This Weeks Articles...
- Living Sustainably for a Better World At Placon
- Local packaging company triples growth despite pandemic
- Shemesh to unveil a 200ppm total turnkey filling line solution in a $4MM investment including US showroom and Spares inventory
- Kimberly-Clark Named One of Barron`s “100 Most Sustainable Companies” for 2021
- Plastic Notes April 2021
- More than a view: UW-Green Bay works to identify area waters as national reserve
- Evco adds capacity to US operations
- Market trends suggest sustainability will drive tissue industry innovation and growth
- 16th Annual Sustainable Forestry Conference
- Five Sustainability Trends To Watch In 2021
- Dow Unwraps Packaging Science, Sustainability Topics with New Podcast
- QUARTERLY MARKET REVIEW
- Neenah Completes Purchase of ITASA
- The future of face-to-face: how COVID-19 will reshape learning and work
- ePac extends footprint in Canada
- Packaging Market Outlook
- Retroflex Update
- Pixelle Acquires Two Specialty Papers Businesses
- 10 Eye-Opening Packaging Design Trends
- How Bump Corona Treating Improves Laminating, Coating & Printing
- Where Dow and the Packaging Industry Are Headed in 2021 and Beyond
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Admin5PNews is a weekly newsletter and website (5PNews.com) featuring positive stories from "The Industries That Built Wisconsin". The 5P’s – Paper, Pulp, Printing, Packaging and Plastic. In addition, this includes Flexo, Converting, Recycling, Forest Management, Manufacturing Equipment Suppliers and hundreds of other supporting industries and businesses.
Marty Notes: Our goal is to remind the decision makers and executives in Wisconsin of the importance of our industries. Wisconsin is still the Number 1 paper producer in the United States. 5PNews will be sent to 2,000 Elected Officials and Staff, Press Outlets and industry leaders each week. It is “FREE” to subscribe (Supported by Sponsors) and sent each week.
Green Bay Packaging this month produced the first reel of paper at its newly completed Wisconsin recycled paper mill, which uses OCC and mixed paper feedstock.
The Green Bay, Wis.-based company on March 19 announced the development, describing it as a “significant milestone” in the mill’s process of ramping up production capacity.
The company first announced the mill project in June 2018, stating it would build a $500 million facility using 100% recycled fiber sourced from OCC and mixed paper. The mill was constructed to replace the company’s 70-year-old paper mill in Green Bay.
When the project was first announced, recovered paper research firm RISI reported it would have a capacity of 685,000 tons per year....
See Also:
Green Bay Packaging starts production at recycled paper mill
...moreKen Notes: It`s ALIVE!!! Congrats and too much National Coverage for us to include it all. What a great problem to have...
The property manufactures tissue and paper products for GP PRO and the company’s consumer brands
In early March, Georgia-Pacific LLC, the parent company of GP PRO, has upgraded production at its production facility in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
The US$7 million expansion project added a new perforated roll towel (PRT) line, enhancing safety and increasing the plant`s production capabilities. The Green Bay property manufactures tissue and paper products for GP PRO and the company`s consumer brands...
At Placon, we believe in conserving resources. We wanted to create a circular economy for PET plastic thermoforms, find a way to use them again, and divert them from landfills. That is why we opened our very own recycling facility in Madison, WI. We purchase bales of post-consumer PET and thermoforms bottles (that means they were collected curbside), wash, grind, and melt them to create our proprietary EcoStar® PET material....
...The majority of our stock packages are made from our EcoStar® material and contain at least 25% post-consumer recycled PET material. Our products are 100% recyclable after use, contain the #1 PET resin code, and have the “Made with EcoStar® recycled PET” logo to highlight these traits for the consumer.
We process roughly 120,000 pounds of post-consumer PET bottles and thermoforms a day and recycle over 1 billion PET bottles and thermoforms each year. In comparison, the recycled PET we handle is enough plastic to wrap around the earth four times. Sustainability is important to us and the world, and we want our customers to feel good knowing that when they purchase stock food packaging from Placon, they are doing their part to meet help save our planet. ...
The expansion comes less than one month after the Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan Board became the majority owner of the Portugal-based company.
Less than one month after the Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan Board became the majority owner of Portugal-based blow molder Logoplaste SA, the company has announced plans for an expansion that will double its footprint, and add 10 jobs, in its U.S. plant in Yorkville, Wis.
According to a March 11 report in The Journal Times, Logoplaste will invest between US$2 million to US$3 million in the expansion, which will grow the company’s presence at Grandview Business Park in Yorkville from about 90,000 square feet to 180,000 square feet...
According to a March 11 report in The Journal Times, Logoplaste will invest between US$2 million to US$3 million in the expansion, which will grow the company’s presence at Grandview Business Park in Yorkville from about 90,000 square feet to 180,000 square feet...
Ken Notes: Love this, Portugal company, Canadian money - WISCONSIN jobs!!!
April 6, 2021 - On Tuesday, the Madison Streets Division announced
that the city would cease recycling plastic film and plastic bags – and
that residents should no longer place plastic bags into their
recycling.
But according to city recycling spokesman Bryan Johnson, recycling plastic bags has always been somewhat problematic...
Ken Notes: As a packaging industry we need to look at and create an economically sound recycling program. This is even more true if China continues to refuse our recycled material. We should work with universities, our research departments, and waste disposal facilities to identify the life cycle of our products from "cradle to grave". What we do not need is more mandates and expensive government programs...
A new bioplastic is strong, water-stable, cost-effective, and easily recyclable and biodegradable, making it a strong contender for scaling and wider adoption.
Apr 05, 2021 - New research conducted by scientists at Yale, the University of Wisconsin and the University of Maryland could help phase out traditional plastics.
Researchers at the Yale School of the Environment, the Biological Systems Engineering Department at the University of Wisconsin and the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at UMD have created a lignocellulosic bioplastic that is a promising alternative not just to plastics derived from petroleum but also to existing bioplastic materials. Research on the bioplastic’s properties, manufacturing process and environmental impacts are outlined in a study published on March 25 in the journal Nature Sustainability...
