Asia SAM Co. LTD. Seoul, South Korea Tel: +82-31-491-9741
[email protected] www.sungan.net
Americas SAM North America LLC
New York Tel: 315-575-3633
[email protected]
www.sam-na.com
Europe SAM Sungan Ralph Pagendarm GmbH Hamburg, Germany Tel: +49-40-2000 869-0
[email protected] www.sam-page.de
T H E I N D I S P E N S A B L E T O O L F O R C O N V E R T E R S & P R I N T E R S O F FLE X I B LE PA C K A GI N G
Table of Contents ®
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20 COVER FEATURE TOP 25 CONVERTERS The Cornerstone of the Flexible Packaging Industry Flexible Packaging is proud to present its highly anticipated seventh annual Top 25 Converters listing, based on 2010 sales.
38
FEATURES 10 FPA UPDATE Flexible Packaging Association Update FPA Issues Forth Quarter 2010 Pulse of the Industry Report…FPA Buyers Guide …2011 FPA Fall Executive Conference…2012 Annual Meeting Announced… Research Examines Growth Opportunities.
34 PRINTING: FLEXO INKS
41
Turbo-Charged Flexo Inks Keep Pace with High-Speed Presses Understanding how flexo inks can make or break a print job is integral; Mark Hill of Inx International Ink Co. offers his perspective on this.
50 Q&A ON COATING & LAMINATING (SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION) 66 INDUSTRY Q&A: WORKFLOW MANAGEMENT The Benefits of an MIS Solution Gerard Marneth, CEO of DiMS!, an MIS software company, focuses on business development and the formation of innovation.
DEPARTMENTS 8 EDITOR’S FORUM
38 PRINTING: FLEXO LABELS
66
Fulfilling the Promise of Just-in-Time Labels at Less Cost Manufacturers often find themselves needing new, printed labels in large quantity immediately. Fortunately, workflow efficiencies are moving toward a better solution.
14 CONVERTER NEWS
41 TECHNOLOGY:
16 CALENDAR OF EVENTS
STATIC CONTROL Tips to Consider When Choosing a Web Cleaning System One crucial factor to consider when selecting a web cleaner is to make sure the cleaner will break the boundary layer of air that is carried along by the moving web, among other considerations.
52 SUPPLIER NEWS New Equipment Ups Efficiency...Production Expanded with New Machinery...New Company Name Announced... and Movers, Shakers and Money Makers of the Industry.
44 TECHNOLOGY: MATERIALS
57 HOT PRODUCTS
Bioplastics: Product Evolution or Market Revolution Bioplastics authority Jeff Timm shares his thoughts on bioplastics developments in this interview.
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Flexo Press Added and Expansion Announced… Commitment to Businesses Reaffirmed…Splicer Added to Further Pharma Printer and Converter…Graphics Excellence Awards Boasted…and more.
48 INDUSTRY INSIGHT
61 CLASSIFIEDS 65 AD INDEX www.flexpackmag.com | FLEXIBLEPACKAGING
® Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an afÄliated company of Dow
8PSLJOH5PHFUIFSUP$SFBUFUIF 1BDLBHJOH4PMVUJPOTGPS5PNPSSPX The needs of the packaging market are clearer than ever: + Improved convenience + Stronger package appeal + Greater productivity + Reduced environmental impact Dow scientists think about these challenges as they partner with converters and brand owners to create the packaging solutions of tomorrow. Dow offers a full range of packaging technologies – adhesives, resins, Älms and tie layers – backed by excellent technical service and decades of experience in satisfying customer needs. To Änd out more about how Dow can work with you to meet today’s challenges – so that you can shape the future growth of the packaging market, please visit us at: www.dow.com/packagingsolutions
T H E I N D I S P E N S A B L E T O O L F O R C O N V E R T E R S & P R I N T E R S O F FLE X I B LE PA C K A GI N G
Online Content ®
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WWW.FLEXPACKMAG.COM FAST ACCESS TO WEB-ONLY FEATURES SUCH AS:
JOB SEARCH epackagingjobs.com, the premier online job search site for packaging professionals. “Unwrap your potential!”
TIMELINE OF INNOVATIONS in Flexible Packaging from the past 10 years.
NEW! FLEXPACKREPORT NEWSLETTER delivers the latest research and business data needed by flexible packaging converters. Includes links to sources of current resin prices. Sign up for your FREE subscription today.
BREAKING NEWS about film manufacturers and converters—get your competitive intelligence here!
CONNECT WITH FLEXIBLE PACKAGING NOW: FACEBOOK AND TWITTER
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www.flexpackmag.com | FLEXIBLEPACKAGING
Advanced Technologies in solvent recycling/reclaim/reuse & water waste treatment PPCTS / ECO congratulates Prairie State Group Co-recipient of the 2011 FTA Environmental Excellence Award
Dan Doherty Executive VP / Principal Prairie State Group Richard McDonald President PPCTS / ECO
SR180V BATCH SOLVENT RECYCLER
Solvent Recyclers Distillation Columns Water and Solvent Separators Water Evaporators Thermal Evaporators Water Flocculation Systems
HELPING THE ENVIRONMENT, SUSTAINABILITY AND THE BOTTOM LINE
Contact PPC Technologies & Solutions LLC for more information Ph: (262) 695-7536 Ɣ
[email protected] Ɣ www.ppcts.com/solventrecyclers.htm
Editor’s Forum
THE INDISPENSABL E TOOL F OR CONVERTERS & PRINTERS OF F LEXIBLE PACKAGING
®
PLANNING FOR THE GOAL goal without a plan is only a wish.” That was a sign I saw at the local auto body shop, of all places. But it rings true, especially in business. Having a plan is an integral part of making sure your company’s goals come to fruition. And then you must continue to tweak your plan to fit larger goals. Not doing this results in a wish that never comes true, or a business that rarely succeeds. The companies highlighted in this month’s cover story made sure they had those plans in place, and continue tweaking the plans to make sure there is continued growth. The Top 25 Converters: The Cornerstone of the Flexible Packaging Industry on page 20 includes converters that hold the highest monetary sales for the 2010 fiscal year. Acquisitions, expansions, leadership, are all synonymous words mentioned in the companies’ success stories. These companies are the cornerstones of the industry. Be sure to check the list, read the company blurbs, and try to take away some nuggets of wisdom from these converters.
A
“
A goal without a plan is only a wish. The Printing section of this month’s issue, on page 34, includes how Flexo Inks are improving the industry. There’s also a bonus Printing feature on page 38 that delves into Flexo Labels for near-immediate results. Page 41 highlights tips on choosing the right Static Control solution in the Technology section. The developments in Bioplastics are discussed and defined in the Technology: Materials feature on page 44. MIS Systems are defined and talked about on page 66. The monthly Special Advertisers Section offers the Q&A on Coating & Laminating, page 50, offering insight into ideal coating and laminating, pin-pointing poor coating and laminating, and more. And be sure to stop on pages 14 and 52 for our Converter News and Supplier News sections for the up-and-up of industry happenings. Read on to hear of the goals that were reached by this year’s Top 25 Converters. Then, try implementing your goal’s plan into the business. Who knows, with the right plans in place, that wish could become a reality for your company. FP Sincerely, ERIN J. WOLFORD (847) 740-2338
[email protected]
Packaging Group Publisher Mike Barr,
[email protected] Publisher Randy Green,
[email protected] National Sales Manager Steve Liput,
[email protected] Inside Sales Kristina Lorio,
[email protected] BNP Custom Media Group Christopher Wilson,
[email protected] EDITORIAL Editor-In-Chief Erin J. Wolford,
[email protected] Marketing Coordinator Elisabeth Cuneo,
[email protected] Art Director Frank J. Mayeran Advertising/Production Manager Courtney Warnimont EDITORIAL BOARD George Thibeault, Constantia Hueck Foils LLC Michael Impastato, Flint Ink. Fredy Steng, Berry Plastics Marla Donahue, Flexible Packaging Association FPA OFFICERS Chairman John Baumann, Ampac Packaging LLC Immediate Past Chairperson James E. Love, III, Printpack Inc. Executive Vice-Chairman (chairman-elect) William Burke, Nordenia USA Treasurer Michael Impastato, Flint Group President (non-voting member) Marla Donahue, Flexible Packaging Association Executive Committee Members At Large Hans Deamer, Windmoeller & Hoelscher Corp.; Jim Mize, Sealed Air Corp.; Ken Swanson, Berry Plastics Corp.; Rob Tiede, Sonoco Flexible Packaging AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT Corporate Audience Development Director Rita M. Foumia Audience Development Manager Kourtney Bell Multimedia Specialist Katie Jabour Audience Audit Coordinator Carolyn M. Alexander For subscription information or service, please contact Customer Service at: Tel. (847) 763-9534 or Fax (847) 763-9538 or e-mail
[email protected] List Rental Postal contact: Kevin Collopy at 800-223-2194 x.684
[email protected] Email contact: Michael Costantino at 800-223-2194 x.748
[email protected] BNP MEDIA CORPORATE OFFICERS Publishing: Timothy A. Fausch Publishing: John R. Schrei Corporate Strategy: Rita M. Foumia Marketing: Ariane Claire Production: Vincent M. Miconi Finance: Lisa L. Paulus Creative: Michael T. Powell Directories: Nikki Smith Human Resources: Marlene J. Witthoft Conferences & Events: Emily Patten Clear Seas Research: Beth A. Surowiec FOR VOLUME REPRINTS: Reprints Sales Representative Jill DeVries Phone: (248) 244-1726 • Fax: (248) 244-3934 E-mail:
[email protected] CONTACT FLEXIBLE PACKAGING Phone: (847) 405-4000 • Fax: (847) 405-4100 Mail: 155 Pfingsten Road, Suite 205, Deerfield, IL 60015 Internet: www.flexpackmag.com Circulation: (248) 244-6421
BNP MEDIA HELPS PEOPLE SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITH SUPERIOR INFORMATION. VOLUME 13, NUMBER 5
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AN AIRTIGHT ALLIANCE NEVER LOOKED SO SWEET. While most people associate success with outsidethe-box-thinking, we at Danafilms believe our best achievements include the partnerships we built inside the box. Such is the case with AirLiner, an inflatable, insulating plastic liner featuring leading-edge package design by Coldpack, and a precision-engineered film by Danafilms. Like the trademark hard candy shell
shipped in the box, the film in the AirLiner uses a unique combination of innovations—including a custom film blend, exceptional seal properties, and precision extrusion and barrier technology—to provide maximum protection to the candies. Premium film designed to perform, mixed with the collaboration of leading-edge companies is a recipe for true competitive advantage.
A MEMBER OF RKW-GROUP
Look to danafilms.com or call our film experts at 800.634.8289 ISO 9001 Certified
F LE X I B L E PAC K AG I N G A S S OCIATI ON | UPDATE
2011 FPA FALL EXECUTIVE CONFERENCE Global Political-Economic Expert Marvin Zonis and Sports Illustrated’s L. Jon Wertheim Speakers During 2011 Conference
he Flexible Packaging Association is pleased to announce that global political-economic expert Marvin Zonis, and Sports Illustrated senior writer L. Jon Wertheim, will join FPA members and guests as speakers during the 2011 FPA Fall Executive Conference on Wednesday, October 5, 2011 at The Ritz Carlton in Chicago, Illinois. Registration for the Conference is now available on the FPA website, www.flexpack.org. The hotel reservation deadline is Friday, September 2, 2011 and reservations can be made by contacting The Ritz Carlton at (312) 266-1000. Marvin Zonis is a leading expert and consultant on the global political economy and political risk. Using real world examples, Zonis provides insight into global developments and trends, explaining the rapidly shifting social, political and economic environments and their implications for business and public policy. As a respected economic commentator, Zonis has written for The Financial Times, The New York Times, and The International Herald Tribune. He has authored several books, including his latest, The Kimchi Matters: Global Business and Local Politics in a Crisis Driven World. FEC Networking Luncheon speaker L. Jon Wertheim is one of the most accomplished sports journalist in America. Wertheim joined Sports Illustrated in 1996 and quickly became one of the magazine’s most authoritative voices on the NBA, sports business and law, social issues and tennis. Wertheim is the co-author of Scorecasting: The Hidden Influences Behind How Sports Are Played and Games Are Won. During his address, Wertheim will offer innovative ideas that focus on fusion of sports statistics and business trends to provide pioneering lessons for the business world. The Conference agenda also includes a presentation of FPA research findings on Growth Opportunities for Flexible Packaging. FPA commissioned SAI Industrial LLC to conduct this study that will identify the top trends, opportunities and barriers to flexible packaging growth, and
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L. Jon Wertheim
Marvin Zonis
define issues and opportunities for conversion from other packaging formats to flexible packaging. A preview of FPA research results on Resource Recovery from Flexible Packaging Waste will also be provided during the Conference. The Flexible Packaging Association has conducted a series of pilot programs to identify technologies that provide viable end-of-life alternatives to landfill for flexible packaging waste and demonstrate the efficacy of resource recovery technologies including microwave pyrolysis, gasification, thermal pyrolysis, and engineered solid fuel. Conference attendees will also hear from Nick Vafiadis, business director of Polyolefins & PVC at CMAI, who will provide an Update on Flexible Packaging Materials. Vafiadis manages the North American polyethylene market intelligence studies for CMAI, and produces the FPA/CMAI Bi-Annual Polyolefins Market Report, which is prepared exclusively for FPA. Additional conference speakers and information will be announced in the upcoming weeks. For more information, visit the FPA website at www. flexpack.org or contact FPA at (410) 694-0800. FP
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FPA ANNOUNCES 2012 ANNUAL MEETING The Flexible Packaging Association will hold its 62nd Annual Meeting from February 22-24, 2011 at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess in Scottsdale, Arizona. The 2012 FPA Annual Meeting will focus on key industry topics and challenges, and offer FPA members and guests the opportunity to interact and exchanges ideas. The Meeting will include the presentation of the 2012 FPA Flexible Packaging Achievement Awards during the Welcome & Flexible Packaging Achievement Awards Dinner; the 2012 Annual Meeting Networking Luncheon; and, the 2012 Annual Meeting Golf Tournament.
FPA RESEARCH EXAMINES GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES FOR FLEXIBLE PACKAGING The Flexible Packaging Association has commissioned SAI Industrial LLC to conduct indepth research on Growth Opportunities for Flexible Packaging. The research will identify the top trends, opportunities and barriers to growth; and, define issues and opportunities for conversion from other packaging formats to flexible packaging. The research will also examine: • Advantages for flexible packaging over other packaging formats in end-use categories where the trend favors flexible packaging, and market segments that currently have low flexible packaging penetration. • Challenges to growth of flexible packaging within defined market segments. Challenges examined may include cost, materials, equipment needs, capital barriers, performance, contract packagers, market perceptions, and education. • Flexible packaging’s position in the total packaging market, breakdown of total dollar volume share by key segments, packaging segments growth comparisons from 2005-2011, and growth projections for the next five years.
