Press release submitted on behalf of the Flexible Packaging Association

The Flexible Packaging Association (FPA), the leading advocate and voice for the growing U.S. flexible packaging industry, announces that it has named Dan Felton as its new President and Chief Executive Officer.

Founded in 1950, FPA’s mission is to amplify the voices of converters, suppliers, trade press professionals, and academics, leading to effective advocacy, unique educational offerings, outstanding networking opportunities, and real growth for our members.

In his new role as President & CEO, Felton will be responsible for leading FPA’s dedicated team of professionals while growing the value of the organization and the flexible packaging industry to its members, partners, policymakers, and other stakeholders. He will lead efforts to expand FPA’s meetings and programs while growing and strengthening its membership base and advocating on behalf of them and the entire U.S. flexible packaging industry.

Felton brings extensive experience in association management and public policy advocacy, including coalition development and management, communications, membership growth, and strategic planning. Most recently, Felton served as Executive Director at AMERIPEN—the American Institute for Packaging and the Environment—where he led efforts to significantly increase the organization’s membership, revenue, proactive advocacy efforts, and public profile. He is particularly passionate about environmental, sustainability, and packaging issues and has lobbied extensively in those areas at the state and federal levels for multinational corporations, various coalitions, and trade associations.

“We are excited to have Dan Felton join us as FPA president. He is a proven leader with tremendous experience in the industry. I am confident Dan has the right approach to successfully navigate the FPA in the years ahead,” notes William Jackson, Ph.D., Chief Technology Officer for Amcor Flexibles and FPA Chair. “We are thrilled to welcome him to FPA.”

“As a veteran of the packaging industry trade association world, I’m beyond excited to join FPA, the leading organization for flexible packaging,” said Felton. “FPA is well known for its strong, passionate
leaders, talented staff, and members, and I am honored to have the opportunity to work with all of them to drive the organization forward and expand its reach.”

The search was conducted by Vetted Solutions, specialists in executive searches for purpose-driven organizations.

About the Flexible Packaging Association (FPA)
The Flexible Packaging Association is the voice of the U.S. manufacturers of flexible packaging and their suppliers. The association’s mission is connecting, advancing, and leading the flexible packaging industry. Flexible packaging represents over $42 billion in annual sales in the U.S. and is the second largest and one of the fastest growing segments of the packaging industry. Flexible packaging is produced from paper, plastic, film, aluminum foil, or any combination of those materials, and includes bags, pouches, labels, liners, wraps, rollstock, and other flexible products. Learn more at flexpack.org.

Press release submitted on behalf of Taktiful

TUI Total Solutions, Melbourne, Florida, Florida’s Premier Xerox Production Dealer, and Taktiful, a technology company providing software and professional services specializing in digital print embellishments, are excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership aimed at bringing cutting-edge digital embellishment training to TUI’s customers who use Xerox Specialty toner technology.

This collaboration marks a significant step forward in the printing industry, combining TUI’s expertise in Xerox technology with Taktiful’s innovative approach to print embellishments trainings. The partnership will provide TUI’s clients with comprehensive training on leveraging SDI special inks to create, market, sell and price stunning, high-value printed materials that stand out in today’s competitive market.

Kevin Abergel, Founder and CEO of Taktiful, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “We are thrilled to team up with TUI Total Solutions to bring our expertise in digital embellishments to their impressive client base. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission to empower printers with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the rapidly evolving world of print embellishments. By combining our training programs with TUI’s innovative technology, we’re setting a new standard for print quality and creativity in the industry.”

“At TUI, we’ve always been committed to providing our clients with the best possible solutions and support,” said Don Sarvis, Vice President of Sales at TUI Total Solutions. “Partnering with Taktiful allows us to offer an unparalleled level of training and expertise in digital embellishments using SDI special inks. This collaboration will enable our customers to push the boundaries of what’s possible with their Xerox equipment, ultimately helping them deliver higher value to their own clients and stand out in the market.”

This partnership between TUI Total Solutions and Taktiful represents a significant advancement in the print industry, offering printers in Central and South Florida access to world-class training and technology. By combining TUI’s commitment to excellence and Taktiful’s strategic approach to print embellishments, this collaboration is set to drive the adoption of high-value print applications and open new revenue streams for printers in the region.

For more information about the digital embellishment training program, please visit Taktiful at www.taktiful.com/8 or TUI Total Solutions at www.tui.net .