Researchers at the Yale School of the Environment, the Biological Systems Engineering Department at the University of Wisconsin and the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at UMD have created a lignocellulosic bioplastic that is a promising alternative not just to plastics derived from petroleum but also to existing bioplastic materials. Research on the bioplastic’s properties, manufacturing process and environmental impacts are outlined in a study published on March 25 in the journal Nature Sustainability...
Ken Notes: ...and we are working on it.
Rhinelander - Whether you keep yours
under the sink, in the pantry, or out in the garage, that bag of plastic
bags could become a bench if the city of Rhinelander is able to come up
with 500lbs of plastic by September 1st."Food storage bags, plastic grocery bags, cereal bag liners, pellet bags, ice bags," says organizer Emily Popp. "Anything that you can stretch a little bit. So like, if you push your thumb into it and it moves and doesn`t snap, that can be brought in."
Emily Popp partnered with Trex who uses the recycled plastic to make their products. If the city can gather 500lbs of plastic, Trex will donate a bench... ...more
Ken Notes: This is another interesting approach...
Numerous chemical plants were shut down as state lost power last month, disrupting a global supply chain for consumer goods
The February freeze that triggered mass blackouts in Texas led to chemical plant shutdowns that are disrupting global supply chains, causing a shortage of the raw materials needed for everything from medical face shields to smartphones.
The power outages brought the world’s largest petrochemical complex to a standstill, forcing more plants in the Gulf of Mexico region to shut down than during Hurricane Harvey in 2017. A month later, many remain offline, and analysts said it could be months more before all are fully back...
...moreThe power outages brought the world’s largest petrochemical complex to a standstill, forcing more plants in the Gulf of Mexico region to shut down than during Hurricane Harvey in 2017. A month later, many remain offline, and analysts said it could be months more before all are fully back...
Ken Notes: and of course you cant get the chemicals to make the bags in the first place...
Reynolds Packaging is on the cusp of expansion.
ASHWAUBENON, Wis. (WBAY) - Action 2 News first introduced you to Reynolds Packaging last June after the company made a pivot from packaging to pandemic relief, making disposable masks and filters.
Now the company is on the cusp of expansion.
“We’ve just been growing like gangbusters the last five years and we want to continue the growth,” said Lisa Reynolds, CEO of Reynolds Packaging.
Reynold’s Packaging has come a long way since it started in a garage on Main Street in Green Bay 22 years ago. It’s nestled among other large manufacturers in Ashwaubenon.
...moreNow the company is on the cusp of expansion.
“We’ve just been growing like gangbusters the last five years and we want to continue the growth,” said Lisa Reynolds, CEO of Reynolds Packaging.
Reynold’s Packaging has come a long way since it started in a garage on Main Street in Green Bay 22 years ago. It’s nestled among other large manufacturers in Ashwaubenon.
The new technology will be demonstrated to selected market participants in Shemesh’s new facility during the second half of 2021.Building on decades of perfecting existing technologies pertinent to the new line, the announcement comes as a response to increased demand and market trends, partially set by the COVID-19 pandemic. The news from Shemesh is seen as another milestone in cementing the brand as a global leader in the canister wipes packaging machinery arena...
...Mark Calliari, Shemesh’s Director of North America Operations,
commented, “Following the great success we’ve had in the market with the
TKS-60 and predominantly the TKS-120, I could not be more excited about
this new development. I’m sure the new TKS-200 will make a great impact
on the market as it not only offers a higher speed, but also better
than ever consistency in production, accuracy and user satisfaction. The
new TKS-200 from Shemesh and the substantial investment made into a new
US-based showroom and spares inventory demonstrates once again our
strong commitment to the industry, our customers and to the US market.”...
...more
FREE Webinar
Tuesday, April 27th, 2021
10:00-11:00 AM CDT
Enercon is hosting an exclusive webinar for Green Bay Innovation Group on how to use corona treaters to improve ink adhesion when printing flexible packaging, labels and more.Key topics include:
• How corona improves adhesion
• Why films respond differently to corona treatment
• How to use dyne levels
• Master the watt density formula used by converters
• What to do when ink adhesion fails
• New power supply technology for improved operation and support
Whether you print on narrow, mid or wide web films, this webinar will provide the best practices for corona treating on all types of digital and traditional printing.
...more
Metallic Decorating and Sustainability
By Jeff Peterson, executive director, Foil & Specialty Effects Association
Today, there are many choices in the marketplace, including cold foil transfer, toner-based digital foiling and polymer-based digital foiling, as well as pre-metallized paper and/or board.
Mystical Northern Lights Captured on Holographic Carton
Finnish spirits company uses unique holographic metallization effect on cartons for its Arctic Blue Gin for ‘a result that is as close to an actual northern lights flare as printed materials can accomplish.’
...moreA Study Conducted by Georgia Tech’s Renewable Bioproducts Institute and Commissioned by the Foil & Specialty Effects Association
NEENAH (WLUK) -- Essity in Neenah is making a difference for the homeless in the Fox Valley.
The paper-maker donated 80 cases of toilet paper and paper towels to area crisis facilities. It`s part of "The Family Network`s" Help for the Homeless Hygiene Drive, of which FOX 11 is also a sponsor.
Essity says it makes them feel great to be able to help the community, and the homeless, with donations like these.
"Surprisingly, toilet paper is an essential to life. It`s one of the things we do at Essity, and it helps people spend money on different things that add value to them. It helps them hopefully get out of the hole that they`re in," said Essity Human Resources Manager Daryl Castona.
...moreKen Notes: Thank you!
Pressure Sensitive Tapes & Labels Market projected to exceed $120 billion by 2026, Says Global Market Insights Inc.
Green Bay Packaging honored by APR
Sun Chemical’s Approach to Sustainable Labels
In-mold Labels - the ultimate combination of plastic and print
CELAB (Circular Economy for Labels), a global consortium of companies in the self-adhesive label industry, has elected members of its global executive board
Following the release of its 2030 ambitions last year to halve its environmental impact, Kimberly-Clark improved its ranking to 34th on Barron’s 2021 list of 100 Most Sustainable Companies.“Our ambition to make lives better for people around the world with the smallest footprint puts consumers, people, and planet at the heart of our organizational purpose,” said Lisa Morden, vice president of safety, sustainability, and occupational health. “We know that to deliver the greatest impact during this decisive decade, we must continue to integrate environmental, social, and governance best practices into our operating model. We are proud to be recognized as one of Barron’s 100 Most Sustainable Companies for the second year in a row.” ...
