. From architecture and civil to structural, process mechanical, and MEP, our engineers understand the unique demands of corrugated box plants, sheet plants, sheet feeders, and folding carton facilities. Our design and construction teams work together to streamline the process and reduce iterations and back and forth. The unique combination of in-house resources, industry expertise, and experience ensures our clients receive an upfront budget commitment, streamlined
communication through a single point of contact, and faster project delivery. HOW YOU BENEFIT:
We have an in-depth understanding of corrugated facilities and their unique requirements. Our design-build approach includes end-to-end project management, resulting in several key benefits: 1. Substantial time and schedule savings: ARCO’s internal design services allow for design, buyout, and construction to occur simultaneously, saving valuable time on the overall project schedule. 2. Early financial risk transfer: ARCO takes on the financial risk in a project’s earliest stages. As soon as our firm-price proposal is accepted, pricing is locked in. 3. Work with a single entity who is accountable and understands your business: We take ownership of design, construction, equipment vendor coordination, and municipality/
regulatory communication—eliminating headaches, cost overruns, scope gaps, and finger-pointing. From concept to completion, ARCO’s design-build process ensures you receive the most functional and cost-effective facility. Contact us to learn more. Nick O’Hare nohare@arcomurray.com 331-251-9929
BOXSCORE www.AICCbox.org
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SERVICES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
Johnson, Kendall & Johnson Risk Management and Insurance Product demand in the corrugated box industry has spiked as online shopping is no longer the exception but the rule, and the market is projected to increase at a considerable rate over the next decade. 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
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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 65 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 serviceoriented, 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
THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE SERVICES
APPI Energy AICC’s Trusted Energy Advisor WHO WE ARE
For nearly 20 years, APPI Energy has proudly served AICC members through the AICC-endorsed energy consulting program, a strategic partnership that has yielded significant savings for participating members. APPI Energy provides AICC members with a comprehensive way to reduce energy expenses and minimize budgetary risks. Through our procurement services, we negotiate with suppliers to ensure you are provided with ideal pricing and contract terms to fit your needs. Our holistic suite of energy services provides financially and functionally vetted solutions to decrease energy costs, reduce demand, and improve resiliency and sustainability. With the added benefit of having merged with Environ Energy, we are now able to offer enhanced capabilities in house with an internal engineering and design team, fullscope ESG strategy team, and increased purchasing power, to name a few. Our consultants pride themselves in crafting trusted and tailored energy management solutions that fit each client’s needs.
for future opportunities, as well as provide ongoing customer support. APPI Energy also goes beyond the procurement of electricity and natural gas, providing advanced services that enhance energy management, tracking, and sustainability. APPI Energy also provides efficiency and sustainability solutions such as demand response, energy reporting systems, carbon accounting and emissions benchmarking, and facility assessments. Our solutions are product and technology agnostic, ensuring your facilities are utilizing the most productive energy efficiency measures. As a member benefit, AICC members can take advantage of a complimentary assessment with APPI Energy. Benefits to AICC members include negotiating on your behalf, minimizing budgetary risk, and providing comprehensive energy management solutions, all while saving your organization time and money. HOW WE DO IT
WHAT WE DO
As the trusted energy advisor for AICC, the APPI Energy team is available to advise your teams on their energy management needs to help you meet your short- and long-term energy goals. Additionally, APPI Energy offers unbiased, apples to apples comparisons of supplier prices and contracts, evaluating AICC members’ historical energy use 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
APPI Energy’s operations team gathers competitive pricing from our carefully vetted supplier companies to present a procurement strategy for our clients, empowering them to make informed decisions. We maintain a proprietary database of more than 250 million records, enabling our consultants to compare historical and real-time prices in every deregulated energy market. APPI Energy works with only vetted suppliers and maintains working relationships with suppliers that we trust to serve our clients. Only a small percentage of suppliers meet our stringent,
due diligence evaluation, which involves each supplier’s financial, managerial, and operational stability and performance. Our work certainly isn’t done once the contract is signed. APPI Energy’s in-house Customer Service team is here to help throughout the lifetime of the contract. Our team can 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 are here as a true extension of your team. To learn more about APPI Energy, visit appienergy.com or contact Noel Temple, Senior Energy Consultant and dedicated consultant for AICC members at ntemple@appienergy.com or 667-330-1159. Noel Temple is a senior energy consultant with APPI Energy and is AICC’s designated consultant. He earned credentials from The Energy Professionals Association (TEPA) and has proven experience working with medium to large commercial and industrial clients, government entities, manufacturing, hospitality, and distributing sectors. To contact Noel for a customized energy solution, call 667-330-1159 or email ntemple@appienergy.com. Noel Temple Senior Energy Consultant ntemple@appienergy.com 667-330-1159
BOXSCORE www.AICCbox.org
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SERVICES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
Athena SWC AICC Packaging Members Are Seeing Revenue Growth— Don’t Be Left Behind Athena SWC partners with packaging manufacturers (corrugated, POP display, retail-ready packaging, medical packaging, rigid box, and custom folding cartons) to assist with strategic sales growth initiatives by providing a proven process model and methodology for new account development efforts (focused on larger repetitive programs with six- to seven-figure revenue potential). Packagers that choose to partner with Athena often experience the following sales situations: • Lack of sales growth (flat or declining YTY sales) • Need to replace bad margin, difficult customer programs • Need to replace customer projects that are nearing the end of their life cycle • Needed to diversify customer revenue base (80/20 rule) • Targeted the wrong type of accounts HERE IS HOW IT WORKS:
Our best-practice model combines inbound and outbound marketing tactics and allows you to measure effectiveness and quantify ROI. Programs are designed based on your specific
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sales goals and desired return. As part of our process, you will see a flow of qualified leads from both inbound and outbound sources (SEO, website visitor tracking, outbound emails, etc.). Those leads and any of your internal lead sources (prospecting, referrals, trade shows) that you’d like to include are qualified to ensure they meet your company’s specific growth requirements, whether based on industry, geography, potential revenue, or other criteria. We manage those leads as they move through your sales cycle, set up meetings with the prospects, nurture future interest prospects, and follow up on RFQs and quotes, allowing your salespeople to do what they do best: Close the sale!
WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?
You will see compressed sales cycles, increased sales rep productivity, and of course, an increased flow of new business opportunities. Plus, you can clearly quantify and link your marketing investments to improvements in both sales productivity and increased sales revenue. To learn more about our packaging experience and see success stories from other packaging manufacturers (including AICC members), visit https://bit.ly/corrugated-packaging! Todd Zielinski Managing Director and CEO tzielinski@athenaswc.com 716-799-9324
THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE SERVICES
Green Markets, a Bloomberg Company Containerboard Pricing and Box Market Intelligence from Green Markets Access to accurate, affordable containerboard price and market reporting is now available across the box industry. Corrugated box buyers, box manufacturers, sheet feeders, and mills are gaining insight from objective, accurate reporting of the product prices and market conditions that matter with Green Markets Box Report. What if you could anticipate and track the movement of linerboard, medium, and sheet prices? Or see demand expectations across the box industry? While also staying current on lead times for sheets and box orders across the US? You can, with Green Markets Box Report, it’s specially designed, ongoing market reporting for box buyers and sellers. It
has the essential data, market sentiment and trends analysis that improves market transparency—and your company’s performance. Find out why box manufacturers and buyers look forward to new market information that is critical to their business processes. The Box Report gives you access to timesensitive market intelligence, including: • Regionalized Market Prices for Linerboard, Medium and Sheets • Regional Market Assessments • Demand Outlooks • “The Box Buyers’ Corner” • Market Trends • Macro Indicators Each subscription includes access to the month-end Box Report and mid-month
Box Market Trends report as well as ongoing price alerts. Whether you’re a buyer or seller of corrugated products, this valuable market reporting will inform your decision making. Visit www.Green-Markets.com/Box for more information and to request a FREE sample issue. Over 10 years of corrugated packaging industry experience with sheet plants. Ryan Fox Corrugated Market Analyst rfox93@bloomberg.net 609-279-3849
BOXSCORE www.AICCbox.org
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SERVICES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
JHF Capital, LLC Employee Retention Tax Credit Expert and Alternative Financing Specialist JHF Capital was founded by John Forrey, formerly the President of Specialty Industries and a member of the AICC Executive Board as recently as 2018. Subsequent to the sale of Specialty, John was not ready to retire and decided to utilize his strong financial background to start his own company. Prior to entering the packaging world in the early 1990s, John was a practicing CPA. Recently, John was recognized as the national Broker of the Year recipient at the National Alliance of Commercial Loan Brokers (NACLB) award ceremony in Las Vegas. Currently, as it relates to the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERC) program, John works exclusively with a national CPA firm which specializes in qualifying businesses for the stimulus monies. Many AICC members have already qualified for the ERC monies with this CPA firm via an introduction by JHF Capital. To date, this CPA firm has processed over
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20,000 submittals with only a handful of audits, all of whom were determined to be 100% clean. Separately, JHF Capital brands itself as an alternative funding/financing specialist for small and mid-size businesses to traditional bank lending institutions. Types of funding options provided by JHF Capital include Accounts Receivable and Asset Based Lines of Credit, Equipment Leasing, Inventory Financing, Unsecured Business Lines of Credit, SBA Loans, Commercial Real Estate Financing, Purchase Order Financing, and Large Project Financing.
