ORBIS reaches $1 Million in golf outing donations to benefit children
2024 event raises over $370,000 to support practitioners and patients in the Pediatric Simulation and Resuscitation Program ORBIS® Corporation, a global provider of reusable packaging solutions, hosted its fourth annual ORBIS Good Days for Kids golf outing that raised over $370,000 for the Children’s Wisconsin Pediatric Simulation and Resuscitation Program, the region’s only independent health care system dedicated to the health and well-being of children. The event was held at the Grand Geneva golf course in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, and the total raised helped Children’s Wisconsin reach one million dollars in donations from its Good Days for Kids golf outing. “Children’s Wisconsin has been at the forefront of providing care that gives every child the best chance at a happy, healthy, productive life for more than a century,” said Norm Kukuk, president of ORBIS Corporation. “At ORBIS, we are immensely proud to support this vital mission. The impact Children’s Wisconsin has on families is profound, and we are grateful to be part of their journey. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our dedicated suppliers for joining forces with us to raise these crucial funds that cumulatively have resulted in one million dollars in donations. I appreciate the work everyone did to make it a record day for us!” The partnership between ORBIS and Children’s Wisconsin started out benefiting pediatric critical care for kids experiencing a life-threatening industry or illness. Funds raised during the Good Days for Kids golf outing go to work immediately, fueling the most pressing needs of the Children’s Wisconsin mission of care, advocacy, research, and education. Since its inception, this event has raised a staggering 1 million dollars for the Pediatric Simulation and Resuscitation Program, which provides highly realistic simulation-based education to support the training of medical professionals from across the nation. Since 1985, this program has helped to train over 100 pediatric intensive care doctors who are now serving in hospitals across 25 states. “We are immensely grateful to ORBIS for their continued support of Children’s Wisconsin,” said Dr. David Margolis, Children’s Wisconsin Pediatrician-in-Chief. “Their generosity allows us to provide cutting-edge training and technology to our dedicated doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals. The support of ORBIS, and everyone participating in the Good Days for Kids golf outing, provides life-saving care and fuels our work to build a brighter future for kids and families.” To learn more about ORBIS’ efforts in the community, please visit: https://www.orbiscorporation.com/en-us/about-orbis/#giving-back
PLASTICS releases new Recycling is Real Video featuring Printpack in Atlanta, GA
The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) has unveiled a new video as part of the Recycling is Real advocacy campaign, dedicated to promoting and defending plastic recycling in America. This video highlights the efforts taking place at Printpack’s facility in Atlanta, Georgia where recycled materials, created through advanced recycling technologies, are remade into packaging used for everyday products. PLASTICS’ Recycling is Real campaign, which began in September of 2023, has featured Ultra-Poly, Placon, Novolex, MAAG, Niagara Bottling, Epsilyte, Amcor, Envision Plastics, PolyQuest, Nexus Circular , and an advanced recycling partnership among TenCate, Cyclyx International and ExxonMobil. “Plastic recycling is very real, and Printpack uses materials through advanced recycling to make packaging for products consumers can find right on the grocery store shelf,” said PLASTICS’ President and CEO Matt Seaholm. “The Recycling is Real campaign highlights the people of our industry across America who work to recycle valuable materials every single day. We will continue to show the public and lawmakers that recycling is undeniable, and a feasible and economical way to achieve a more circular economy.” “At Printpack, we are committed to advancing a circular economy through the use of recycled and recyclable plastic materials in our packaging solutions,” said Tom Seidel, Director of Sustainability at Printpack. “Our collaboration with advanced recycling partners allows us to give new life to plastic waste by transforming it back into high-quality packaging that meets the needs of our customers and consumers. We are proud to be featured in the Recycling is Real campaign to showcase how recycling and sustainability are at the core of Printpack’s mission.” Click here to view Recycling is Real featuring Printpack The Recycling is Real campaign provides content to help elected officials and policymakers understand that recycling is a vital link of the sustainability and circularity chain, enabling them to make more well-informed decisions about recycling resources for their constituents. The Recycling is Real campaign was also created in an effort to put an end to false narratives claiming that recycling doesn’t happen or is a “myth.” Recycling has come under attack from those who wish to reduce or eliminate the production of plastic altogether. Recycling is Real shows how recycling happens, where it happens and introduces the people who make it happen. Printpack is a leading manufacturer of sustainable flexible and specialty rigid packaging with over 60 years of experience helping brands improve retail visibility, heighten brand awareness, and capture market share. Printpack combines unique insights into consumer preference with advanced technological capabilities to convert packaging concepts into reality. Headquartered in Atlanta, GA, Printpack is a privately held company that believes cooperation and integrity result in innovation. To learn more, call 404 460-7000 or visit printpack.com.