...more
Infinity Machine and Engineering Corp., a
worldwide leader in packaging machinery for the tissue industry, will
supply Bedford Paper, located in De Pere, Wisconsin a full packaging
line for their upcoming greenfield expansion which will be completed in
the first quarter of 2022.......more
Green Bay, WI — Rol-Tec recently began construction of a 15,700 s.f. addition to its Green Bay headquarters where it manufactures rubber covered rollers, metal roller bases, laser-engraved flexo sleeves, and tungsten carbide roller coatings for printing, industrial and converting operations throughout North America. The company is also a unique manufacturer of custom cast urethane parts for a variety of industrial applications.According to president Matt Umentum, the new addition will help meet the company’s growing sales with both printing and converting customers. Laser engraving operations continue to grow with the recent addition of a second high-performance, state-of-the-industry laser engraving machine. The new space will primarily accommodate expanded metal machining operations to support the company’s roller and sleeve operation...
...more
WPR - Everything You Need To Know About Recycling
Ahead of Earth Day, we learn from a single-use plastics expert and legal associate what can and can`t be recycled, why, and what we can do as consumers to improve things.
Pandemic demanded plastics, but not the recycled kind
What Tomorrow’s Retail Bag Looks Like
13 Surprising Things Made With Recycled And Reused Plastics
An Ocean Epidemic: Are We Destroying Our Earth” 
Latest investment will fuel company’s capacity expansionGREEN BAY, Wis. — March 25, 2021 — Paper Converting Machine Company (PCMC), part of Barry-Wehmiller and a leading tissue-converting equipment provider, has announced the sale of a third tissue-converting line to Bedford Paper, a De Pere, Wisconsin-based manufacturer of high-quality paper products.
“We’re excited to continue our time-honored relationship with PCMC,” said Steve Peters, President of Bedford Paper. “We’ve relied on the company’s technology and support to keep our business moving forward for nearly a decade. We also value the fact that PCMC’s machines are engineered and built in the United States, which gives us added confidence in the long-term performance of a significant investment like this one.”
See Also:
UW-Green Bay works to identify area waters as national reserve. April 12, 2021...
GREEN BAY (WLUK) -- With every season comes new opportunities to both explore and appreciate fresh water sources in Northeast Wisconsin.
FOX 11`s Maggie LaMere spends the morning at Communiversity Park learning how the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay is doing just that.
UW-Green Bay is currently working to identify our area fresh waters as a national reserve.
LaMere speaks with members of the University about ways we can all work to protect our fresh waters.
...more
Partner Level Sponsors (Gold)
First Business Bank
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Retroflex |
Epiphany Law |
Green Bay Innovation Group |
About Sponsorship
Two members of Congress will revive the Break Free From Plastic Pollution Act, which includes a national container deposit system and other sweeping changes. Representatives from the plastics industry have countered the push.According to a March 22 press release from Rep. Alan Lowenthal, D-Calif., the 2021 bill will be introduced on Thursday, March 25. Multiple virtual events are planned this week to discuss the bill.
Last year, the Break Free From Plastic Pollution Act was sponsored by Sen. Tom Udall, D-N.M., and Lowenthal. The bill proposed nationwide extended producer responsibility (EPR) for packaging, minimum-recycled-content mandates for certain products, a national container deposit, single-use plastic product bans, a three-year pause on new virgin plastics production facilities, and more...
...more
Ken Notes: A FYI article, we will watch this. Remember our goal is to tell a more positive story about our industries so we are not told how to run them by government...
We have set bold sustainability goals and worked to understand the gaps we need to fill and the impacts we can make based on our business and expertise. We’re guided on this path by our Design for Environment program, which takes into account the full life-cycle of our products.
As scientists continue to forecast ever more disastrous effects of climate change, Kohler Co. — like so many manufacturers — is grappling with what a resource-restricted future might look like for the company, its suppliers, its customers and the communities it touches around the world. For Kohler, this means going beyond our actions to achieve net-zero emissions by 2035 across global operations, and to integrate its environmental sustainability strategy into the design and manufacture of our products. We’re reimagining our contribution to a better planet by paying uncompromised attention to delivering beautifully designed and engineered products that don’t harm the environment...
...more
Company Blames Rising Commodity Costs As Wood Pulp Prices Increase
Consumer products giant Kimberly-Clark announced Wednesday it will raise prices on products like toilet paper and diapers, according to a press release from the company.
The price hikes come as the company, which employs more than 2,500 people in Wisconsin, tries to offset increasing costs of raw materials. Prices for wood pulp, which is used to make tissue and paper products, started to increase in February after a steep fall that started in 2019, predating the COVID-19 pandemic.
The world`s largest pulp manufacturer, Brazil-based Suzano SA, began increasing prices in early 2021 as demand from consumers in China rose...
The price hikes come as the company, which employs more than 2,500 people in Wisconsin, tries to offset increasing costs of raw materials. Prices for wood pulp, which is used to make tissue and paper products, started to increase in February after a steep fall that started in 2019, predating the COVID-19 pandemic.
The world`s largest pulp manufacturer, Brazil-based Suzano SA, began increasing prices in early 2021 as demand from consumers in China rose...
Ken Notes: Brazilian pulp is in huge demand because it produces the softest tissue products by far. Alas now The Chinese bottom has discovered that soft is good and the competition is costing us all.
Injection moulder Evco Plastics has acquired a site in Georgia, USA, and added capacity to its Automated Molding Plant (AMP) facility in Wisconsin.Evco’s purchase of the Cal 2 plant in Calhoun, located near its Cal 1 site, adds 40,000 sq ft to its operations. It will include a white room and liquid silicone rubber moulding capabilities, to meet demand from its medical and commercial lighting customers....
...“Reaching 1 million sq ft is a huge milestone for us,” said Gary
Fortier, director of US operations. “As our customers’ needs grow, so do
we. This new space allows us to create more opportunities to meet the
ongoing requirements of customers, as well as the industry as a whole...
