Daubert Cromwell appoints new Director of Asia Business Development
Daubert Cromwell, a global manufacturer of corrosion inhibitors and protective packaging for industry, announces Polly Huang as Director – Asia Sales, Marketing & Business Development. With 13 years of company sales and management experience, Polly now has responsibility for growing the overall line of proprietary VCI packaging and rust preventive liquids business in Asia. Polly has a long history of success with Daubert Cromwell, first as the country manager for China and then as Managing Director, of Daubert China. She started by first supplying much-needed VCI packaging to customers in China, then built and operated a state-of-the-art VCI film extrusion facility in Shanghai to support that business. The sales, operations, and finance teams she assembled continue to provide a comprehensive line of VCI products to the largest companies in automotive, heavy equipment manufacturing, and all types of metal fabricators. In her new role, Polly will help develop and implement activities of Daubert Cromwell LLC and its subsidiaries. She is on the committee of senior management that determines the strategic direction of the corporation. She reports directly to President and CEO Martin Simpson. “Polly has extensive experience in sourcing and will continue to collaborate with suppliers and service providers in China and throughout Asia in support of our global business objectives,” Simpson explained. “Our managers in Daubert China will have access to Polly’s vast experience in China and she will be a valuable resource as we continue our growth and support of our customers in that market.”
Plastics Industry Association announces 2023 Recycling Committee Executive Board
The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) has announced the 2023 Recycling Committee Executive Board. The Recycling Committee is a tactical committee that represents PLASTICS’ members across the association’s four councils, bringing equipment makers, brand owners, processors, and material suppliers together aligning their collective efforts to put recycling at the forefront of their business priorities. The PLASTICS Recycling Committee works to enhance the management of plastic waste through efforts such as advocating for increased collection, sortation, and recycling infrastructure, ensuring that the definition of “recycling” includes advanced recycling, educating people within and outside of the plastics industry about plastics recycling, and much more. “PLASTICS relies on and values leadership from our members,” said Andy Brewer, PLASTICS’ Associate Director of Sustainability and Materials. “We are excited to announce the 2023 Recycling Committee Executive Board, with expert professionals that represent the entire plastic supply chain.” The Recycling Committee’s 2023 Executive Board is as follows: Chair: Tory Flynn, Hillenbrand Vice Chair: Melanie Bower, ExxonMobil Member at Large: Lindy Holland, M. Holland Member at Large: Jean Jordan, Nexus Circular Member at Large: Ray Pellerin, EREMA Advanced Recycling: Holli Alexander, Eastman Advocacy & Communications: Christine Cassidy, Dart Events & Education: John Cook, Niagara Bottling New End Market Opportunities: Dan Sanders, Printpack Immediate Past Chair: Kevin Cronin, Ultra-Poly Corporation The Recycling Committee Executive Board is comprised of ten members, voted upon annually by committee members, and elected to provide thought leadership for PLASTICS and throughout the industry.
PAC Machinery is bringing top automatic bagging machines and the new options in sustainable packaging to ProMat
PAC Machinery (PAC) is bringing top automatic bagging machines and the NEW options in sustainable packaging it makes for these baggers to the biggest manufacturing and supply chain event of 2023 – ProMat. The bi-annual show takes place this year in Chicago at McCormick Place, March 20-23, 2023. Leaders in packaging, PAC Machinery, at exhibit N8321, will showcase the Rollbag® R785, R1285, R3200 Fulfillment Automatic Bagger, and the Rollbag R3200XL along with sustainable bag options including NEW curbside recyclable paper mailer, options from the Recylene®line of recycled poly Rollbags and other environmentally-friendly options. ProMat attendees will learn what makes these packaging machines so ideal for fulfillment packaging including high performance and value, the right size packaging for the product, and the ability to print and apply labels right on your bag among many other exciting features! “ProMat will be another great show for PAC to showcase our wide range of Rollbag automatic baggers for poly mailing designed to save businesses time, money, and make packaging a smoother, more automated process,” said Greg Berguig, PAC Machinery, Vice President. “Our systems come in a range of configurations, from tabletop to large floor-standing units with loads of customized options that can tailor a machine to a business’s needs. It will also be a treat for attendees to see several of our environmentally-friendly bags running on our machines as that’s really where packaging is heading as companies become more responsible in using packaging materials that are better for the environment,” Berguig said. Here is a preview of our upcoming exhibit at N8321. For more information visit our event page on our website https://www.pacmachinery.com/event/promat-2023. For more information on these machines