TPC Golf Course. Photo courtesy of Fairmont Scottsdale Princess.
The FPA Golf Tournament will be played on the TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course - home of the annual PGA TOUR Waste Management Phoenix Open (formerly the FBR Open). Designed by the team of Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish this course has lush fairways surrounded by desert vegetation and breathtaking mountain views that enhance the golf experience on this 18 hole, par 71 course. The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess reflects the dynamic environment that surrounds it. Featuring award-winning restaurants, state-of-the art meeting facilities, and two 18-hole championship golf courses, this highly acclaimed Scottsdale hotel resort is truly an experience like no other. For more information about the 2012 FPA Annual Meeting, contact FPA at (410) 694-0800. FP
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• Trends, tradeoffs, and movements within end-use categories and between packaging segments, and analysis of end-use markets including the percent of each packaging segment in specific markets. • Globalization and global sourcing strategies of the major consumer product companies and their impact on the growth potential of the U.S. flexible packaging industry. A presentation of the research findings will be provided during the 2011 FPA Fall Executive Conference on Wednesday, October 5, 2011 at The Ritz-Carlton in Chicago, Illinois. For more information about the Growth Opportunities for Flexible Packaging research, and the 2011 FPA Fall Executive Conference, contact FPA at (410) 694-0800 or fpa@flexpack.org.
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F LE X I B L E PAC K AG I N G A S S OCIATI ON | UPDATE
FPA ISSUES 4TH QUARTER 2010 PULSE OF THE INDUSTRY REPORT The 4th Quarter 2010 Pulse of the Industry Report, produced by the Flexible Packaging Association, provides flexible packaging converter performance information (sales, volume, profit, inventory, capital expenditures and capacity utilization) for 4th quarter 2010 versus 3rd quarter 2010 and 4th quarter 2009. In addition, information is included to examine expectations for sales and volume performance in 1st quarter 2011 versus 4th quarter 2010. Highlights of the Report note that 45 percent of participating companies had higher profits in 4th quarter 2010 than 3rd quarter 2010; and, 50 percent
of participating companies reported lower sales, and 5 percent reported no change. Participating companies also expressed optimism for company sales with 77 percent expecting higher sales in 1st quarter 2011 versus 4th quarter 2010. The 4th Quarter 2010 Pulse of the Industry Report is a benefit of membership and is available in the Members Only section of www.flexpack.org. For more information, contact Bob Zaborowski, director, Business and Economic Research, at (410) 694-0800 or bzaborowski@flexpack.org.
FLEXIBLE PACKAGING PROFIT
% of Participating Companies
Fourth Quarter 2010 versus Third Quarter 2010
30% Lower
Same
Higher
60% 40% 20% 0% All Participating
Very Large
Large
Mid
Small
2011-2012 FPA FLEXIBLE PACKAGING BUYERS GUIDE The 2011-2012 Flexible Packaging Buyers Guide, produced by the Flexible Packaging Association, provides information on FPA members manufacturing and supply capabilities. FPA membership is comprised of flexible packaging manufacturers and their suppliers. The 2011-2012 Guide details manufacturers of flexible packaging products by product lines and end uses including retail, institutional, medical and pharmaceutical, and industrial applications. In addition, value added services and printing and converting processes utilized by flexible packaging manufacturers are detailed within the Guide. Information on FPA members who supply machinery,
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equipment, adhesives, inks, coatings, resins, and substrates are provided in the Guide. FPA members’ contact information and brief company descriptions are also included in the Guide. The 2011-2012 Flexible Packaging Buyers Guide is available in the Public Section of www.flexpack.org. Guide users may browse through an electronic version of the Guide or download the PDF version. Printed copies of the Guide are available by contacting FPA. For more information about the 2011-2012 Flexible Packaging Buyers Guide and FPA members, contact the association at (410) 694-0800 or visit FPA at www.flexpack.org.
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Flexible Packaging Association. Helping You Succeed. Mark your calendar for these upcoming FPA events! October 5, 2011 2011 FPA Fall Executive Conference
The Ritz-Carlton - Chicago, IL
The Flexible Packaging Association’s 2011 Fall Executive Conference will be held on Wednesday, October 5, 2011 at The Ritz-Carlton Chicago. This one-day conference will provide insight into current trends and issues impacting the flexible packaging industry, and great networking opportunities for senior management.
November 21, 2011 (Entry Deadline) 2012 FPA Flexible Packaging Achievement Awards Competition
FPA Headquarters - Linthicum, MD The Flexible Packaging Association’s Flexible Packaging Achievement Awards Program honors the best of the best in packaging excellence, printing, technical, and environmental achievements. FPA urges flexible packaging companies to enter their innovative packages into the 2012 competition. Entry deadline is November 21, 2011.
February 8-10, 2012 2012 FPA Environmental, Health & Safety Summit
TradeWinds Resort - St. Petersburg Beach, FL The 2012 EHS Summit will be held February 8-10, 2012 and will explore regulatory issues impacting the flexible packaging industry. Open to both FPA members and non-members, these events offer attendees an excellent opportunity to network with U.S. EPA and OSHA officials, industry experts, and peers.
February 22-24, 2012 2012 FPA Annual Meeting
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess - Scottsdale, AZ The Flexible Packaging Association’s 2012 Annual Meeting will be held February 22-24, 2012 at The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess in Scottsdale, AZ. The meeting will include general sessions that focus on industry-specific issues, the presentation of the 2012 Flexible Packaging Achievement Awards, the 2012 Annual Meeting Networking Luncheon, and the 2012 Annual Meeting Golf Tournament.
971 Corporate Boulevard • Suite 403 • Linthicum, MD 21090 • 410.694.0800 [phone] • 410.694.0900 [fax] • www.flexpack.org
Converter News
BEMA INC. ADDS FLEXO PRESS AND STARTS EXPANSION hether focusing on its strengths or recognizing opportunities as they come, Bema Inc. is certainly doing something right. Business is great. They've added a new flexographic press and are expanding not only in size but also scope. The Elmhurst, Ill.-based converter specializes in small- to mid-sized print jobs. To meet the increasing demand for such jobs, the company added a 52-inch 8-color Miraflex AM flexographic press from Windmoeller & Hoelscher, which complements the 10-color Primaflex already in house. Glen Galloway, president of Bema, says, “We're busier than ever and found that we needed to replace an older press and expand our capacity. Most of our jobs are small- to
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medium-sized and require high print quality. We're focused on accommodating customers quickly and reducing lead times. Efficiency is critical, which is why we chose the Miraflex.” The line at Bema prints at up to 1,200 ft/min. and is equipped with Easy-Set for automatic impression setting, Easy-Reg for registration and Turboclean automatic ink supply and wash-up system, and the Easy-Col color matching system. For a relatively small company with just under $20 million in annual sales, Bema is quite vertically integrated and it's about to get even more so. Current services include advanced pre-press with new Esko Artwork HD Flexo technology, 8- and 10-color flexographic printing presses from W&H, adhesive lamination and converting capabilities such as slitting, bagmaking and pouch-making. In 2012, they'll also be in the film extrusion business, bringing the company back to its roots. Galloway bought Bema 12 years ago and said that previous owner, Sam Shaw, was a pioneer in extrusion back in
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the 50’s and 60’s. “In the area of blown film extrusion Sam did a lot of R&D for various companies on new resins and films. When we bought Bema in the late 90’s there were hurdles for us to continue our extruded film operations. Basically the older extrusion equipment could not process the new resin technologies efficiently and the decision was made to give it up, temporarily that is. It was always the plan to one day return to the core competency the company had established over 40-years ago; now the time is right,” says Galloway. To do this, Galloway bought a 70,000 square-foot facility in St. Charles, Ill., which will facilitate film testing, labs, much needed warehousing as well as blown film extrusion. Alongside the building includes existing rail to
Converter Bema Inc., recently expanded its offerings with the addition of a 70,000 square-foot facility to facilitate blown film extrusion, film testing, labs and warehousing.
accommodate resin deliveries. Galloway plans to produce 3-layer co-ex films, but will continue to purchase specialty films from other film suppliers. “Right now the building in St. Charles is an empty box, so we're able to modify it easily, i.e., raise the roof for extrusion towers and implement energy efficient processes, such as solar and geothermal, for powering the facility.” Galloway has consulted with fellow Illinois converter, Multifilm Packaging, about its recent geothermal project and is currently running tests to measure the potential for geothermal at both the St. Charles and Elmhurst sites. FP Bema Film Systems Inc./Bema Polytech (630) 279-7800; www.bemapolytech.com/ Windmoeller & Hoelscher (401) 333-2770; www.whcorp.com
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When quality matters, choose ISO Poly Films.
“Our passion for excellence results in superior quality films, advanced technologies and unparalleled service for each and every customer.”
It’s easy to find companies that deliver films based on price, but quality is sacrificed. At ISO Poly Films, a Sigma Plastics Group company, quality is at our core, from our people and processes to our state-of-the-art equipment and suppliers.
Jon McClure, President and COO ISO Poly Films, Inc. of the Sigma Plastics Group
Our commitment to quality means high performance plastic films for your critical applications… advanced films that deliver value through our cost-saving solutions, progressive manufacturing methods and wellengineered extrusion capabilities. With 50 million pounds of new barrier and co-extrusion capacity added in the past two years, ISO Poly Films is ready to deliver our quality films to you.
Innovation advanced. Performance perfected. Quality mastered. Service redefined. High Performance Films for Critical Applications. 101 ISO Parkway • Gray Court, SC 1-888-814-7676 • www.isopoly.com
Converter News
CHARTER FILMS ANNOUNCES COMMITMENT TO BUSINESSES harter Films, Inc. announced its continued desire to support (MWBE) minority and women owned businesses. Charter Films is committed to the pursuit of partnering with its customers and vendors, especially Minority- and Women-owned Business Enterprises (MWBE). “Our policy is to support minority and women owned business enterprises seeking to conduct business with Charter Films,” states Stephanie Boerboom, manager of purchasing and logistics. To expand Charter’s outreach to MWB Enterprises, Brian Beuning, VP sales and marketing, has announced that at future trade show events, Charter Films will have signage indicating our support for Minority- and Women-Owned Businesses and will be available to meet with potential suppliers. “We find that trade shows are prime events for interaction with potential suppliers and we want to publicize our support and outreach efforts for Minorityand Women-owned Vendor partners,” states Beuning. FP
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Charter Films (877) 411-3456; www.charterfilms.com
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Calendar of Events Sep 11, 2011 to Sep 14, 2011 Graph Expo 2011 Chicago, Ill. www.gasc.org Sep 20, 2011 to Sep 22, 2011 Sustainable Packaging Forum and Exhibition Dallas, Texas www.sustainablepackagingforum.com/ Sep 26, 2011 to Sep 28, 2011 Pack Expo Las Vegas Las Vegas, NV www.packexpo.com/pelv2011 Sep 27, 2011 to Sep 29, 2011 Interplas 2011 Birmingham, United Kingdom www.britishplasticsshow.com/ x/interplas/interplas.html
JUNE / JULY 2011
KELLER CRESCENT ADDS SPLICER TO NEW PRESS Pharmaceutical printer and converter, Keller Crescent, installed an ECP splicer from Martin Automatic at its Greensboro, N.C., location. The splicer provides non-stop unwinding to a new Muller Martini Alprinta offset press. The new press and splicer are used to print literature for pharmaceutical packaging. Keller Crescent runs Martin splicing equipment at other of its U.S. facilities, but this is the first splicer for the Greensboro plant. “We chose the Martin splicer on the recommendation of the press supplier that it was the right machine for the work we need to do,” reports Jimmy James, press manager. FP Keller Cresent (508) 478-7641; www.kellercrescent.com
Martin Automatic ECP splicer increases productivity on the Muller Martini Alprinta press.
Martin Automatic Inc. (815) 654-4800; www.martinautomatic.com
ATLAPAC’S CFO RETIRES, REPLACEMENT ANNOUNCED After two decades of service, Michael McCoy, CFO of Atlapac, will be retiring. McCoy started with Altapac in 1988. He was witness to the company growing from three employees to the size it is now.
Daniela Williams will now be taking over McCoy’s responsibilities. FP Atlapac (800) 888-7019; www.atlapac.com
THE NEW STANDARD IN FLEXO
INLINE
STACK
CI
t GEARLESS SERVO OR GEARED t FAST ON-PRESS PLATE/ANILOX SLEEVE CHANGES t SERVO OR MANUAL PLATE/ANILOX POSITIONING t 1-10 COLORS t 2-150” WIDE t DOWNSTREAM OR COMPLETE LINES
CONTACT RETROFLEX
phone: (920) 532-4850 t fax: (920) 532-4854 t
[email protected] t www.retroflex.com
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Converter News
GLENROY, INC. RECEIVES FIVE GRAPHICS EXCELLENCE AWARDS IN STATEWIDE PRINTING COMPETITION onverter and printer of flexible packaging, Glenroy, Inc., received five awards from Printing Industries of Wisconsin in the 2011 Graphics Excellence competition, including three Best of Category awards and two Awards of Excellence. The statewide competition promotes excellence in print communications and it rewards companies and individuals who produce the best in print media within Wisconsin. According to Rich Buss, president of Glenroy, “We focus on producing high-quality flexographic printing every year. To be recognized by the Printing Industries of Wisconsin as one of the top flexographic printers in Wisconsin is a testament to the efforts of everyone at Glenroy.” Competing against nearly 800 entries, Glenroy won the Flexo-Wide Web, Screen category for Cool Off towelettes, the Flexo-Wide Web, Line category for Parfums de Coeur Capri Breeze cologne, and the Flexo-Wide Web, Process category for Blue Magic Vinyl ‘n More protectant towelettes. Glenroy also received two Awards of Excellence in the category of Flexo-Wide Web, Process and Print/ Graphic Arts Self-Promotion. Joseph Lyman, PIW’s president, believes the quality of Graphics Excellence Awards submissions was evident in this year’s competition. “The print projects we
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received were simply amazing. Technology is certainly helping Wisconsin’s Printing Industry achieve greater efficiency, but the print craftsmanship behind the projects was apparent. We will continue to celebrate the excellent work these companies and their employees have produced throughout the year,” says Lyman. FP Glenroy, Inc. (800) 824-1482 wwww.glenroy.com/products/ packaging-film/
Converter and printer of flexible packaging, Glenroy, Inc., received five awards from Printing Industries of Wisconsin in the 2011 Graphics Excellence competition, including three Best of Category awards and two Awards of Excellence.