Matrix appoints Chris Shay as South-Central Regional Sales Manager
Chris Shay is their point of contact for Matrix vertical form fill and seal packaging customers in the South-Central region of the United States. In his role, Shay will be working with integrators, copackers, and end-user customers to expand the company’s growing vertical form-fill-seal packaging business. Matrix is a provider in vertical form fill seal packaging equipment producing a variety of flexible bag styles, including pillow, gusseted, flat bottom, and modified doy. Shay comes to Matrix after a 10-year career holding engineering and sales positions at Formers International, a manufacturer of hand-crafted form fill and seal bag forming assemblies. Shay’s background gives him distinct insight into packaging industry design and customer needs, enabling him to recommend the best vertical form-fill-seal packaging solution to maximize ROI for customers’ specific applications. “I’m excited to apply my experience to help guide customers toward the right packaging system to meet or exceed their sales and production goals,” Shay said. “Matrix is a progressive company that’s become the foremost leader in vertical form fill seal technology, and I’m very happy to be joining their team of talented professionals.” Shay is based in Houston, Texas. Matrix’s South-Central region encompasses eight states from Montana south to Texas. He can be reached at Chris.shay@promachbuilt.com.
SupplyOne establishes West Coast Production and Distribution Presence with Columbia Corrugated Box
SupplyOne, Inc., just announced that it has expanded its footprint to the West Coast with the acquisition of Columbia Corrugated Box Company, Inc (CCB). CCB manufactures custom corrugated solutions, protective packaging, and high-resolution printed packaging solutions in the Pacific Northwest. Founded in 1967, CCB is comprised of two divisions, Columbia Corrugated Box and Packaging Resources Company (PRC). The Company primarily operates within Washington, Oregon, and Northern California, with facilities in the Portland and Seattle metro areas as well as Medford, OR, and Eugene, OR. In addition to offering traditional corrugated packaging solutions, CCB offers specialty custom corrugated services, retail point-of-purchase displays, and high-color graphics through litho lamination and digital printing capabilities. The PRC division primarily operates in the protective packaging solution field. Products provided consist of items such as custom cushioned crates, thermoformed pick-and-place build pallets, and value-added foam products. “Adding a SupplyOne presence to the West Coast further enhances our ability to service customers nationwide, in addition to the ongoing expansion of our North American coverage,” said Todd Renehan, President and CEO of SupplyOne. “From our first conversations with CCB, we aligned strongly on approaching each customer with custom solutions and superior service.” “As a family-owned business for over 50 years, it was extremely important to find the right partner that continues our legacy of fast, high-quality packaging solutions, embraces a customer-first attitude, and treats employees like family. SupplyOne fits the bill on all fronts while offering an expansive North American footprint to serve our customers even more broadly,” said Steve Tanner, Owner of CCB. “The management team and loyal employees of CCB have built one of the best corrugated and protective packaging businesses in the country over the last 50+ years, of which we are very proud. As part of SupplyOne, we are looking forward to taking the business to the next level with international scale, while maintaining the high-touch service our customers expect. We are very excited for the future growth this partnership will help drive,” said Roggy Pflug, COO of CCB. This acquisition represents the 41st addition to the SupplyOne portfolio in its 25 years in business.
ORBIS earns recognition as a John Deere “Partner-level Supplier”
ORBIS ® Corporation has earned recognition as a Partner-level supplier for 2023 in the John Deere Achieving Excellence Program. The Partner-level status is Deere & Company’s highest supplier rating. The Oconomowoc, Wis.-based company was selected for the honor in recognition of its dedication to providing products and services of outstanding quality as well as its commitment to continuous improvement. Company employees accepted the recognition during formal ceremonies held on April 11 in Moline, Illinois. ORBIS supports John Deere’s network of reusable containers to deliver parts to their facilities. Suppliers who participate in the Achieving Excellence program are evaluated annually in several key performance categories, including quality, delivery, process alignments, value creation, and relationship. John Deere Supply Management created the program in 1991 to provide a supplier evaluation and feedback process that promotes continuous improvement.
