• Home
  • Article
    • Article Archive
    • Digital Archive
    • ENews Archive
  • Buyers Guide
    • Buyers Guide
    • 2025 Online Form
  • Advertising
    • Ad Options
    • Media Kit
    • Editorial Calendar
    • Electronic Files
  • Awards
    • FSEA Gold Leaf
  • Subscribe
  • Video Vault
  • Webinars
  • Amplify
  • Contact
  • Events
    .smi-preview#smi-preview-10580 { --smi-column-gap: 10px; --smi-row-gap: 20px; --smi-color: #ffffff; --smi-hover-color: #90c43c; ; ; --smi-border-width: 0px; ; --smi-border-radius: 0%; --smi-border-color: #3c434a; --smi-border-hover-color: #3c434a; --smi-padding-top: 15px; --smi-padding-right: 0px; --smi-padding-bottom: 0px; --smi-padding-left: 0px; --smi-font-size: 20px; --smi-horizontal-alignment: flex-end; --smi-hover-transition-time: 1s; ; }
    • Skip to main content
    • Skip to secondary menu
    • Advertise
    • Subscribe
    • Contact
    • Events
      PostPress

      PostPress

      Print Decorating, Binding and Finishing

      • Home
      • Articles
        • Article Archive
        • Digital Archive
        • ENews Archive
      • Advertising
        • Ad Options
        • Media Kit
        • Editorial Calendar
        • Electronic Files
      • Buyers Guide
        • Buyers Guide
        • 2025 Online Form
      • Awards
        • FSEA Gold Leaf
      • Subscribe
      • Video Vault
      • Webinars
        • Upcoming Webinars
      • Amplify

        Cori Watkins

        HEIDELBERG and Gallus Announce Commercial Availability of Gallus MatteJet

        March 28, 2025

        Press release submitted on behalf of HEIDELBERG and Gallus

        • Gallus MatteJet-powered in-line matte finishing brings digital inkjet labels to profitable premium wine and spirits segments worth over $3.5 billion
        • Gallus MatteJet supports Gallus’ ‘System to Compose’ concept, offering customers flexible technology to adapt to market challenges – future-proofing their investment and driving new growth opportunities
        • New technology introduction further supports industry drive towards a thriving landscape of ‘smart, connected, printing’

        Gallus Group, a subsidiary of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (HEIDELBERG), St. Gallen, Switzerland, has announced at Gallus Wine Label Days, the global commercial availability of its new matte finishing technology for the Gallus One, Gallus MatteJet. For the first time, this innovative technology allows converters to produce profitable digital labels inline with a high-end matte finish at the touch of a button – set to boost digital adoption in the growing wine label segment.

        Initially unveiled as a research breakthrough at Labelexpo Americas 2024, strong market demand led Gallus to fast-track the development of Gallus MatteJet. Achieving a premium look by removing the traditional digitally printed gloss finish, historically one of the foremost barriers to digital label adoption, Gallus MatteJet paves the way for broader use in labels and packaging – particularly in high-end segments like wine and spirits where brands demand a sophisticated, premium matte finish. With the value of the global wine label market estimated at over $3.5 billion and on a steady growth trajectory, projected to reach $5.8 billion by 2033, the new technology delivers a significant opportunity for converters to tap into a lucrative new revenue stream.1

        Dario Urbinati, CEO, Gallus Group comments: “Gallus and HEIDELBERG are delighted to announce the commercial launch of Gallus MatteJet technology and the opportunity it represents. Until now, matte finishing for digital inkjet has only been achievable through the addition of integrated flexo units or post-processing equipment to utilize matte coatings – adding time, complexity and cost. Now, by eliminating the need for these types of varnishes, customers can unlock various efficiencies whilst retaining the surface texture of their desired substrate. This also in hand eliminates any required tooling and cleaning of coating machinery, adding up to a significant overall benefit.

        “Three years ago, with the launch of the Gallus One, we addressed the TCO barrier to profitable digital labels. With MatteJet, we’ve taken this concept further, bringing all the advantages of digitally printed matte labels to premium brands – including short runs, reduced inventory, enhanced sustainability, personalization, and on-demand printing. These strategic developments demonstrate our commitment to closing the gap between the vast promise of digital technologies and the current reality for businesses across our industry. Making the embrace of digital solutions an accessible and profitable path for more converters and further supporting the drive towards ‘smart, connected, printing’, this innovation effectively completes the circle for premium digital labels.”