NATUREFLEX FILM BLOSSOMS INTO FLOWER BULB PACKAGING Innovia Films’ transparent, compostable cellulose-based material, NatureFlex NVS, has been chosen by a consortium of three Dutch exporters, to pack its range of flower bulbs. This pouch pack is a tri-part lamination construction of NatureFlex NVS to paper and PLA and was developed by Assen-based converters, Hapece Flexible Packaging. The three Dutch exporters who have joined forces on this project are Florex, Kapiteyn and Mantel Holland. They have set up a sub-brand for this range We Pack Nature,
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which is underpinned by the old Dutch saying “A better environment begins at home.” NatureFlex films are certified to meet the European EN13432, American ASTM D6400 and Australian AS4736 standards for compostable packaging. The wood-pulp is sourced from managed plantations from referenced suppliers operating Good Forestry principals (FSC or equivalent). NatureFlex films typically have a renewable biobased content of some 95 percent by weight of material according to ASTM D6866. FP Innovia Films (877) 822-3456; www.innoviafilms.com
JUNE / JULY 2011
0ERFORMANCE 5NDER 0RESSURE #OMPETITIVE DIES COLLAPSE UNDER PRESSURE !LPINES DIE TECHNOLOGY E CELS AT THE ()'(%34 02%3352%3
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-ATERIAL &LEXIBILITY &ASTEST 0URGING 3IMPLY THE "EST "LOWN &ILM $IE !NYWHERE
Cover Feature: Top 25 Converters Top 25 Converters Methodology We used a similar methodology to last year’s Top 25 listing. To ensure the most accurate listing, we first went down the list of companies to make sure they are flexible packaging converters, and to include converters that have been acquired, merged, or inadvertently left off last year’s list. After careful consideration, the new list of companies was researched using information from Hoover’s Online database and D&B Million Dollar Directory – Total US database. Once information from those databases were collected, we went directly to the companies to confirm or correct the information we collected. Rankings are in order of sales revenue for the 2010 fiscal year, and should only reflect flexible packaging. We are happy to report that all but two companies graciously offered us the correct information, making this one of the most accurate lists yet.
Flexible Packaging is proud to present its highly anticipated seventh annual Top 25 Converters listing, based on 2010 sales. By Erin J. Wolford, Editor-in-Chief cor·ner·stone [kawr-ner-stohn] • something that is essential, indispensable, or basic: The cornerstone of Æexible packaging is Ålm. • the chief foundation on which something is constructed or developed: The cornerstone of the Æexible packaging industry are the converters. According to Wikipedia, the cornerstone (or foundation stone) concept is derived from the Årst stone set in the construction of a masonry foundation, important since all other stones will be set in reference to this stone, thus determining the position of the entire structure. This year’s Top 25 Converters includes converters that are the cornerstone of the Æexible packaging industry. These
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FLEXIBLEPACKAGING
converters are doing something right. Whether that’s ensuring large amounts of manpower, numerous manufacturing facilities, or making a smart acquisition, one determining factor is key: its people. Something in the management and procedures of these companies have brought them to this level of success. And that, my fellow Æexible packaging friends, is the secret we are all itching to know. According to the Flexible Packaging Association, Æexible packaging in the United States is a $26.4 billion industry. Our Top 25 Converters list accounts for over threefourths of that impressive number. As the saying goes, competition breeds success. Read on to hear about your
| www.flexpackmag.com
competition. You may Ånd some nuggets of wisdom in the next few pages, or you may Ånd some savvy business plans. Either way, I think you’ll be able to take something away from these success stories. FP
1.
Bemis Company, Inc. 2010 Sales (in millions): $4,840 Neenah, Wisconsin
At the top of the list is Bemis Company, Inc., a name often mentioned in Æexible packaging, and for good reason, too. This powerhouse has been expanding its presence for years. After completing its Alcan Packaging Food Americas acquisition in March 2010, Bemis started revamping some of the purchase. 2010’s addition to the Bemis family included
JUNE / JULY 2011
Flexible Packaging's Top 25 Converters Plants in N.A.
Employees in N.A. (flex pkg only)
Markets Served
Henry Theisen director/president/CEO
47
10,000
12345689
Sealed Air Corp. Elmwood Park, N.J.
William Hickey president and CEO
107
16,200
1234578
$2,350.00
Sigma Plastics Group Lyndhurst, N.J.
Alfred Teo chairman and CEO
32
5,000
123456789
N/A
$1,700.00
Berry Plastics Corporation Evansville, Ind.
Dr. Jonathan Rich president and CEO
28
5,000
123456789
4
6
$1,200.00
Printpack Inc. Atlanta, Ga.
Dennis Love president and CEO
24
3,900
12456789
6
6
8
$800.57
AEP Industries Inc. South Hackensack, N.J.
Brendan Barba chairman/president/CEO
11
2,000
12345789
7
7
7
$785.10
Exopack LLC Spartanburg, S.C.
Jack Knott II chairman/president/CEO
18
2,800
123456789
8
8
9
$675.40
Graphic Packaging International, Inc. Marietta, Ga.
David Scheible president and CEO
15
2,500
123456789
9
9
10
$500.00
Hilex Poly Co. LLC Hartsville, S.C.
Stan Bikulege president and CEO
9
1,150
123456789
10
10
11
$498.00
Packaging Dynamics Corp. Chicago, Ill.
Roger Prevot director and CEO
8
1,050
1234578
11
20
17-19
$463.00
Hood Packaging Corp. Burlington, Ont., Canada and Madison, Wisc.
Robert B. Morris president
18
1,500
126789
12
12
14
$427.50
Winpak Ltd. Winnipeg, Man., Canada
Bruce Berry president and CEO
5
1,370
1234568
13
11
12
$398.00
Bryce Corp. Memphis, Tenn.
Thomas Bryce chairman and CEO
5
800
125678
14
13
15
$342.00
Sonoco Products Company Hartsville, S.C.
Harris DeLoach, Jr. chairman and CEO
10
762
12567
15
15
16
$300.00
Ampac Holdings, LLC Cincinnati, Ohio
John Baumann president and CEO
8
1,100
123456789
16
15
N/A
$290.00*
Duro Bag Manufacturing Co. Florence, Ky.
John Gillen president and COO
14
2,500
1379
17
19
20
$280.00
American Packaging Corp. Rochester, N.Y.
Peter Schottland president and CEO
3
585
12345789
18
17
13
$270.00
Amcor Flexibles Mundelein, Ill.
Tom Cochran, VP Flexibles Americas & Medical Europe president
9
800
12345689
19
N/A
N/A
$250.00
Prolamina Corp. Lake Forest, Ill.
Harold Bevis founder/chairman/CEO
4
600
1347
20
21
21
$220.00
Coating Excellence Int'l LLC Wrightstown, Wis.
Michael Nowak president and CEO
3
550
1456789
21
22
N/A
$165.00
Pregis Corp. Deerfield, Ill.
Kevin Baudhuin president, global protective packaging
14
750
134567
22
N/A
N/A
$134.00
Shields Bag & Printing Company Yakima, Wash.
Lisa Shields-Long president and CEO
1
490
1236789
23
23
N/A
$120.00
Scholle Packaging Inc. Irvine, Calif.
William J. Scholle chairman and CEO
7
990
126789
24
N/A
N/A
$96.50
Oracle Flexible Packaging, Inc. Winston-Salem, N.C.
Scott Dickman president and CEO
2
330
1234578
25
25
N/A
$80.00
Nordenia USA, Inc. Jackson, Mo.
William R. Burke president and COO
1
N/A
1235689
2011 Rank
2010 Rank
2009 Rank
2010 Sales (in millions)
Company Headquarters
Highest Ranking Officer
1
2
2
$4,840.00
Bemis Flexible Packaging Neenah, Wis.
2
1
1
$4,490.00*
3
3
4
4
5
5
*Flexible Packaging estimate, based on information from Hoover's Online database, D&B database and/or the Company's own data. MARKETS: 1–Food; 2–Beverage; 3–Pharmaceutical; 4–Medical; 5–Personal Care; 6–Household Care; 7–Retail; 8–Industrial; 9–Agricultural
JUNE / JULY 2011
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Cover Feature: Top 25 Converters
1.
Bemis' 2010 activities included opening an Innovation Center for thorough R&D.
continued...
enhancing a packaging research facility in Neenah, Wisc. The Bemis Innovation Center was implemented in the former Alcan Packaging Food Americas technical center. “We're going to be moving the
‘legacy’ R&D Bemis people in there with the Alcan people so we can start to have better exchanges of technology,” quoted Henry Theisen, president and chief executive ofÅcer in an interview with local news outlet Post Crescent in August 2010. Bemis Company, Inc. (920) 727-4100; www.bemis.com
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2.
2010 Sales (in millions): estimated $4,490 Elmwood Park, New Jersey
This past year brought back nostalgia to Sealed Air Corporation with the celebration of its 50th Anniversary. By the end of the 1950s, inventors Marc Chavannes and Al Fielding introduced Bubble Wrap cushioning and launched the Sealed Air Corporation. Fifty years later, Bubble Wrap brand is one of the most recognized brands across the globe and Sealed Air has grown to employ more than 16,000 people with operations in 51 countries. “Over the past 50 years, Sealed Air and customers have been witness and part to massive change,” said William V. Hickey, president & CEO, Sealed Air in a Feb 2010 press release. Sealed Air Corporation (201) 791-7600; www.sealedair.com
3.
Sigma Plastics Group 2010 Sales (in millions): $2,350 Lyndhurst, New Jersey
Sigma Plastics Group is a force to be reckoned with. Chairman and CEO Alfred Teo commented on the Sigma’s inclusion in the listing, saying, “We are honored to be on the Top 25 Converters list. We continue to grow through acquisitions, and are in the middle of a possible acquisition right now. More positive news to come.” Sigma Plastics Group (201) 933-6000; www.alpha-industries.com
JUNE / JULY 2011
Cover Feature: Top 25 Converters
4.
Berry Plastics Corporation 2010 Sales (in millions): $1,700 Evansville, Indiana
Randy Hobson, EVP Commercial Development told Flexible Packaging, “Berry Plastics is proud to be an industry leader in Æexible packaging. We are committed to being a full-service, world class packaging and materials supplier
partner to the many customers and industries we serve.” Berry Plastics Corporation (812) 424-2904; www.berryplastics.com
Berry Plastics Corp. offers consumers a wide array of protective flexible packaging.
5.
Printpack Inc. 2010 Sales (in millions): $1,200 Atlanta, Georgia
Printpack is proud of its Åve packaging awards it brought home in 2010. Printpack was also busy acquiring the Marshall, North Carolina facility, allowing the company to enter into the Medical Packaging Market. The Marshall facility manufactures Ålms that are converted into header bags and forming Ålms for sterilizable medical devices. Dennis M. Love, president and CEO, stated in a 2010 press release, “We have been investigating the medical packaging market for quite some time. Timing was right to acquire Amcor’s Marshall facility.” Printpack Inc. (404) 460-7000; www.printpack.com
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| www.flexpackmag.com
JUNE / JULY 2011
in being recognized as a trusted partner in the development and manufacture of Æexible packaging solutions that address the evolving needs of our customers while providing positive bottom-line results.”
Exopack's corporate office in Spartanburg, South Carolina was busy planning for the addition of two facilities in 2010.
Exopack (864) 596-7116; www.exopack.com
Printpack entered into the medical packaging market with the acquisition of Marshall's North Carolina plant in 2010.
6.
AEP Industries 2010 Sales (in millions): $800.57 South Hackensack, New Jersey
AEP Industries’ website touts itself as “The Single Source for Polyethylene Films.” AEP prides itself on offering over 15,000 multi-purpose and Æexible packaging Ålms, so that its customers can fulÅll its business needs. AEP’s stance: “As a leader in Æexible packaging products, AEP uses state-of-the-art, technology to consistently produce the highest quality Æexible Ålm available.” AEP Industries (800) 999-AEPI; www.aepinc.com
7.
Exopack LLC 2010 Sales (in millions): $785.10 Spartanburg, South Carolina
2010 was a busy year at Exopack. An afÅliate company of Sun Capital Partners, Inc., Exopack made an agreement with Bemis to purchase two of its facilities, completed in July 2010. One month later, it announced the formation of a Corporate Research and Development team at that site. Exopack president and Chief Operating OfÅcer, Tom Vale, commented on the Top 25 listing, “Over the past Åve years, Exopack has invested over $135 million in new technologies and resources, yielding growth in the areas new package development, production capabilities and technological innovation. We take pride
JUNE / JULY 2011
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Cover Feature: Top 25 Converters
8.
deliver results. And in fact, that’s exactly what happened at Graphic Packaging in 2010,” said David W. Scheible, president and CEO, in a shareholders newsletter.
Graphic Packaging International, Inc. 2010 Sales (in millions): $675.40 Marietta, Georgia
“2010 was another strong year for Graphic Packaging, where the key to driving productivity and improving margins was to execute a solid strategy that works regardless of the operating environment. We demonstrated that as long as we focus on our strategy, optimize our core business, grow through innovation, and build the right culture, we will
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9.
Hilex Poly Co. LLC 2010 Sales (in millions): $500.00 Hartsville, South Carolina
In April 2010, Hilex Poly partnered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to join its WasteWise program. Stan Bikulege, president and CEO of Hilex Poly stated, “As the industry leader in recycling, we are proud of our waste reduction efforts to date and have set an ambitious goal of using 40 percent recycled content in our products by 2015.” The WasteWise program focuses on three key elements of waste reduction – recycling, buying or manufacturing recycled content products and preventing the production of waste in the Årst place. Hilex Poly Co., Inc. (843) 857-4800; www.hilexpoly.com
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Packaging Dynamics Corp. 2010 Sales (in millions): $498.00 Chicago, Illinois
Like its Top 25 Converters peers, Packaging Dynamics Corp., was busy with an acquisition in 2010, announcing its agreement to purchase Marcal Chicago, LLC. “The acquisition of Marcal Chicago is an exciting step in the development of Packaging Dynamics,” commented Roger Prevot, Packaging Dynamics' CEO in an October 2010 press release. “Marcal Chicago provides a number of strategic beneÅts to our BagcraftPapercon food packaging business including a broader product line, an expanded customer base and a well respected brand.” Packaging Dynamics Corp. (773) 843-8000; www.pkdy.com JUNE / JULY 2011
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Cover Feature: Top 25 Converters
Hood Packaging Corp.
11.
2010 Sales (in millions): $463.00 Madison, Mississippi and Burlington, Ontario, Canada
In September 2010, Hood Packaging acquired American Synthetics of Goose Creek, South Carolina. The facility specializes in manufacturing woven polypropylene packaging with modern equipment and innovative technology. The new facility positions Hood Packaging to offer a full line of food, pet food, animal nutrition and lawn and garden packaging, including, but not limited to, EB1 quad seal, laminated quad seal, pouches, pinch bags, self-opening sacks and woven poly bags. Hood Packaging Corp. (800) 321-8115; www.hoodpkg.com
12.