contact us at sales@pacmachinery.com or call 1 (800) 985.9570. For show info promatshow.com. Bagging Machines Rollbag R3200 Fulfillment This bagger is ideal for e-commerce, order fulfillment, and distribution facilities that require the highest level of performance in their order fulfillment packaging operation. The standard Rollbag R3200 works with bags up to 16″ wide x 24″ long and prints shipping information directly on the first bag out. Rollbag R3200XL Fulfillment This system makes a bag to length, prints and applies a shipping label on it, allows it to be loaded automatically or manually, and seals and separates the bag. Works with bags up to 22″ wide x 36″ long and features a seal bar opening of up to 11″. Rollbag R785 Automatic Bagger This system is a unique, all-electric tabletop automatic poly bagger. The R785 is engineered to accommodate bags on a roll up to 12” wide and 20” long. 785 is engineered to accommodate bags on a roll up to 12” wide and 20” long. Rollbag R1285 The Rollbag R1285 automatic bagger is the fastest tabletop poly mailer packaging system on the market for mail order fulfillment packaging. Bagging Materials NEW Paper Mailer Set for a 2023 release, show attendees will be among the first to see this curbside recyclable paper mailer in action, running on our Rollbag automatic baggers. The Recylene® line of poly mailers are made from unique formulas with up to 100% recycled content and include a mix of ocean-bound, consumer, and industrial recycled plastic, ideal for the environmentally-conscious company. This unique sustainable mailer bag is very strong and complies with USPS, UPS, and FedEx poly mailer shipping requirements. Recyclene poly mailers will run well on virtually any automatic poly mailer bagger, but when used on PAC’s versatile, high-speed Rollbag machines, the combination makes for a formidable solution for fast, environmentally-conscious, E-commerce order fulfillment packaging. info
Consumers rein in spending…again…in December
The advanced monthly retail sales estimates for December recently released by the U.S. Census Bureau showed another month of a pullback in monthly consumer spending. Total sales for retail and food services decreased by 1.1% in December after a 1.0% decrease in November. Motor vehicles and parts, as well as electronics and appliances sales—both plastics-intensive sectors—had 1.2% and 1.1% sales decreases, respectively, in December. 2022 closed with retail sales at Department Stores decreasing 6.6%—the most significant among all retail stores sectors. While sales declined in most retail categories, however, there was a 0.3% uptick in building materials and garden and equipment supplies, as well as a 0.1% uptick in sporting goods, hobby, musical instruments, and bookstores retail sales. Food and beverage retail sales flattened in December, but grocery sales increased, albeit marginally, by 0.1%. Year-on-year retail sales increased in most categories Retail and food services total sales rose by 6.0% Y/Y in December. With the exception of electronics and appliances stores, and department stores, which saw 5.6% and 0.6% Y/Y decreases, respectively, retail sales in all other categories increased. Motor vehicles and parts dealers’ sales rose 1.8% Y/Y and building materials and garden supplies sales were up 2.3% Y/Y in December. Food and beverage stores retail sales rose 6.9% Y/Y in December, with grocery store retail sales up 7.3% Y/Y. Higher borrowing costs have slowed spending on durable goods Appliances, and to some extent electronics, are complementary products to the housing demand. As higher mortgage rates began weighing on home sales last year, demand for appliances also slowed. This explains the year-on-year decrease in electronics and appliances retail sales in December. New single-family home sales fell 15.3% Y/Y in November 2022. Housing starts in December fell by 21.8% Y/Y in December. A weaker outlook in housing will continue to weigh on consumer spending when it comes to appliances. Moderate economic growth will have uneven impacts on the plastics industry Moderate economic growth rates and higher interest rates are expected to continue to have an uneven impact on the plastics industry by way of changes in consumer spending on plastics’ end markets. Consumer non-discretionary spending—such as nondurable goods, which are not fully sensitive to rising borrowing costs—can be expected to remain stable. By extension, plastics manufacturers that serve nondurable goods end markets and the packaging industry can expect stable demand. However, lower demand for durable goods—particularly those that are normally financed—will cause lower demand for plastics in durable goods-producing end markets. This does not mean that as the economy continues to adjust towards long-term growth it will be strictly headwinds for plastics’ durable goods end markets. The plastics industry will continue to service demand in nondurable goods end markets, but demand will be lower than in recent years. If inflation continues to ease, rising borrowing costs may be nearing an inflection point. More important, demand growth in nondurable goods end markets could be at sustainable and serviceable levels—in contrast to 2020 and 2021 when insufficient inventory capped business revenue growth despite strong demand—as supply chain conditions continue to improve. 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 $468 billion U.S. industry.