I look forward to connecting with old friends and colleagues of the AICC. Please contact me to discuss ERC eligibility and/or commercial financing needs. Please feel free to contact me for help or advice when having any challenges with your primary bank lending institution. John Forrey Owner jforrey@jhfcapital.net 302-386-9994
THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE SERVICES
Precision Industrial Contractors, Inc. PIC for Your Installation Needs! PIC Precision Industrial (Washington, USA) — Nationwide leader in corrugated equipment installation and construction projects. With almost 40 years’ experience, PIC has built its reputation as a full-service industrial contractor for larger projects. PIC offers turnkey construction services, including layout, preplanning, foundation design, civil/concrete, structure fabrication, steel erection, process piping, and complete plant relocation and implementation. We also provide corrugator and machinery profiles and precision optical alignment with capabilities up to 1/2 arc second. We collaborate with our customers to expedite and complete projects safely, on time, on budget, and with as little disruption to our customers’ production as possible. Contact our sales team at admin@picateam.com or 360-225-7955.
BOXSCORE www.AICCbox.org
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SERVICES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
Stambaugh Ness Solutions that Anticipate your Evolving Needs Stambaugh Ness is a multidiscipline, professional services firm helping clients nationally to drive growth, profitability, and a forward-thinking mindset. With deep expertise in the manufacturing industry, clients benefit from solutions and services that are crafted specifically for the diverse needs of manufacturers, including: OUTSOURCED ACCOUNTING
As your company grows it faces challenges. Adapting to those challenges is not always as simple as it seems. • CFO Advisory — when you don’t need a full-time CFO, but desire a financial road map to a profitable future • Controller Oversight — when your business financials outgrow the capabilities of a bookkeeper or office manager BUSINESS VALUATION
Measuring, managing, and protecting the value of your business. • Transaction Structuring — when you have a buy/sell agreement or to plan a future one • General and Tax Compliance — when you want to know the value for estate planning OWNERSHIP TRANSITION
Leading with people while strategizing the future.
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• ESOPs — when you want to have employee owners in the business • Succession — when you know the next leader in the organization • Acquisition — when selling is your best option
• HR Risk and Compliance — when policies and procedures need a refresh to minimize liability • Job Architecture — when clarity is needed for roles, responsibilities, and career pathing
STRATEGIC TA X SOLUTIONS
TECHNOLOGY/CYBERSECURIT Y
Taxation can be confusing, frustrating, and time-consuming for many organizations. • R&D Tax — when you can reinvest in your business for work you are already doing • State and Local Tax — when you need compliance guidance for conducting multistate business • Compliance and Assurance — when you need audited financial statements or to pay your taxes
Elevate technology from a day-to-day requirement to part of your strategic plan for the future. • Cybersecurity — when you want to proactively protect your data from an attack • Managed IT Services — when your business is short on internal IT staff • Business Intelligence — when you need real-time data quickly and accurately
WORKFORCE ADVISORY
The workforce of today is a complex puzzle. • Recruiting and Retention Strategies — when you want to be a destination for talent
Leigh Ann Wilson Director, Manufacturing Strategy lawilson@ stambaughness.com 717-220-5174
THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE SERVICES
Working Well “How did you grow such a beautiful crop?” I asked. He replied, “I don’t grow anything, I just remove as many obstacles to growth as I can, the rest is between the crop and its maker.” This is the strategy of Working Well. Cultivate the right environment for growth, invest in skill building of willing people, and everyone will enjoy the harvest. Packaging manufacturers are looking for team members that are willing and capable to thrive in this industry. Working Well is dedicated to growing leadership and problem-solving skills in the willing. We make the unwilling so jealous that some change their minds or change jobs. Growing capability is hard work requiring time, effort, and expertise. Working Well delivers resources that
make it easier. Along with many custom solutions, WW provides: • Books from the Intentional Culture Series º Changed People Change Process º Dammit: Learning Judgment From Experience • Training room dry erase tools for interactive Measurement, Planning, and Problem Solving • Templates º Choreographed changeovers by the numbers º Standard Operating Procedures º One Point Lessons º Cross Training • Training and Coaching
º Leadership (from supervisor to CEO) º Process Improvement Engage new employees and those who it seems have quietly quit. Grow their problem-solving capability, and involve them in improving their work and their careers. Learn more on our website or our YouTube channel. Books and tools are available on Amazon and AICC members receive a 10% discount when they contact Scott@workingwell.bz directly.
BOXSCORE www.AICCbox.org
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SOFTWARE AND ELECTRONICS THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
eProductivity Software Solutions that address the unique challenges and requirements of the industry, while driving efficiency, streamlining processes, and maximizing profits. eProductivity Software (ePS) is a global company with vast experience in the corrugated industry and roots going back to the early 1980s with Corrugated Technologies Inc. (CTI). ePS has developed a rich portfolio of corrugated software solutions over the years, partly due to acquisitions but fundamentally driven by the desire to create best-ofbreed industry-specific solutions. The corrugated team at ePS is made up of individuals with experience in the corrugated and packaging markets; this gives ePS a holistic view of the systems required as many of the team were users of solutions when working in the industry. As organizations look to scale for growth, modernize their operations, and diversify their service offerings, ePS is a trusted technology partner supporting customers at every step. Our portfolio is designed to help corrugated businesses meet their short- and long-term goals such as improving profitability, developing new revenue streams, and accelerating growth and expansion. ePS solutions are designed to operate as stand-alone applications or as a part of a broader suite of products. Comprehensive suites are designed to meet the needs of businesses of various sizes and specializations, helping them realize the benefits of a modern integrated system with centralized functionality, reporting, and easy plug-and-play expansion. ePS offers industry-enabling point solutions that fully integrate with the native or generic MES/ERP systems to help companies address specific workflow gaps or accelerate growth opportunities.