        Gallus MatteJet is designed to integrate effortlessly with the Gallus One, the company’s flagship digital label press. The new innovation can now be incorporated into both the 340mm printing width and the newly-expanded 430mm web width, further enhancing the System to Compose concept and boosting performance and flexibility for businesses. Offering a modular blend of workflow and service options as well as equipment, System to Compose provides compatibility across Gallus’ leading product lines and enables converters to cost effectively adapt their technology offering to meet changing market needs for long term success. Furthermore, this new addition to Gallus’ ecosystem further strengthens the future of ‘smart, connected printing’ by embracing the shift towards new digital technological advancements and reinventing processes across multiple areas in the printing industry.

        Gallus MatteJet also represents the latest innovation from the Gallus Experience Center, launched two years ago as an industry touchpoint to foster innovation through collaboration. Now a valued hub for education, training, R&D and industry advancement, the Center has served as the incubator for a number of pivotal technology and business partnerships, uniting industry leaders. Among them, one of Gallus’ longest-standing partners, GEW, even played a role in the development of Gallus MatteJet – demonstrating the power of collaboration in driving innovation and delivering effective, real-world solutions that drive the industry forward.

        Dario Urbinati concludes, “It has been incredible to witness the enthusiastic response to Gallus MatteJet from our customers and to share in their excitement. We believe MatteJet exemplifies the innovation, expertise, and customer focus that Gallus and HEIDELBERG bring to the industry. We look forward to seeing its impact on the market and the opportunities it facilitates for label businesses.”

        The launch of the new digital technology reflects HEIDELBERG’s position as a total solution provider for all modern printing processes – offering the entire spectrum from toner to inkjet, offset printing to flexo and all controlled from a common Prinect workflow. As a subsidiary, Gallus remains an important pillar in the company’s growth strategy for the packaging and label market and will continue to play a key role in the HEIDELBERG future.

        About Gallus
        Gallus Group, a subsidiary of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (HEIDELBERG) with production facilities in Switzerland and Germany, is a leading company in the development, production of conventional and digital narrow-web, reel-fed presses designed for the label and packaging business. The machine portfolio is augmented by a broad range of screen printing plates (Gallus Screeny), globally decentralised service operations, and a broad offering of printing accessories and replacement parts, as well as consulting services. Products and services of the Gallus brand are distributed through the global HEIDELBERG Sales and Service network. Gallus employs around 300 people, of whom 160 are based in Switzerland, where the company has its headquarters in St. Gallen. For more information, visit www.gallus-group.com.

        With a clear focus on growth, HEIDELBERG as a total solution provider is driving further development in the core areas of packaging and digital printing, software solutions and the lifecycle business with service and consumables so that customers can achieve maximum productivity and efficiency. The company is also focusing on expanding into new business areas such as high-precision plant engineering with

        Matik, Inc. Welcomes Arturo Felipe as New Field Service Technician

        March 28, 2025

        Press release submitted on behalf of Matik

        Felipe’s expertise in electro-mechanical systems to enhance Matik’s commitment to service and customer satisfaction

        Matik, Inc., West Hartford, Connecticut, a provider of innovative industrial solutions, announced the addition Arturo Felipe to its team as a Field Service Technician. With extensive expertise in electro-mechanical systems, troubleshooting and preventive maintenance, Felipe brings a wealth of experience that will enhance Matik’s commitment to exceptional service and customer satisfaction.

        Felipe has a strong background in industrial automation and field service, having previously worked as an Electro-Mechanical Technician at Witron, where he specialized in maintaining and repairing automated systems, including cranes and conveyors. His hands-on expertise in PLC/HMI controls, industrial networking and quality control processes makes him an asset in optimizing equipment performance and minimizing downtime for Matik’s customers.

        In addition to his technical acumen, Felipe’s experience as a Senior Customer Care Technician at Cornerstone Automation Systems (CASI) has honed his problem-solving skills and ability to deliver top-tier customer support. His proficiency in troubleshooting complex automation issues
        and engaging cross-functional teams ensures seamless service solutions for clients.