R.A. Jones testing ecofriendly packaging materials
R.A Jones trials sustainable films on its Pouch King equipment, helping brand manufacturers transition to environmentally friendly packaging and meet consumer and industry demand R.A Jones, a Coesia Company, has developed new material handling technology to allow them to run a variety of different recyclable-ready flexible films on their high-speed Pouch King Form/Fill/Seal pouching system, which will help brand manufacturers transition to a more environmentally friendly packaging materials. With sustainable packaging emerging as a top priority for consumers – and rising pressure from global governing bodies like the European Union, mandating that all plastic packaging is reusable or recyclable by 2030 – R.A Jones is making it easier for consumer packaged goods (CPGs) companies to prepare and meet these green initiatives with innovative equipment solutions. To achieve 100 percent recyclability, new film structures are being developed to ensure these green solutions can fulfill the same necessary requirements as the legacy packaging materials. Many of the traditional flexible packaging film structures consist of multiple layers and dissimilar materials, which provide barrier qualities and enhance machinability. Yet these same multi-layered films have low recyclability capabilities due to the combination of materials, which can result in packaging eventually ending up in landfills. However, these new flexible packaging films are not always easy to run on form/fill/seal systems, especially high-speed machines similar to what R.A Jones provides with their Pouch King line. One of the biggest challenges with the new materials is a decreased heat tolerance. In order to produce a seal, applying heat and pressure to the film is required, which can cause the new eco-friendlier packaging alternatives to stretch, shrink, or distort when exposed to heat in an uncontrolled manner. These complications can lead to material waste and costly equipment downtime. In response, R.A Jones has invested substantially in developing new sealing technology, which manages the sealing process to avoid damaging the sustainable packaging films. “Consumer Packaged Goods suppliers are faced with meeting the increasing demand for sustainable packaging while ensuring they can operate machinery at the same performance level,” said Robert Kalany, Senior Manager of Research and Development at R.A Jones. “Our current Pouch King line is one of the fastest form, fill and seal pouch machines in the world with speeds of 2,000 pouches per minute. Now with this new sealing technology, customers will be able to run sustainable flexible materials on their Pouch King machinery while still meeting their output goals.” R.A Jones is in the process of evaluating different materials that can be used to package a variety of products, including soup bases, spices, instant breakfast foods, drink mixes, nutraceuticals, and snacks. The needed hardware and software upgrades will be available starting in Q2 of 2023 for any new R.A Jones’ Pouch King PCU-2000 and can be retrofitted on any Pouch King already in service, depending on the vintage of the machine.
A packaging group is answering the call for more recyclable packaging
A Packaging Group (APG) is answering the call for more sustainable and environmentally-friendly packaging solutions. As consumers and businesses alike become more conscious of the impact of packaging on the environment, APG is rising to the challenge with a variety of new and innovative products that are not only recyclable but also designed to reduce waste and minimize environmental impact. “We understand that brands and their customers are looking for more sustainable packaging options. Our patented line of dispensers called “The Infinity Line” is fully recyclable with HDPE and PET bottles, and there is no need to disassemble before recycling them”, said company spokesperson Hannah Palese. APG is also promoting the use of sustainable materials, such as plant-based materials. These materials break down quickly in the environment, reducing the amount of plastic waste that ends up in landfills and oceans. By offering a range of recyclable materials and designs, APG is helping brands to enhance their green credentials and improve their sustainability agendas. In addition, APG work closely with customers to develop custom packaging solutions that meet their specific needs. So, whether they’re looking for a way to make sustainable products stand out on the shelves or need a packaging solution that meets specific regulatory requirements, APG has the expertise to help. APG’s new sustainable packaging solutions are not only better for the environment, but they are also good for business. By choosing APG’s sustainable packaging options, companies can reduce their environmental impact, improve their public image, and build consumer trust. “APG is committed to providing customers with innovative and sustainable packaging solutions that help them to meet their green goals and reduce their environmental impact. We believe that sustainable packaging is not only good for the planet but it is also good for business. With a wide range of recyclable materials and designs, APG is making it easy for businesses of all sizes to enhance their green credentials and improve their sustainability agendas,” said company spokesperson Hannah Palese.
Rice Lake presents the iDimension Plus XL with the ELS Load Cell Stand
Rice Lake presents the iDimension Plus XL static dimensioning system, the standard for weighing and measurement solutions for efficiency in material processing. The iDimension Plus XL can automatically measure parcel dimensions in less than 0.2 seconds and features an adjustable scan zone to increase output without special handling requirements. When paired with the ELS Series elevated load cell stand, the iDimension Plus XL integrates with a conveyor to quickly and easily capture package weights. The ELS Series stands can be made of powder-coated mild steel or stainless steel to fit a variety of weighing needs and are available in 250, 500, or 1,000-pound capacities per stand. The ELS Series and the iDimension Plus XL can also be combined with 680 Synergy Series and 1280 Enterprise™ Series indicators for extensive communication and data integration. These products streamline operations and boost efficiency while ensuring accurate shipping charges, reducing the risk of non-compliance fees from carriers. Visit www.ricelake.com/idimensionplusxl and www.ricelake.com/ELS to learn more.