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Solutions for Corrugated The Corrugated Suite, also known as CorrSuite, is a comprehensive suite of corrugated-specific solutions. It encompasses a range of tools and software applications, including Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES). The suite is tailored to meet the unique needs and challenges faced by corrugated manufacturers and provides a complete solution to streamline and optimize their operations. The ERP component helps manage various aspects of the business such as inventory, sales, purchasing, and financials, while the MES component focuses on the execution and control of manufacturing processes, enabling real-time monitoring, production scheduling, and quality management. By utilizing CorrSuite, companies in the corrugated industry can enhance their efficiency, productivity, and overall performance. Escada is a “closed loop” corrugator control system that offers highly sophisticated functionality for efficient wet and dry-end machine control, bringing a new lease on life to aging corrugators and helping manufacturers run their corrugators at the fastest speeds possible while increasing board quality without the high-cost investment needed for new machinery. Customers using Escada report: • Improved OEE • Reduced warp and waste • Faster production speeds • Improved board quality and consistency • Reduced costs • Less reliance on skilled operators, meaning hiring and retaining new employees is easier
With more than 400 systems globally, ePS’ Escada solution has a heritage for its innovative approach to closed-loop corrugator control system design. At ePS, we recognize the critical role that corrugated plays in the future of the sustainable packaging supply chain, which is why we’re continually investing in developing our technology and people to empower customers so they meet the growing demands that are placed on them. Davo Laninga is the Corrugated Product Specialist for ePS’ CorrSuite ERP and MES solutions; with 39 years of experience in print, packaging, and corrugated workflows, Davo works closely with customers to focus on increasing their productivity and streamlining their business. Davo Laninga Corrugated Product Specialist, eProductivity Software davo.laninga@epssw.com 623-776-5031 Dana Disney is the SDM for ePS’ Escada corrugator control systems; with 29 years of experience working in the corrugated industry. Dana works with customers to demonstrate the importance of maximizing efficiency and maintaining process control in the corrugated industry, helping customers realize the benefits of closed-loop process control. Dana Disney Sales Development Manager, Escada Corrugator Control, eProductivity Software dana.disney@epssw.com 412-523-3164
SOFTWARE AND ELECTRONICS THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
CoparSolutions SyncMaster AI™, Closing the Loop and Eliminating Guess Work CoparSolutions is an innovator and global leader of wet-end corrugator control systems. With their advanced knowledge, technology, and understanding of corrugator operations around the world, they engineer innovative solutions to meet the current and future corrugator needs. Their newest innovation, SyncMaster AI™, combines many products with their latest automated process control system to form a solution that minimizes, if not eliminates, operator intervention during the corrugating process. AUTOMATED PERFECTION— REMOVING THE GUESS WORK
Corrugator process control has long been “Open Loop” or in many cases “Best Guess” process control. SyncMaster AI closed loop process control eliminates “guess work” and operator error. With the industry experiencing record personnel turnover rates, it’s difficult to maintain a properly trained crew. Until operators realize there is a problem, a significant amount of waste can be produced. Often to correct the situation they make it worse. They can be slow to correct, or they overcorrect, causing a greater issue or worse, a new one. The system continually monitors data inputs throughout the machine. Finite adjustments are automatically made as necessary to maintain the target setpoints. When the closed loop SyncMaster AI system detects warped product, it instantly corrects the issue and applies offsets to upstream process variables. Then, the system ensures the recipe database is corrected by saving the new setpoints automatically.
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AUTOMATIC SPEED CONTROL
Corrugator speed changes can have adverse effects on the quality of the board. Temperatures, starch application, wrap arms, and web tension all must be adjusted simultaneously and matched to the machine speed to maintain board quality. This is virtually impossible to perform manually. SyncMaster AI’s automatic line speed compensation maintains all these parameters throughout the speed change or anytime the machine outruns the wrap arms or starch gaps. When cold or high-moisture rolls are loaded, the system anticipates temperature offsets and applies them the moment a roll is spliced in. The result, consistent board quality throughout the run! SECURIT Y REDEFINED
CoparSolutions understands the risks associated with shared passwords and prying eyes. That’s why SyncMaster AI incorporates 3D Face Recognition Software to ensure only authorized personnel can modify configuration parameters, perform machine calibrations, or adjust process variables. Grade-dependent machine variables are in safe hands, with temperature and starch settings accessible only to qualified employees. STAY IN THE LOOP WITH REAL-TIME ALERTS AND NOTIFICATIONS
CoparSolution’s Scoreboard features a 75" high-definition display that relays crucial messages, including machine speed adjustments, cause of stops,
and automatic adjustments made by SyncMaster AI. It’s all just a glance away. Unlike others, the SyncMaster Scoreboard doesn’t just display what’s happening—it tells you why. No need to guess, it’s all right there on the big screen. The system maintains open communication between the operators, supervisors, and the Copar corrugator experts with instant texts and email alerts for critical information. Emails can also be manually sent directly to CoparSolutions’ tech center for immediate attention and fast answers from any operator station. Break or set a new production record and SyncMaster’s Scoreboard automatically displays your morale boosting achievement for everyone to see! Each operator station also features “Fast Quotes” for quick quotes for replacement components. The operators or supervisors simply select the components they need and request a quote, right from the operation station. To learn more about CoparSolutions’ products, services, and leading-edge technology, visit coparsolutions.com or call 708-496-1859. Jim Burrows President jmburrows@copar.com 708-496-1859 www.coparsolutions.com
Providing foundational knowledge and experience from day one. Integrated ERP and MES Software. Increase production efficiency and improve operational visibility while driving lean results. Comprehensive suite of solutions for order management and manufacturing requirements. Simplified ERP Software specifically built to drive growth. Powerful business management tools tailored to fit current and future needs. Automates workflows, improves operational efficiency, and maximizes employee productivity. Manufacturing, Distribution, and Quality Software that drives sustainable growth. Building a foundation of excellence with reliable, purpose-built technology. Add tangible value to your users lifecycle with market-leading tools and expertise.
Togewetare heAdvantive! r sales@advantive.com | 656.444.9855
advantive.com
SOFTWARE AND ELECTRONICS THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE
Kiwiplan (An Advantive Company) Over 80% of boxes made in the U.S. are in plants using Kiwiplan software. For more than 35 years, Kiwiplan has developed and provided powerful, industry specific software solutions for the corrugated and packaging industries. Kiwiplan’s end-to-end, fully integrated suite of software applications addresses the unique and complex requirements of the corrugated manufacturing industry. This dedication to exceeding needs has turned Kiwiplan into the single largest software provider for packaging manufacturers around the world. Kiwiplan solutions reduce costs, increase production efficiency and throughput, and empower manufacturers to respond immediately and automatically to changing circumstances. By increasing visibility, improving communication, and promoting teamwork across departments, your corrugated manufacturing organization can handle hot orders, raw material availability, tooling, and more. Kiwiplan strives to forge long-term partnerships with customers by analyzing their needs and delivering targeted, high-quality solutions, support, and sales services to exceed them. FRONT OFFICE
Manage orders at scale using the Enterprise Sales Processing (ESP) system. Share information automatically through the Kiwiplan Message Center (KMC). Improve communications between: • Customers • Suppliers • Third parties Empower your customer service teams to: • Enter orders • Determine due dates • Access pertinent information • Provide top quality solutions Manage: • Customers
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• Orders • Feedback • Finances • Routing • Estimating • Workflow MANUFACTURING
The Production Control System (PCS) automates scheduling 24/7. Every 15 minutes, the schedule is adjusted automatically for hot order inserts, board and tooling availability, setup savings opportunities, and more. This process improves production efficiency and throughput, and reduces downtime, waste, and costs. Corrugator Scheduling and the Continuous Automated Scheduling Environment work together with PCS to automate the scheduling process and: • Ensure corrugator efficiency • Reduce side trim • Increase web width • Decrease downtime and waste Transmission Links eliminates manual data entry while improving accuracy and visibility by providing electronic, bidirectional communication with: • Corrugator controllers • Converting machines • Conveyor systems • Stackers • Other electronic devices Additional software solutions include: • Kiwiplan Quality Management System (QMS) • Load tag printing • Kiwiplan Machine Data Collection (MDC) • Production signs • Mobile app INVENTORY AND LOGISTICS
The Truck Scheduling System (TSS) works with the Production Control System (PCS)
to automatically plan loads and reduce shipping costs by reducing mileage requirements and increasing truck volume utilized. The Unit Load Tracking (ULT) system improves inventory control, accuracy, and efficiency in shipping by tracking the location, movement, and loading of FGS units. WIP tracking is also possible. The Supply Chain Simulator (SCS) identifies monthly roll stock orders on a continuous basis to optimize corrugator production efficiency and reduce the cost of side trim, unnecessary upgrades, and waste. The Roll Stock System (RSS): • Manages roll stock • Increases inventory accuracy • Reduces the need for physical stock-takes BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE
The Kiwiplan Data Warehouse (KDW) BI tool collects and organizes data from multiple sources for an easy-to-use, cost-effective, enterprise-wide solution. This database is optimized for reporting purposes natively or on the customers’ reporting systems. KDW includes transaction-level data from: • ERP • MES/MRP • Warehouse management • Logistics systems • Other integrated data sources To demo our analytics tool, contact Ryan Brown at Advantive today. Ryan brings more than 25 years of experience in the corrugated industry. Ryan Brown Senior National Account Manager ryan.brown@advantive. com 513-496-9796
THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE SOFTWARE AND ELECTRONICS
OMP OMP’s Green Planning: your solution to a more sustainable packaging industry We all must do our share to save the planet. How can the packaging industry stay at the forefront? Packaging companies need to invest in new and more sustainable products and processes. They need to produce even more efficiently, with a lower footprint and less waste. The whole industry must embrace circularity principles, reusing and recycling resources. Promises are being made to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and meet ESG targets. Yet how can packaging companies deliver on these promises through their plants? Supply chain executives are looking for ways to turn targets and challenges into strategies and decisions. Introducing OMP’s Green Planning for the corrugated industry, the smart way to embed sustainability goals into a packaging company’s entire supply chain planning process. Green Planning enhances state-of-the-art end-to-end planning to make sustainability an integral part of the decision-making process. How?