Winpak Ltd. 2010 Sales (in millions): $427.50 Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
In reaction to being listed as a top converter, Bruce Berry proudly told Flexible Packaging, “It is an honor to be recognized with such a distinguished group of companies.” Winpak’s Flexible Packaging division’s website offers the company’s business model for this market sector: “Winpak has become a leader in the Æexible packaging industry by providing customers with innovative products, packaging expertise and operational excellence.” Winpak Portion Packaging, Inc. | (204) 889-1015; www.winpak.com
13.
13. Bryce Corp. 2010 Sales (in millions): $398.00 Memphis, Tennessee
For Bryce Corp., a family-owned company, 2010 meant planning to expand with a new press and additional employees. In November 2010, the company’s plan for a $9 million expansion was highlighted in the Memphis Business Journal. In the article, Richard Flynt, senior vice president of operations at Bryce, commented that the expansion will help the company meet demand in one of the few parts of the manufacturing industry that hasn’t seen a decline. Food packaging is an estimated $200 billion annual industry, according to Paul Rickman, senior vice president of sales for Bryce. No further comment was offered by Bryce Corp. Bryce Corp. | (800) 238-7277; www.brycecorp.com
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JUNE / JULY 2011
Cover Feature: Top 25 Converters
Ampac's focus on innovation in flexible packaging includes its Sprout Baby Food linear tear, recloseable pouch.
15.
Sonoco Products Co.
14.
2010 Flexible Sales (in millions): $342.00 Hartsville, South Carolina
Known for innovative easyopen, re-closeable bags and specialty pouches, as well as promotional ink technologies, Sonoco also offers solutions that support smart, sustainable resource use. Harris E. DeLoach, Jr., chairman and CEO told Flexible Packaging, “As a top company for Æexible converters, we're committed to growing and diversifying our Æexible service offering. Innovations, such as our patented SmartSeal reclosable technology for Nabisco cookies and our recently announced MIRRORINK Process, will continue to help drive our Æexibles expansion.” Sonoco Products Co. (800) 377-2692; www.sonoco.com
American Packaging Corp.'s flexible packaging offerings include name brands that Americans recognize and trust.
Ampac Holdings, LLC 2010 Sales (in millions): $300.00 Cincinnati, Ohio
Ampac’s focus on innovation includes the Vapur anti-bottle, redeveloped to include an antimicrobial; the Sprout Baby Food brand introduction with linear tear and reclosability; and E-Z ZIP has led to signiÅcant product growth for Unilever’s Hellmann's brand, among other customers. Ampac has also added box pouch capability to a wide range of innovative pouch formats. John Baumann, president and CEO, told Flexible Packaging, “Ampac drives transformation and packaging performance by creating package concepts that are more innovative, progressive and dynamic than those used by competitive brands. Ampac’s comprehensive approach to packaging is an effective balance of rigorous, technology-driven thinking and exceptional creativity.” Ampac | (800) 527-2557; www.ampaconline.com
16.
Duro Bag Manufacturing Co. 2010 Sales (in millions): estimated $290.00 Florence, Kentucky
Duro Bag Manufacturing has this Quality Statement on its website: “Every employee at Duro Bag is empowered to effectively manage our company's resources in order to meet or exceed our customer's requirements and expectations in quality and service.” With its impressive position on the Top 25 Converters listing, it seems this statement rings true. Duro Bag Manufacturing Co. | (800) 879-3876; www.durobag.com
17.
American Packaging Corp. 2010 Sales (in millions):$280.00 Rochester, New York
For over 100 years, American Packaging Corp (APC) has been developing and commercializing unique speciÅcations for a myriad of packaging applications. Peter B. Schottland, president and CEO said to Flexible Packaging, “Interesting to see APC in the Top 25 once again. Hard not to reÆect on our journey of almost 110 years as a family business owned by Årst the Kardon family thru the 1960s and now my family. From the streets of Philadelphia making Åsh and coffee bags to one of North America’s elite Æexible packaging companies is quite something, to say the least. Our commitment to our customers, employees, suppliers and our industry as a whole has never been stronger.” American Packaging Corp. | (800) 551-8801;www.ampkcorp.com
18.
Amcor Flexibles 2010 Sales (in millions): $270.00 Mundelein, Illinois
According to Amcor Flexibles’ website business operations, “This Business Group combines the current Amcor Flexibles Food and Flexibles Healthcare businesses with the Alcan Global Pharmaceutical and Food Europe Packaging businesses. The combination of these Flexibles businesses is designed to create an integrated business and to take full advantage of opportunities to deliver outstanding customer solutions to the food, healthcare, home & personal care and industrial markets.” Amcor Flexibles | (847) 362-9000; www.amcor.com 30
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JUNE / JULY 2011
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Cover Feature: Top 25 Converters
19.
Prolamina
A newly formed company, Prolamina is the brainchild of founder/chairman/ CEO Harold Bevis. “My business thesis has been to create as big a company as I can,” Bevis told Flexible Packaging. After his tenure with Pliant, Bevis concocted the concept of forming a super company. He’s already acquired two companies at the penning of this article, with a third acquisition underway. Bevis has folded formerly known Jen Coat and Excel Pac into Prolamina. Bevis’ plans: “My game plan is to build a couple billion dollar company by acquiring small converting companies.” Don’t be surprised to see Prolamina’s Top 25 Converter ranking be higher up on the list in 2012. Prolamina www.prolamina.com/
20.
21.
2010 Sales (in millions): $250.00
Coating Excellence International LLC (cei)
Coating Excellence International (920) 996-1900; www.coatingexcellence.com
Pregis Corp. | (800) 834-9441; www.pregis.com
22.
Shields Bag & Printing Company 2010 Sales (in millions): $134.00 Yakima, Washington
“During the past few years, the economic downturn has forced us to intensify our product diversiÅcation efforts. We are still underway, but to date have been successful in moving away from heavy dependence on traditional heavy duty shipping sacks and more on barrier food packaging and consumer packaging with high resolution graphics. To be recognized as a Top 25 Converter is a testament to the hard work and loyal dedication of our 490 employees. Shields Bag & Printing was founded on intense employee involvement and we continue to grow because of this philosophy,” Chris Daniels VP sales & marketing, told Flexible Packaging. Shields Bag & Printing Company | (800) 541-8630; www.shieldsbag.com
23.
Scholle Packaging Inc. 2010 Sales (in millions): $120.00 Irvine, California
“Scholle Packaging, the pioneer of Bag-in-Box, is a world leader in bag-in-box packaging for the food, beverage and industrial markets. We are committed to providing locallymanufactured products with unprecedented innovation, quality and customer service. Inspired people, vertically-integrated processes and global manufacturing capabilities allow us to rigorously control our manufacturing standards,” Scholle company information states. Scholle Packaging Inc. | (949) 955-1750; www.scholle.com
24.
Oracle Flexible Packaging, Inc. 2010 Sales (in millions): $96.50 Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Oracle’s company website says, “Oracle is a preferred manufacturer of industry-leading Æexible packaging laminates. Innovation, combined with a demonstrated commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, fuels the outstanding customer loyalty and success that Oracle has enjoyed for over eight decades.” Oracle Flexible Packaging, Inc. | (336) 777-5000; www.oraclepackaging.com
25. Nordenia's release for 2010 included the innovative FlexZiBox, launched in the US to broaden its portfolio.
2010 Sales (in millions): $165.00 Deerfield, Illinois
Pregis’ exciting 2010 news included naming a new president of global protective packaging. Kevin Baudhuin was named president, global protective packaging, in October 2010. Baudhuin joined Pregis in December 2007 as president of the company’s North American protective packaging business. During his tenure, he spearheaded the development of innovative protective packaging solutions while also bringing signiÅcant performance improvement and growth to Pregis, and will continue to do so.
2010 Sales (in millions): $220.00 Wrightstown, Wisconsin
In a statement released by the company, “Coating Excellence International (cei) has shown strong growth since its inception in 1997 by continual focus on providing the industry’s best quality and service to its customers. Ongoing investment in state-ofthe-art converting equipment, new focused manufacturing facilities and next generation technologies enable cei to continue this growth momentum. cei is very pleased to be listed as a Top 25 Converter, as this reÆects its commitment to its customers and strong focus on the Æexible packaging industry.”
Pregis Corp.
Nordenia 2010 Sales (in millions): approx. $80.00 Jackson, Missouri
2010 offered Nordenia some innovation with the launch of its FlexZiBox. Flexible and robust at the same time, easy to carry and well suited for volumes up to 55 pounds – that is Nordenia’s FlexZiBox packaging. Nordenia launched this concept in the U.S. to broaden its portfolio. Nordenia USA, Inc. | Nordenia USA, Inc.; (573) 335-4900; www.nordeniausa.com
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JUNE / JULY 2011
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Printing: Flexo Inks
‘TURBO-CHARGED’ FLEXO INKS KEEP PACE WITH HIGH-SPEED PRESSES By Mark Hill, Contributing writer hen examining industry trends, the good news for printers in the Æexographic market is higher speed presses and better productivity. The bad news for printers in the Æexographic market is, well, high speed presses: Or, more speciÅcally, speed-generated issues, including inks, plates and aniloxes. At this point, relatively few operations are impacted. Many Æexographic print jobs still fall within 15,000-to-30,000-foot run lengths handled by presses running at 600-800 feet per minute (fpm), with quickchangeover assists from automated systems. During the past few years, newer presses have quickened the pace to 1200-1300 fpm. Now some 2,0002100 fpm machines are delivering the goods. Yet this year, presses at speeds over 3,000 fpm could have more Æexo operations eyeing long-run jobs (500,000 feet and up) that have traditionally been considered gravure territory. And press makers probably haven’t reached their limit. Other Æexo providers, however, need to catch up.
W
Pressures and Problems The prospect of taking on jobs where high-speed output means saving hours, not mere minutes, puts pressure on ink suppliers to solve problems that naturally arise when everything on-press is happening twice as fast (or faster) than before. These include multiple ink-related issues, recent advances in technology to resolve them. The problem boils down to less ink transfer at higher speeds, and less time for ink to level out and lay smooth. While many printers rely on
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FLEXIBLEPACKAGING
inks to resolve this issue, it’s not quite that simple. Granted, particularly with nonporous plastic substrates on many Æexo applications, inks have to be more technically capable in order to properly adhere, more so than with paper where absorption helps.
aniloxes can impact run stability, ink Æow, drying and more. Recognizing these multiple related issues, manufacturers are taking steps to improve their technologies. Press makers have managed to reduce vibration. They’re improving ink delivery to the anilox in doctor blade chambers by using bafÆes, or widening the distance between blades to provide more time for ink to Åll anilox cells. New plate technology can probably increase ink transfer by 20 percent to 30 percent; in some cases, we have seen Magenta ink density improve from 1.4 to 1.65.
Walking a Fine Line with Inks
Mark Hill has great insight into the ink sector of the flexographic printing industry.
Ink transfer, however, involves not only the ink itself, but the transfer process, which means the aniloxes need to be evaluated. Plates also need to be evaluated; even the type of plate mounting tape. There are many pieces to this puzzle; adjusting one affects them all. For example, anilox rolls hold only a given volume of ink, about 50 percent of which is transferred to the plate – and only 50 percent of that (about 25 percent of original anilox volume) gets to the substrate. At today’s higher speeds, this could be reduced by another 25-30 percent to a mere 17.5 percent. Presses themselves have new issues at high speeds, including greater vibration; and increased air Æow around plates and
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Two primary ways ink manufacturers can improve ink Æow and transferability is to adjust the resin/binder type and ink drying speed. The key to high-speed inks as press speeds continue to accelerate, however, will be developing new and unique resin systems. The right commercially available resin – sometimes like Ånding a needle in a haystack – can lead to formulations that work. Basic R&D capability improves the odds, because speciÅc ink properties can be designed when formulating from scratch. One developmental “speed bump” is that most R&D type printing presses cannot duplicate the latest press speeds. Ink companies bear considerable expense buying press time to Ånalize formulations. It all takes time, especially with laminating inks or those for food packaging. Knowing solvents that are acceptable for food packaging and suitable for end uses is key, too. From a formulation standpoint, thinner inks work better at high speeds because they Æow faster. But if the ink viscosity is
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Printing: Flexo Inks
too low, it can create other problems on press, and ink strength may become an issue, as well as an adherence to substrates. In short, inks have to concurrently perform contrasting roles: they need to stay open on press, transfer easily and smoothly, and dry on command, while also sticking to substrates, interacting well with adhesives and standing up to the rigors of end use. It’s a balancing act involving two sides of the same coin. The challenge is to Æip that coin and have it land on its edge, every time. We have seen inks running well at about 2000 fpm, on presses upgradable to 2900 fpm. Printers can expect further developments that will enable them to push the high-speed Æexo envelope with conÅdence. FP Inx International Ink Co. (800) 631-7956; www.inxinternational.com/us
Automatic high speed pouch making machines.
Automatic machines for vacuum thermoshrinking sacks.
Automatic machines for bags on roll.
At 2,000 feet per minute, everything on press happens 2.5 times faster than on a typical 800-fpm flexo press. Without specially formulated high-speed inks, there is too-little time for tiny puddles of ink to flow together and level out when transferred from anilox cells to plate. Rather than a uniform layer of ink and a smoothly printed surface (left), you get a mottled “anilox pattern” appearance (right).
About the Author Mark Hill, vice president and assistant director of R&D for INX International Ink Co., is a 20- year veteran in the flexographic printing industry and has spear-headed development of numerous leading edge flexographic ink technology products. He can be reached via email at
[email protected].
Universal machines for bags and sacks.
Extruded net plants.
Automatic machines to produce bags with glued patch handle reinforcement.
Automatic machines for T-Shirt bags.
Elba, located in Magnago (MI) Italy, designs and manufactures machines for the production of pouches, bags and sacks. Each machine can be customized according to different production needs to always offer a tailor made solution. Since 1964 Elba installed all over the world more than 2000 machines. To Elba group belong Fiborsin who manufactures extruder plants for plastic nets.