SupplyOne establishes West Coast Production and Distribution presence with Columbia Corrugated Box
SupplyOne, Inc., the largest independent supplier of corrugated and value-added packaging products, equipment, and services in North America, announced that it has expanded its footprint to the West Coast by acquiring Columbia Corrugated Box Company, Inc (CCB). CCB manufactures custom corrugated solutions, protective packaging, and high-resolution printed packaging solutions in the Pacific Northwest. Founded in 1967, CCB is comprised of two divisions, Columbia Corrugated Box and Packaging Resources Company (PRC). The Company primarily operates within Washington, Oregon, and Northern California, with facilities in the Portland and Seattle metro areas as well as Medford, OR, and Eugene, OR. In addition to offering traditional corrugated packaging solutions, CCB offers specialty custom corrugated services, retail point-of-purchase displays, and high-color graphics through litho lamination and digital printing capabilities. The PRC division primarily operates in the protective packaging solution field. Products provided include custom cushioned crates, thermoformed pick-and-place build pallets, and value-added foam products. “Adding a SupplyOne presence to the West Coast further enhances our ability to service customers nationwide, in addition to the ongoing expansion of our North American coverage,” said Todd Renehan, President and CEO of SupplyOne. “From our first conversations with CCB, we strongly aligned with approaching each customer with custom solutions and superior service.” “As a family-owned business for over 50 years, it was extremely important to find the right partner that continues our legacy of fast, high-quality packaging solutions, embraces a customer-first attitude, and treats employees like family. SupplyOne fits the bill on all fronts while offering an expansive North American footprint to serve our customers even more broadly,” said Steve Tanner, Owner of CCB. “The management team and loyal employees of CCB have built one of the best corrugated and protective packaging businesses in the country over the last 50+ years, of which we are very proud. As part of SupplyOne, we are looking forward to taking the business to the next level with international scale, while maintaining the high-touch service our customers expect. We are very excited for the future growth this partnership will help drive,” said Roggy Pflug, COO of CCB. This acquisition represents the 41st addition to the SupplyOne portfolio in its 25 years in business.
BarTender intelligent templates™ simplify and streamline SAP label printing
Seagull Scientific, LLC, (“Seagull”) maker of BarTender®, the global leader in software to print, mark, and code labels, RFID tags, products, and packaging, has partnered with BCC Distribution to makes it easy to design and print barcode labels from SAP . Using BarTender Intelligent Templates , companies can produce a wide variety of flexible label designs without having to create and maintain hundreds of separate documents. This allows users to use dynamic data, images, colors, object positions, and text on each label that is printed. BarTender leverages conditional printing to specify exactly when different objects, layers, or templates in your document are printed. For example, you can configure a graphic to be printed if the data given includes a specific numeric or text value and the graphic will not print outside of these conditions. Or you can choose to print a template based on the specified parameters from within your database. BarTender partners with SAP ISV specialists like BCC Distribution, a leading provider of SAP certified software solutions, for mobile RF scanning, barcode label printing, mobile device management and more. BCC Distribution’s QuickPrint is a comprehensive enterprise printing solution that makes it easy to design and print barcode labels directly from SAP software, leveraging BarTender on the backend. BarTender Intelligent Templates are used by businesses of all sizes across many industries, including the world’s largest and most dynamic supply chains. To learn more about using dynamic design techniques, visit Creating Intelligent Templates™ . BCC Distribution is exhibiting at the SAP Saphire Conference in Orlando, Florida this week. Stop by booth #526 to learn more about SAP barcode and label printing or visit QuickPrint – BCC Distribution.