        “We are excited to welcome Arturo to the Matik team,” said Steve Leibin, President at Matik. “His extensive field service experience, technical expertise, and dedication to customer success align perfectly with our mission to provide top-tier service and support to our clients.”

        Felipe’s role at Matik will focus on servicing and maintaining high-performance industrial equipment, troubleshooting technical issues and ensuring maximum uptime for customers in various industries. His ability to work under pressure and adapt to evolving technologies makes him an excellent addition to Matik’s growing service team. For more information about Matik and its services, visit www.matik.com.

        About Matik, Inc.
        Matik, Inc. is the exclusive and leading North American supplier for premier European equipment used for acrylic/LED backlighting, commercial printing, converting, folding carton, labels, RFID and security tags, transdermal drug delivery and more. Matik’s factory-trained technicians provide preventive maintenance for equipment, and expert staff performs quality inspections, diagnosis, repairs and aftercare. Headquartered in Connecticut, Matik has been in business for over 45 years.

        Verified Study Shows Metsä Board Paperboard Can Reduce Carbon Footprint

        March 28, 2025

        Press release submitted on behalf Metsä Board

        According to a recent life cycle assessment* conducted by Metsä Board, switching from white-lined chipboard (WLC) to Metsä Board’s folding boxboard can reduce the carbon footprint of food packaging by over 60%. The LCA study, which compared MetsäBoard Classic FBB to corresponding grades available in European markets, was verified by the IVL Swedish Environmental Research Institute.

        The carbon footprint reduction is possible due to the high share of fossil-free energy used in Metsä Board’s manufacturing process and the lighter weight of fresh fiber paperboards. Although Metsä Board folding boxboards are typically lighter than similar products made of recycled fibers, they retain the durability and functional properties of traditional heavier grades thanks to the fresh wood fibers used in their production.

        “Over the past year, we have completed verified LCA assessments across three key packaging segments, which include beauty care, healthcare, and now food packaging,” says Anne Uusitalo, Product Safety and Sustainability Director at Metsä Board. “These comprehensive studies offer brand owners fact-based data and insights into the potential of our paperboards, helping them make informed decisions on how they can reduce the carbon footprint of their packaging as well as their Scope 3 emissions.”

        In January, Metsä Board published similar verified assessments comparing its products to other board grades used for beauty care packaging. Last March, it completed verified assessments for its paperboards used in pharmaceutical packaging.

        *) Assessments follow procedural and methodological requirements of ISO 14025 and are consistent with ISO 14040 and 14044 standards. The selected system boundary for the study was cradle-to-gate + end-of-life and selected climate change impact methodology was EF3.1 Climate Change – total. Climate change impacts for competing materials utilizes data from Sphera LCA for Packaging, which seeks to represent general products in the European market. The technical background report and the 3rd party verification statement are available on Metsä Board’s website.

        Metsä Board
        Metsä Board is a producer of lightweight and high-quality folding boxboards, food service boards and white kraftliners. The fresh wood fibres we use in our products are a renewable and recyclable resource, that can be traced back to Northern European forests. We aim to have completely fossil-free mills and raw materials by the end of 2030. We promote a culture of diversity, equality and inclusion.

        Metsä Board is listed on the Nasdaq Helsinki. In 2024 our sales totalled EUR 1.9 billion, and we have around 2,300 employees. Metsä Board is part of Metsä Group, whose parent company Metsäliitto Cooperative is owned by over 90,000 Finnish forest owners. For more information, visit www.metsagroup.com/metsaboard/.

        IMPACK Announces Strategic Partnership with Camporese and SBM

        March 27, 2025

        Press release submitted on behalf of IMPACK

        IMPACK, Quebec, Canada, announced a strategic collaboration with Camporese Macchine Grafiche S.P.A. and SBM S.R.L., delivering a seamless, one-stop shopping experience to packaging producers across Italy. This partnership brings together three industry leaders, each known for their expertise, to offer tailored, high-performance packaging solutions that drive efficiency, maximize productivity, and ensure long-term value.

        “This partnership is about more than just equipment—it’s about providing a complete solution,” said Mathieu Tremblay, Managing Director of IMPACK. “By working together with Camporese and SBM, we’re making it easier for Italian packaging producers to integrate automation, optimize their folder-gluer lines, and get the expert support they need to keep production running smoothly.”