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Elba spa - Via Canova, 22 20020 Magnago (MI) - Italy Tel. +39 0331.305570 - Fax +39 0331.305580 E-Mail:
[email protected] - www.elba-spa.it
September 26 – 28, 2011 - Las Vegas Convention Center - South Building, Hall S2 booth 5963
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FLEXIBLEPACKAGING
| www.flexpackmag.com
JUNE / JULY 2011
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Printing: Flexo Labels
FULFILLING THE PROMISE OF JUST-IN-TIME LABELS AT LESS COST anufacturers often Ånd themselves needing new, printed labels in quantity “yesterday.” This can be due to running out, forgetting to order in time, changes to label design, or prototypes to quickly bring product ideas to market. Some manufacturers also consider labels part of a broader just-in-time (JIT) effort and want to be able to get labels ondemand, without fail. “Like many manufacturers, we need our labels yesterday,” says Toni Derby, director of operations for Cigar City Brewing, a Tampa, Fla.-based craft beer brewery. “Labels can be pushed to the last minute for many reasons, including the occasional communication breakdown about when the labels are needed or I’ll Ånd out a beer will be ready sooner than I expected, or we are waiting for approvals from the FDA before we can even print the label and that can push the ordering to the last minute.” To accommodate quick turnaround or JIT orders, label printers have primarily employed two techniques: preprinting and stocking large quantities of labels and/or investing in expensive Print-On-Demand equipment that can handle rush, low volume jobs. Unfortunately, both techniques – though serving as an adequate solution at times – have drawbacks. Pre-printed labels can be rendered obsolete due to design changes, unnoticed errors and evolving regulations (FDA, OSHA, etc.). With each manufacturer potentially having tens, even hundreds, of different label designs, label printers are less eager to maintain the variety and volume of labels required in stock, particularly with the potential for product loss.
M
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FLEXIBLEPACKAGING
New technologies and improved workflow efficiencies in flexographic printing has paved the way to same day quality services for even large volume runs.
The Perks of New Machinery Print-On-Demand label presses, on the other hand, provide true same day printing of low volume jobs. POD systems are full-color digital print systems that offer greater Æexibility than conventional presses in job setup and changeover times. However, manufacturers pay signiÅcantly more for this type of printing than for non-rush jobs run on traditional label printing equipment. “Although POD label presses are popular for short, quick runs, they’re limited to about 2,000 labels per order and typically cost up to 30 percent more than Æexographic printing,” says Steve Sabadosh, president of L&N Label Company, a Clearwater, Fla.-based printer of industrial pressure sensitive labels that invested in POD equipment to complement the company’s 4 Æexographic printing presses.
| www.flexpackmag.com
Fortunately, however, workÆow efÅciencies and advances in pre-press technology in the Æexographic printing process – the primary method of printing pressure sensitive labels in North America and Europe – is moving toward what Sabadosh calls “Flexo-On-Demand.” “As Æexo becomes ‘Flexo Labels-OnDemand’ manufacturers are able to get quality, same-day, mid-sized production runs of 50,000 to 100,000 labels at less cost of Print-On-Demand,” says Sabadosh. He adds that because of the quick changeover changes to labels, prototypes or even short runs can be accommodated as well. Although the Æexographic process has been popular for decades due to its relatively low cost, production speeds and quality, traditionally it has relied on a manual, time-consuming plate making process called Computer to Film (CTF). In the CTF process, a computer Åle image is transferred to
JUNE / JULY 2011
S FT uns Go A hi ld 201 ne & 1 Pla Be Aw s st ar tic of ds s C or Sh p. ow A GO W A LD R D
Sweeter...
Nothing could be
... than our customers’ success at the Flexographic Technical Association’s Excellence in Flexography Awards. In the wide-web category, 20 of the 25 winners were printed on W&H flexo presses - including the Gold Award & Best of Show. Sunshine Plastics of Montebello, CA printed this stand-out wrapper on a W&H 10-color press and has garnered 7 awards in the past year. Congratulations to Sunshine Plastics and all the FTA winners.
PASSION FOR INNOVATION
WINDMOELLER & HOELSCHER CORPORATION
FLEXIBLE PACKAGING EQUIPMENT THAT MEETS THE DEMANDS OF AMERICA’S TOUGHEST CUSTOMERS 23 NEW ENGLAND WAY | LINCOLN, RHODE ISLAND 02865-8702 | Phone: 800-854-8702 |
[email protected] | www.whcorp.com
Printing: Flexo Labels
photographic Ålm, which is then used to create the printing plate. By the very nature of the Ålm process, there is the potential for quality control issues which added time to the QC steps. Today, the next generation of Æexo pre-press equipment eliminates the Ålm step entirely to go directly to Computer to Plate (CTP). This does away with cumbersome, error-prone CTF steps such as photo scanning, Ålm separations, and Ålm-based proofs. Besides dramatically speeding changeover time, the elimination of Ålm also improves the quality of the Ånal product. L&N Label purchased an Esko Cyrel Digital Æexo plate Imager (CDI) last year, and manufacturers are noticing how it expedites turnaround at higher volumes when quick turnaround is needed. Cigar City Brewing, known for its colorful and dynamic graphics for
labels for its 7, 12 and 15 oz. bottles, purchases 30-35 different labels from L&N Label and introduces a new design approximately once a month. “L&N Label can rush us up to 100,000 labels when we need them to keep production going and avoid downtime. That’s particularly important when we run short on stock or have to ramp up production after getting and FDA approval,” says Toni Derby, director of operations for Cigar City Brewing. Just a few weeks ago, Cigar City Brewing needed a rush job. “I was able to get the labels I needed in a tight timeframe and we were able to label our beer and ship it without any downtime,” adds Derby. FP Next generation flexographic pre-press equipment eliminates film processing, allowing Computer to Plate systems to speed up the process while maintaining high quality.
L&N Label Company (800) 944-5401; www.lnlabel.com
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FLEXIBLEPACKAGING
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JUNE / JULY 2011
Technology: Static Control
TIPS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A WEB CLEANING SYSTEM ommunication and web cleaning might not blatantly appear to have anything in common, but in both cases there are times when it is good to be in contact and other times when it’s best to leave a little distance. The skill, in each scenario, is to know which is right. And that’s where UK manufacturer Meech International come in. Meech makes contact and non-contact web cleaning systems for a wide variety of applications and markets. Meech’s business director offers information on what to consider when choosing a web cleaning system.
objects as possible touching the substrate, especially important in the pharmaceutical packaging. “Since the autumn of 2009, we’ve seen a surge in orders for web cleaning systems. During 2010, companies have been investing increasingly in noncontact web cleaners because they want the maximum Æexibility in the future – equipment should not dictate what types of material they can run on a particular press or production line. This trend is quite noticeable in some areas of the graphic arts market and has started to emerge in the label sector,” says Battrick.
C
Market Drive “The drive towards lower wastage and higher levels of productivity can be seen across a huge number of industries, as companies seek to increase the efÅciency of existing equipment in order to improve proÅtability, without incurring the cost of investing in a new line,” says Adam Battrick, business unit director, cleaning systems for Meech.
One crucial factor to consider when selecting a web cleaner is to make sure the cleaner will break the boundary layer of air that is carried along by the moving web.
One factor above all else determines whether a company should invest in contact or non-contact technology; if the substrate being handled is in any way prone to marking, then the latter is the sensible choice. There is another inÆuence – the general desire of companies to have as few
Selecting the Right Web Cleaner When selecting a web cleaner, whether contact or non-contact, one of the crucial factors is to make sure the cleaner will break the boundary layer of air that is entrained by the moving web, holding contamination Årmly to the substrate’s surface. To break the boundary layer, different systems use varying technologies, which may rely on powerful airÆows, air turbulence or actual contact with the web.
Non-contact and contact web cleaning systems for paper, plastic, foil and film
Call 330-564-2000 or visit www.meech.com
JUNE / JULY 2011
FLEXIBLEPACKAGING
| www.flexpackmag.com
41
Technology: Static Control
In the rotary label arena, it is common to see web cleaning systems that are based on a tacky [elastomer] roller, which is driven by contact with the web. Contaminates picked up by the roller are transferred to a second, more adhesive roller. The technology has many beneÅts: It is relatively easy to install and on the whole provides adequate results. The main gripes from users are the cost of buying the adhesive sheets and the time needed to replace used sheets when they reach a certain level of contamination. If not replaced, the cleaning performance deteriorates. For example, if the roller picks up particles from the web that adhere to the same spot during each revolution, then the system normally becomes ineffective at removing dirt from that one area. Some form of static control, whether passive or active, is normally incorporated just after the cleaning process in order to reduce the risk of recontamination of the web. Indeed, regardless of the cleaning technology, any system should have electrostatic control, preferably active, or the web can become re-contaminated quite quickly. Also, within the category of contact cleaning systems are those that use brushes to remove dirt and debris from the web surface and those that rely on some form of vacuum. The former are probably the least commonly found systems but there are several companies
The effectiveness of systems can vary dramatically, so make sure that if you need to remove particles down to a certain size, for instance less than five microns, that the equipment you are considering is able to do that.
offering vacuum based options. In these systems, the web comes into contact with some part of the cleaning equipment. In the case of the Meech Tornado, the web contacts a highly polished stainless steel faceplate, which creates a turbulence that breaks up the web boundary layer. In conjunction with active static control, this releases contamination into the vacuum slot.
Tips on Evaluating the System Apart from purchase and installation costs, potential users should examine in detail several areas during evaluation. The effectiveness of systems can vary dramatically, so make sure that if you need to remove particles down to a
Plug-and-play component design. Automatic one-touch setup; no configuration required. Built-in self-diagnosis and fault annunciation. Installation and support worldwide.
Fives North American - Guiding Systems - 216.271.6000 fna.guiding@fivesgroup.com www.fivesgroup.com/fivesna
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FLEXIBLEPACKAGING
| www.flexpackmag.com
certain size, for instance less than Åve microns, that the equipment you are considering is able to do that. Systems can typically be tailored to suit a particular application, for example a pre-Åltration facility will avoid Åbers passing through the vacuum unit (useful if the contamination is Åbrous or abrasive), while for heavily contaminated substrates a Ålter bag with a large capacity will reduce the number of changes that have to be carried out. Check carefully any running costs, e.g., electricity usage and consumables, plus the vibration and noise levels, which can be sufÅcient in some cases to effect the positioning of the equipment in relation to operators or other equipment. Ease of access and maintenance requirements should not be ignored. “Of course, price is also an issue but this is such a wide area that it’s impossible to give much of a guide,” says Battrick. “Normally, non-contact systems require a greater investment than contact systems due to the complexity of the technology involved. Some contact systems can be purchased for as little as $7,000 depending on web width and whether you wish to clean one or both sides of the substrate.” FP Meech International (330) 564 2000; www.meech.com
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JUNE / JULY 2011
Packaging. Processing. Powerful.
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Technology: Materials
BIOPLASTICS: PRODUCT EVOLUTION OR MARKET REVOLUTION Bioplastics authority Jeff Timm shares his thoughts on bioplastics developments in this exclusive interview. By Rick Lingle, Executive Editor
Q:
What are the major packaging drivers in bioplastic development and use? The major drivers in bioplastic packaging opportunities are incorporated in or are a part of a company’s total sustainability program, which is part of the total brand image. The basic role of a package also plays into bioplastic usage. Features like single-use; attractive end-of-life options, environmental footprint and speciÅc functionality lend themselves to the attributes that bioplastics bring to packaging.
A:
Q:
Can you provide a definition of what a bioplastic is and maybe what it isn’t? There are a number of deÅnitions Æoating around but I believe the Society of the Plastic Industry (SPI) deÅnition is the one we should all embrace. It states a bioplastic is a plastic that is biodegradable, has bio-based content, or both. The trouble with this deÅnition is that it incorporates two other words-biodegradability and bio-based—that also require deÅnitions. This is why a bioplastic deÅnition is so confusing. A biodegradable plastic is one that undergoes a breakdown of organic material in the presence of microorganisms (bacteria, fungi or algae) usually in a controlled heat and moisture environment. Biodegradation is not thermal, UV or hydro degradation. Bio-based content is the fraction of the
A:
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FLEXIBLEPACKAGING
carbon content which is ‘new’ carbon content made up of biological materials or agricultural resources versus fossil carbon content (old carbon). Bio-based content is measured following the procedures set by ASTM D6866.
Q:
You’ve noted that there’s been a recent shift in what a bioplastic is; can you comment further on that?
The shift is that there are more product offerings falling into the second part of the bioplastic deÅnition: bio-based rather than biodegradable. For example, when bioplastics were Årst introduced to the marketplace they were almost exclusively biodegradable polymers derived from renewable resources like corn. More recent developments have been bioplastics derived from bio-based, renewable building blocks that are not biodegradable. A simple way to look at a bioplastic is to separate how it is created vs. its end-of-life outcome. The confusion develops when we combine the creation and disposal in the same deÅnition. Biodegradation and recycling are both end-of- life outcomes. Words like biosourced, bio-based and renewable are from the front-end creation side.
A:
Q: A:
What are the realities of this market? There are a number of major market realities:
| www.flexpackmag.com
Jeff Timm has spent more than 35 years in the plastics industry with Fortune 100 companies. The last six years have been as Managing Principal for Timm Consulting, Franksville, Wisc., a plastics business and market development consultancy focusing on bioplastics. Jeff can be reached at
[email protected] or www. linkedin.com/in/jefftimm.
First, there’s tremendous confusion surrounding materials, technology and marketing claims. The consumer clearly wants sustainable products. However, when faced with real-world decisions on how to achieve that goal there are confusing marketplace signals. Some packaging companies blatantly mislead consumers with false claims while other companies have tried using bioplastics only to be disappointed by their Åtness in use or processing difÅculties. Additionally, performance expectations have not been met in all cases, especially when it comes to compostability. There is inadequate end-of-life (EOL) consumer understanding and expectations around disposal. Many consumers believe biodegradation is
JUNE / JULY 2011
simply throwing a bottle out the car window and having it degrade in a relatively short period of time. This is far from reality. The misunderstanding around landÅlls also leads to confusion. Plastics, including bioplastics, for the most part do not degrade in landÅlls. A better matching of bioplastics degradation properties and consumer expectations is needed. End-of-life disposal programs need to be developed on a national level. The hodgepodge of local, city and state regulations around recycling and plastic usage and disposal only adds to the confusion. For example, incineration should be part of the public disposal debate, but it rarely is in the U.S. The whole public understanding of green-house-gas (GHG), carbon footprint, “new” carbon vs. “old”
JUNE / JULY 2011
carbon layered on top of a discussion on sustainability and the addition of bioplastic applications has been too great an educational burden for the consumer.
Q:
What are the major misconceptions about bioplastics?
What are some of the reasons there seems to be so much confusion in this market and to what degree are packagers responsible?
The reason confusion abounds is because there are no common acceptable standards or deÅnitions for bioplastic usage, disposal and claims. The whole plastic industry and the subset of the packaging industry is partly responsible for this confusion. Although the term “sustainable packaging” has been used in the marketplace since early this decade, most people in the industry today still cannot deÅne what sustainable packaging is according to the Sustainable Packaging Coalition (SPC) deÅnition. Also, conÆicting claims about end-oflife scenarios are prevalent. Examples:
A:
The biggest misconception is that all bioplastics biodegrade or compost. Bio-based PE derived from renewable bio-based building blocks does not compost. Surveys indicate most consumers associate “doing the right thing” with recyclability, not reducing GHG or using renewable feedstock in the manufacture of plastics. Most of the time recycling has nothing to do with whether a plastic is bio- or petrochemical-derived.