...moreMarty Notes: 1 Million Square feet is a huge milestone for any company and we are proud to have them based in Wisconsin....
Will last year`s hoarding and panic buying make a comeback?
Who can forget last year`s empty store shelves and pandemic panic buying, right? Cleaning products, hand sanitizer and toilet paper were all but impossible to find, and only recently have name-brand disinfectant wipes and sprays begun showing up in stores again,
Well, brace yourself, because another product shortage is looming — and yes, it may very well become tough to find toilet paper again...
The three seashells video
Ken Notes: ... of course any TP is better than no TP... we may need to discover the secret of the three seashells...
The global pandemic caused a seismic shift in the tissue industry. Most of 2020 found tissue manufacturers scrambling to keep up with pandemic-related product demand, and nearly all tissue categories saw significant growth.COVID-19 lockdowns skewed consumer buying preferences toward ecommerce, where smaller brands gained competitive traction. Consumers found private label toilet paper and facial tissue as viable solutions for affordability, quality, and value. For the fiscal year ending October 4, 2020, private label toilet paper sales in North America increased 22.3%, compared to 14.4% for national brands.
...more
MANITOWOC, WI, April 5, 2021 – Redline Plastics announces a 103,000 sq. ft. expansion to their manufacturing facility in Manitowoc, WI. This expansion will more than double the production space of their current facility, completed in December 2019. The company has broken ground on the expansion and anticipates the facility will be complete around August of this year.The additional space is needed due to rapid growth in their rotational molding and vacuum forming businesses. When Redline opened their 117,5000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility in December 2019, the company employed 75 people. The company now employs 145 with about 25 current job openings and more to come as the expansion is completed. “Redline’s incremental growth over the past several years has been nothing short amazing....
...more
Mastering Corona Treaters, Roll Coverings, Electrodes, & Drives for Extrusion Film Lines
This comprehensive webinar provides the keys to mastering surface treating on your film extrusion lines. Enercon application experts will guide you through equipment selection, installation best practices & tips for troubleshooting your cast and blown film lines.
Topics Include:
...moreTopics Include:
- Specifying the proper corona treater
- Choosing the right drive option
- Properly configuring your installation
- Maximizing smart power supplies
- Insightful troubleshooting tips
- Remote support options
Ken Notes: Register at the link...
APPLETON, WI – March 26, 2021 – First Business Bank is pleased to welcome Marty Ochs to the First Business Bank Advisory Board of Directors in its Northeast Wisconsin location.“We’re very excited that Marty joined our Advisory Board,” said Rick Hearden, President – Northeast Wisconsin Market for First Business Bank. “His energy, experience, connections, and leadership are great additions and I’m looking forward to implementing his contributions here in the Northeast Wisconsin market.”...
...more
Green Bay, WI – In March 2021 EDL Packaging based in Green Bay, Wisconsin, shipped a Double Tight Wrap shrink bundler for molded pulp fiber beverage carriers and food trays to the world’s largest supplier of food packaging materials. One of several EDL Packaging Double Tight Wrap bundlers used by this customer, the new bundler will be operating at a U.S. plant to supply bundled food trays to re-opening schools and beverage carriers in time for outdoor summer activities. This customer also is discussing a Double Tight Wrap bundler for egg carton wrapping in Mexico...
Video at the link!
...more
16th Annual Sustainable Forestry Conference
May 5, 2021
In-Person Event
Keyes Peak Ski Lodge
Florence, WI
Download Brochure and Registration Form
Conference Agenda at Link
...more
A combination of factors has led to reduced supply and upward-trending prices in a constrained paper and packaging market.
Given the rapid digitization of business today, who could have forecast that paper would be getting pricier? But it’s happening — a unique combination of events is constraining paper and packaging supplies, leading to a swift price uptick.
Prices for pulp, the raw material of paper and corrugated boxes, have shot up 30 to 40 percent since last summer, says Nicholas Meade, senior economist for the pricing and purchasing service at IHS Markit.
While manufacturers and distributors have absorbed some of that increase, prices for paper products that use pulp are up 7 to 15 percent across the board and 10 to 20 percent for packaging materials....
...morePrices for pulp, the raw material of paper and corrugated boxes, have shot up 30 to 40 percent since last summer, says Nicholas Meade, senior economist for the pricing and purchasing service at IHS Markit.
While manufacturers and distributors have absorbed some of that increase, prices for paper products that use pulp are up 7 to 15 percent across the board and 10 to 20 percent for packaging materials....
We at EMT International/Rotocontrol are pleased to announce the launch of our new website emtinternational.com. New content includes updated videos, images, product offerings, and contact information. Please enjoy the new look and quick access throughout the site.
...more
Porcari (LU), Italy, 16th march 2021– Sofidel, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of tissue paper for hygienic and domestic use, has been granted global leader status (A rating) for its work in involving suppliers in the fight against climate change, earning a top place on the Carbon Disclosure Project’s 2020 Supplier Engagement Leaderboard.The Leaderboard is the result of CDP’s “Transparency to Transformation: A Chain Reaction” report, which analyzed more than 8,000 companies on the basis of their answers to questions on governance, targets, scope 3 emissions, and value chain engagement...
...more
Ken Notes: Sofidel has two Wisconsin based production facilities...
From day one, we knew what our greatest resource was: our people. That is way, every year, we recognize the some of the most outstanding work by our tenacious and dedicated employees. As the name signifies, the 212 Award honors those who have gone above and beyond in their work. When water reaches 211 degrees Fahrenheit, it is very hot. At 212 degrees, however, it will begin to boil. The addition of this one, single degree creates steam. Steam can provide power to many things, including a pulp or paper mill.The contributions of each of the award winners demonstrates that extra effort, that incremental degree of temperature, which provides steam and power to our organization. Detailed below is the complete list of our 2020 outstanding employees as well as the statements of recognition for why they were nominated...
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With proposed rate increases, postage would be 70% or more of the total cost
On February 24, the US House of Representatives’ Committee on Oversight and Reform convened for a hearing on Postal Reform. Committee Chairwoman Rep. Carolyn B. Maloney invited Quad’s Chairman, President & CEO Joel Quadracci to testify on behalf of the Postal Service’s private customers...