        Camporese has been a trusted name in the Italian printing and packaging industry for over 70 years. Known for their deep industry expertise, they specialize in sourcing and supplying high-quality, “like new” refurbished printing and packaging equipment. Through this partnership, Italian producers can now seamlessly pair their folder-gluers with IMPACK’s automated packers, ensuring their finishing line is optimized for efficiency.

        “We chose our partners very carefully,” explained Bruno Camporese, CEO of Camporese Macchine Grafiche S.P.A. “When you enter Camporese you immediately realize that the focus is on the customer, and in SBM you find the same mentality. They take the same meticulous care when making technical interventions and providing technical assistance. Our customers expressed the need to increase the speed of the end-of-line operations of the folder-gluer. IMPACK is a manufacturer of excellence, having many years of experience in the sector.”

        SBM technicians will provide expert local support, including start-up assistance, training, and ongoing service. This ensures packaging producers can implement automation quickly and effectively, maximizing the productivity of their folder-gluer lines without disruption.

        As part of the partnership, clients will be able to schedule live demos and tests at the SBM showroom near Milan. Marie-Soleil Boutet, Area Sales Manager at IMPACK, highlighted why the Italian market is the perfect setting for this demonstration:

        “The Italian packaging market is incredibly diverse, from major global players to numerous small-to-medium size producers handling a variety of box types in smaller runs. The ERGOSA Packer is the perfect fit for this reality—its minimal setup time and ability to process all kinds of boxes give these businesses the versatility they need to stay competitive and efficient.”

        Get Hands-On with Automation at Print4All
        IMPACK, Camporese, and SBM are bringing a fully interactive, hands-on experience to Print4All in Milan from May 27 to 30, 2025. Visitors will have the exclusive opportunity to operate it themselves—packing boxes and experiencing its efficiency firsthand.

        This live, interactive demonstration is designed to show industry professionals exactly how the ERGOSA packer optimizes production, reduces manual labor, and enhances workflow automation. Instead of just watching, attendees can step into the operator’s role and get a feel for how simple, fast, and ergonomic the system is.

        Event Information
        Event: Print4All – Packaging and Printing Technology Exhibition Dates: May 27–30, 2025 Location: Milan, Italy – Hall 9, Stand R27/S26
        To learn more about the ERGOSA packer and the IMPACK-Camporese collaboration, visit impack.ca

        About IMPACK
        IMPACK is an engineering company that designs and manufactures automated folder-gluer peripherals for folding carton and corrugated box packaging producers. Our comprehensive product range includes in-line window patchers, pre-feeders, box turners, packers, stackers, batch inverters, as well as counting and separating modules. Our collaborative approach ensures that our clients get tailored solutions that eliminate bottlenecks and optimize workflows.

        With over 20 years of experience analyzing packaging production workflows and methods, our machines are meticulously engineered based on insights gained from thousands of client interactions. We design solutions that help operators and packers to work more ergonomically and efficiently so that they can increase folder-gluer speed and ultimately production capacity.

        About Camporese
        Camporese is a global leader in sourcing, supplying, and refurbishing used graphic equipment, including folder-gluers, sheet-fed offset printing presses, and die-cutting machines. With decades of expertise, they provide a full range of professional services, from machine upgrades and retrofits to complete remanufacturing. Their meticulous refurbishment process includes thorough inspection, cleaning, repair or replacement of defective components, painting, calibration, and test-printing to ensure optimal performance. Renowned in the packaging industry for their commitment to innovation and precision, Camporese continues to deliver advanced solutions that enhance production efficiency and extend the lifecycle of essential equipment.

        About SBM
        Founded in 2006 by Sergio Bocchio, S.B.M. draws on extensive expertise to provide technical assistance for die-cutters used in paper, solid board, and corrugated board production, as well as BM and BMA hot-stamping machines and Bobst-brand folder-gluers. In recent years, the company has bolstered its workforce to offer rapid on-site technical support, complemented by a 24/7 telephone hotline that ensures continuous availability. Among its core services, S.B.M. operates a dedicated training center for die-cutting and hot-stamping professionals, delivering both classroom-based instruction and on-site production courses tailored to beginners and seasoned operators alike.