Reusable Packaging Association elects new Board of Directors
The Reusable Packaging Association (RPA) is beginning 2023 with new executive committee members and additions to its board of directors. After serving his term as chairman of the board, Ben Stoller, CEO of Paxxal, has passed the torch to 2022 Vice Chairman Kevin Mazula, CEO of RM2. Mazula will begin his chairman term at the annual board of directors meeting held in January. “RPA and its members are thankful for Ben’s dedication and service to the reusable packaging industry,” states Mazula in a previous statement. “It has been a dynamic time for reusable packaging as we navigated through the pandemic and began to see more emphasis placed on resilient supply chains. There was an increased opportunity to find new and innovative ways to bring reusable packaging to the forefront. Not only did the RPA membership experience growth, but reusable packaging stayed top of mind, as more and more manufacturers and consumers sought ways to reduce waste and pollution and create a more circular economy. Our member companies, combined with Ben’s leadership, allowed the RPA to march forward with its mission to promote the use and value of reusable transport packaging systems – offering product quality, and economic and environmental benefits to supply chains.” Looking forward to 2023, Chairman Mazula is focused on the increasing need to bring together industry trends, innovations, and strategies to educate supply chains about the benefits of reusable packaging products and services. “As we move past the pandemic and what was deemed a volatile period, exposing vulnerability within supply chains, we are seeing recovery, with many coming back stronger after the disruption – implementing modern ways to minimize waste and cut costs, ensuring a more sustainable and economical infrastructure. We have a great group of companies that make up the RPA membership, and we continue to see them rise to the challenge and answer the call for more reusable resources to further satisfy the need for better reusable packaging products and services and more cost savings,” said Mazula. “While serving as the chairman, I am focused on RPA’s growth and impact as we continue to have the reusables conversation and share RPA’s message while meeting the increased market interest and demand from companies who are thinking differently about packaging,” he added. Other changes to the RPA executive committee include the appointment of Samantha Goetz, marketing communications manager of ORBIS, as the new vice chairman and chair-elect, and Andy Schumacher from SSI Schaefer as the organization’s secretary-treasurer. Samantha Goetz was the former secretary-treasurer. The annual RPA election also resulted in four new board members and three returning directors starting a two-year term (2023-24). They are: Graham Connor, Senior Vice President, Sales and Customer Support, iGPS Logistics Aubree Duncan, Global Director of Quality and Food Safety, Tosca Amy Lathrop, President, Perfect Pallets Leslie LeMair, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Georg Utz Steve Russell, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Cabka William Wappler, Chief Executive Officer and Owner, Surgere Ben Waterman, Manager of Business Development, Monoflo International Returning board members: David Perrine, Director Sales & Partnerships, ACSIS Inc. Morten Bielefeldt, Senior Vice President Sales & Services, Bruel Systems Brandon D’Emidio, Senior Director, Global Product Development, CHEP Zach Riggs, Director of Fulfillment, Pickup Strategy & Product Management, Kroger Company Shawn Stockman, Vice President Sustainability Solutions, OnePak Inc. Jonathan North, Vice President Sustainable & Core Solutions, Rehrig Pacific Company David Kruger, President, TriEnda Corporation In addition, the Board has established a new “Industry Advisor” position in the executive committee. Willemijn Peeters, CEO of Searious Business, was appointed to serve in this inaugural role. The Industry Advisor joins RPA’s leadership team to provide unique insight and guidance on important issues facing the reusable packaging industry. RPA welcomes the talents and expertise of Ms. Peeters to help lead the association to greater heights in advocating for a reusable system approach to packaging
Daubert Cromwell announces management promotions
Daubert Cromwell, a global manufacturer of corrosion-preventive packaging for industry, has announced several changes to top-level management positions. Shawn Genz has been named Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer, succeeding retiring CFO Oscar Abello. Genz was the company Controller for 5 years before assuming his new role. He is responsible to oversee all financial operations of the US-based manufacturer, which has subsidiaries in Europe, China, Mexico, and Brazil. Genz works at the company headquarters in Alsip, IL, where he also supervises accounting functions. Dr. Jonathan Brekan, Ph.D., has been promoted from Technical Director to Vice President of Technology. Since joining Daubert Cromwell in 2016, Dr. Brekan has led initiatives to develop new VCI chemistry, introduce new corrosion inhibitor products, achieve REACH registration status, and earn USDA BioPreferred designations for the company’s environmentally friendly VCI packaging, among other accomplishments. He is an active member of The Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP) and a leader on the committee to develop uniform VCI test standards for the industry. Dr. Brekan and his team work at the ISO 17025 accredited R&D laboratory at corporate headquarters in Alsip, IL. “I am confident that Shawn and Jon will help increase Daubert Cromwell’s overall success,” said President and CEO Martin Simpson. “They deserve to be recognized for their contributions to our growth and evolution as the leader in the field of VCI packaging. They have the skills to help us execute our customer-focused strategy most effectively.”