...Read Joel’s verbal testimony below and download his full written testimony in the accompanying PDF...
...more
Fueled by economic stimulus packages, mass behavior change, and a rapidly shifting regulatory landscape, organizations face unparalleled opportunity to accelerate decarbonization in 2021. Who will capture it?
In the not-so-distant past, 2020 held tremendous promise in the eyes of sustainability advocates. It signified the milestone year for countless sustainability goals, marked the first year of ‘The Decade to Deliver,’ and offered numerous opportunities for global leaders to convene in places like Glasgow and New York to discuss climate action. In reality, 2020 became the year that many organizations fell short of sustainability targets; travel ground to a halt; large gatherings shifted to virtual settings; and companies made massive changes to their business and operating models. However, the pandemic itself has not entirely disrupted climate action; on the contrary, it has accelerated underlying trends and will unlock capital at the scale necessary to meet our low-carbon transition commitments......more
"Plastics Unwrapped" provides savvy brands an insider’s look into some of the latest innovations in recyclable plastics, and tackles complex and fascinating science and sustainability questions.95 percent of consumers believe their personal actions can make a difference in reducing unsustainable waste, and many are demanding that brands help empower their actions. Forward-thinking companies including Kellogg are responding — reaching out to the packaging industry for products that simplify consumer recycling...
- Episode One: Emotion vs Science
- Episode Two: Bioplastics
- Episode Three: Designing for Recycling
FIRST QUARTER 2021
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Widespread vaccinations, easing business restrictions, and government stimulus packages are helping to spur the early stages of an economic boom that are leading many to draw a comparison to the Roaring 20s. The economic upturn is arriving sooner than anticipated with accelerated vaccine distribution and an additional $1.9 trillion in stimulus adding fuel to the fire. Americans are ramping up spending on in-person services, such as restaurants, gyms, hotels and salons, that were battered by the coronavirus pandemic. U.S. employers added 916,000 jobs in March and the unemployment rate ticked down to 6.0%.
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The printing ink industry is well known for being reluctant to raise prices except when under pressure, as their printing customers are equally known for tight margins. However, recent comments are signaling that price increases are ahead. It should be noted that not every ink company announces when prices are going up, but typically, higher costs from raw materials and/or transportation impact every company. Reports from Sun Chemical, Flint Group, Siegwerk, the National Association of Printing Ink Manufacturers (NAPIM) and the European Printing Ink Association (EuPIA) are highlighting the challenges ahead for the ink industry.......more
When we look back at 2020, we will remember many things. The boundless baking of banana bread. The endless days of Zoominars. And the many companies that pivoted quickly to support their teams, their customers and their communities.
For me and the corner of the business world that I inhabit – print,
packaging and design strategy – I will remember 2020 as the year that
e-commerce became more than an ‘also-ran’ and overtook the in-store
experience as the preferred way of shopping.
Stacey Johnson has been hired as our new Vice President of Forestry, Transportation and Workforce Relations
The Wisconsin Paper Council (WPC) is pleased to announce a new member of the 53-year-old trade association’s growing leadership team. After a lengthy search and screen process, the Wisconsin Paper Council (WPC) has hired Stacey Johnson as its Vice President of Forestry, Transportation and Workforce Relations. In this critical position, Stacey will be responsible for developing and implementing industry relations and strategies that assist the paper, pulp and forestry industries in understanding and navigating forestry, transportation, energy and workforce issues.
“I am pleased to welcome Stacey Johnson to the Wisconsin Paper Council’s team of professionals as our new Vice President,” stated WPC President Scott Suder. “Stacey’s impressive background and experience as an advocate for the papermaking industry and deep familiarity with industry supply chain issues will be a tremendous asset to our growing organization.” ...
...WPC Members can contact Stacey at Johnson@wipaper.org or via her cell phone at 715-216-7466.
...more
Everyone knows the power of word-of-mouth advertising, and an online review is word-of-mouth on a colossal scale. Reviews carry more credibility that advertisements because the reviewers are not on the payroll. Good reviews are a boon to your business, but what about bad reviews? What happens when your company is blindsided by a disgruntled customer who leaves a one-star Google review and nasty comments?
The best response is:
...more1.Create a review policy...2.Respond...3.Show Empathy...4.Continue Conversation Offline...5.Bury the Review...
Ken Notes: I reviewed a faulty plug on an Amazon tablet when it broke after the warenty ended, they sent me a new one anyway...
Neenah, Inc. (NYSE: NP) announced today that it had completed the previously announced agreement to acquire Global Release Liners, S.L., the parent company of Industrias de Transformacion de Andoain, S.A. (“ITASA”), from Magnum Capital and other minority shareholders.The Company funded the purchase price of approximately €205 million, inclusive of debt extinguishment and subject to customary closing adjustments, through available cash-on-hand and an upsizing of Neenah’s existing Term Loan B from $200 million to $450 million. Interest rates on the Term Loan B are variable and are currently at 3.5 percent. Neenah will continue to maintain a strong liquidity position, with ample availability under its revolving credit line and a projected debt to EBITDA of approximately three times after closing the transaction...
...more
Primary Sponsor (Silver)
JP Graphics IncJP Graphics Inc
Nekoosa Coated Products
Nekoosa Coated Products leads the way in precision coating, carbonless technology and specialty print media substrates.
Pre-Metered Fluid Flow Analysis with Computational Methods (podcast)
Defects in Coating (podcast)
Energy-Curable Flexo Special Effects Coatings for Packaging: An Application Guide
New Range of ACTGreen® Barrier Coatings Set to Reinvent Recyclability in Packaging
March 9, 2021 – Continuing its mission to deliver sustainable solutions, ProAmpac, a flexible packaging leader, in collaboration with Westlab, an international brand of luxury, natural, accessible, and affordable mineral bathing salts, announced a recyclable pouch for premium bathing salts.“Partnering with a leading brand like Westlab is critical in bringing to market the latest in sustainable flexible packaging innovations. Westlab’s forward-thinking along with ProAmpac’s material-science expertise proves that greener flexible packaging can support a variety of markets and applications,” states Adam Grose, chief commercial officer for ProAmpac.