        Graphco Announces Successful Installation of Fold Stream at Wells & Drew

        March 18, 2025

        Press release submitted on behalf of Graphco

        Graphco, Solon, Ohio, a leading provider of offset, print finishing, and dimensional signage solutions in North America, proudly announces the successful installation of the Fold Stream system at Wells & Drew in Jacksonville, FL. With a 170-year legacy of excellence, Wells & Drew has mastered the craft of engraving, foil stamping, embossing, raised print, and letterpress offering comprehensive in-house specialty printing services that only a handful of providers in the country can match. This milestone marks the first installation of Fold Stream in North America, underscoring Graphco’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology to specialty printers.

        “As a specialty printer, we constantly push the boundaries of what’s possible in print,” states Blake Houser, Principal at Wells & Drew. “The Fold Stream system enhances our capabilities, allowing us to streamline intricate folding and finishing processes while maintaining the unmatched quality our customers expect. This installation reaffirms our commitment to investing in top-tier technology to serve our clients better.”

        Fold Stream by ProCut is a high-speed, precision folding and gluing system designed for efficient, small-run packaging with quick changeovers. “I reviewed plenty of folder-gluers before,” continues Houser, “and we have a variety of them here including industry heavyweights like Moll. But when I saw the Fold Stream demo video, I immediately understood how the system worked, which was a big deal. The current systems we use demand significant operator expertise, so I appreciate the simplicity of the Fold Stream for our digitally oriented work.”

        “What sets Fold Stream apart is the fast setup,” states Houser. “Unlike the Molls or similar machines, which require an hour or more for a switchover (even for highly skilled operators), the Fold Stream can switch from a folding carton to a pocket folder in just 10 to 15 minutes. For our digital press operator to achieve that speed is a massive time savings—potentially cutting very complicated changeover times from two to three hours down to 30 minutes.”

        “Our goal is to offer packaging solutions because, right now, every printer is trying to move into that space, but very few of them offer the special embellishments we have done for years” observes Houser. “The challenge is figuring out how to integrate our specialty printing processes across various substrates and colors while maintaining efficiency for small runs. This machine enables us to do just that—offering six different printing processes on 21 different paper types.”

        Graphco’s Fold Stream system is renowned for its precision, efficiency, and ability to handle complex folding and finishing tasks with ease. The system’s advanced automation significantly reduces manual labor while increasing production speed and accuracy—critical factors for a specialty print house like Wells & Drew.

        Chris Manley, President of Graphco, highlighted the importance of this first North American installation: “We are thrilled to see the Fold Stream in action at Wells & Drew, a company that embodies excellence in specialty printing. This installation is a testament to how Fold Stream can revolutionize niche print operations, providing efficiency and precision for even the most intricate jobs. Wells & Drew’s decision to adopt this technology further reinforces their position as an industry leader.”

        About Graphco
        Graphco is the industry’s leading provider of offset, digital and print finishing solutions. We proudly represent the finest brands of equipment including RMGT (Ryobi MHI Graphic Technology), SD-Italy, Foliant, Fold Stream, Standard Horizon, Graphic Whizard, Spiel Associates/Sterling, MBM, and many more. These brands are only as good as the technical support team that stands behind them, and Graphco’s reputation for top-notch service is second to none. Since 1976, Graphco has thrived in an ever-changing marketplace by loyally adhering to the firm’s original model for success: providing best-in-class print production equipment along with reliable and assured technical service. Learn more about Graphco at www.graphco.com, 800-458-2769.

        Grigeo Packaging Installs Bobst Folder-Gluer

        March 17, 2025

        Press release submitted on behalf of BOBST

        A dedicated user of BOBST technology for decades, Grigeo Packaging, Vilnius city municipality, Lithuania, has bolstered its inventory with an EXPERTFOLD 165. Chosen for its high efficiency, expanded range and built-in quality control, the new BOBST folder-gluer has immediately increased capacity and improved quality for the Lithuanian packaging company.

        Leading corrugated manufacturer Grigeo Packaging UAB is a subsidiary company of Grigeo Group, one of the largest paper and hardboard manufacturers in the Baltics. The company has recently invested in an EXPERTFOLD 165 folder-gluer, the fifth BOBST machine to be installed since 2016. It joins a host of other BOBST equipment already used for flatbed die-cutting, flexo post-printing, flexo printing and folding-gluing in the factory.