Serpa appoints Justin Neece as Vice President and General Manager
Customers can expect a smooth, seamless transition to Neece; company founder and previous General Manager Fernando Serpa remains with the company in a new role Serpa, a secondary packaging solutions manufacturer, has named Justin Neece as its new Vice President and General Manager, replacing Fernando Serpa, who is remaining with the company as its new Vice President of Technology Development. Neece is no stranger to Serpa, having begun his career 12 years ago with the company as an intern. From those early days, Neece steadily gained the trust of leadership, rising through the ranks to hold positions within Engineering and Operations. Throughout his career, he’s worked closely with Fernando – valuable time that has prepared him for this next role. “I joined Serpa straight out of college. I’m all Serpa,” Neece said. “I’m very excited about our direction and looking forward to continue carrying on the Serpa legacy with the same values established by Fernando.” “Justin is a very honest person. He’s very loyal to the people he works with. He is a good listener and keeps an open mind,” said Fernando Serpa of the reasons why he selected Neece to succeed him. “Justin has a very supportive wife and is a good family man. He is ready to go.” Fernando Serpa founded the company in 1985. Under Serpa’s guidance, Neece has developed key traits and skills in areas of customer service, engineering and design, and communications that will help him succeed in his new role. “Justin has an extremely strong work ethic. We are in good hands with Justin’s leadership,” Serpa said. “This is an exciting moment for Serpa; this is the first time someone else is in charge of the company since Fernando founded it,” adds Aaron Metzler, Director of Sales and Applications, Serpa. “Justin’s mechanical background and his level of creativity make him a great fit to lead Serpa forward.” Both Fernando Serpa and Metzler said they expect a smooth, seamless transition as Neece has been handling many of the General Manager duties throughout 2022. “Under Justin’s leadership, customers can expect the same five-star service that they’ve come to expect from Serpa,” Metzler said. “We have always been known for new technologies and bringing the latest cutting-edge innovations to the packaging industry, and undoubtedly that will continue to be a primary focus in 2023 and beyond. We are customer-first; that will not change.” Neece earned a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from California State University in 2011. He and his wife, Kelsey, have two children. Serpa is one of 45 packaging and automation-focused companies of the ProMach family of brands. ProMach is a global leader with brands in categories including Systems & Integration, Filling, Bottling & Capping, Decorative Labeling, Flexibles & Trays, Handling & Sterilization, Labeling & Coding, Robotics & End of Line, and Pharma.
New Orbital Wrapper features Dual Dispensing System
Packaging machinery manufacturer TAB Industries, LLC has introduced a dual dispensing system on its TAB Wrapper Tornado orbital wrappers that applies stretch wrap around pallet loads at double the speed of the original models. Applying twice as much plastic film per second, the optional dual dispensing system sets two stretch wrap roll dispensers on opposing sides of the wrapping ring to maintain proper balance, and two, companion automated cut and wrap devices to automatically cut the ends of the stretch wrap from both rolls at the same time. Standard 48” x 48” pallet loads may be stretch wrapped in as little as seven seconds. Developed for safely transporting tube and pipe, metal and plastic parts, long rods, cartons and boxes, and other products, the new dual dispensing system automatically wraps stretch wrap 360 degrees around and under the pallet and load in opposing directions to create a tight, secure, unitized load that resists shifting in transit and storage. The new advance is available on the company’s TAB Wrapper Tornado Smart Controls orbital wrappers, which enable a single operator to manage the entire wrapping process. The TAB Wrapper Tornado Smart Controls models featuring the dual dispensing system are designed and manufactured in the company’s Reading, Pa. headquarters. They are delivered tested, inspected, and ready for operation with a full warranty.
Episode 342: Product labeling with Loftware
Loftware is a software company that has been around for 35 years and specializes in label operations. Josh Roffman, SVP of Marketing and Product Management at Loftware, joins this episode of The New Warehouse to tell us about the importance of label operations in the supply chain. Josh discusses the evolution of labels and how businesses of all sizes can leverage Loftware’s software to drive consistent labeling throughout their supply chains. Key Takeaways Kevin and Josh discuss some challenges companies face as they expand globally from a labeling perspective. Josh believes the integration of the data and the control over the templatization of the actual labels themselves to ensure that the output is consistent across the supply chain are some of the most significant challenges businesses face. At Loftware, they spend a lot of time working with customers on integrating into their ERP or WMS systems to ensure the data is flowing correctly. Errors can result in massive losses in terms of production time and can be particularly costly if applied to food, medical or pharmaceutical goods. Josh shares that one of Loftware’s surveys found that 77% of respondents had to pause their production lines multiple times in the past year due to labeling issues. He adds that CDC research shows 8-10 large enterprises experienced at least one significant labeling error per year, costing them up to $ 2 million. Those costs serve as a reminder of how crucial it is to ensure accuracy and efficiency when it comes to labeling processes across different industries and the potential cost of not doing so. Josh explains why labels are such a critical part of the supply chain process, as they help identify goods from the point of manufacture to their final destination: the consumer. Labeling is essential because its content is dynamic and tailored to fit customer needs, regional requirements, and other factors like language or hazardous warnings. Thanks to sophisticated technology solutions, labels can now contain even more data than ever, giving companies more flexibility in tracking goods and responding to customer demands. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 342: Product Labeling with Loftware
Plastics Industry Association names Anthony DiGrado Manager of Digital Affairs
The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) has announced that Anthony DiGrado has been named Manager of Digital Affairs, effective immediately. In this role, DiGrado will be responsible for maintaining, managing, and developing PLASTICS’ digital strategy and online presence. DiGrado joins PLASTICS after working for IMGE, a full-service digital agency, where he developed and executed holistic digital strategies for Fortune 500 companies, political campaigns, issue advocacy groups, and non-profits. Prior to his work at IMGE, Anthony worked in the offices of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship and for the ClearPath Foundation. “We are so pleased to have Anthony join our communications team,” shared Stephanie Polis, Vice President of Communications at PLASTICS. “Anthony’s expertise will truly add to PLASTICS’ work in amplifying the voice of our industry and the good work that our members are doing. Anthony rounds out a terrific group of communications professionals here at PLASTICS and we are excited to have him on board.” DiGrado is a lifelong native of Virginia and holds a B.A. in Economics from the Catholic University of America.