• AI-powered decision-making: Leveraging cutting-edge AI technology tailored to the packaging industry, Green Planning assists supply chain planners in making informed decisions for sustainability. • Environmental parameter linkage: It connects CO2 emissions and other sustainability factors directly to the packaging industry’s supply chain processes. • Automatic optimization: Plans are automatically optimized to strike a balance between sustainability, financial performance, and operational KPIs. • Sustainability impact assessment: Green Planning provides real-time insights into the immediate and long-term sustainability consequences of various planning scenarios. This includes evaluating the impact of transportation modes on carbon emissions and ESG (environmental, social, and governance) criteria and assessing the effects of product design modifications on multiple levels.
OMP’s Green Planning goes beyond these capabilities and offers you: • Capacity management improvement: enhances capacity management for better resource allocation and utilization. • Efficient machine load balancing: optimizes machine loads and setup sequencing to reduce downtime and increase efficiency. • Work in progress and inventory reduction: drives reductions in work in progress and inventory levels, leading to cost savings. • Resource efficiency: maximizes machine usage, minimizes waste production, and lowers energy and resource consumption. • Informed investment decisions: assists in evaluating investment decisions by highlighting differences in environmental impact; answers all these questions and more. You’ll go beyond sustainability reporting and move to acting on sustainability parameters. OMP’s Green Planning is your solution to a more sustainable company, industry, and world. Ready to take your company’s sustainability to the next level? Contact us. 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@omp.com 770-956-2722
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Welcome, New & Returning Members
Welcome, AICC’s New Members! SAPPI NORTH AMERICA MICHAEL BROWNE Director—Packaging Brands 255 State St. Boston, MA 02109 617-423-7300 www.sappi.com
SUSTAINABLE CORRUGATED TROY HEWGLEY President 2852 Five Springs Rd. Dalton, GA 30720 706-529-8101 www.sustainablecorrugated.com
MENASHA PACKAGING MIKE RIEGSECKER President 1645 Bergstrom Rd. Neenah, WI 54956 920-751-1000 www.menasha.com
FRANKLIN MOUNTAIN PACKAGING, LLC JEFF BEYERSDORFER Managing Director 401 Avenida Ascencion Santa Teresa, NM 88008 575-997-7017 www.fmbox.com
CORRUGATED CHEMICALS, INC. JOHN STEIN Corporate Sales Manager 3865 Virginia Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45227 513-561-7773 www.corrugatedchemicals.com
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AMG PACKAGING & PAPER COMPANY LIMITED BRANDON HUGH Director 10 Retirement Crescent Kingston, St. Andrew Jamaica 876-968-6672 www.amgpackaging.com NORTHGATE DANIEL CHARBONEAU Sales Specialist G3367 Corunna Rd. Flint, MI 48532 810-235-8110 www.go2northgate.com
EVERYTHING CORRUGATED UNDER
Engineered for Execellence The SUN625® Heavy Duty Die Cut Section With increased load capacity, larger journals, enhanced fatigue resistance and reduced deflection under load, the new SUN625® Heavy Duty can easily accommodate full-width/length sheets for multiple out/up production while maintaining consistent sheet specifications at higher speeds and heavier score impressions.
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Corrugated Converting Equipment
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Members Meeting
AICC México 2023 Annual Meeting a Record-Setting Event
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social events such as the first AICC México Golf Tournament and an exciting activity for AICC México Emerging Leaders. On August 2, Rick Putch, director of technical services and process improvement at National Steel Rule Co. and an industry expert with over 45 years of die cutting experience, delivered a seminar titled “Effective Methods to Maximize Die-Cutting Productivity” to over 70 attentive and eager seminar participants. Simultaneously, members had a
Photos courtesy of AICC México.
he HS HOTSSON Hotel in León, Guanajuato, was the site of the annual gathering of AICC México members. From August 2 to 4, over 225 people were in attendance, including 11 new members. The focus of the meeting was the prospects and challenges in the converting industry in Mexico. The meeting comprised a seminar that preceded the general session, panel discussion, keynote presentation, two evenings of a tabletop trade fair, and plant tour. New for this year were
AICC México Annual Meeting attendees were treated to several informative sessions, including this panel discussion on “The Future Impact of Automation on the Automotive Industry in Mexico.”
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Members Meeting
More than 225 attendees, including 11 new members, took to León for the meeting.
valuable opportunity for networking and socializing during the first AICC México Golf Tournament. On Thursday, AICC President Mike D’Angelo welcomed those in attendance. Sergio Menchaca, CEO of Eko Empaques de Cartón and president of AICC México, began the general session by highlighting that the number of AICC México member companies has increased to 86, more than double the figure from a few years ago. He emphasized that AICC’s objective is assisting its members in achieving greater success. During the general session, notable speakers shared relevant industry and economic topics. Marina Faleiros, managing editor in Latin America for Fastmarkets at RISI, opened with a presentation on the current state of the Latin American paperboard industry with an emphasis on Mexico. Next, Alejandro Herrera, CEO of Empaques 4F, spoke of the context and
Sergio Menchaca (left), CEO of Eko Empaques de Cartón and president of AICC México, honors keynote speaker Daniel Marcos, co-founder and president of the Growth Institute.
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Members Meeting
development of small to medium-size companies. Eduardo Posada, president of WestRock México, spoke about the experience of starting a family business in Mexico and transforming it into a global company. Following the opening session speakers, a panel discussion was held on “The Future Impact of Automation on the Automotive Industry in Mexico,” after which economics expert Roberto Manriquez, Ph.D., talked about Mexico’s economic environment in 2023–2024. Keynote speaker Daniel Marcos, co-founder and president of the Growth Institute, closed the day with a presentation titled “How the Best Leaders Achieve 10x More Impact With Less Drama: Impact X.” Yair Caballero, CEO of CorruEmpaques–Querétaro, was honored with the AICC México Hall of Fame Award for his unwavering support of the Association. His family joined him at the award ceremony. On Wednesday and Thursday evenings, the always popular trade fair took place, where various industry suppliers displayed their latest innovations. Guests also had the opportunity to mingle and network during a pleasant cocktail gathering. On the final day of the meeting, members took a guided tour of the state-of-the-art Cartones Microcorrugados plant. This organization runs three corrugators and five converting lines in a spotless, fully automated manufacturing facility. The team from Cartones Microcorrugados were wonderful hosts, providing the attendees with hospitality and souvenirs after their tour. The AICC México ELs had a special event: an exciting, adrenaline-filled time go-kart racing. The next AICC México meeting is scheduled for October 23–25 in Querétaro, Mexico.
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Sergio Menchaca (right), CEO of Eko Empaques de Cartón and president of AICC México, presents Yair Caballero, CEO of CorruEmpaques–Querétaro, with the AICC México Hall of Fame Award.