ORBIS Corporation Partners with Blessings in a Backpack Waukesha County
Partnership unites community members and resources to provide supplementary weekend food to students in the Kettle Moraine School District ORBIS® Corporation partners with Blessings in a Backpack of Waukesha County (BIAB) to provide weekend nutrition to students at Magee Elementary School who may lack access to nutritious food on the weekends. While the students are provided meals on the free and reduced lunch programs at school during the week, they often lack resources on Saturday and Sunday. Lack of nutrition can result in physical health problems, shortened attention spans, lower IQs and poorer grade achievements. This school year, Blessings in a Backpack Waukesha County Chapter is working to feed over 3,400 children at 42 schools in Waukesha, Oconomowoc, Sussex, Hartland Lakeside, Kettle Moraine and Menomonee Falls districts. As more than 11,000 children struggle with hunger on the weekends in Waukesha County alone, ORBIS hopes its lead sponsorship of Magee Elementary will increase awareness and inspire other businesses and community members to get involved, ultimately decreasing the number of hungry children to zero. “ORBIS has been working with Blessings in a Backpack Waukesha County Chapter since 2015, and with our headquarters being in Waukesha County, this cause hits close to home for a lot of our people,” said Norm Kukuk, president at ORBIS and board member of Blessings in a Backpack of Waukesha County. “It’s been inspiring to see ORBIS employees unite around this cause, donating their time and expertise, and we hope our support can empower others to give back to their own communities.” As a leader in the movement to end childhood hunger, Blessings in a Backpack offers many ways to get involved, including partnerships, event sponsorships, corporate employee engagement events and volunteer opportunities to help feed children in our community. “Corporate partnerships are critical in sustaining the Blessings in a Backpack program of feeding kids on the weekend. When we receive support from a company like ORBIS, it makes an immense impact in the community,” said Susan Reed, managing director at Blessings in a Backpack of Waukesha County. “The consequences of food insecurity are more than just a growling stomach, so whether it’s involvement through donations or partnerships with our chapter, it makes all the difference.” It takes $5 to feed one child for one weekend and $175 for the entire school year. To learn more about how you can support Blessings in a Backpack Waukesha County Chapter.
Orion announced Kelly Watterworth as East Coast Regional Sales Manager
In his new role, Watterworth will be working directly with Orion channel partners to build relationships, train staff and provide support to the sales team to grow the company’s stretch-wrapping machinery. “I’m excited to once again build relationships with local channel partners as I’m transferring from a National Sales position where I worked mainly with direct sales accounts, integrators, and OEMs,” Watterworth said. Watterworth has held various managerial and sales roles with Orion since 2016. He has a bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University.
Menasha Corporation awards $6 Million in grants to nonprofit organizations in its 175th anniversary year
Menasha and Neenah Mayors declare May 21st as ‘Menasha Corporation Day’ in honor of ongoing community support In celebration of its 175th anniversary, Menasha Corporation, a sustainable corrugated and reusable plastic packaging manufacturer and supply chain services provider for over 2,500 leading global brands in North America and the parent company of ORBIS Corporation, announced it will grant $6 million to nonprofits in 2024, of which nearly $4 million will be donated to organizations in the Fox Valley where Menasha Corporation was founded. Chris Drees, Menasha Corporation President and CEO, announced the Fox Valley grant recipients on May 21, 2024, which included declarations by Menasha Mayor Austin Hammond and Neenah Mayor Jane Lang to proclaim May 21 as ‘Menasha Corporation Day’ for both cities. “Giving back is deeply rooted in Menasha Corporation’s legacy. It’s a philosophy that began with the extraordinary generosity of our founder, Elisha D. Smith,” Drees said. “Today, a fundamental tenet of our shareholders and our company is to continue that tradition of philanthropy. In our 175th year of business, we couldn’t think of a more fitting and worthy celebratory activity than to honor our milestone by supporting our community.” Through the company’s philanthropic arm, Menasha Corporation Foundation, the following Fox Valley organizations were chosen as grant recipients: Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Services Elisha D. Smith Public Library Trout Museum of Art Jefferson Park in Menasha The four grant recipients support causes that fall in the following four areas where Menasha Corporation Foundation focuses its support: Safe & Healthy Citizens, An Educated Society, Community Betterment, and Environmental Sustainability. The remaining donation dollars will be distributed across all of Menasha Corporation’s locations in the United States and include $350,000 in honor of the company’s anniversary and approximately $2 million in typical annual donations. “We are incredibly honored to be recognized by both cities of Menasha and Neenah with the proclamations presented today,” Drees said. “Our roots are here in the Fox Valley. Our partnership with Menasha and Neenah enriches our community. These proclamations demonstrate our commitment to supporting these two communities for years to come.” Awarded Manufacturer of the Year in 2024 by Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce, Menasha Corporation is the third oldest continuously operating company in Wisconsin, and the 76th oldest family business in America. Today, it employs more than 7,800 people in 108 facilities throughout North America and Europe. Headquartered in Neenah, Menasha Corporation employs more than 1,500 employees in 12 facilities throughout the state of Wisconsin.