Adina Starke joins Baldwin Technology as West Coast Regional Sales Manager
Baldwin Technology Co. Inc. has appointed Adina Starke, a seasoned print and packaging professional with wide-ranging expertise, as Regional Sales Leader for the West Coast. Baldwin Technology Company Inc. is a leading global manufacturer and supplier of innovative process-automation equipment, parts, service, and consumables for the printing, packaging, textile, plastic film extrusion, and corrugated industries. Starke will be responsible for all product sales to print and packaging professionals in Washington, Idaho, Oregon, California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah, Alaska, and western Canada. Starke has spent the past 15 years in various technical and sales roles in the print and packaging industry. Most recently, she spent four years with All Printing Resources (formerly JVI Solutions), as a Territory Manager and a Technical Sales and Business Development Representative. Prior to that, she spent several years with Lohmann Specialty Coating and Sun Chemical. Starke graduated from Clemson University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Graphic Communications. “It’s exciting to have Adina join Baldwin and strengthen the team. Being based out of Los Angeles will give us a strong presence in a key market for us where we are looking to drive growth,” said Craig Black, Baldwin’s Vice President of Sales, Americas. “Her blend of technical and sales experience will be a great benefit coming into the role, as well as her experience in the flexo print industry. With Adina’s enthusiasm, drive, and passion for delivering results, I look forward to seeing her contribute to Baldwin’s future growth across our print and packaging customer base out West.” “I am excited to join such a dynamic and innovative organization,” Starke commented. “I look forward to meeting customers in the region, building new relationships as I settle into the role, and driving success for Baldwin Technology.” You can reach Adina at adina.starke@baldwintech.com and 213-563-9596.
SupplyOne Packaging Management Program promises savings guaranteed in writing
SupplyOne’s Packaging Management Program provides a roadmap to enhanced efficiency, sustainability, and cash flow SupplyOne, Inc., the largest independent supplier of custom corrugated and other value-added packaging products, equipment, and services in the U.S., highlights its Packaging Management Program. The Packaging Management Program, or PMP, simplifies the complexities associated with packaging ownership to reduce the total cost of packaging and contribute to more sustainable operations. The PMP has the unique distinction of guaranteeing the customer’s savings in writing. Every Packaging Management Program begins with an assessment. Packaging Specialists employ a proprietary process to analyze spend, evaluate opportunities to optimize existing packaging, and assess the full scope of the customer’s packaging-related operations. The findings from the assessment provide customers with a 360-degree view of their packaging expenses and plan to realize direct, indirect, and inventory-related cost savings. The approach successfully uncovers hidden costs, waste, and non-value-adding activities that consume valuable resources and inflate the total cost of packaging ownership. End-to-End Solutions for a Streamlined Supply Chain SupplyOne’s operating platform includes custom manufacturing capabilities, relationships with over 3000 suppliers, best-in-class packaging equipment and automation, and a suite of complementary services spanning every aspect of packaging ownership. These capabilities allow Packaging Specialists to provide objective guidance and a comprehensive program PMP tailored to the unique needs and objectives of each customer. Savings Guaranteed in Writing and Path to Additional Improvements The PMP approach is unlike anything in the industry because SupplyOne guarantees savings in writing. SupplyOne provides customers with a plan to optimize their packaging operations. The recommendations align with each customer’s unique objectives and result in direct, indirect, and inventory-related savings. Then, working in close partnership, SupplyOne implements the plan while the customer stays in control through quarterly reviews detailing savings, enhanced efficiencies, and working capital improvements. The customer will receive a check for the difference if anticipated savings aren’t achieved. In addition to the savings guarantee, customers benefit from enhanced efficiencies and resource utilization, improved operational sustainability, and cash flow.