Meeting attendees go off-site to tour the Cartones Microcorrugados plant in León.
AICC President Mike D’Angelo welcomes attendees to the AICC México Annual Meeting.
Free Online Education
100+ Courses available, including: ROTARY DIE CUTTING OPERATION
Created with the support of AICC Education Investor:
This course covers the fundamentals of rotary die cutting operations, major sections of the machine, and housekeeping and maintenance procedures for your machine.
RIGHTWEIGHTING Created with the support of AICC Education Investor:
This course will dive into the origin of right-weighting, its application today, the technology, and where the future of rightweighting is headed.
See them all at AICCbox.org/PackU For more information about becoming an AICC Education Investor, contact Mike D’Angelo, President, 703.535.1386 or mdangelo@aiccbox.org.
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Awards
Cascades Containerboard Packaging: Innovator of the Year
Photo courtesy of AICC.
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ICC presented the AICC/Board Converting News Innovator of the Year awards in the nonmachinery category at the Association’s 2023 Annual Meeting. This annual competition celebrates and recognizes innovative solutions that significantly enhance the independent box plant industry’s efficiencies, productivity, product quality, and bottom-line profitability. This year, Cascades Containerboard Packaging took home first prize. “Each year, the innovator competition fascinates me because of the variety and ingenuity of the entrants,” says AICC President Mike D’Angelo. “This year is no exception. The Cascades solution received the support that it did because it answers a need the industry has had. Congratulations to the entire Cascades team.” The competition saw a diverse range of entries, showcasing the remarkable innovations within the field. After rigorous evaluation by the AICC Plant Innovations Committee, the finalists were
Then-AICC Chairwoman Jana Harris (left) presents the Innovator of the Year first place trophy to the Cascades Containerboard Packaging team.
selected and put to vote by AICC Annual Meeting attendees. Attendees selected: First Place: Cascades Containerboard Packaging Cascades took the prestigious first place for its groundbreaking 100%
recycled solid bleached sulfate alternative used for color applications on packaging. Its commitment to sustainability and an innovative approach to packaging materials have earned them this well-deserved recognition.
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AICC Innovation
“Cascades is proud to be recognized with this award. Creating value for our customers is at the heart of our mission at Cascades. And it is with innovations such as EnviroCC paper that we continue to offer our customers sustainable products to meet their needs,” says Cascades President and CEO Mario Plourde. Second Place: Arden Software Second place went to Arden Software, whose innovative bill of materials for packaging designers, complete with an integrated parts library, has significantly impacted the industry. Third Place: EFI EFI secured the third-place position with its 100% light-emitting diodecured, nonodorous, flexible, and
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sustainable ink jet ink designed for corrugated materials. The AICC/Board Converting News Innovator of the Year Competition continues to evolve as a platform for industry leaders and innovators to showcase their groundbreaking solutions. This year’s focus on nonmachinery aspects of the converting industry highlights the diverse and dynamic nature of the field. The nonmachinery category of the competition was open to all AICC Associate members. This competition exemplifies the commitment of AICC and its members to advancing the industry through innovation and collaboration. Congratulations to the winners and other finalists, which included JB Machinery, OMP, and WPR Services,
for their outstanding contributions to the industry. These innovations drive progress and inspire others to push the boundaries of what is possible. The video compilation of all the winners and finalists can be found at www.AICCbox.org/innovator. The next competition will feature the machinery category, and members will select the winners during SuperCorrExpo, September 9–12, in Orlando, Florida. Questions about AICC awards and competitions and the value a well-connected workforce brings to a company can be directed to Cindy Huber, AICC director of conventions and meetings, at chuber@AICCbox.org, or Laura Mihalick, AICC senior meeting manager, at lmihalick@AICCbox.org.
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AICC Innovation
Professional Development
Emerged and Educated BY PAUL WAGNER
M
y journey with AICC and the Emerging Leaders (EL) program began about five years ago. I joined as an introverted, inexperienced 30-year-old who knew very little about the corrugated industry outside of my little bubble in Kansas. I quickly fell into my comfort zone at my first AICC event and stuck mostly to myself. It wasn’t until later at a networking event that I slowly opened up. One of the newly elected EL delegates took me under his wing and started to introduce me to everyone and strike up conversations. It was all uphill from there. I began to make contacts that eventually became acquaintances and grew into friendships over the years. Everyone in the EL group has a very diverse background, leading to multiple perspectives on situations. Everyone from general managers and production supervision to machine salesmen and customer service representatives are included in the group. Being able to bounce ideas off other industry professionals who may or may not have previous experience with a certain situation always proved to be beneficial. You never know the problems you can solve just by asking the question. After becoming more comfortable within the group, I decided to become more involved by joining the inaugural EL Committee. The EL Committee consists of EL delegates and about four to five ELs themselves. The committee helped me better understand all of the work that takes place behind the scenes that is required for all these events to successfully take place. Eventually, I was asked if I would do an introduction for a guest speaker
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at the AICC Spring Meeting in 2020. Of course, public speaking scares the heck out of me, so the thought of speaking in front of hundreds of people sounded like the worst idea ever. I decided to take the plunge and give it a try. I felt that this would be a huge step in my personal growth of trying to conquer my fears. It couldn’t be that bad, since it would just be a short introduction, right? I found myself growing more and more anxious as the meeting got closer and closer. Then, at the last second, I was saved by the bell. The Spring Meeting got canceled. Maybe one of these days I will get another opportunity to conquer my fear of public speaking. Even networking outside of the EL group at AICC events is greatly beneficial, whether it is with a seasoned veteran of the industry, equipment vendors, or even CEOs of other companies. In what other industry are you allowed to walk up to a CEO and strike up a conversation and them not be completely appalled by your presence? They have most likely seen the same exact issues over the years and already know the answer. As I am sure many of you already know, the plant tours during AICC events are always one of the top highlights. Over the years, I have been in countless corrugated plants throughout the country, and I can
AICC Emerging Leader Contribution
honestly say I have learned something valuable from each and every one of them. I recently “graduated” from the EL program, which is AICC’s nice way of saying that I have gotten too old! Now I am stuck in the middle of being too old for the young up-and-comers and not experienced enough to be with the true industry veterans. That noted, I would like to end by thanking everyone at AICC, the EL group, and Lawrence Paper Co. for giving me the opportunity to develop personal growth within the paper industry. For those of you considering joining the EL program, take the leap! For me, these experiences over the past five years have truly been priceless, and I look forward to what the future holds. Paul Wagner is plant superintendent at Lawrence Paper Co. He can be reached at paulwagner@lpco.net.
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The state of converting today— and expectations for the year to come BY ROBERT BITTNER
T
he boxmaking members of AICC represent companies of all sizes, serving various markets across a wide geography. Yet despite those variations, the boxmakers interviewed for this article were largely unified in their experiences and perspectives regarding the state of the industry at the close of 2023. They were similarly united—in their hopes and their concerns—when looking ahead to the remainder of 2024.
Business Today Across the board, boxmakers report the generally higher cost of doing business today compared with pre-COVID costs. “All the costs that go into making a box are up,” says Finn MacDonald, president of Independent II, including wages, rent, and utilities; building expenses; and financing. In fact, he notes, “the heartburn in 2024 may be more about getting
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“The availability of any labor—and the loss of skilled labor—has affected our industry’s ability to grow our workforce and improve it over time. Labor stability is critical to how independents thrive or survive moving forward.” —Finn MacDonald, president, Independent II projects and equipment financed rather than built and delivered. I’m sure these [costs] are not going to decrease quickly moving forward.” There are new, unanticipated costs as well. Recalling a surprising conversation with his company’s property and casualty insurer, MacDonald says, “We’d performed well, so we thought we might get a decrease in our rates.”