PAC Machinery celebrates the end of an era and the beginning of an exciting new chapter in major leadership transition
PAC Machinery (“PAC”) has announced the retirement of its President, Serge Berguig after 40+ years with the company. Serge is moving into a strategic advisory role, and will support the businesses as needed. Mr. Berguig also named Greg Berguig, as the new company President, effective May 1, 2024. Greg was serving as Vice President, leading sales, marketing, and commercialization efforts. The announcement was shared internally with employees on April 30, 2024. “As I reflect on my time leading this organization, I am proud of the growth realized across our locations, as well as the hard work and dedication from all our employees,” said Serge Berguig. “I know that our strong leadership team will continue to guide PAC Machinery into the future as a leading manufacturer of packaging equipment and bag materials,” Berguig said. Serge went on to thank employees for their contributions over the years as he reflected on what’s next for him and the leadership transition to his son Greg. “On behalf of everyone in our organization, I’d like to extend our appreciation and gratitude to Serge for 40 years of service to the company,” said Greg Berguig, President PAC Machinery,. During his time, Serge established this business as an industry leader in packaging, growing our product offerings through new developments and acquisitions, to keep PAC Machinery as a strong player in our space. We have a trusted brand reputation and are positioned to continue developing packaging solutions that customers require. Serge’s entrepreneurial spirit, engineering knowledge and focused leadership over the past four decades has earned him the utmost respect of our employees, customers, and partners. He will be missed as he transitions from his role.”
TAPPI & AICC now accepting entries for Box Manufacturing Olympics
Industry-Wide Competition Celebrates Greatest Achievements and Innovations at SuperCorrExpo® TAPPI and AICC, co-producers of SuperCorrExpo®, have announced that entry for the quadrennial Box Manufacturing Olympics is now open. All selected entries will be showcased at SuperCorrExpo® from September 8-12, 2024 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. The deadline for entry is June 28, 2024. The Box Manufacturing Olympics (BMO) combines TAPPI’s CorrPak Competition and AICC’s Design Competition into one unified event with competitors from across the globe. The BMO is open to all TAPPI and AICC members who produce corrugated, rigid box and folding cartons and their suppliers. Packaging schools and universities are also invited to participate in the competition and have their own categories and requirements. Judges will evaluate entries on several levels, including design, quality, graphic excellence, technical difficulty, and innovative application, among others. All entries will be prominently displayed on the SuperCorExpo® exhibit floor and winners will be announced each day before the opening session, with the Best of the Industry winners and Attendees’ Choice winners will be announced on the last day. The winners will be featured on the SuperCorrExpo, TAPPI, and AICC websites, and announced in various industry publications. To participate in the Box Manufacturing Olympics, please sign up here. To learn more about the competition, visit the SuperCorrExpo Box Manufacturing Olympics Webpage.
Tetra Pak and University of Georgia launch North America’s first Tetra Recart trial facility
The Food Product Innovation and Commercialization Center (FoodPIC) supports the development of food products from concept to shelf Tetra Pak and the University of Georgia (UGA) College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences have announced the first Tetra Recart® trial facility in North America. Located at UGA’s Food Product Innovation and Commercialization Center (FoodPIC) in Griffin, Georgia, this alliance represents a pioneering step towards advancements in the food industry. The collaboration aims to offer commercial testing for food companies using the Tetra Recart® packaging system, an alternative for foods like beans, fruits, pet food and sauces traditionally packaged in cans. Development and production of food products will be supported with a robust network of experts using state-of-the-art equipment and facilities. Further, FoodPIC assists in creating strategic alliances with external engineering, marketing and technology groups to bring an idea to life from concept and research to formulation, prototyping and market launch. Complementing FoodPIC’s wide variety of packaging and processing equipment, the Tetra Recart® trial facility will enable companies to test shelf-stability, ensure food safety and optimize product formulation at a fraction of the cost compared to alternative solutions. A food package uniquely suited for retail, Tetra Recart® is an environmentally sound alternative to other packaging formats and offers lower direct product costs by requiring less space, having less weight and creating less food waste. “Our FoodPIC facility provides the tools and resources needed to create efficiencies and accelerate the development of foods for our clients. We focus on expertise and technology that facilitate a faster time to market, ultimately benefitting the food company, local economy and public at large,” states Dr. James Grazek, FoodPIC director. “To do this, we have to offer the most advanced and complete suite of equipment and services on the market.” As consumer awareness continues to grow regarding food development and processing, particularly around health and sustainability, this testing facility General represents a pivotal milestone in accelerating the adoption of next generation foods, alternative ingredients and reduced preservatives. “This being the first facility for Tetra Recart® trials in North America, we have opened a new avenue for the development of sustainable food packaging with a premium appeal,” notes Javier Quel, VP Business Sector for Tetra Recart. “At Tetra Pak, we foster innovation and empower food companies to work creatively, experiment and develop solutions to find the best route to commercial success.” For food companies seeking to embrace sustainable packaging solutions, the Tetra Recart® trial facility at UGA’s FoodPIC offers both opportunity and excellence.