...more
Marty Notes: Proampac has four facilities in Wisconsin.
Wisconsin Manufacturers And Commerce Wants To Stop Sampling Effort
In just over a month, the state’s largest business lobby has filed another lawsuit against the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources over so-called "forever chemicals" known as PFAS — this time for conducting PFAS sampling in wastewater.
Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce (WMC) filed a complaint on Monday in Jefferson County Circuit Court against the DNR, claiming the agency is unlawfully seeking to sample wastewater for PFAS that’s released from industrial and municipal facilities. The business group argues the DNR lacks explicit authority to conduct such sampling among facilities that operate under wastewater discharge permits....
Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce (WMC) filed a complaint on Monday in Jefferson County Circuit Court against the DNR, claiming the agency is unlawfully seeking to sample wastewater for PFAS that’s released from industrial and municipal facilities. The business group argues the DNR lacks explicit authority to conduct such sampling among facilities that operate under wastewater discharge permits....
See Also:
Ken Notes: In another publication (WDNGreen.com) I have been advocating for a "seat at the table" for business regarding the PFAS issue. Let us know how you think our industries should be involved.
We are in the midst of a massive global social experiment. The very nature of our regular day-to-day, face-to-face training, meetings and work is being challenged at a fundamental level.
- The COVID-19 pandemic has busted the myth that work-from-home and online training is impractical or ineffective;
- Digital learning and learning via telepresence will become
an accepted, “must-have” part of a blended working and learning
environment;
- Traditional instructional design will take cues from
mobile-first instructional design and apply the science of adult
learning to instruction that is increasingly mediated by smartphones,
tablets and PCs;
- More openness to a diversity of solutions will see less top-down, one-size-fits-all technology solutions within companies; and more consultation with end-users about what online learning and working platforms should be adopted.
Minnesota - A provision in a bill recently approved by the Minnesota House of
Representatives could help breathe new life into the Duluth paper mill,
following Verso Corp.`s June decision to shut the plant down.SEE ALSO: Verso to indefinitely idle Duluth paper mill; Duluth mayor hopeful plant will reactivate in some form...
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Whose responsibility is it to make sure a film is ready to be converted? Film supplier or Converter? Depending on what part of the world you are in this question can spark an inspired debate.Both the film supplier and the converter are in business to make money. When printing, coating & laminating applications go wrong it’s a financial hit in either scrap material or in lost customers. So what’s a converter to do?...
See Also:
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ProAmpac, a leader in flexible packaging and material science, today announced that it has acquired IG Industries PLC and Brayford Plastics Ltd., private businesses based in the United Kingdom that produce a broad portfolio of recyclable packaging products. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.IG Industries and Brayford Plastics are leading suppliers of flexible packaging products for the bakery, meat, fish, poultry and fresh produce markets across the U.K. and Western Europe. This acquisition expands ProAmpac’s manufacturing capabilities for plastic film, resealable bags and premade pouches, and extends its industry-leading commitment to provide customers with a broad offering of recyclable packaging products. With its vertically integrated platform, ProAmpac can better serve its U.K. and European customers throughout the entire value chain...
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ePac is to open a second Canadian location, this time in the Greater Toronto Area.ePac Toronto will open in June of 2021 and be located at 209 Brunel Road, Mississauga, Ontario. The facility has begun taking orders, with fulfillment handled by ePac Vancouver until the official opening of ePac Toronto.
George Boustani, managing partner for ePac’s Canadian operation, said, ‘We opened ePac Vancouver in December 2019, and realised the same rapid growth we’ve seen in other ePac locations around the world. Our value proposition of 5-15 day turnaround and low minimums resonates well with the Canadian market, and we’re excited to bring our community-based focus to Toronto.’...
A global increase in food and beverage consumption is spurring growth
We published our 2020 Packaging Outlook at this time last year. And, well, the timing of that couldn’t have been worse. This thing that shall not be named really started affecting the world shortly thereafter.
The point is to take a cautionary approach with any predictions since events can change at any time, and these are the predictions based on what is expected to happen in the future right now. That last sentence was about as confusing as any Hollywood storyline related to time travel — hopefully you get the point.
The following compiled information comes from a number of research firms...
...moreThe point is to take a cautionary approach with any predictions since events can change at any time, and these are the predictions based on what is expected to happen in the future right now. That last sentence was about as confusing as any Hollywood storyline related to time travel — hopefully you get the point.
The following compiled information comes from a number of research firms...
Notes:
Retroflex has done a lot of fun projects already this year!As an OEM with over 230 years of design experience behind us we get chosen for some unique projects. From flexo, shaftless unwind, rotary screen and coating work. We have been involved with machines to do house and lumber wrap, resealable food bags, primer coaters, food, pharmaceutical, corrugated shipping containers and material handling pieces for safety concerns. The challenges are different every day, but they are taken on by some great staff and knowledgeable people in the industry.
We recently added 125% to our building to accommodate more shop space and 10 new offices. We suggest going to our website at www.retroflex.com to see much more of our capabilities and previous work. Enjoy the journey with us! You can always email me Steve@retroflex.com I can get you to your current representative or get you the information you may need to start a project. ...more
An article published last week by the American business magazine, encouraging the adoption of radio frequency identification, may signify a shift in how the media views the technology`s value.
Mar 17, 2021One obstacle that has long plagued the radio frequency identification industry has been that the worldwide media hasn`t given it enough mainstream coverage. Without sufficient discussion of a technology`s positive benefits, companies and individuals are less prone to trust it, and conspiracy theorists are more likely to convince them not to. RFID-focused publications like RFID Journal offer such coverage, of course, but when prominent news organizations discuss the technology, it`s sometimes from the standpoint of how tech-wary privacy advocates might oppose it, or how online data breaches might be harbingers of doom for the Internet of Things. That doesn`t help to foster adoption....
From Forbes:
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Ahlstrom-Munksjö’s Servera® Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) papers are serving up next generation innovations.Servera® papers offer the highest kit level for a paper free of fluorochemicals, while being cost-effective. These eco-friendly papers are available in bleached and natural options. Manufacturing with natural pulp integration, Ahlstrom-Munksjö offers customers the product solutions they desire to address end-user sustainability needs in the QSR market.