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That didn’t happen. Instead, the company’s insurer told him that nationally, they had been hit with a significant number of climate-related claims during the past year. “Because the total bucket had a high claim rate, it affected us locally,” MacDonald says. And this was not likely a one-time occurrence. “I asked whether we needed to start planning for a regular annual
increase in this category if we’re going to have to start paying for what the climate is doing to us as a country regardless of our own experience,” he adds. The answer was yes. On the more positive side, e-commerce, the force that drove so much business during the pandemic, while down from its “COVID highs,” seems poised to continue playing an important role in the industry. “Following the unprecedented surge of business created by the pandemic, I think e-commerce is going to continue to grow,” says Matt Davis, president of Packaging Express and AICC chairman. “Along with that, I’m seeing customers demanding more and more customization. That’s an opportunity for the packaging industry.” Along similarly positive lines, MacDonald believes the supply chain challenges experienced during the pandemic seem, for the most part, to have worked themselves out. “We would say everything’s back to normal,” he reports. “We are getting the raw materials we need and getting our finished goods out. Because of the lessons they learned during COVID, our customers are getting better at looking ahead on a quarterly basis to give us planning numbers that they’re more confident in,” which is resulting in a better balance between inventory and demand. Yet despite the positives that come as the industry moves beyond the chaos of the COVID years, one very big issue remains. Laboring to Succeed Finding and retaining a capable workforce tops the list of boxmakers’ most pressing concerns. To some, the current labor situation is not a temporary bump in the road, rather it’s an unfortunate lingering symptom of the industry’s “new normal.” “Since COVID, I think people aren’t as committed to their jobs as they used to be,” Oklahoma Interpak owner Eric Elgin sums up. Because of that, he says, “we’ve had a lot of trouble finding good, trained
workers. At the moment, we’ve got a solid crew. But we have had to go through a lot of different people to get good ones that really set fire with us.” The situation has put boxmakers in an increasingly tough position. “Labor is the foundation of doing business,” MacDonald says. “The availability of any labor—and the loss of skilled labor—has affected our industry’s ability to grow our workforce and improve it over time. Labor stability is critical to how independents thrive or survive moving forward. We can buy equipment, earn business, and improve our facilities, but we cannot make and ship boxes without a stable workforce. We all need new employees who can become productive, get engaged, and ultimately be loyal to our businesses.” “In my opinion, the labor shortage is only going to continue in 2024,” adds Davis. To address that shortage, Elgin is taking a multipronged approach to finding the best people he can, even drawing on old-school strategies he hadn’t used for decades. “I even put signs up along the road telling people to come on down and apply, which is something we hadn’t done since 2001,” he says. “We’re also working with a couple of local shelters to find good workers,” Elgin continues. “One, in particular, has a preemployment program that helps people develop the skills they need to get and keep a job because some of the people in these shelters haven’t worked for years. But it’s hard for them to adjust and be responsible and dependable. And they have to stick with the program for at least six months to graduate. A lot of them don’t make it, so we haven’t received that many employees through this program. But we are continuing to try.” In addition to embracing every available recruitment opportunity, MacDonald suggests that boxmakers may also need to address how the work itself gets done. “We all need to think differently about our workforce and how we stabilize and
improve it,” he says. “Our industry needs to be able to invest to improve efficiency and create capacity, both of which can offset labor challenges. The companies that are able to do this will find themselves with a competitive advantage moving forward.”
Davis goes even further: “We need to do everything possible to make the job as easy as possible. That means automating where we can automate—so we can continue to deliver the service our customers expect—and working to
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“The things I can’t control are the things I worry about the most. That includes our government.” —Eric Elgin, owner, Oklahoma Interpak
eliminate as many frustrations of the job as we can to help retain the good workers we have.” Revising Retention As if finding a strong workforce wasn’t challenging enough, boxmakers also are discovering that previous approaches to retention and workforce development may no longer produce the desired results. “How we gain, train, retain, and reward is an opportunity to set us apart from the competition,” Davis says. “The more our team knows about our business and why and how we’re successful, and how they affect its success, the better off we are as a company. So, we have been investing more in coaching and training to show people we value them and we want them with us for the long haul.”
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“The workforce has changed,” MacDonald states. “What motivated employees in the past isn’t going to work going forward. Today’s employees aren’t interested in working overtime, working on Saturdays, or taking a split shift. And your experienced, senior workforce—the ones who came up with the mindset that they will do whatever is required to meet the customers’ needs—is diminishing. “This can impact how we take care of our customers,” he adds. “Most of us are not in the business of telling our customers what their schedule is. Most of us are in the business of giving customers what they want, when they want it. But the new labor situation means we can’t always do that—unless we create stability.”
Stability throughout the industry— both the lack of and the subsequent hope for it—is on everyone’s mind as they consider the remainder of 2024. Looking Ahead “In life, I’m an optimist,” MacDonald says. “In business, I’m a cautious optimist. Looking ahead to 2024, though, I’m putting more weight on caution than optimism. “That’s not the way I want to see 2024,” he admits. “However, the signs are all around us, and they’re hard to miss. We’re seeing massive disruptions globally in economics and international trade. There’s a lot of political instability, a lot of wars. Within our own country, we’re seeing division and vindictiveness. Eventually this all has an impact on how consumers feel about spending, how lenders feel about lending. So, I’m cautious.” “The things I can’t control are the things I worry about the most,” says Elgin, who chairs AICC’s Government Affairs Subcommittee. “That includes our government. There’s scary stuff going on in the Middle East right now, and I hope we don’t find ourselves in a war. And with this being an election year, there’s going
to be plenty of fodder for politicians to argue about. “It’s hard to know what’s really going on during an election year,” he says. “So much of it just feels like people putting on a show.” Elgin’s biggest concern is the possibility of a recession in 2024. However, he adds, “the gross domestic product report just came out, and it was a little stronger than everybody expected. I think maybe that’s a good sign that we’re not going to have a recession.” “I don’t have any great insight into the industry impact of 2024 being an election year,” Davis says. “I don’t have any influence on the taxes coming down or anything that politicians like to argue about. I will say, though, that I’m an optimist by nature, and I always try to approach any challenge from a ‘create your own luck’ mindset. All I know is that we’re going to keep hustling and creating opportunities for ourselves. After all, that’s really the only thing we can control.” MacDonald agrees, clarifying that any optimism he has for 2024 “comes from the belief that a lot of independents are able to thrive in chaos. By definition, that’s what we do at the customer level; a lot of our businesses are built on managing our customers’ chaos. We have the ability to not be intimidated by chaos and to be creative and agile and resourceful in how we approach it.” “I believe that great businesses are made in tough times,” Davis points out. “It’s in our interest to make our companies the best they can be, no matter what the present environment is. Anytime you create value, there’s an opportunity. And opportunities are what I’d most like us all to see in 2024.” Robert Bittner is a Michigan-based freelance journalist and a frequent BoxScore contributor.
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Gene Macchi, president of the Independent Corrugated Container Corp., uses a bundle of sticks to show the strength of the independent when they stand together.
YEARS OF AICC 1 9 74 – 1 9 7 9 : Stronger Together
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n November 1974 at Stouffer’s Riverfront Towers in St. Louis, 91 attendees representing 54 independent box plants came together united by a need to survive. Gene Macchi, president of the Independent Corrugated Container Corp., stood in front of this room full of friends and competitors and broke a stick. Joseph R. Palmeri, president and chief operating officer of Jamestown Container Cos. in Falconer, New York, recounted the story for AICC’s 40th anniversary: “He then tried to break a whole handful of branches, making the point how much harder it was to break.” Macchi’s message to the group was that if all independents joined together in the new association, they would be much stronger together than alone. Thus, AICC started its journey to become the voice of the independent. Independents were in crisis. Sheet supply was tighter than they had ever seen. Jim Kowall, AICC’s first president and then-owner of Great Northern Packaging Corp. in Grand Rapids, Michigan, recalled that he, George Arvanigian of Arvco Container Corp., Robert Cravens of Container Service Corp., and others spent many hours and traveled many miles recruiting others to their common cause. In 1974, conditions in the industry would make their work easier. “In the summer of 1974, Jamestown Container was having a tough time getting sheets,” Palmeri wrote. “Our major supplier had told us they could only run 50% of our loads, and for us, that was a loss of 120,000 square feet each day.” According to Palmeri, suppliers were telling him the reason was a shortage of containerboard, but he and his partner didn’t really buy it. So, they and another independent in the Buffalo area began investigating the installation of their own corrugator. “We brought in a consultant named Jim Levine, who happened to tell
HOW DID THEY END UP IN THAT ROOM IN 1974? AICC was not the first effort to bring together independents. Before AICC as we know it today, there was the Executive Society of Corrugated Sheet Convertors (ESCSC). Jim Kowall, AICC’s first president and then-owner of Great Northern Packaging Corp. in Grand Rapids, Michigan, wrote on the occasion of AICC’s 20th anniversary in 1994 that efforts to start an association for sheet plants actually preceded AICC by at least three years. “I sold corrugated sheets to various companies in Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio, and some knew little relative to marketing and manufacturing costs,” Kowall recalled. “I contacted them by phone relative to the idea of starting a Michigan-Indiana trade association.” He said some of the members suggested there should be a national association, and so a meeting was held in September 1971 in Battle Creek, Michigan. At that meeting the ESCSC was established. The group held meetings nine times per year and, in Kowall’s words, “the association became a valuable business tool.”