        “Our existing machinery for multi-point glued boxes reached the limit of its capacity, so we had an urgent need to expand. The new BOBST EXPERTFOLD 165 will let us increase the production volume for the Baltics significantly, and in the process, improve the quality of our products,” stated Otonas Valiušis, General Manager at Grigeo Packaging.

        He emphasized the reason behind choosing another BOBST machine, “BOBST has been our main supplier partner for a long time and we’re very satisfied with the performance of the equipment on our factory floor. Our large machine fleet clearly reflects the huge amount of trust we have put in BOBST over the years, and we continue to do so.”

        Expanding capabilities in folding-gluing
        Operating from a modern, purpose-built facility on the outskirts of the Lithuanian capital Vilnius, Grigeo Packaging specializes in the production of corrugated sheets, food and beverage packaging, furniture packaging, and other custom-made packaging products. In the food industry, the company proudly serves numerous large brand owners and has recently achieved BRCGS Packaging Materials Level A certificate, evidence of its commitment to food safety and product quality.

        This new BOBST EXPERTFOLD 165 folder-gluer allows Grigeo to produce a wide range of box types, including 6-corner boxes. It features ACCUFEED integrated blank aligner with wider conveyors for perfect feeding precision, and high-speed, variable angle pre-breaking with an extra-long module. The 5-meter-long folding section with crease relief and crease control device also ensures reliable and precise box opening, facilitating downstream processing for Grigeo Packaging’s customers. Even at highest running speeds, the inline quality control combined with ACCUEJECT, which automatically ejects non-standard boxes, guarantees that only top-quality boxes make it to the end of the line.

        “We chose the EXPERTFOLD 165 because of its advanced quality control capabilities and the higher efficiency compared to our older machines,” said Kristina Žvinytė, Design Manager. “The wider size range lets us propose more packaging designs, allowing us to better respond to our customers’ varied needs. Average order quantities don’t tend to increase, so the ability to easily and quickly set up orders, with low waste, is very important for us.”

        Investing with BOBST for a profitable future

        Having already experienced its efficiency, reliability and high quality, Grigeo Packaging is satisfied that the BOBST EXPERTFOLD 165 was the right choice for its business. Giedrius Valdemaras, Head of Technology Development, explained, “We’re experiencing growing demand for multipoint-glued packaging as customers seek cost-effective solutions that simplify operations. Rising labor costs are driving the need for quality packaging that is user friendly and designed with automated and robotic systems in mind. These solutions must be affordable, efficient, and compatible with modern packaging technologies.”

        Another important aspect that influenced the decision for Grigeo Packaging was the option to configure the folder-gluer for e-commerce box production. The modularity of the BOBST machine provides the company the perfect tool for e-commerce and other complex, multipurpose boxes, produced in a single pass. Grigeo plans to take full advantage of this opportunity.

        Mr Valiušis explained: “With the rise of online shopping, the quality of the corrugated packaging has become crucial, not only for protecting the product during shipping, but also to enrich the customer experience. Therefore, it’s essential for us that we have the capability to integrate e-commerce modules in near future.”

        To maximize the potential of the new folder-gluer, Grigeo Packaging has invested in training. “We expect the new BOBST machine to double our production capacity of multipoint glued packaging and we’re seeing good results already. As the training of our operators progresses, the numbers will no doubt be even better,” he concluded.

        For more information, visit www.grigeo.com/en/contact/contact/uab-grigeo-packaging and bobst.prezly.com.

        The Paperboard Packaging Council Welcomes Tom Hendrickson

        March 14, 2025

        Press release submitted on behalf of the Paperboard Packaging Council

        The Paperboard Packaging Council (PPC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Tom Hendrickson as its new Industry Affairs Manager. With a strong background in public policy, stakeholder engagement, and advocacy, Hendrickson will play a key role in advancing PPC’s efforts to support members and navigate evolving industry challenges.

        Hendrickson holds a master’s degree in public policy from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and brings experience in political governance, grassroots organizing, and legislative analysis. His expertise in facilitating discussions, analyzing industry challenges, and developing strategic resources will strengthen PPC’s advocacy and engagement initiatives.