About TUI Total Solutions:
Established in 1986, TUI Total Solutions is a locally owned and operated Xerox dealer serving the Central and South Florida markets. Known for their exceptional service and commitment to excellence, TUI achieved Diamond Level Status and was recognized as the Top Xerox Dealer in the country in 2023. With an unrivaled Client Engagement Center and a wide range of Xerox technology, TUI is dedicated to optimizing printing solutions for businesses of all sizes.

About Taktiful Software Solutions
Taktiful Software Solutions is a leading technology provider of AI-driven software and training programs for the digital print embellishment industry. Founded by print industry veterans, the company aims to simplify and streamline digital print embellishments, making them more accessible to a wider range of businesses and individuals. With a focus on simplicity, innovation, quality, and customer success, Taktiful is committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions that empower clients to achieve their creative and business goals. Learn more at www.taktiful.ai

Press release submitted on behalf of GEW Inc. 

Billy Adams has been promoted to Vice President, Operations at GEW Inc. and joins GEW’s Senior Management team with immediate effect. Adams has diligently served GEW and the wider printing industry for more than 22 years, and has earned great respect from colleagues and customers alike.

Adams joined GEW Inc. in 2002 and has built up extensive operational experience, most recently in his role as Service Manager. He has gained a reputation for exceptional service and technical support, by responding quickly and effectively to customer needs, and dealing with challenges in a positive, direct manner to ensure that GEW customers’ machines keep running.

Adams originally qualified in Avionics and had a lengthy period of service with the US Marine Corps prior to joining GEW. Since joining the company, he has continually trained and developed his skills, achieving a broad range of qualifications in subjects ranging from Service and Electronics through to commercial driving, and even crane operation.

In his new role at GEW, he is responsible for overseeing the Service and Spares teams at GEW Inc., primarily for the USA and Canada, whilst also providing support to GEW’s distributors and customers in Latin America, as required.

Adams comments on the new arrangements: “Our mission is to further support GEW’s customers across the entire territory, to provide exceptional products and to support this with the lightning-fast service support that they need, and have come to expect.”

He concludes: “On a more personal note, I would like to thank all of my colleagues at GEW. I work with many amazing people and I could not do this without each and every one of them doing their part to the highest level. I work with true professionals that take pride in their work, and it is an honor to be a part of what I believe to be the best UV company in the world.”

About GEW:
GEW is globally renowned for the design, manufacture and installation of UV & LED curing systems for industrial coating and printing applications. The company has built a world-leading reputation for its UV & LED curing technology, with tens of thousands of installations across the globe. We have a world-class production facility at our UK headquarters, and subsidiaries in the USA & Germany. For more information, visit www.gewuv.com

Press release submitted on behalf of Die Cutting Advisors.

Die Cutting Advisors (DCA), Yardley, Pennsylvania, is proud to announce its launch as a boutique consultancy firm dedicated to providing expert guidance and innovative solutions in the die cutting industry. With a team of industry veterans and a comprehensive approach to consulting, DCA aims to fill the knowledge gap left by a rapidly retiring workforce and elevate the standards of die cutting technology and practices.

About Die Cutting Advisors
Die Cutting Advisors was created to address the critical need for specialized knowledge and advisory services in die cutting. The company’s mission is to provide tailored solutions that meet the unique challenges of clients in various sectors, including membrane switches, graphic overlays and packaging.

“Today’s die cutting industry is experiencing significant changes due to mergers, acquisitions, and the retirement of veteran personnel,” says a spokesperson for DCA. “This has created a substantial educational void. Our goal is to bridge this gap by assembling a team of seasoned experts who can provide innovative solutions tailored to our clients’ specific needs.”

Our Services
DCA offers a range of services designed to support clients through every stage of their die cutting project. From selecting the right material supplier and die cutting solution to recommending appropriate tooling and outsourcing options, DCA ensures clients receive optimal outcomes for their specific needs. The team’s expertise spans various sectors, ensuring comprehensive support and guidance.

Key team members include:

• Ken Cavicchi: An industry authority with over 40 years of expertise in flatbed die cutting systems, rotary converting equipment and laser cutting solutions.
• Rob Weidhaas: A seasoned veteran with more than 30 years of experience in the converting industry, known for his innovative approaches and leadership.
• National Steel Rule: For over 54 years, National Steel Rule has led the steel rule industry through innovation and unmatched customer service. The National team partners with DCA to guide clients through industry transitions, offering tailored education and hands-on support.