us about a new association that was trying to get started that would just represent independent boxmakers. The more he told us, the more we were interested,” said Palmeri. Levine had formerly worked for the Fibre Box Association in Chicago and was consulting to companies in the industry. He was also a good friend of Kowall and acted as an ambassador for the national association Kowall, Cravens, Arvanigian, and others were trying to form. The late Hugh Cameron, then-president of Cameron Packaging and one of the founders from Canada, said during an interview several years ago that he became a member because he “wanted to have communications with other independents who had the same problems I was having.” Cameron remembered that he called others in Ontario and Québec. “Only Keith Munt, owner of ProPak, and Danny McKeon, who had two sheet plants in Toronto, agreed to come with me to the first meeting in St. Louis. One of our main concerns was the supply of sheets plus linerboard and medium.” In these early years, AICC focused primarily on the supply of paper to independents, the issue of competitiveness, and the development of a level playing field for independent owners. But more practical reasons for joining forces—such as providing affordable employee benefits and industry training, which were
An exploratory meeting for this national organization was held September 21, 1974, at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare in Chicago. The 60 representatives there coined the name National Association of Independent Convertors, a name later changed to the Association of Independent Corrugated Converters to accommodate members from Canada. At that meeting, 30 members were added.
Past Presidents and Chairmen 1974–1975 1975–1976 1976–1977 1977–1978 1978–1979 1979–1980
James Kowall Eugene Macchi Hugh Cameron J. Richard Troll Robert Cravens Joseph Armstrong
Great Northern Packaging Indep. Corrugated Container Corp. of America Cameron Packaging Lawless Container Corp. Container Service Corp. Krafcor
previously unavailable to independent companies—also became apparent. AICC’s notable accomplishments in those first five years included: • The creation of the Corrugated Insurers Association, an offshore insurance company devised to provide affordable health, life, and workers’ compensation insurance for members.
• Successful opposition run in regard to Conrail freight surcharges, which would have added substantially to freight costs for containerboard. • In 1978, AICC developed the first corrugated industry sales training program for its members, called “AID: Applied Interaction Development.”
AICC’s founding members at the Association’s first national meeting in St. Louis in 1974.
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AICC’S FOUNDING MEMBERS AICC archives show the following companies present at AICC’s first national meeting in November 1974 at the Stouffer’s Riverfront Towers in St. Louis. They are considered AICC’s founding members. Those in bold are still in business under the same (or a similar) name. Those with an asterisk are still in business but were acquired by the company in parentheses: Advance Packaging (PCA)* American Packaging Corp. (Lawrence Paper)* Arvco Container Bates Container (Smurfit Kappa)* Blossomland Container Borders Container Cameron Packaging Central Container Centralia Container Coast Packaging Materials Commander Packaging Condura Box Container Service Cor-Box (Sonoco)* Decatur Container (Akers Packaging Service)*
• In 1979, AICC negotiated a 10-year supply agreement with International Paper Co. after it acquired the Pineville Kraft Paper Mill, a key supplier to many independent converters. This became the model for “set-aside” agreements, which helped to ensure supply. These and other initiatives spurred membership growth. By 1980, AICC had more than 300 members. Palmeri, summarizing his view of AICC’s founding several years ago, said, “The conditions that existed in the 1970s are gone, thanks to Jack Schwarz, Hans Koch, and others who started so many sheet feeders.” Palmeri believed the introduction of the sheet feeder has insulated the independent sheet plant from supply concerns. “I doubt if there are many members still in the industry who will ever go through the situation I’ve described,” he said. “But I think it’s important that our membership knows how this Association started.”
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Delta Container A Goodenough Box Great Northern Packaging Independent Corrugated Container Corporation of North America Jamestown Container Krafcor (IP)* Lawless Container Mall City Containers (Hood Container)* Michiana Container Michigan Packaging Co. (Greif)* Mid-Michigan Container Monarch Box & Paper Nor East Packaging Northern Package O’Grady Containers (IP)* Omaha Box Co. (Liberty Diversified)*
Orchard Consolidated Industries Paragon Packaging Products Powderly Container (S.E.M.O)* Queen City Container (Sumter Packaging)* R and D Incorporated Select Carton Service Ltd. (Central Group)* Sentinel Container Shillington Box (The Royal Group)* Specialty Container (Supply One)* StandFast Packaging Products Tate Containers (IP)* Taylor Paper Corp. of St. Louis Triangle Container (Menasha)* Tri-Pack (Smurfit Kappa)* Western Reserve Container
NAMES WHO MADE AICC George B. Arvanigian was the president and founder of Arvco Container Corp. in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Arvanigian was an early member of the Executive Society of Corrugated Sheet Convertors (ESCSC). According to Jim Kowall, Arvanigian provided “half the original seed money” to make AICC possible. Arvanigian served as the seventh president of AICC in 1980–1981. Bill Cox served briefly as AICC’s first executive director in 1978. About Cox, Jim Kowall wrote, “AICC may have been extinguished had it not been for the efforts of Bill Cox during 1978.” Robert D. “Bob” Cravens was president of the Container Service Corp. in Dowagiac, Michigan. He was also a member of the original Michigan-Indiana association, and he and his company became founding members of AICC. Cravens served as AICC’s fifth president in 1978–1979. James L. “Jim” Kowall was president of Great Northern Packaging Corp. in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He was a catalyst in the formation of the ESCSC, with members primarily in Michigan and Indiana. Kowall used his contacts in this group to springboard the concept of a national association. Kowall served as AICC’s first president in 1974–1975. Jim Levine worked for the Fibre Box Association in Chicago, and in the early 1970s, he was an industry consultant. Along with Kowall, he was an early advocate of a group to represent independent converters, and he was an informal ambassador to many other independents in “talking up” the concept and encouraging their participation.