        Hendrickson assumes this role at a pivotal moment for the paperboard packaging industry, as sustainability, regulatory compliance, and evolving market demands continue to shape the sector. With increasing pressure for circular solutions and responsible packaging, PPC is committed to ensuring its members remain at the forefront of sustainable innovation, regulatory preparedness, and industry leadership.

        “Tom’s experience in public policy and his ability to foster meaningful industry discussions make him a tremendous asset to PPC,” said Ben Markens, President of PPC. “As our industry continues to navigate sustainability regulations, packaging legislation, and economic shifts, his leadership will be instrumental in ensuring our members stay informed and prepared.”

        In his new role, Hendrickson will monitor legislative and regulatory developments affecting the paperboard packaging industry while connecting PPC members with critical resources to navigate policy changes. He will also facilitate discussions with industry stakeholders, helping to address pressing challenges and opportunities, and will strengthen PPC’s engagement with policymakers, trade associations, and advocacy groups to promote sustainable business practices and innovation.

        “I’m honored to join PPC and be part of an organization that supports the $12 billion folding carton industry,” said Hendrickson. “What excites me most is the opportunity to learn from PPC members and affiliates, gain a deeper understanding of the industry, and contribute to strengthening collaboration. I look forward to supporting the key stakeholders who are driving meaningful change.”
        Hendrickson’s passion for policy, industry engagement, and community service stems from his background in grassroots advocacy and public office. Coming from a family of educators, he developed a deep respect for community engagement, learning, and service. His early exposure to grassroots organizing led him to serve as a City Councilor in his Massachusetts hometown, where he works closely with local leaders and businesses to drive policy improvements and economic initiatives.

        In addition to his elected role, Hendrickson has spent the past several years supporting grassroots organizing, field coordination, and campaign strategy, most recently managing a successful Massachusetts State Representative campaign. His ability to translate complex policy issues into actionable strategies has earned him the trust of policymakers, industry leaders, and the public.

        “Tom’s background in public policy, stakeholder engagement, and advocacy makes him well-equipped to support our members in navigating industry opportunities and challenges,” said Emily Leonczyk, Executive Director and VP of PPC. “His work will focus on providing timely industry updates, facilitating discussions on key legislative topics, and ensuring PPC remains a strong voice for paperboard packaging manufacturers and suppliers.”

        For more information about the Paperboard Packaging Council and its initiatives, visit www.paperbox.org.

        Michael Bates Joins GMH UV

        March 13, 2025

        Press release submitted on behalf of GEW

        Michael Bates has joined GMH UV LLC, Arvada, Colorado, who are GEW’s sheetfed distributor for North America, as a partner to Grieg Heimbuch. Bates will manage sheetfed offset and wide web offset (>38”) business in Western USA and Mexico, whilst Heimbuch manages the Midwest, Eastern USA and Canada.

        Bates has served the printing industry for over 40 years. He spent six years as a Pressman Printer, followed by 17 years in Sales at Heidelberg USA. He also gained subsequent experience as a Press Demonstrator and Press Salesman, including two years with KBA. Latterly, Bates has been in Sales for AMS/Baldwin, for over 15 years.

        Based in the Midwest, GMH UV is a dedicated partner and distributor of the GEW UV product line for the sheetfed industry in North America, and provides full sales coverage throughout the territory. The company is supported by a multimillion dollar parts inventory and a large and experienced service team at GEW Inc in Ohio. All service and spare parts are delivered through GEW’s established infrastructure, while GMH UV focuses on sales and business development.

        Bates comments on his new appointment: “I am delighted to work with Grieg once again. It’s a very exciting prospect and the opportunities are huge. Grieg has done an amazing job in building the business to date, but its great success means that more resource is urgently needed, particularly in the West.

        “Help is now at hand and I am really looking forward to getting out there to meet customers old and new. We have fantastic products to market, products that are already dominating sheetfed UV curing in the US. By joining forces in this way, we can be sure to increase GEW’s presence in the market, including that in Canada and Mexico.”

        For more information, visit www.gewuv.com and www.gmhuv.com.