“Our Servera® papers offer great printability and are flexible for multiple converting processes, in addition to the strength and grease-resistance they provide,” stated Jeff Murphy, Vice President of Ahlstrom-Munksjö’s Food Packaging Solutions business....
Pixelle Specialty Solutions LLC (“Pixelle”) announced it has completed two strategic investments that will further strengthen its portfolio and enhance service to new and existing customers. On March 31, Pixelle acquired the specialty paper business Rollsource from Veritiv Corporation. On April 5, Pixelle acquired the carbonless rolls and security papers business from Appvion Operations Inc.The acquisition of Rollsource includes the book of business primarily serving the forms printer market, and includes a converting facility in Pittsburg, KS. Pixelle will retain key Rollsource employees in order to ensure continuity in operations, sales and customer service...
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Marty Notes: Pixelle has built an industry-leading four-mill specialty paper platform with mills in Chillicothe, OH, Jay, ME, Spring Grove, PA, and Stevens Point, WI. Collectively the mills operate 11 paper machines and produce more than one million tons of paper annually.
ASHWAUBENON, Wis. (WFRV) There is new hope for a community project in the Green Bay area, derailed last spring by the pandemic. State lawmakers are again circulating a bill that would provide the last bit of funding needed to build a visitor center near Lambeau Field.For so many years the Green Bay Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) has been without a true visitor center
“It’s just sad that we’ve never had one. We have so much to promote and talk about,” said the President of the CVB, Brad Toll.
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Marty: Green Bay and Northeastern Wisconsin is the Silicon Valley of the 5P and Converting Industries!. Paper built Wisconsin! We are the world center of Innovation! We need to support a new facility for the Greater Green Bay Convention and Visitors Bureau to showcase it and our region!.
Ready to treat yourself to something decadently sweet or savory? We’re launching yet another incredible Target owned brand — and this one will bring you a little bliss in every bite. Say hello to Favorite Day, our latest food and beverage brand that’s designed to help you make time for delicious moments, whether taking a second for yourself or enjoying with those you love.The brand will feature more than 700 high-quality, carefully crafted items across bakery, snacks, candy, premium ice cream, cake decorating supplies, beverage mixers, mocktails and so much more, all at an only-at-Target value. Watch for Favorite Day to begin rolling out April 5, only at Target...
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Marty Notes: Look at the tremendous opportunities for packaging innovations for Wisconsin companies!
A robotic order picking system is helping convenience-store chain Kwik Trip seamlessly handle demand surges—including last year’s pandemic-driven order spikes.
A 2018 warehouse automation project is making good on its promise to give Midwest convenience-store chain Kwik Trip the flexibility to handle spikes in demand—something the coronavirus pandemic put in full focus a year ago.
The Wisconsin-based company automated the product handling and order fulfillment processes at its La Crosse, Wisconsin, baking facility with the help of material handling systems manufacturer and integrator Cimcorp, which designed a warehouse solution around its MultiPick robotic order picking system. Today, the system is helping Kwik Trip manage growing demand for its self-produced bread and buns, which it delivers to more than 700 Kwik Trip stores each day...
This refreshing two-minute video serves up emerging packaging design trends that are as energetic as the soundtrack.
A breezy video of the Top 10 Packaging Design Trends of 2021 by PackticaTV highlights engaging examples of on-trend packaging design. My three favorites are hyper-simplistic geometry, picture-perfect symmetry, and — as senior technical editor — technical and anatomical drawings.
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Unrecyclable materials mixing with recyclable materials causes contaminated recycling to be sent to waste
With an increase in spent time at home, the City of Madison is witnessing a large increase in recycling.
The report said residential recycling has made up for the decrease in recycling from commercial sources, continuing a steady and increasing volume of material, especially in cardboard...
A plan to nearly double the size of natural pet food maker Stella & Chewy`s Oak Creek headquarters is proceeding — a $67.7 million project expected to create 245 jobs over the next three years.
The project is to generate up to $2 million in state income tax credits, according to a Wednesday announcement from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp.
The actual amount of tax credits Stella & Chewy’s will receive is based on the number of jobs created...
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Yellowbird Foods has experienced rapid growth since they debuted at a local farmers’ market in 2013.Yellowbird`s rise to the top came as they built a reputation for quality, from their meticulous production methods to every flavor-packed millilitre of the final product. Yellowbird® are famous for packing their sauces with fresh fruits and vegetables to create sauces that are smoother but also more viscose than standard sauces. They also pride themselves on consistency of flavor, meaning every bottle of sauce packs a punch with their signature bold and spicy flavors......more
Trading and gaming cards are big business, requiring tremendous printing skill.
When asked about printing, most people will point to packages and publications, which is understandable considering these are the largest volumes. But there are also smaller runs that require the full gamut of a printer’s skills. Trading and gaming cards are one category with complex needs. The old sports cards many of us collected as children are very different from today’s specialty cards, which can be printed on foils, can be die-cut, and much more. In reality, printing trading cards is an art form, incorporating different materials, various custom shapes and designs, and more. It is also big business...
...moreWhose responsibility is it to make sure a film is ready to be converted? Film supplier or Converter? Depending on what part of the world you are in this question can spark an inspired debate.Both the film supplier and the converter are in business to make money. When printing, coating & laminating applications go wrong it’s a financial hit in either scrap material or in lost customers. So what’s a converter to do?...
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I’ve always believed that the reason we should strive for a more sustainable world is to enjoy the highest-possible quality of life. Born on a dairy farm in Northwest Iowa, I learned the value of conservation at a young age. My grandfather received an award for being the first farmer in Iowa to use terraces to prevent soil erosion. We carried on his legacy by producing dairy for our region while protecting our fragile ecosystems. My childhood taught me a fundamental principle: Sustainable systems provide people with the resources they need to live well. The same is true in business......more
Three Spring virtual events will serve as lead-up to traditional large, in-person gathering
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Sponsors
 WIPFLI |
New North  |
 SPL Consulting |
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 Foil & Specialty Effects Association |
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In 1999, Reynolds Packaging began in a garage on Main Street in Green Bay. When delivery trucks began blocking the neighbors’ driveways, the owners knew it was time to expand. In 2004, the company relocated to a 2000 square-foot building in order to continue producing their packaging products at high speeds. Then in 2019, co-owners Lisa and Kelly Reynolds expanded again, this time purchasing and renovating a facility located in Ashwaubenon....