Record-Breaking The Plastics Show wraps in Orlando
NPE2024 Captivates and Inspires Global Leaders and Rising Stars to Shape the Future of the Plastics Industry NPE2024: The Plastics Show concluded a momentous week with an incredible turnout that has reinforced its position as the premier plastics industry event in the Americas. Over 50,000 registrants signed up for the show. This year’s show welcomed new faces, with 63% of attendees experiencing their very first NPE. NPE2024 has made history with one of the youngest audiences ever recorded. 30% of attendees were under the age of 40, marking the growing enthusiasm for innovation, sustainability and the promising future of the plastics industry. NPE2024’s global reach reestablished its reputation as the international gathering place of the plastics industry in the Americas. More than 15,000 international registrants marked the most international show in NPE’s history. Representatives from 133 countries – or 68.2% of nations worldwide – registered to attend the global plastics trade show. This is a 9.9% increase of countries registered at NPE2018, demonstrating the exchange of industry innovation and ideas on a global scale, and further shaping the path of international plastics collaboration and solutions. This strong international presence was further underscored by sold-out events like the FLiP & Sip Reception, drawing in more than 1,000 attendees and the Women in Plastics Breakfast, which attracted almost 600 attendees “Witnessing the entire plastics industry reunite at NPE2024 was truly inspiring,” said Matt Seaholm, PLASTICS’ President and CEO. “We were thrilled to welcome familiar attendees, visitors from all over the globe and the next generation of plastics professionals. We cannot wait to see the incredible innovations and collaborations that will emerge from everyone who attended and are proud to say that we produced a historic, can’t-miss event in the plastics industry. The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) is the only organization that supports the entire plastics supply chain, including Equipment Suppliers, Material Suppliers, Processors, and Recyclers, representing over one million workers in our $548 billion U.S. industry. PLASTICS advances the priorities of our members who are dedicated to investing in technologies that improve capabilities and advances in recycling and sustainability and providing essential products that allow for the protection and safety of our lives. Since 1937, PLASTICS has been working to make its members, and the seventh largest U.S. manufacturing industry, more globally competitive while supporting circularity through educational initiatives, industry-leading insights and events, convening opportunities and policy advocacy, including the largest plastics trade show in the Americas, NPE2024: The Plastics Show.
IDENTCO highlights automation capabilities and PCB labeling at PCB East
Company to showcase label feeders and product solutions to simplify automation. IDENTCO will highlight its automation capabilities and PCB labeling solutions at PCB East, June 4-7 in Boxborough, MA, Booth #301. With automation a key theme, IDENTCO’s commitment to simplifying the automation process for PCB manufacturers is evident through the company’s comprehensive label and equipment packages. Designed for hassle-free integration, IDENTCO’s automation products offer plug-and-play functionality with most SMT equipment brands. Attendees of the show will have the opportunity for a live demonstration of the IPS-30 Slimline Label Feeder. At a mere 30mm (1.18 in.) wide – half the size of conventional feeders – the IPS-30 requires only one feeder position on pick-and-place machines, freeing up valuable space along congested SMT production lines. Providing precise and accurate placement, it can also feed labels or die-cut parts as small as 2mm x 2mm. The company will also be exhibiting its robust label solutions for printed circuit board (PCB) applications, including DuraTrack. This label series provides printed circuit assemblies with comprehensive traceability – an increasingly attractive internal quality control and supply chain transparency feature for brand owners producing high-leverage electronics. Engineered for use in surface mount technology and throughout the entire assembly process, DuraTrack thermal transfer printable labels can endure harsh fluxes, the latest cleaning chemistries, and high temperatures encountered in today’s circuit board assembly processes, on both sides of the board.