Kallik launches industry’s first mobile-based app interface for its Veraciti Label and Artwork Management (LAM) Platform
● Kallik is the first label and artwork management solution provider to offer a fully mobile LAM solution with ground-breaking development of an App-based User Interface (UI) ● New touch screen UI creates an enhanced User Experience (UX) to maximize efficiency and productivity for all users across the complex label and artwork management process Kallik, the global provider in label and artwork management (LAM) technology, has announced it has launched a unique mobile-based app for new and existing users of its Veraciti™ label and artwork management (LAM) solution. For the first time, labeling and packaging professionals will be able to manage all stages of the complex label and artwork management process so critical to regulatory compliance, while on a mobile device with a convenient user-friendly app. The new app means Veraciti™ can be accessed anywhere on a mobile device during the label and artwork management process, to improve efficiency and accuracy without having to constantly refer to a desktop or laptop screen. It uses the familiar symbols and UI features common in personal applications to provide the ultimate app-based user experience (UX) for everyone who touches the labeling and artwork process, from designers & label creators, to reviewers & auditors, and operations teams. “The future of label and artwork management software development will have user experience at the center. The launch of the new app-based user interface for Veraciti™ not only marks a milestone for Kallik but also for the entire labeling and artwork industry”, says Gurdip Singh, CEO of Kallik. “By pioneering the development of intuitive, user-friendly tools that align with the creative flare of labeling and artwork professionals, Kallik is setting the new industry standard of app-based solutions – putting users at the heart of the software solutions they use in their everyday business lives.” The new UI for Veraciti™has been developed through close collaboration with existing Kallik customers and rigorously trialed and tested in real industry scenarios. It creates an enhanced UX that allows users to access advanced LAM solutions on the go without the need for extensive prior training. The app-based format will now allow Kallik to develop the Veraciti™ solution even further and integrate more advanced user-facing features going forward. This includes the ability to build more mobile-enabled functionality into the app such as graphical packages, 3D rendering technology or augmented reality views of labeling and artwork on the factory floor. This is the pinnacle for those who are seeking an end-to-end artwork and labeling solution.
60th anniversary of the SATO Handheld Labeler
SATO, a global pioneer in auto-ID and labeling solutions, marks the 60th consecutive year of sale of its longest-running product—the hand labeler. The hand labeler—also referred to as a price gun—was developed by SATO founder Yo Sato, in 1962. The idea was inspired by his observation of price tagging on the retail floor. At the time, pieces of paper with prices written on them were cut and glued to individual products. He wondered if there was a way to make the process easier. At the time, Japan was in a period of economic growth, and an increasing number of products came to be available on retail shelves. Seeking to mechanize the pricing process, Yo’s inspiration came when he saw a sticker in a worker’s breast pocket. He realized that if the backing paper were folded, the sticker would come off cleanly. This idea was applied to the prototype. Since the original product launch in 1962, businesses around the world have been using SATO hand labelers, and the lineup has expanded to 6 product brands and 41 models1. SATO has made a number of improvements to the design over the years, including the adoption of a lightweight, drop-resistant chassis and a body that makes it easier to set the label reels. We have also expanded our lineup of genuine SATO labels, including label substrates, glues, and ink rollers, to allow customers to choose the product best suited to their application and usage environment. The number of situations in which hand labelers are used has also expanded. Beyond price tagging in stores, they are used in food service for food expiry management, in hospitals for displaying administrative codes and expiration dates, and in transport & logistics for lot numbers. Tagging is the fundamental mechanics of attaching information to things to solve on-site problems. The invention of the hand labeler, used to attach prices to products in stores, was the starting point for SATO’s tagging business, our core expertise that lives on to this day. How prices were labeled before the invention of the hand labeler (in Japan) 1. Includes custom-made products for individual customers. 2. HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point), an internationally recommended food sanitation management method, in principle. Under HACCP, food manufacturers are required to predict in advance hazardous factors in the food manufacturing process, identify critical control points to prevent hazards, and continuously record and manage these points. “JUDO” is a trademark or registered trademark of SATO Holdings Corporation in Japan and other countries.
Secro wins approval from the International Group of P&I Clubs
The transformational electronic platform provides speed and security The International Group of P&I Clubs (the Group) added Secro as an approved electronic bill of lading provider. Established in 2021, Secro is an independent technology company helping buyers and sellers of bulk commodities to digitize their core business workflows and optimize working capital. Approval by the Group ensures that liabilities arising with respect to the carriage of cargo under such paperless trading are covered. The legal documentation and terms of use associated with the use and operation of the Secro system, as well as the Secro electronic bill of lading, were reviewed and approved by the Group. Secro, which is a proud member of BIMCO, provides a frictionless digital trade documentation platform that is safe, trustable, and seamless. The customer is onboarded to the Secro platform with a nimble click-through process and can collaborate with its trading partners in minutes. Internal due diligence is simplified by robust yet concise terms of use and conditions of carriage. Further, the Secro platform enables the customer to invite its trading partners on the platform, for free, just by sharing a secure link at any given stage of the transaction, allowing unprecedented flexibility. Secro Co-Founder and CEO, Michele Sancricca stated: “Our customers asked us to build a platform to easily create securely exchanged electronic bills of lading with anyone in the world without the need for cumbersome private agreements. This innovative approach delivers the ease of adoption that legacy providers did not achieve.” Truly viable electronic bills of lading, able to replace traditional paper-based documents, have been a chimera for decades. Thanks to Secro proprietary technology’s compliance with the latest digital trade laws, for the first time the adoption of electronic bills of lading really offers speed, security, and cost savings. With Secro’s ease of use and the Group’s approval, traders, shippers, banks, and ship owners can digitally transact with confidence. Sancricca wants the maritime community to appreciate that this is just the beginning for Secro. “Secro E-bill of lading is only the first product we are launching in this arena. Customers will find in Secro a one-stop-shop to digitize their end-to-end trade workflows.” At SHIPPINGInsight 2022, Secro received the organization’s Innovation Award by securing the most support from investors and shipowners in the SHARK TANK. Secro is currently available to selected customers with the public launch expected during Q1 2023.