Why Choose Die Cutting Advisors
What sets DCA apart is our commitment to innovation, collaboration and industry stewardship. We pride ourselves on delivering personalized consulting tailored to each client’s unique needs. Our approach is grounded in integrity and a film belief that prioritizing our clients’ success ensures mutual prosperity.

For more information, visit www.diecuttingadvisors.com.

Press release submitted on behalf of Labelexpo Americas. 

The 18th edition of Labelexpo Americas has closed on a high note, with a total of 450 exhibitors taking part in the show, which took place between 10-12 September at Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois.

Spread across 5 halls and covering over 185,000 sqft of floor space, this year’s show themes focused on RFID technology, flexible packaging, sustainability and automation.

Labelexpo Americas 2024 showcased flexo, hybrid and digital press technology new to the US market, along with a wide range of finishing technology combining conventional and digital equipment and sustainable materials.

A total of 12,215 attendees attended the three-day show. Attendees came from 73 countries, with large a number of attendees from North America, Mexico, Canada, Colombia and Brazil – overall international attendance increased by 33% from the last edition. Further increases were seen across the board, with more converters and almost double the number of brand owners and designers in attendance for this edition.

Highlights of Labelexpo Americas 2024 included a unique collaboration between ETI, Lundberg, Martin Automatic and Lemu Group demonstrating a complete label production line including robotic finished roll handling.

Demonstrating the return of flexo, Mark Andy launched its new P-series S9 press, engineered for both flexible packaging and labels markets. Using sleeve technology, the press will be available in a 22in as well as 26in format.

Nilpeter showed the mid-web FA-26 making its North American market debut following its launch at Labelexpo Europe last year.

ABG presented a wide range of equipment including a new shrink sleeve converting system and Turret Seaming Rewinder (TSR750).

Domino launched its K300 compact monochrome UV inkjet printer and presented a wide range of equipment, including N730i and N610i presses and K600i printbar.

Other new launches included Canon’s prototype water-based inkjet press, the LabelStream SL2000, and Durst’s Kjet hybrid press.

In the FlexPack @ Labelexpo zone, Gonderflex demonstrated its P-8009 GFXW single pass thermal laminator-coater incorporating a JetFX digital embellishment system.

Also featured was an RFID Experience (radio frequency identification). Attendees were given the opportunity to learn more about the growth of RFID, see live demonstrations of how smart labels are produced as well as understand how data is stored, tracked and managed.

Labelexpo Americas 2024 was notable for the amount of leads generated and equipment sold off the show floor.

Anna Niewiadomska, Marketing Manager Narrow Web, Flint Group commented: “Labelexpo is an event the entire industry eagerly anticipates. Flint Group’s booth was bustling with activity, and we had productive, insightful meetings with customers, as well as great networking opportunities to connect with potential partners. A big thank you to everyone who visited us! Also, big thanks to the Labelexpo Americas team for hosting yet another fantastic event. It was, as always, expertly organized and a great experience to participate in.”

Robert Rae, Managing Director for Sales at GEW said: “GEW enjoyed our return to Labelexpo Americas, in Chicago. We were delighted to see so much interest in our new UV LED product, AeroLED2, for the label and narrow web market, and we were delighted to turn much of this interest into orders. We were happy to see that the visitor numbers seemed higher than in 2022, with the quality of visitors remaining high. We look forward to returning to Labelexpo Americas in two years’ time.”

Tasha Ventimiglia, Group Director – Americas said: “It has been great to be back in Chicago for this year’s Labelexpo Americas. The amount of new equipment on display this year was truly remarkable and we hope visitors also benefited from the educational and networking opportunities the show offered. I would like to thank all our exhibitors for your partnership and commitment in supporting the growth of the labels and package printing industry in North America. Thank you to all who visited, to TLMI and all our association and media partners. We are looking forward to returning in 2026 from 15 – 17 September!”

The full Labelexpo Americas 2024 show report will shortly be available to download from the show website.

To view photos from Labelexpo Americas 2024, visit the show gallery.

For more Labelexpo Americas 2024 post show feedback, click here.

About Labelexpo Americas  
Labelexpo Americas is part of Labelexpo Global Series. The biennial show is the largest dedicated label and package printing event in the Americas.  For more information, visit www.labelexpo-americas.com.