A:
Q:
FLEXIBLEPACKAGING
| www.flexpackmag.com
45
Technology: Materials
“What actually goes on inside a landÅll? Do products really degrade in a landÅll or are they simply entombed?” However there is a light at the end of the tunnel. The Consumer Goods Forum-Global Packaging Project (GPP), Federal Trade Commission-Green Guides, ASTM, UL, USDA and other groups are slowly setting standards to bring order to the chaos. The collective goal taken from the introduction of the GPP Report is to bring “common deÅnitions and principles, agreed metrics and indicators and guidance on usage”. In my estimation, this has taken far too long. An example of this is why are municipalities all over this country trying to regulate and ban the use of plastic packaging? Why hasn’t the plastic industry stepped up and presented the value proposition for plastics? They saw it coming years ago.
Q: A:
What’s your biggest piece of advice for packagers?
The most important piece of advice I can give when considering using a bioplastic is to match the packaging requirements to the
bioplastic properties. I don’t mean just the physical and mechanical properties of the bioplastic. Consideration must be given to the end-of-life scenarios, too. FP Special thanks to Rick Lingle, Editor-in-chief of Food & Beverage Packaging for this article.
TOP 5 WEB RESOURCES FOR BIOPLASTICS FOR PACKAGING Bioplastics expert Jeff Timm offers the following as his Top 5 most useful websites for those developing or using packaging that includes bioplastics. Sustainable Packaging Coalition: www.sustainablepackaging.org GreenBlue: www.greenblue.org Federal Trade Commission (FTC): www.ftc.gov/green Consumer Goods Forum: www.ciesnet.com Global Packaging Project: http://globalpackaging.mycgforum.com Source: Timm Consulting
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FLEXIBLEPACKAGING
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JUNE / JULY 2011
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Industry Insights
BEFORE YOU MANUFACTURE, GET ALL THE DUCKS IN A ROW project goals is helpful.
10 Considerations for Creating a Package
By Susan Stansbury, Contributing columnist t’s a win-win for product developers and flexible packaging providers. When developers are prepared, packagers deliver the best results. Many of the so-called ducks to line up are elements of common sense, but they bear repeating as a checklist of reminders. Other items on the list are not as obvious to developers who may have a great concept, but are new to flexible packaging or some of its aspects. One way to look at project preparation is to first remember what makes a good package. Layering the principles of successful packaging elements on top of a particular set of
I
Planning prior to package manufacturing is a critical step for a successful, low cost outcome.
1. Is the package aesthetically pleasing? Trendy? Face it; buyers are always swayed by the visual impact of packages. 2. Is it ergonomically appropriate? Some of the latest ergonomically updated packages also deliver a better ratio of content-to-package-for a less-wasteful result. 3. How well does the package protect its contents? What is the shelf life? What are consumer expectations? 4. How well does the package provide access to the product? Do you need a tool kit to open it? 5. What are the package convenience factors? Is it portable for travel or in the car? 6. Does the container work well in opening after repeated usage? Does it keep contents fresh? 7. Is there a technique to opening or using it? For example, preventing easy access for children in certain instances. 8. Is the package mistake-tolerant? 9. Is the package easy to store? If it is sold on a store shelf, are there considerations to maximize shelf exposure and additional point-ofpurchase containment?
10. What are the package’s disposability, “green” aspects, and advancements? Review the merits of recycling versus biodegradability. Reviewing these considerations against a specific brand message is also key to flexible packaging success.
Before You Manufacture Preventing a lot of future headaches is the objective prior to the manufacturing phase. Experts advise prototyping early to work out some of the more costly “do-overs” that could otherwise occur. Lab work and prototyping also have limits, caution manufacturers. According to Daniel Nielsen of Innovative Machine Corporation, “It’s best if we can touch it, feel it, hold it.” Even then, says Nielsen, “We often have to overcome problems in actual production.” Carefully examining whether a product is even capable of being processed is an actual, practical question. In a surprising number of instances, the answer is: Not as easily as you thought. Or, there are more steps, and greater cost, to the process that you imagined. Ultimately, flexible packaging manufacturers make it easier for developer-collaborators to deliver new high-value products. The proof is in the continuing march of new product rollouts into their respective markets. FP
About the Columnist: Susan Stansbury is executive director of Converting Influence and Converters Expo. Contact Susan directly via email at Susan@ConvertingInfluence.com Converting Influence LLC (920) 265-6407; www.ConvertingInfluence.com
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Q&A: Coating & Laminating (Special Advertising Section)
UNDERSTANDING AND TROUBLESHOOTING FOR PROPER COATING/LAMINATING By Erin J. Wolford, Editor-in-Chief
Q:
W hat should the ideal coating/ laminating solution do to flexible packaging film? D'Angelo: The ideal coating and
laminating solution must take into account a variety of issues, offer innovation and meet current and future market demands. Innovations help create opportunities for converters to reduce production cost while enhancing Æexible packaging
Sustainability is a common and daily discussion, inÆuenced not only by governmental regulations, but also by consumer demand. For this reason, sustainable Æexible packaging laminates will continue to be at the forefront of the market needs. Developments and improvements of materials are essential for biodegradable plastics, down-gauging, and light weighting materials. Further improvement of barrier properties and higher package strength are a few examples of where we must focus to better serve our current and target markets.
The CL 850/CL 1000 models are customized production lines for high performance coater/laminators for solventless adhesives, water and solvent based adhesives and registered cold seal applications.
laminates appeal to better compete with rigid packaging solutions, such as: corrugated, cartons and sealants. Flexible Packaging offers coating/ laminating solutions that enhance the package with high print quality and impact graphics, point of purchase shelf appeal, extended life product protection, can be re-closeable, and are cost effective.
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Q:
How do you pinpoint poor quality in coating/laminating?
D'Angelo: Poor quality in coating/
laminating is normally a result of improper machine settings and adhesive application and can be summarized, but not limited to: low bond strength and seal strength due to low coating weight; high coating weight,
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Michael D’Angelo Vice President – Web Fed Products Bobst Group North America Michael D’Angelo’s insight into the flexible packaging industry comes from his nearly 30 years in the business.
which can give the laminated structure an “Orange Peel” effect; web curling can be a direct consequence of improper web tension setting; high-retained solvents caused by either inadequate drying on the printing press or on the laminator.
Q:
What kinds of problems have this segment solved in recent years? D'Angelo: From the equipment side of
the business, Rotomec has developed the CL 850 / CL 1000 multi-technology coater/laminator. The CL 850/CL 1000 models are customized production lines for high performance coater/laminators for solventless adhesives, water and solvent based adhesives and registered cold seal applications. The key beneÅts of this technology are developments for interchangeable coating/ adhesive application processes, state of the art web tension control and innovative technology for the drying system. FP Bobst Group North America (888) 226-8000; www.bobstgroup.com
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Does it matter that we offer.. multiple laminating solutions? Or simply that our CL has the ideal solution for you? Select the system that best matches your job mix — now and in the future.
The CL 850 Laminator from Rotomec.
Having the perfect metering and coating system for your specific needs and those of your customers is what sets Rotomec apart. Each of our coating trolleys is ergonomically optimized and features fast job changeovers without tools. Our simple interchangeability of systems also insures that as your needs may change, so too will your laminator.
The Options of the CL Series Rotogravure Coating
The accuracy of gravure printing along with an interchangeable pressure system and blade provide true precision and functionality.
Bobst Group North America, Inc.
SemiFlexo / Flexo Coating
Solventless Coating
Semiflexo is regarded as the most versatile system available, while Flexo is proven as the highest quality application for coating solvent-based adhesives.
146 Harrison Avenue, Roseland, NJ 07068 -1294
Our solventless design allows for a consistently repeatable process with low waste and minimal downtime.
Tel: 888-226-8800
Supplier News
NEW EQUIPMENT UPS EFFICIENCY lobal anilox roll supplier Harper Corporation has completed installation of advanced equipment to boost efficiency at its production facilities in Charlotte, N.C. and in Green Bay, Wisc. Company officials announced their investment in innovative production machinery at the two ISO 9001:2008 Certified U.S. manufacturing sites. Upgrading manufacturing technology is integral to Harper’s continuing effort to lower energy use, cut waste, reduce packaging, conserve resources and reduce its overall imprint on the environment. “These state-of-the-art production improvements deliver benefits on two fronts,” says Ronald “Lee” Harper Kluttz, Harper vice president of manufacturing operations. “First, we enhance the efficiency of how we produce anilox rolls. Second, we advance the sustainability goals that Harper has long supported.” FP
G
Harper Corporation (704) 588-3371; www.harperimage.com
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Harper Corporation has installed new equipment at its production facilities in Charlotte, N.C. and Green Bay, Wisc.
SPEE-DEE PACKAGING MACHINERY EXPANDS TO SUPPORT INCREASED SALES
SIMCO-ION BECOMES NEW NAME IN STATIC CONTROL TECHNOLOGY
J
ames P. Navin, president of Spee-Dee Packaging Machinery, Inc., recently announced a 10,000 square foot expansion of the company’s corporate headquarters. “The significant sales growth Spee-Dee has experienced within the last several years necessitated the inclusion of the additional production space, as well as new investment in manufacturing equipment and an increase in the company’s workforce,” he says. The new space, which will be fully occupied by late June 2011, will be primarily utilized for final system assembly and pre-shipment inspection. SpeeDee has recently augmented its production resources through the installation of additional CNC equipment that enables internal manufacture of larger parts that were previously outsourced. FP
F
Spee-Dee Packaging Machinery, Inc. (877) 375-2121; www.spee-dee.com
Simco-Ion (215) 822-6401; www.simco-ion.com
FLEXIBLEPACKAGING
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or Simco Industrial, a leading international provider of electrostatic solutions, this year marks 75 years in the business, an achievement that serves as the perfect backdrop for the company’s impressive business agenda for 2011. That agenda involves a push on new product development, a continued dedication to application support, and the introduction of a new corporate identity. The new corporate identity, Simco-Ion, comes on the heels of Simco’s acquisition within the last year of Ion Systems, a technology-driven firm with electrostatic and process monitoring solutions for high technology markets such as semiconductor, disk drive and other electronic clean room manufacturing. According to Simco-Ion marketing manager Kim West, new product developments are also coming to fruition. FP
JUNE / JULY 2011
Supplier News News Briefs MOVERS, SHAKERS AND MONEY MAKERS REIFENHAUSER INC. NAMES NEW PRESIDENT The Reifenhäuser Group is pleased to announce that effective June 1, 2011, Robert Weeks has been named president of its subsidiary Reifenhauser Inc. Reifenhäuser GmbH & Co. KG Maschinenfabrik (49) (0) 2241 481-0; www.reifenhauser.com
ROLLGUARD ADDS TO SALES TEAM Rollguard has hired Terry Bagley as account manager for its southeast region. Part of Rollguard’s direct sales force, Bagley is responsible for managing customer inquires, building and fostering customer relationships, identifying prospects for growth, and working to explore other unique Rollguard applications. Rollguard
SALESP SALESPERSON FOR ASIA PACIFIC ADDED Hope Hu will rejoin the Martin Automatic sales team as its regional manager m for Asia Pacific. Martin Aut Automatic 654-4800; www.martinauto.com (815) 654-4
(800) 925-2626; www.rollguard.com
MARK ANDY INC. HIRES NEW DIRECTOR Mark Andy Inc. has hired Chris Bronikowski to serve as director of continuous improvement. In this role, Bronikowski will lead, drive and sustain the cultural and technical changes necessary to further Mark Andy's commitment to Lean manufacturing.
photo caption.... Mark Andy (636) 532-4433; www.markandy.com
Respect the Color. 4HE FUTURE OF mEXO CAN BE SEEN TODAY WITH '-' SOFTWARE SOLUTIONS THAT KEEP YOU IN CONTROL OF COLOR n FROM PREPRESS TO PRINTING &OR THE SIMULATION OF TRANSPARENT PACKAGINGS '-' OFFERS A SOLUTION WHICH ACHIEVES DRAMATIC TIME SAVINGS AND REDUCES COSTS BY UP TO COMPARED TO ANALOG SYSTEMS LIKE +ODAK !PPROVAL OR $U0ONT #ROMALIN '-' IS ON THE CUTTING EDGE OF TECHNOLOGY WITH SOFTWARE THAT SUPPORTS THE MOST CURRENT PRINTERS INCULDING %PSON 3TYLUS® 0RO AND OTHER LEADING BRANDS 2ESPECT THE COLOR !SK YOUR !6 REPRESENTATIVE FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT '-' SOFTWARE SOLUTIONS AND %PSON PRINTERS OR VISIT OUR WEB SITE
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Supplier News News Briefs MOVERS, SHAKERS AND MONEY MAKERS DUPONT PERFORMANCE POLYMERS ANNOUNCES PRICE INCREASES Due to escalating costs and continued tightness in the ingredients markets, DuPont Performance Polymers announces the following resin and elastomer price increases in North America, effective June 15, or as contracts permit: DuPont Performance Polymers (416) 545-0407; www.dupont.com
FLINT GROUP FOCUSES ON CANADIAN MARKET Flint Group considers Canada as an important market and will further expand its local presence. Flint Group Flexographic Products has added the position of regional sales manager – Canada, which will be filled by Scott Bloxham.