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Snack giant Mars Wrigley has announced a two-year partnership with Danimer Scientific to advance home-compostable packaging. Mars Wrigley said it will soon introduce Skittles candy packaged in Danimer’s Nodax polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) material in US stores.
Sourced from the seeds of plants such as canola and soy, Nodax PHA is produced through natural fermentation processes. Danimer Scientific (Bainbridge, GA) and Mars Wrigley (Chicago) plan to introduce Nodax PHA into flexible and rigid packaging that reliably breaks down in both industrial composting facilities and backyard compost units.
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This article talks about Wisconsin Packaging, International Paper, and Menasha Corp. Of course what is says is foreign to me......more
One thing we have learned repeatedly over the past 12 months is to expect the unexpected. We’ve experienced everything from pandemics, to murder hornets. But if your 2021 bingo card had soaring paper prices, supply chain constraints, and extended backlogs you may be calling “bingo” soon.
The paper industry faces many challenges right now:
Paper Availability....
Paper Prices...
Extended Lead Times & Delays...
Ken Notes: We opened with plastic bags this week, but paper has issues as well. 5Pnews will keep you in the loop...
Hundreds of plastics recycling and sustainability professionals are taking part in this week’s virtual Plastics Recycling Conference, which is offering discussions on policy, markets and more at a time of sector uncertainty.The 16th-annual Plastics Recycling Conference, taking place April 7-8, has drawn over 820 registered attendees and more than 80 sponsoring and exhibiting companies. The online gathering is happening as legislative proposals at both the state and federal levels are aiming to reshape some of the economic foundations of plastics recovery. Meanwhile, stakeholders throughout the chain continue to react to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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The 2021 Converters Expo will be in back in Green Bay, Wisconsin at Lambeau Field on August 9-10. We can`t wait to see you!
Converters Expo connects manufacturers of paper, film, plastics and nonwovens with industry buyers, specialists and suppliers. The event has seen great growth in the last 14 years, and more than 800 attendees are expected in 2021. Located in the nation`s top Converting Corridor, Converters Expo is THE place to find manufacturing partners, explore testing and prototyping equipment, meet with producers of disposables, and see the latest in flexo printing and packaging.
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NOTE NEW DATES!!!
Pouch Resilience: Flexibility During Uncertainty
Connect with leaders and learn more about the fastest-growing segment of the packaging industry at Global Pouch Forum. This can’t-miss event — the longest-running flexible packaging event — takes place June 8 – 10, 2021 in Rosemont, IL, at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare.
The industry has convened at Global Pouch Forum for the past 24 years to learn from experts at educational sessions and network at multiple networking events. At the forum, mingle with packaging executives who develop, supply, buy or recommend flexible materials including pouches, films and machinery in addition to executives from leading brand owners, contract service providers and packaging consultants.
The 2020 Virtual Global Pouch Forum will remain open and accessible through May 2021. Access the portal today to learn why more brands are choosing pouches while networking with other brand owners and suppliers...
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Marty Ochs
Green Bay Innovation Group (GBIG)
martinpochs [at] gmail.com
608.698.3333
martinpochs [at] gmail.com
608.698.3333
Ken Harwood
WisconsinDevelopment.comAdvocating for Wisconsin
Ken [at] KenHarwood.com
608.334.2174
5PNews is a weekly newsletter and website featuring positive stories on the industries in Wisconsin that helped build the State. Specifically Paper, Pulp, Printing, Packaging, and Plastic or the "5P`s".
Of course this also includes Flexo, Converting, Recycling, Forestry Management, manufacturing Equipment, and the hundreds of other businesses and industries in Wisconsin associated with our 5P`s. Alas that title would be long and confusing.
Our goal is to remind the decision makers in Wisconsin of the importance of our industry both historically and more importantly into the future. 5PNews.com will be sent to 2,000 Elected Officials and staff, Press Outlets, and Industry leaders each week. It is free to subscribe (supported by the sponsors).
Some notes on 5PNews, First you may want to add Editor@WisconsinDevelopment.com to your email contacts. Second, With Wisconsin in the center of the national spotlight, it becomes more difficult to find local articles about our industries -- bad news trumps good news (no pun intended), so if you have news to share send it to Marty at martinpochs@gmail.com. To contact me use Ken@Kenharwood.com. Finally our SUBSCRIBE link is now active.
The Publication is a joint effort of Marty Ochs with the Green Bay Innovation Group (GBIG) and Ken Harwood Editor and Publisher of Wisconsin Development News. Both Ken and Marty have been directly involved with our industries for decades.
Ken began his career with Kimberly-Clark, consulted with dozens of Fox Valley Companies and eventually became Mayor of Neenah Wisconsin before heading to Madison where he continues to advocate for Wisconsin businesses and communities. He is a journalist, cheerleader, and proponent for the companies that made Wisconsin what it is today. His other newsletters are read by 20,000+ people each week.
Ken notes, "Wisconsin can not forget the industries that built Wisconsin. We must continue to grow the businesses that we are known for while exploring new markets and innovation."
Marty Ochs founded GBIG to support Green Bay’s paper, packaging, printing, converting and support industries and has grown the effort to cover the local, state and national levels. Marty commented, "The impact and innovation of Green Bay’s paper and related industries often seems to go unrecognized, and we are going to change that."
Ochs grew up in Northeastern Wisconsin and began his career in the paper industry, so he felt determined to bring more recognition to the thriving paper field in Green Bay. With 40 years of experience in the paper and printing industries, Ochs set out to create a collaboration of Green Bay and now Wisconsin companies that would highlight and celebrate current innovation and new exciting innovations the industry is involved in.
...moreWisconsin & "Paper Mills" OR Pulp OR Printing OR Packaging OR Plastic OR Flexo OR Converting OR "Paper Recycling" OR "Forest Management" OR "paper Manufacturing".