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The Associate Advantage
2024 – What’s Ahead? BY JOHN BURGESS
JOHN BURGESS PAMARCO VICE CHAIRMAN JOHN.BURGESS@PAMARCO.COM
TIM CONNELL A.G. STACKER INC. CHAIRMAN TCONNELL@AGSTACKER.COM
JEFF DIETZ KOLBUS AMERICA INC. SECRETARY JEFFREY.DIETZ@KOLBUS.COM
MIKE BUTLER DOMTAR PACKAGING DIRECTOR MIKE.BUTLER@DOMTAR.COM
GREG JONES SUN AUTOMATION GROUP IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIRMAN GREG.JONES@SUNAUTOMATION.COM
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E
ven the most optimistic of us have to go into 2024 with some concerns for the economy, in general, and specifically as it relates to the industry we serve and work in. Let’s face facts, we have all had a good ride from 2020 well into 2023, and this bubble had to burst at some stage—so better to be prepared than not! Our customers in the converting and original equipment manufacturer sectors have seen a rapid slowdown since the intensity of the COVID-19 pandemic, when machine orders were at an all-time high, but deliveries in some cases stretched more than two years. The recapitalization of our industry over these three years has been a wonder to view from the sidelines—almost a feeding frenzy—and all of us, from boxmakers to equipment manufacturers and suppliers, have seen record levels of sales in this period. What do we do now? Innovation and automation have to be the two biggest topics in play currently. Innovation is the key to the future; the paradigm that says the way we have always done it is the way to continue to do it is the hardest to break in any industry but particularly one as traditional as ours. The advent of the digital press and now the hybrid digital-flexo printers shows that innovation is possible and achievable. Printing on both sides of the sheet went from being a unique skill to almost a must-have during the pandemic, and consumers have embraced the aesthetic look of the packaging. So, what is next? Automation is very necessary in today’s world, with labor shortages that show no sign of slowing. My belief is that the
labor problems we are currently facing in our industry were always there in an underlying sense; let’s face it, our shop floors are not as attractive as a plush office or a home-based assignment, but the events of the past few years served only to accelerate this issue into where we are today. How much we can automate processes is open to debate. Regardless, we are still going to need good, skilled labor to build machines and peripherals, and ultimately, to print boxes. Is there a silver bullet we are all missing somehow? They say what goes around comes around, but how many of us have considered the traditional apprenticeship programs that, for the most part, have vanished in the past 20–30 years. These programs built loyalty from the high school and trade school levels and created employees for life (case in point, one of my employees just celebrated 50 years with our company). There is government aid available for many of these on-thejob training programs. Are we getting our human resources departments deep enough into the weeds to investigate these programs, or are we just calling the staffing agencies and asking them to send over labor at a high cost that doesn’t stay or create any loyalty? We have many challenges going into 2024, but I firmly believe, with the investment that has taken place in new equipment, mill conversions, and the public sentiment regarding the shift to recyclable products, and with some fine-tuning, we are very well positioned for the future. John Burgess is president of Pamarco’s flexo division and vice chairman of AICC’s Associate board.
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he International Corrugated Packaging Foundation (ICPF) has been busy the past few months working to strengthen existing programs, increase industry exposure, and initiate outreach to assist companies in their hiring efforts. Another aspect of our strategy is evaluating partnership opportunities with existing national programs. This new year, ICPF would like to encourage you to examine some national resources and solutions you may not be aware of that may be helpful for your company as you work to find solutions to your hiring needs.
FAME Program The Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) is an advanced manufacturing workforce education and development program run by the Manufacturing Institute with locations in 12 states. FAME provides world-class workforce development through strong technical training, integration of manufacturing core competencies, intensive professional practices, and intentional hands-on experience to build the future of the modern manufacturing industry. The Advanced Manufacturing Technician (AMT) program administered under the FAME model leverages a work/ learn framework to weave technical knowledge, professional behaviors, and distinct manufacturing core exercises into a focused co-op experience to build global-best, entry-level, multiskilled maintenance technicians. The FAME model facilitates employer-led partnerships between your company and local educational institutions and establishes a channel
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for recruiting diverse, high-achieving, and career-oriented students. Once established, the cooperative of local employers that make up the FAME chapter will generate a continuous pipeline of skilled technicians through the AMT program. ICPF is aware of industry companies that are excited about and taking advantage of this program. You can join a local chapter or start your own if there isn’t one in your area. To learn more about FAME or get started today, visit bit.ly/47aqwgl. Get Connected With Your State MEP The Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) is a public-private partnership with centers in all 50 states and Puerto Rico dedicated to serving small and medium-size manufacturers. The MEP National Network™ offers an extensive range of workforce services and resources that address every stage of the employee life cycle. Services include talent assessment and planning, attraction and recruitment, training and development for production
workers, as well as leadership, employee engagement and retention, and more broadly creating an effective organizational culture to become an employer of choice. Heroes MAKE America Program The Manufacturing Institute’s Heroes MAKE America program provides integrated certification and careerreadiness training in partnership with local community colleges to prepare transitioning service members, veterans, National Guard members, reservists, and military spouses for rewarding careers in manufacturing. With backgrounds that often include significant experience in advanced technology, former service members are ideal candidates for manufacturing careers and poised to be natural leaders. The Manufacturing Institute prepares these individuals for careers in modern manufacturing and encourages outstanding companies to harness their skills. For more information, visit bit.ly/3MH3eqi.
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Please reach out to ICPF President Caitlin Salaverria at csalaverria@icpfbox. org if you would like to discuss any of the above in more detail. There are a lot of opportunities for you to engage within your community to find potential employees, and ICPF is here to help every step of the way. Thanks for your continued support. ICPF will continue to inform you of potential partnerships that can provide solutions to your workforce needs. Get Connected With ICPF ICPF has worked over the past year to rebrand and redefine our mission to better serve the needs of the industry. We encourage you to join us on our rebranding and expansion journey. Reconnect with ICPF to stay
informed of the work we are doing and to collaborate on career and hiring initiatives. Be there with us as we work to grow the labor force of the corrugated packaging industry now and into the future. Find ways to get connected with ICPF below: • Stay In the Know with ICPF. Sign up for our distribution list to receive ICPF’s monthly newsletter and stay informed on all things corrugated. Email csalaverria@ icpfbox.org or alemoine@icpfbox.org, and you’ll be added in time for our next edition! • Connect with #CareersinCorrugated on social media. Follow us on a variety of social media channels (scan the QR codes on the previous
page) to stay up to date on career and hiring opportunities in corrugated packaging, industry news, and more. • Post jobs on our Career Portal. Corporate partners can post openings for free on the portal (careers.icpfbox.org) and be directly connected to interested upcoming and new graduates that post their resumes. Together, we can make a difference. Caitlin Salaverria is president of ICPF.
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BOXSCORE www.AICCbox.org
131
The Final Score
The Old Normal?
I
n my previous Final Score column, I wrote about the takeaways from the AICC Annual Meeting in Louisville in September. The knowledge we gained has to be put to use to be meaningful. Since our time together in Kentucky, I have attended annual meetings of AICC Canada; the Association of Caribbean, Central, and South American Corrugators (ACCCSA); the Fédération européenne des fabricants du carton ondulé (FEFCO); and the RISI Fastmarkets International Containerboard Conference in Toronto; Monterrey, Mexico; Lyon, France; and Chicago, respectively. I spent time with many AICC members at each stop and met with local boxmakers, suppliers, and association leaders. While the paper-based packaging industry’s heart beats at different rates around the world, from papermaking to converting, the outlook for our great industry is extremely consistent worldwide. That is the consensus of the myriad presentations by economists, analysts, consultants, boxmakers, and suppliers. Lasse Sinikallas, director of macroeconomics for Fastmarkets, summarized the situation by describing the current state of the industry as “painful but manageable.” This seemed to be the resonating point throughout my travels. The pain being applied is either by current business conditions or by the uncertainty surrounding the economy, politics, and war, depending on geography. Another important message, at least for North America, is the strengthening opinion that a recession will be avoided. From a business condition point of view, 2023 is down comparatively to the same period through Q3 2022, which was already down from the sky-high activity levels of 2020 and 2021. At the close of Q4, the projection was for box shipments to be down 4% year over year. What about beyond the end of 2023? At each stop in my journeys, the outlook was that box shipment levels were expected to return to the “historic” trend line pre-pandemic. That will be a trend of steady, albeit slow, growth. Closer to home, the exception to the expected return to less than 1% growth is our friends in Mexico. They are currently benefiting from the reshoring/nearshoring trend and are seeing unprecedented levels of capital investment into their country. The resulting projected growth for box shipments there is at just better than 4%. Other industry trends that seem to be universal focus on sustainability, continued growth in e-commerce, artificial intelligence, youth, lower mill operating rates, and conflicting macroeconomic signals. AICC will be working on these topics to ensure members are well prepared to be out in front. Entrepreneurs lead, and to lead effectively, you need information. Conditions may be returning to the old normal, but AICC will continue to provide you with new tools to be effective. Finally, this is the annual Big Associate Issue. I want to thank AICC’s supplier members for the vital and valuable sharing of mind and resources that they provide to this Association to make the mission a success. I am proud to come from your ranks and for AICC to be your Association. Michael D’Angelo AICC President
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