Focusing on the flexographic printing market, Bloxham will serve as a resource to printers and tradeshops in supporting Flint Group’s extensive line of nyloflex photopolymer printing plates, rotec sleeves and adapters. Flint Group (734) 781-4600; www.flintgrp.com
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING PROMOTION ANNOUNCED AT CONAIR Dori Raybuck, who has served in a variety of marketing roles since joining Conair in 1994, has been named director of marketing; she was promoted from her position as marketing communications manager. The Conair Group (724) 584-5500; www.conairgroup.com
World-class supplier of engineered flexible packaging
Industry leader in Sustainable Packaging A net-zero waste operation 350,000 sq. ft. campus with leading edge technology and state-of-theart equipment
Nanotechnology for High Barrier Film
230 Industrial Drive Lexington, Ohio 44904 800-884-8150 www.nextgenfilms.com
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Call us for a customized film to fit any application. JUNE / JULY 2011
)BSQFS"OJMPY3PMM
PATRIOT FUNDING CORP. ARRANGES FINANCING FOR AN 8-COLOR UTECO PRESS FOR LALLY PAK Patriot Funding Corp. arranged and funded a $2.5 million dollar transaction for an 8-Color Uteco Press for Lally Pak. Patriot Funding Corp. worked closely with Lally Pak and the bank to secure the Uteco deal, resulting in the funding of a six year note on the equipment. FP Patriot Funding Corp. (877) 264-0080; www.patriotfundingcorp.com Lally Pak (800) 523-8484; www.lallypak.com Uteco North America, Inc. (770) 427-4100; www.utecona.com
XJUICVJMUJOTVQQPSU 1FSGPSNBODFHVBSBOUFFE'SPNGPVSMPDBUJPOTBDSPTTUIFHMPCF At Harper Corporation we do more than sell anilox rolls. We deliver confidence that comes with a 100% performance guarantee, backed by a team of graphic experts, and supported by a full compliment of products and accessories. With anilox roll manufacturing and restoration facilities in Charlotte, NC; Green Bay, WI; Herford Germany and Bangkok, Thailand; Harper Corporation delivers dependable consistency no matter where you print. To learn more, call or Toll Free at Or visit our website. Americas U Europe U Asia
ANILOX ROLL DIVISION HARPERI M AGE. COM ©2011
TOYO INK SC HOLDINGS CO., LTD ESTABLISHES TOYO SC TRADING CO., LTD Toyo Ink SC Holdings Co., LTD has determined that it will establish Toyo SC Trading Co., LTD. as a subsidiary that will work as a general trading company for the Toyo Ink Group as of July 2011. The new company will cooperate with group companies in Japan and overseas to undertake imports and exports of products from Group companies such as Toyo Ink Co., LTD. and Toyo Chem Co., LTD., raw materials, indirect materials, and facilities in an integrated manner. By integrating the import and export operations, which were formerly undertaken separately by individual group companies, into this new subsidiary, the Group aims to create a global synergy network and undertake procurement and sales activities efficiently. In addition, the company positions Toyo SC Trading as a general trading company, which is actively
JUNE / JULY /2011
introducing globally competitive products from group companies in China and other Asian countries into promising emerging markets in Russia, Central and South America, and Africa, while providing comprehensive support to the overall process of establishing bases, procuring materials, and creating sales channels in those emerging markets based on research. The new company aims to achieve sales of approx. 30 billion yen from both within and outside of the group as of the end of the period. FP
Toyo Ink SC Holdings Co., LTD +81-3-3272-5720 www.toyoinkgroup.com; www.toyo-sc-trading.com
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Supplier News
PORTLAND’S PREMIER PRESS INSTALLS KOMORI EIGHT-COLOR LITHRONE Komori America Corporation, a premier manufacturer of sheetfed and web offset printing presses, has installed an eight-color, 40-inch Komori Lithrone perfecting press with UV at Premier Press of Portland, Ore. The new press features Komori’s advanced KHS-AI self-learning technology designed to trim make ready time to a minimum, optimize productivity and reduce waste, while at the same time ensuring the high level image quality that Premier’s clients have come to expect. The press replaces a 10-year-old 40-inch Komori six-color. The new LS840P offers Premier single-pass perfecting which makes it possible to cut on-press production time in half for two-sided work. Its KHS-AI management system reduces make ready times by
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enabling automatic presetting of register and color matching that permits the press to reliably attain target densities within 20 sheets at start-up. The press is also equipped with UV that helps reduce marking and adds the ability for special effects coatings. The company operates a 28-inch Komori offset press also, and offers a variety of finishing and bindery options as well as digital variable printing and ancillary services like web-to-print, warehousing and fulfillment, URL/PURL development and support, marketing campaign management, and wide-format printing. FP Komori America Corporation (847) 806-9000; www.komori-america.us/ Premier Press (503) 223-4984www.premierpress.com/
JUNE / JULY 2011
Hot Products
Pour it Out with Custom Spout-and-Pouch Combinations Today's consumers are looking for packaging that makes life easier. Something as simple as a pour spout can bump a product to the top of their purchase criteria. Custom-shaped stand-up packages with pour spouts from Flair Flexible Packaging afford producers and processors functional film packaging with vibrant 10-color custom reverse rotogravure printed graphics. Recloseable HDPE spouts are available in seven stock diameters (8mm, 10mm, 15mm, 18mm, 22mm, 28mm, and 35mm inside dimensions). Custom designed for the safe preservation of the enclosed product, these pouches protect foods and beverages, health and beauty products, pet food, cleaning solutions, lawn and garden products, and medical, industrial and chemical applications. Flair Flexible Packaging (920) 574-3121; www.flairpackaging.com
3-inch Air Mechanical Chucks for Heavy Duty Applications NimCor’s rugged 3-inch air-operated mechanical chucks with self-centering design and positive-grip lugs are easy to mount and easy to use with convenient air valve access. The chucks are ideal for heavy-duty shaftless applications with maximum torque. Positive grip lugs secure the core to the chuck with no slippage. The chuck self-centers as the lugs pneumatically expand. NimCor air mechanical chucks are also available for 6 inch cores and for special core sizes, including 5 in. and 8 in. NimCor (888) 464-6267; www.nimcor.com
Company Introduces Metallic Desktop Printer/Cutter Roland DGA Corp. has introduced the VersaStudio 20-inch metallic desktop eco-solvent printer/cutter. A complete solution, including VersaWorks professional RIP software, this solution combines all the versatility and advanced features of Roland’s latest inkjet printing technologies into a compact, affordable device. The system is designed for small productions of custom graphics. Roland DGA Corp. (800) 542-2307; www.rolanddga.com
JUNE / JULY 2011
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Hot Products UV Coating Application Expanded Anderson & Vreeland offers the OKI Data Americas’ proColor Series with a UV coating application, ideal for the flexo industry. The combination of the pro510DW Digital Color Web’s ability to produce fast, customized ng continuous web printing with Kompac Technologies’ EZ Koat UV coating hic applicator further expands the printer’s usefulness within the flexographic industry. The OKI pro510DW combines affordability and functionality, making it an ideal solution for short-run web printing. By using the pro510DW in conjunction with the additional UV coating provided through the use of EZ Koat Web 15 provides rub, fade, water and scratch-resistance to the printed materials, which is advantageous for multiple applications. A&V recently began distributing the OKI proColorr Series of printers within the United States because of its strategic fit within the flexographic industry. Anderson & Vreeland, Inc. (866) 282-7697; www.AndersonVreeland.com
High Quality Flexo Press Now Offered Retroflex now offers a high-end flexographic press that includes as standard, features that were only available on much larger and more expensive machines. The K-Series Ultra stack or inline press provides for 1 – 8 colors in both in-line and off-line applications. Whether working with your bag machine, extruder, downstream of your main press, or located between an unwind and rewind as a stand alone line, the K-Series Ultra offers high quality servo performance and faster job changes at an affordable price. The K-Series Ultra standard features include Retroflex chambered blade systems, servo roll positioning, servo side register and individual servo motors for each anilox, plate and impression roll. Also included as standard are sleeved anilox and plate rolls with on-press sleeve changes. All of these standard features allow for fast and easy job changes, improved performance and increased productivity. Speeds are typically 1200 FPM or higher under certain conditions. Please contact Retroflex, Inc. for further information about the K-Series Ultra capabilities.
Nip Roll Modules for Web Handling Converter Accessory Corporation (CAC) now designs and manufactures both standard and custom precision, air loaded nip roll modules. These air loaded nip modules allow precise sideto-side gap adjustment, independent of precise pneumatic pressure adjustment. They can be supplied as non-driven or with complete drive systems. All feature plate steel framework and may be supplied with either dual side frames or cantilevered for narrow width applications. Converter Accessory Corporation (800) 433-2413; www.converteraccessory.com
Retroflex, Inc. (920) 532-4850; www.retroflex.com
Flexo Plate Quality Control Application Launched Troika Systems has successfully launched its new Flexo Plate Quality Control application replacing the original FlexoCAM dot size and shape profile tool. The FlexoPlate QC is an application used with the AniCAM 3D scanning microscope. It enables the analysis of dot size and shape as well as checking the exposure & washout of plates. Flexo plates are 3 dimensional; therefore, the dot profile or shape is an essential factor for reliable and efficient printing. Troika Systems Limited +44 1793 766 355; www.troika-systems.com
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Tension Amplifier Released Dover Flexo Electronics, Inc (DFE), manufacturer of web tension control equipment, announces the release of the TwinAmp Dual Tension Amplifier, which gives flexible packaging printers and converters two tension measurement amplifiers in a single device. Two isolated amplifier circuits on a single rack-mountable card can be used to monitor tension accurately from two transducer positions in the web path at the same time. The unit’s ultra-stable isolation circuitry is based on the company’s proven TI17C technology. Two isolated circuits in a single package are used to amplify and monitor the tension signals output from two transducer positions in the web path simultaneously, for connection to a PLC, or to drives or controllers. Dover Flexo Electronics (603) 332-6150; www.dfe.com
Advanced Rotary Die Cutting System Available e CMD has designed an advanced rotary die cut system for the highspeed production of popular consumer and institutional "handle tie" trash bags. The Model 0229RDC Rotary Die Cut System allows converters to produce popular, easy close and carry bags in an efficient, integrated process with no need to add twist-tie closures or drawstring. The unit offers precise cutting at speeds up to 600 fpm (183 mpm) and produces a variety of die cuts for handle bags. The unit can run in line with a film extruder or out of line from an optional unwind system from parent film rolls. CMD Corporation (920) 209-0180; www.cmd-corp.com
Roll Refurbishing Available Refurbishing older rolls with can save time and money and improve roll performance that directly affects product/web quality and line speeds. PFE’s roll repair services include welding or sleeving damaged journals, total journal replacement, bearing replacement, and surface refinishing. Worn roll surfaces can also be rebuilt using special welding techniques to achieve original diameters. Stainless steel can be added for greater corrosion resistance or a harder roll surface. PFE Rolls, Inc. (978) 544-7803; www.pferolls.com
Center/Surface Slitter Rewinder with Significant Versatility REM Model 3750 is a highly versatile, duplex center/surface slitter/rewinder designed to handle paper, laminates, non-wovens, fabrics, pressure sensitive tapes and label stocks. The Model 3750 incorporates automatic minimum gap, programmed surface, center surface, programmed differential and locked core winding techniques all within the same machine. The 3750 runs web widths from 50 to 84 inches, web tensions of ¼ to 4 PLI, unwind/rewind diameters up to 48 inches, and web speeds to 1,500 FPM. Score, razor and shear slitting to ½ inch wide is common. Available with cantilevered or lift out rewind mandrels and optional removable shear slitting modules (shown) to set up alternate slit patterns while machine is running for minimal down time during slit width changes. REM (920) 729-6666; www.rem-mfg.com
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Get your ticket to the best show in Vegas – and the best show in the industry! Attending CPP EXPO means, you’re attending the best show in the industry. It’s where you’ll have the opportunity to meet face-to-face with your customers and your suppliers. All at one time. And in one place. It’s the most cost effective way to grow your business.
Now that you know what happens in Vegas, you’ve got no excuse. Be a part of the best business building event of 2011 – CPP EXPO. And grow your business.
Register Now! for September 26-28, 2011 Las Vegas Convention Center Las Vegas, Nevada USA Co-located with
1/2 THE FEE (Only for a limited time)
Visit CPPEXPO.com For more info on exhibiting, contact Leo Nadolske at CPP EXPO 201.881.1632 Email:
[email protected]
In Europe contact: Ria Van den Bogaert +32 2 569 8905 or email:
[email protected]
CPP EXPO is produced and managed by HA BRUNO LLC.
To place your classified ad in Flexible Packaging call Diana Rotman at 847-405-4116 Fax: 248-502-9083 E-mail:
[email protected] CAREER OPPORTUNITY
Manufacturers Reps Wanted One of the Northeast’s largest Flexible Packaging Companies is looking for experienced brokers. Our capabilities include: • Up to 10 Color Process Printing • 80” Wide Web Printing • Laminating • Slitting • Converting & Pouch Making
LOOKING FOR MANUFACTURER DIRECT REPS/ BROKERS
An expanding company based in the Northeast, with multi-location facilities, is looking to establish relationships with manufacturers’ representatives, brokers and direct representatives (expense & commission) in all regions. Our focus is in developing markets for our Barrier, Thermoforming and other value added products. Our Capabilities include: • 3,5,7 Layer Co-Extruded Film • Printing (8 Color) • Lamination (Solventless, Water, Solvent) • Pouching (Stand-up, Zipper, Center, 3 Side)
packaging specialists since 1898
Send Resume To:
[email protected]
Please direct your inquiries and resume to:
[email protected]
RECRUITMENT
PET / BON / PLA FILM
320 Remington Blvd., Bolingbrook, IL 60440 Phone: 630-226-9800 / Fax: 630-226-9400 Toll Free: 1-888-PET-FILM Website: www.PetFilm.com
WANTED TO BUY
WE BUY LAMINATE SCRAP • FOIL SCRAP • FILM SCRAP • PAPER SCRAP
ADVERTISE HERE Flexible Packaging Classifieds Call Diana Rotman: 847-405-4116 or email:
[email protected]
JUNE / JULY 2011
We Also Buy Surplus Rolls CONNECTICUT METAL INDUSTRIES (203) 736-0790 •
[email protected] • www.foilfoil.com
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To place your classified ad in Flexible Packaging call Diana Rotman at 847-405-4116 Fax: 248-502-9083 E-mail:
[email protected] SUPPLIES
Impex International Group LP Importer/Exporter/Converter/Distributor of all types of Industrial, Packaging and Specialty Films.
✷ ✷ ✷ “Excellent Customer Service, Prompt Deliveries & Competitive Pricing”✷ ✷ ✷ POLYESTER FILMS Corona / Chemical treated Industrial Grades Packaging / Metallizing Thermal Lamination / Matte Graphics / Antistatic Coated Wire and Cable Wrap PVDC Coated Milky and Opaque White Hot Stamping / Roll Leaf Metallized / Pigmented Sealable / Ovenable
BOPP FILMS Coextruded Plain / Tape Pearlized / White Anti Fog Metallizing / Metallized PVDC Coated / Acrylic Print Lamination/ Matte Labels / Decals Holographic Thermal Lamination Synthetic Paper/Teslin
BIAX NYLON FILMS Clear Metallized PVDC Coated CAST NYLON FILMS Thermoforming Non Forming HOLOGRAPHIC FILMS Polyester / BOPP Patterns METALLIZED LACQUERED FILMS Polyester / Polypropylene
PAPERS PP Based Synthetic Direct / Transfer Metalized Holographic Metalized Wet Strength (Beer Labels) CPP FILMS Metallized Lamination Retort Twist Soft Blister Textile grade
• Thickness range: 20-1400 gauge (5 - 350 micron) • Width range: 3/8 inch - 88 inches Converting Capabilities: Custom Slitting, Custom Sheeting, Label Printing & Packaging/Board Laminations. Warehouses: Bedford Park, IL; Atlanta, GA; Simpsonville, SC; Trenton, NJ; Milbury, MA; Houston, TX
CORPORATE OFFICE: 2801 W. SAM HOUSTON PKWY, N., SUITE 100, HOUSTON, TX 77043 USA PH: (281) 416-4449 • FAX: (281) 416-4989 • EMAIL:
[email protected] • WEB SITE: WWW.IMPEXFILMS.COM ----- SEEKING NATIONWIDE
AND
WORLDWIDE SALES REPS -----
Aluminum Foil Gauge: from 0.00022” to 0.157” Dingsheng Aluminum USA Office: Raymond Xu Tel: 804-690-3483 Email:
[email protected] www.dingshenggroup.com
SERVICES
SPECIALIZING IN : • Manufacturing of Custom Bags/ Pouches for the Packaging Industry. • Converting your FILM into high-quality Custom Bags / Pouches.