Marsh Bellofram re-organizes sales territories
The Marsh Bellofram Group of Companies has announced a reorganization of its sales territories and a new, more holistic approach to sales across its 12 business units. As part of this effort, an existing manufacturers’ representative agency that already handles Marsh Bellofram products is expanding its territory, and a new rep group is being brought on. In addition, several internal territories are being reshuffled. EMPOWER Sales will expand its Marsh Bellofram territory to include Texas and Oklahoma. EMPOWER’s sales for Marsh Bellofram will be personally overseen by EMPOWER co-founder, principal, and general manager Bill Carroll. Carroll has nearly a decade of experience with Marsh Bellofram’s vast product lines, and will bring his expertise to these important expanded markets. EMPOWER’s main responsibility will be over the products of Automatic Timing & Controls (ATC), ATC Diversified Electronics (DEI), and Bellofram Precision Controls. In addition, Dan Weis and his company, Fluid in Motion (FIM), will represent these same products in three states in the upper Midwest for ATC/DEI and four states for Bellofram Precision Controls. Weis is a past sales manager for Bellofram Precision Controls in the same territory. His knowledge of the products and the market is expected to help customers achieve maximum impact from Marsh Bellofram solutions. Fluid in Motion has spent the past 35 years building strategic partnerships, industry knowledge, and product expertise to provide customers with a one-of-a-kind sourcing solution that is unparalleled in the industry. The sales re-organization brings other changes as well. Jon Staniszewski takes on a new role as sales manager for BelGAS (he previously served in the same position within Bellofram Precision Controls). Tony DeSimone will manage ATC/DEI for Illinois as well as all products in six other states. Meanwhile, longtime ATC/DEI sales manager Phil Storey remains covering the East Coast region down through mid-South states. Nick Kerpsack handles the same territory for Bellofram Precision Controls. A goal of the sales reorganization is to enable sales reps to sell broad product lines across multiple business units of the Marsh Bellofram family of brands, with support from product experts available to aid customers.
The Plastics Show exceeds 50k registrants
The largest plastics trade show in the Americas embraces learning & networking opportunities all week long NPE2024: The Plastics Show received an incredible turnout with more than 50,000 attendees. The event, which runs from May 6-10th in Orlando, Florida, attracts thousands of attendees across the globe, displaying the continued strength and innovation of the plastics industry. “The energy and excitement at NPE2024 are truly palpable,” said Matt Seaholm, PLASTICS’ Chief Executive Officer. “From established industry giants to groundbreaking startups, this show is a testament to the unwavering spirit and ingenuity of the plastics community. We can’t wait to see how this next generation of the plastics workforce will use these resources and connections to foster the future of the industry.” NPE2024 features an expansive show floor, highlighting the latest advancements in plastic materials, machinery, and technology. Attendees can network with industry leaders, attend educational sessions, and explore new solutions to meet the growing demand for sustainable and innovative plastic applications.
Robroy Industries® appoints Alex Erwin as Business Development Manager
Robroy Industries® Enclosures Division has announced the appointment of Alex Erwin as its Central Region Business Development Manager. Erwin has been involved in the electrical product industry his entire professional life. A graduate of Georgia State University he provides more than 40 years of expertise as an electrician, serving as lighting manager for a wholesale supply house, and as a field sales representative for a manufacturers’ agent. “Alex is an ideal addition to our organization,” states Craig Mitchell, President of Robroy Industries®Enclosures Division. “He represents extensive experience that encompasses all aspects of our sales channel providing him the ability to understand and satisfy the diverse application needs of our enclosure customers.” Through its two brands, Stahlin® and AttaBox®, Robroy Enclosures offers the most extensive selection of non-metallic enclosures available for meeting the needs of diverse industries, interior and exterior applications, appealing aesthetics, and physical property performance standards including NEMA 4X and NEMA 6P integrity. Stahlin Enclosures delivers time and laborsaving solutions, non-stop innovation, and superior product performance. AttaBox Enclosures, manufacturers of high-performing non-metallic electrical and industrial enclosures, leads the way in providing application-specific solutions for installations within continuously demanding environments.