        DGM Introduces Dilli Neo Picasso Plus

        March 13, 2025

        Press release submitted on behalf of DGM Digital Converting Machinery

        DGM Digital Converting Machinery, Red Bank, New Jersey, has introduced the Dilli Neo Picasso Plus digital inkjet label press (Neo Picasso). The Neo Picasso is a high-efficiency digital label UV press. This digital inkjet label press has multiple advantages including – high printing speed, variable drop size 3pL, six colors + double white, variable data printing and more. Additional benefits of the Neo Picasso include:

        • High Print Speed: Capable of printing at speeds up to 165 ft/m (50m/min) using CMYK.
        • Superior Resolution: Delivers high resolution at 600 x 1200 dpi.
        • Versatile Printing Dimensions: Printing width of 13.11” with a maximum media width of 13.4”.
        • Wide Color Range: Covers 98% of the Pantone color spectrum.
        • Advanced Color System: Utilizes a 7-color system (CMYK+O/V/G +2W), with white ink offering over 86% opacity.
        • Vibrant UV Inks: Specially formulated for standard self-adhesive label stocks, including Paper, PP, and PE.
        • Broad Application Scope: Suitable for industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, industrial, security, automotive, health and safety, consumer goods, and personal care.
        • High-Quality Printheads: Equipped with Kyocera printheads for sharp, precise printing, down to 2pt text.
        • Consistent Color Output: Ensures uniform color consistency across different jobs without variations.
        • Cost Efficiency: No click charges or mandatory service contracts, resulting in the lowest cost of ownership compared to other digital label printing technologies.
        • Quick Turnaround: The digital printing process reduces preparation steps, labor, and material costs, eliminating the need for plate making, mounting, or inventory of plate rollers.
        • User-Friendly Operation: Dilli’s intuitive RIP software allows for easy file management and seamless workflow. Print queues enable continuous job transitions without downtime, with the flexibility to change SKUs, colors, designs, or jobs on the fly.
        • Enhanced Print Quality: Features such as web cleaning, web steering and guiding, and corona treating improve adhesion and maximize print quality.

        For more information, visit www.dilliusa.com/dilli-usa-neo-picasso-pro.

        Absolute Printing Equipment Announces 2025 Foil Stamping Training

        March 13, 2025

        Press release submitted on behalf of Absolute Printing Equipment Service, Inc.

        Absolute Printing Equipment, Indianapolis, Indiana, has announced the 2025 Foil Stamping Training session, led by James Wright, a seasoned expert with over 30 years of industry experience.

        The training will be held at the Absolute Printing Equipment Showroom in Indianapolis, IN.

        The training will span three full days, starting at 8:00 AM and concluding at 4:30 PM, with a 30-minute lunch provided by Absolute Printing Equipment.

        The sessions will take place on April 15th, 16th, and 17th.

        Throughout the training, you will learn how to foil, emboss, and die cut on a Kluge 14×22.

        We will conduct job runs for letterheads, envelopes, and pocket folders.

        Additionally, you will get to see the Kama 76 with foil, Kama FlexFold 52, and ProFold 74 in action.

        Universal Engraving, Inc. is providing all the foil stamping and embossing dies AND Infinity® Foils, Inc. is supporting with the hot stamping foils.

        The cost of the training is $500. However, company owners are encouraged to observe at no additional charge.

        We have arranged special rates at the Hampton Inn, conveniently located just 10 minutes from Absolute Printing Equipment. To save at this location, please ask for the “Group Rate for Absolute Printing Equipment” or use our corporate account number 3329455.

        Absolute Printing Equipment is located at: 5501 S Franklin Rd. Indianapolis, IN 46239

        Space is limited to 10 trainees, so reserve your spot today!

        If payment is not received by March 28th, 2025, your spot will be forfeited and given to the next trainee on the waiting list.

        Register Here

        You will receive confirmation for your reservation via email after this form is submitted. If all the spots have been filled, you will be put on the waiting list.

        Please note: Only 1 trainee per company is permitted.

        For any questions regarding training, please contact KC Chapin at 817-994-3301

        For any questions regarding logistics, please contact Casey Marion at 317-527-7526

        « Previous Page
        Next Page »



        The Official Publication of the Foil & Specialty Effects Association
        © 2025 All Rights Reserved
        Peterson Media Group | publish@petersonmediagroup.com
        785.271.5801
        2150 SW Westport Dr., Suite 501, Topeka, KS 66614