Lotar LLC Tel: 920/465-6678 Fax: 920/465-7262
[email protected] www.lotarenterprises.com 1221 Bellevue St., Green Bay, WI 54302
[email protected] www.kleerpak.com 630-543-0208 ext. 102
Converter’s Converter Since 1977
320 S. La Londe Ave. Addison, IL 60101
AIB CERTIFIED | EXCELLENCE THROUGH DILIGENCE
Advertise in the Flexible Packaging
Classified Network !! Call Diana Rotman at 847-405-4116 or
[email protected]
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JUNE / JULY 2011
To place your classified ad in Flexible Packaging call Diana Rotman at 847-405-4116 Fax: 248-502-9083 E-mail:
[email protected] SUPPLIES
ROLLERS
We make Roll Cores Large and Small and Rubber Cover in every type of Rubber. OEM Specialists.
Menges Roller is an all inclusive Rubber Covering and New Core Manufacturer
Toll Free: (888) 856-1753 / Fax: (847) 487-8897
Equipment to sell? Services to provide? Positions to fill? Advertise in Flexible Packaging's Classified Network
www.mengesroller.com FILM
MATERIALS WANTED
Polyester Film 48 GA-1400 GA
Plain, Coated, Colors! Slit, Sheet & Die Cut 877-838-1702
www.plasticconnections.com
Contact Diana Rotman at 847-405-4116 or
[email protected]
ADVERTISE HERE IN FLEXIBLE PACKAGING'S CLASSIFIEDS
GRAPHICS
PLASTIC CORE PLUGS
Contact Diana Rotman at 847-405-4116 or email:
[email protected]
SCREEN GRAPHICS
Screen-printed and Thermal Die Cut Decals, Bumper Stickers, Corrugated Signs 800-848-4462 www.inovarscreen.com
JUNE / JULY 2011
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To place your classified ad in Flexible Packaging call Diana Rotman at 847-405-4116 Fax: 248-502-9083 E-mail:
[email protected] SERVICES
Roll-Fed SOLUTIONS
Quality, Experience &Value ALL ROLLED INTO ONE! At Contract Converting, we’re focused on anticipating your needs to professionally deliver quality converting solutions at a moment’s notice. Custom slitting. Roll finishing. Distribution and packaging. We have the experience, products and capabilities to handle your most complex challenges. (On time. Anytime.) Papers, film, foil, laminates, tissue, non-wovens, plain or printed...let Contract Converting’s experienced professionals provide solutions to your specialized converting needs. Boost your bottom line with services and solutions designed exclusively for you. Visit www.ContractConverting.com or call us toll-free at 800-734-0990.
SUPPLIES
ADVERTISE HERE Flexible Packaging Classifieds Call Diana Rotman: 847-405-4116 or email:
[email protected]
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE
Advertise in the Flexible Packaging Classified Network !! Call Diana Rotman at 847-405-4116 or
[email protected]
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JUNE JULY 2011
To place your classified ad in Flexible Packaging call Diana Rotman at 847-405-4116 Fax: 248-502-9083 E-mail:
[email protected] SERVICES
E-3 Epoxy
OOPS...
CORONA TREATER ROLL COATING
Contract Printing & Laminating
+++ +++ ++ + + + GUARANTEED +
80” Wide Web Printing
Roll Printers, Have You Ever Left Out a New Wt. or Some Other Printed Image and Rendered Your Otherwise Perfect Print Job Worthless?
Call us or send your rolls to:
Capable of printing on: Polyester • Nylon • PE Non-Wovens • Paper • OPP • Full Laboratory • Excellent Process Control • Well documented Quality Assurance Program
SOLO SYSTEMS, INC. 4001 Industrial Street Rowlett,TX 75088
We Will Add This For You in Register and Restore the Job to its Original Value. Cover-up and Reprint Also Possible.
800/259-5570 • fax: 972/475-5128
••• Don J. Kemps LLC •••
Cincinnati Convertors, Inc.
Post-Print Dept. • 1730 Cleneay Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45212 • (513) 731-6600 www.cincinnaticonvertors.com
Exclusive Agent in the U.S. and Canada for M.A.L.I. Hole Punching Apparatus "MALI is the world leader for punching holes in poly, paper or foil"
Other Available Services: Converting • Pouch Making • Slitting Laminating • 10-Color Process Printing Please Call or email: Michael Kauffman 800-556-6454 ext 417
[email protected]
N5949 Cordy Road Cell: 920-850-3546 Hilbert, WI 54129 Fax: 920-439-1253 Email:
[email protected]
flexpackmag.com Ad Index COMPANY NAME
PAGE
WEB SITE
45
www.americanprofol.comcom
Andantex USA, Inc.
24
www.andantex.com
Anderson & Vreeland
53
www.AndVre.com
Badger Plug
26
www.badgerplug.com
Bobst Group N.A., Inc.
51
CMD Corporation
COMPANY NAME
PAGE
WEB SITE
COMPANY NAME
PAGE
WEB SITE
Next Generation Films, Inc.
54
www.nextgenfilms.com
Pearl Technologies
3, 49
www.pearltechinc.com
PMMI/Pack Expo
43
PPC Techonologies & Solutions
7
www.ppcts.com
Retroflex, Inc.
17
www.retroflex.com
2
www.sam-na.com www.schoberusa.com
42
www.fivesgroup.com/fivesna
Flexible Packaging Association
13
www.flexpack.org
Flxon
33
www.flxon.com
Graph Expo
35
www.graphexpo.com
www.bobstgroup.com
Harper Corporation of America
55
www.harperimage.com
29
www.cmd-corp.com
Hosakawa Alpine America
19
www.halpine.com
SAM North Americas LLC
Coim USA, Inc
23
www.coimgroup.com
Schober USA, Inc.
56
CPP Expo
60
www.cpp.com
Simco Industrial Static Control
28
www.simco-ion.com
Danafilms, Inc.
9
www.danafilms.com
Southern Film Extruders
47
www.southernfilm.com
Eckart American Corporation
67
www.eckart.net
The Dow Chemical Company
5
www.dow.com
EFI Radius Solutions
25
www.efi.com/radius
Totani America, Inc.
46
www.totaniamerica.com
Elba USA
36
www.elbausa.com
Uteco North America
37
www.uteco.com
EREMA North America
22
www.erema.net
Windmoeller & Hoelscher
39
www.whcorp.com
American Profol, Inc.
Fives North America
ISO Poly Films, Inc.
15
www.isopoly.com
Jemmco, Inc.
31
www.jemmco.com
Mamata Machinery USA
27
www.mamatausa.com
Max Daetwyler Corporation
16
www.daetwyler-usa.com
Meech International
41
www.meech.com
Modern Manufacturing Services
40
www.modernmfg.net
NEX Performance Films
BC
www.nex-films.com
Reader & Marketing Services LETTERS Erin J Wolford Mail: Flexible Packaging 155 Pfingsten Road Deerfield, IL 60015 E-mail:
[email protected] SINGLE COPY SALES BACK ISSUES Ann Kalb E-mail:
[email protected] Call: (248) 244-6499 VOLUME REPRINTS Deb Soltesz E-mail:
[email protected] Call: (248) 786-1596
PRINT & INTERNET ADVERTISING Mike Barr E-mail:
[email protected] Call: (630) 801-4152 Randy Green E-mail:
[email protected] Call: (248) 244-6498 CUSTOM PUBLISHING John Schrei E-mail:
[email protected] Call: (248) 786-1637 SUBSCRIPTIONS P.O. Box 1080 Skokie, IL 60076 E-mail:
[email protected] Call: (847) 763-9534
LIST RENTAL For postal information: Rob Liska E-mail:
[email protected] Call: (800) 223-2194 ext. 726 For e-mail information: Shawn Kingston E-mail:
[email protected] Call: (800) 409-4443 ext. 828 CLASSIFIED SALES Diana Rotman E-mail:
[email protected] Call: (847) 405-4116
T H E I N D I S P E N S A B L E T O O L F O R C O N V E R T E R S & P R I N T E R S O F F L E X I B L E PA C K A G I N G
®
BNP Media 155 Pfingsten Road, Suite 205 Deerfield, Illinois 60015 (847) 405-4000 Fax: (847) 405-4100
www.packexpo.com/brandzone
Also publishers of: Beverage Industry, BrandPackaging, Candy Industry, Dairy Foods, Food & Beverage Packaging, Food Engineering, Food Master, Industria Alimenticia, The National Provisioner, Nutrasolution, Prepared Foods, Private Label Buyer, Refrigerated & Frozen Foods Retailer and Snack Food & Wholesale Bakery.
FLEXIBLE PACKAGING (ISSN 1535-0797) is published 10 times annually, Jan/Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun/Jul, Aug, Sept, Oct, Nov, and Dec, by BNP Media II, L.L.C., 2401 W. Big Beaver Rd., Suite 700, Troy, MI 48084-3333. Telephone: (248) 362-3700, Fax: (248) 362-0317. No charge for subscriptions to qualified individuals. Annual rate for subscriptions to nonqualified individuals in the U.S.A.: $178.00 USD. Annual rate for subscriptions to nonqualified individuals in Canada: $216.00 USD (includes GST & postage); all other countries: $228.00 (Int’l mail) payable in U.S. funds. Printed in the U.S.A. Copyright 2011, by BNP Media II, L.L.C. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the consent of the publisher. The publisher is not responsible for product claims and representations. Periodicals Postage Paid at Troy, MI and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: FLEXIBLE PACKAGING, P.O. Box 1080, Skokie, IL 60076. Change of address: Send old address label along with new address to FLEXIBLE PACKAGING, P.O. Box 1080, Skokie, IL 60076. Canada Post: Publications Mail Agreement #40612608. GST account: 131263923. Send returns (Canada) to Pitney Bowes, P.O.Box 25542, London, ON, N6C 6B2. For single copies or back issues: contact Ann Kalb at (248) 244-6499 or
[email protected]
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Industry Q&A: Workflow Management
THE BENEFITS OF AN MIS SOLUTION With so much competition out there in the printing world, printers are required now, more than ever, to provide the best quality product for the best price. To guarantee this, while at the same time ensuring that all your plants are working at full capacity, an end-to-end integrated solution should be considered. Gerard Marneth, chief executive ofÅcer of DiMS!, an MIS software company, focuses on business development, the formation of innovative marketing strategies, and serving as the top-level liaison to his prestigious clientele.
Q:
efÅciently through one system. Multi-site handling of quotes, plus orders and scheduling jobs are drastically easier to coordinate and manage when using an enterprise-wide MIS system. Planning control: Increased operational speed and efÅciency results are achieved, because order information is available across the entire supply chain. Planning can be done much more efÅciently through the MIS, and as a result, management decisions are now made based on real-time, relevant information and potential downtime can now be better utilized.
What exactly is an MIS solution? What can a system like this do for a company?
A:
Print Management Information Systems (MIS) are dedicated to managing the entire print process. Print service providers of all sizes and kinds use MIS to streamline processes, improve productivity and lower costs. But the key beneÅt of an MIS enterprise solution is the ability of the system to have a single entry point for a multi-site order, where the system will automatically create and manage the inter-site purchasing, transport requirements, invoicing and Ånancial transactions. It also gives companies the tools to monitor and lower stock levels, utilize different work centers, reduce buffers, reduce head counts and compare prices internally across multiple sites. These, among many other advantages, provide Æexibility, improve workÆows, and, above all, deliver almost no overhead.
Q:
So how exactly can an MIS enterprise solution guarantee the best quality for the best price?
A:
Single Entry Point: One integrated enterprise-wide system means one server with one control center. This equals reduced data entry and limited administrative requirements to control and monitor multi-site interaction. The system calculates the easiest and most cost-effective manufacturing plan across all the locations, also taking the location of customers into account. This type of enterprise system results in major cost savings and enables clear, accurate communication - both internally and across the entire enterprise. It also creates a substantial decrease in errors because of the end-toend integration of all processes. Comprehensive Overviews: An MIS enterprise system provides the ability to examine one complete overview of the day-to-day operations and capacity levels at all sites. It provides a detailed look into a multi-site job via a complete overview or independently per site. For example, cost accounting and controlling across multiple sites is now accomplished quickly and
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A Print Management Information System (MIS) can connect the entire workflow chain, from one production facility to another. An MIS allows all involved in the production process to be able to access and share information quickly, clearly and accurately.
Quick ReÆexes: The MIS system should enable an enterprise to react quicker to its environment, enabling quick changes, pushing out ahead of the competition and producing a better service. An enhanced scheduling board captures realtime information across departments, plants and even international borders. This optimizes the typical production time, giving users the best scenarios to manage the plant thereby maximizing cost savings. Web-based Application: The software allows the customer to directly upload orders to the web-based server, no matter where they are in the world. Details of the order or enquiry can be effectively delivered to multiple areas of the company or companies relevant to the process. A MIS enterprise system provides numerous ways for a printer to beneÅt and is crucial for multi-plant companies who want to optimize their printing businesses and be aware of all their resources. FP DiMS! organizing print (630) 922-5021; www.dims.net
JUNE / JULY 2011
The ECKART effect – added value for brilliant results. PLATINSTAR® Silver, a new solvent-based silver metallic ink for gravure & flexo printing that provides mirror-like effects at greatly reduced costs. This brand new technology gives designs that special touch and makes them real eye-catchers, guaranteeing the most emotional reactions. PLATINSTAR® Silver is especially designed to expand the possibilities of brilliant metallics in applications that were previously off limits. ECKART is the world’s leading manufacturer of metallic pigments for the graphic arts industry. Innovation, research and the constant further development of our products ensure that we remain so! ECKART – take the brilliant way. For further information, please contact: ECKART America Corporation · 830 East Erie Street · Painesville, Ohio 44077 USA Tel: 440-954-7600 · Fax: 440-354-6224 ·
[email protected] · www.eckart.net