TAB Wrapper Tornado secures all four sides plus top and bottom to pallet
Orbital wrapping machines in the TAB Wrapper Tornado line from TAB Industries, LLC, Reading, Pa., enable packaging and material handling professionals to wrap stretch film around all four sides of a pallet load and around the top and bottom to fully enclose the pallet and load as a stable, unitized load that stays intact during transport. Solving a key shortcoming of horizontal turntable wrappers that leave the top and bottom of a pallet load unsecured, the TAB Wrapper Tornado pallet wrapper automatically wraps plastic film 360 degrees under and around the pallet and load while it is raised on a forklift. After wrapping the top, bottom, and two sides in seconds, the lift truck driver simply exits the wrapping ring, rotates the pallet load, and returns to the orbital wrapping machine for a second pass that secures the load in all six directions against shifting and sliding. “The turntable wrappers only wrap the products to each other,” says Steve Lewis, owner of Oregon Powder Coating, Tangent, Ore. “We needed to secure our products to the pallet and keep them from sliding off the pallet – the TAB Wrapper Tornado ensures they arrive safely in the same pristine condition as when they left the building.” The patent-pending orbital stretch wrappers are available in semi-automated and automated models with 100-inch, 80-inch, and 40-inch wrapping ring diameters as standard to accommodate 60” x 60”, 48” x 48” and 24” x 24” pallets respectively. The stretch wrapping machines are designed and manufactured at the company’s Reading, Pa. headquarters and delivered ready for operation with a warranty.
ProMach bolsters retort portfolio with acquisition of Ferlo
The deal expands ProMach’s international footprint and global retort capacity to readily serve global brands requiring the sterilization and pasteurization of consumer products ProMach, a worldwide provider of processing and packaging solutions, announced the acquisition of Ferlo, a manufacturer of retorts, pasteurizing tunnels, and associated product handling automation systems commonly used to provide shelf-stable food products with expanded shelf life. The acquisition of Ferlo increases ProMach’s existing position in processing equipment, expanding its international presence in the retort segment as well as strengthening its manufacturing capacity and supply chain partnerships. For over 50 years, Ferlo has tailored sterilization systems to the specific needs of customers in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Ferlo’s core offerings include a variety of autoclaves and pasteurizing tunnels for cooking and sterilizing foods, beverages, and pharmaceutical products, complemented by a range of delivery systems to accommodate the material handling of a variety of package types and production processes. ProMach’s existing portfolio includes product brands Allpax and Stock America, with complementary retort room offerings predominately serving the North American market. Ferlo, based in San Adrián, Navarra, Spain, largely serves the global market outside of North America with systems installed across Europe, South America, South Africa, the Middle East, India, and Asia. “Ferlo’s significant presence and strong customer relationships outside North America make it a great fit with our existing business,” said Mark Anderson, ProMach President and CEO. “They’ve built tremendous brand reputation serving many large global companies, and it’s exactly what we need as we continue to expand internationally.” ProMach’s Allpax product brand has been working with Ferlo for nearly two decades, utilizing its manufacturing competency to assist in supplying retort room equipment. “It’s something they excel at,” said Greg Jacob, Senior Vice President of ProMach’s Handling and Sterilizing business line. “While they do an outstanding job outfitting Ferlo branded retort systems, they also have a best-in-class process to efficiently manufacture high-quality pressure vessels, which has developed into a great manufacturing partnership between the businesses. Ferlo and its entire staff are joining the ProMach team as part of ProMach’s Handling & Sterilizing business line under the leadership of Greg Jacob. Current Ferlo owner and President, Rafael Lopez, will join ProMach as Vice President and General Manager of Ferlo. ProMach will continue to invest in Ferlo’s team, brand, products, services, facility, distribution relationships, and research and development efforts to further advance its position as a leader in processing technologies. “Working with ProMach’s product brands firsthand over the years, I’ve witnessed their ability to execute time and time again and win large projects,” said Mr. Lopez. “The number of orders we’ve fulfilled for Allpax and Stock America speak for themselves. I’m looking forward to taking our strategic relationship to the next level, as I feel we are well-positioned to increase our global capacity and service customers around the globe.” ProMach continues to grow its international footprint to better provide localized support for customers across its product segments. “Having a reliable international network is vital for our global customers,” Mr. Anderson explained. “And we want to deliver great customer service all over the world to them. The people and products at Ferlo give ProMach a broad line of retort solutions and improve our support capabilities. We are excited about the growth opportunities at Ferlo.”