Columbia Machine Palletizer Division joins Techmatik at Warsaw Pack in Poland
A team from the Columbia Machine Inc. Palletizer Division joins Techmatik S.A., a Columbia Machine Company, in Poland for Warsaw Pack to expand the worldwide presence of Columbia’s conventional palletizer product line. Warsaw Pack is an international trade show focusing on packaging technologies and finished goods packaging. The show is taking place at Ptak Warsaw Expo, the Largest Exhibition and Congress Center in Central Europe. This show brings together all branches of the packaging industry and allows visitors to see all of the latest industry innovations available from over 375 exhibitors. The fair will take place April 23rd – April 25th, 2024.
NPE: The Plastic’s Show 2024 debuts never-before-seen show features
The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS)has announced brand-new features ahead of its upcoming trade show, NPE: The Plastics Show, taking place from May 6-10, 2024, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla. NPE2024 is shaping the future of the plastics industry with the inclusion of new educational offerings such as keynote speakers and industry briefings, highlighting the Open Platform Communications Unified Architecture (OPC UA), and offering spaces designed for innovation and connection through Podcast Point and the Sustainability Hub. The addition of these new elements addresses the changing industry landscape and will empower plastics businesses to innovate, compete and succeed in today’s dynamic market. They will also provide every player in the industry with the knowledge and resources to thrive. “The plastics industry is evolving and everyone at NPE will be at the forefront of that change – guiding and leading it. These brand-new features like the keynotes, the Sustainability Hub and industry-specific briefings demonstrate our continued commitment to grow and strengthen the future of our industry,” said Matt Seaholm, PLASTICS President and CEO. Some of the new features debuting at NPE2024 are: Keynote Speakers: Open to all attendees, NPE will have keynote speakers whose expertise will shape the future landscape of the plastics industry. Micheal Cicco, President and CEO at FANUC America Corporation and Michael Heinz, Chair and CEO at BASF Corporation, have been confirmed as the two keynote speakers. On Monday, Cicco’s session, titled “Unlocking the Potential: Robotics, AI and Automation in the New Tech Era”, will address how robotics and automation advancements are revolutionizing the industry and explore the exciting future of human-machine collaboration. On Wednesday, Heinz’s session, titled, “Our Plastics Journey: The Road to Shaping a Sustainable Future”, will highlight industry challenges, the importance of collaboration with legislators and NGOs and provide inspiration for the future. Focused Industry Briefings: The reimagined education experience at NPE features the first-ever industry briefings, in which plastics thought leaders from the top attendee fields – automotive, building and construction, consumer goods, medical and packaging – will speak to emerging trends and technologies in their areas. Plastics industry briefings will also include market trends, future recycling forecasts and a review of the Global Plastics Treaty. OPC UA: The machine-to-machine data exchange will be demonstrated live for all NPE attendees to experience in several exhibitor booths – including Arburg, Plasmatreat, Sumitomo Demag and more. Participants can dive into Industry 4.0 and witness how OPC UA can reduce costs, increase data security and streamline manufacturing operations. Podcast Point: Designed to elevate media resources, this space gives podcasters a chance to share the excitement, learnings and solutions of NPE live from the event. Podcasts like PMM Insight, Sustainable Packaging, MMT Chats and PlastChicks will be streaming before, during and after the show, keeping the public up to date with everything happening at NPE. 3 Spark Stages: NPE’s Spark Stages – Bottling, Sustainability and Innovation – are open to all attendees and offer 30-minute educational sessions on the show floor. These sessions cover critical topics in the plastics industry, from advancements in bottling to the latest innovations in sustainability. With sessions on everything from Industry 4.0 to thermoplastic processing, there are insights for everyone in the plastics industry. Sustainability Hub: This interactive showcase tangibly illustrates the plastics circular economy and allows attendees to follow the environmental journey of plastics and the steps the industry is taking to reduce plastic waste and improve its sustainable footprint. The space will feature recycled materials, sustainable and advanced manufacturing, circularity processes, prevention and recovery efforts and more. NPE happens only once every three years, gathering the entire global plastics industry in the U.S. to share new products and insights. “With these new innovative features, NPE2024 promises to be an unparalleled event for the plastics industry, fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and ultimately, a bright future for all participants and the plastics industry as a whole,” said Arlene Davis, NPE Director of Content and Attendee Experiences.