Submitted on behalf of Paperboard Packaging Council
The Paperboard Packaging Council (PPC) will bring folding carton converters, suppliers and industry leaders together September 30–October 2 for its 2026 Fall Meeting at the Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista at Disney Springs.
The program will examine issues influencing the folding carton industry today, including economic and workforce trends, regulatory and sustainability developments, artificial intelligence, leadership and emerging opportunities for paperboard packaging.
“Fall Meeting brings our industry together to better understand the forces shaping our businesses, celebrate what is possible and position folding cartons to win in a changing market,” said Emily Leonczyk, President of PPC. “We’ll hear perspectives on the economy, industry trends, innovation, leadership and AI, while also celebrating the next generation entering our field. The value is in gaining perspective, strengthening relationships and learning from one another so we are ready for what comes next.”
The meeting will also recognize excellence, leadership and the next generation of industry talent. PPC will announce winners of the 2026 Paperboard Packaging Competition, including Package of the Year, and finalists in the Paperboard Packaging Alliance Student Design Challenge will present their work directly to industry leaders.
PPC will also present its Volunteer Leader Award to Eric Frank of Koenig & Bauer in recognition of his longstanding service to PPC and the paperboard packaging industry. Frank has generously shared his time, expertise, and leadership for decades, playing an important role in strengthening the PPC community.
Emmy Award-winning filmmaker and entrepreneur Nick Nanton, CEO of Astonish Entertainment, will open the general session with Creativity Protects You: How to Create Opportunities When Everyone Else Sees Obstacles. Nanton will explore creativity as a business skill for navigating uncertainty, solving complex problems, and finding opportunity when traditional approaches no longer work.
Attendees will also hear perspectives on developments affecting folding cartons in North America and Europe. Mike Turner, Managing Director of the European Carton Makers Association, will discuss the transition away from plastic, advances in fiber-based barrier technologies, and changes among European brands, retailers, and converters. Neil Osment, Managing Director of NOA Limited, will examine European sustainability requirements, regulation and growth opportunities for folding cartons.
Ron Hetrick, Principal Economist at Lightcast, will provide an economic and workforce outlook. Mark Mills, President of Spectrum Packaging Corporation, will share the story of his company’s evolution into a folding carton converter and offer the perspective of an independent business operating close to its customers and market.
Programming begins September 30 with committee and leadership meetings and a Women in Packaging session, followed by a welcome reception and annual awards dinner. The meeting concludes October 2 with an interactive member workshop.
And what is a visit to Orlando without a little magic? Thursday evening, attendees will gather at EPCOT® for a private dinner and reception, fireworks viewing, and time to enjoy the park.
“We know some of the most meaningful connections happen between the sessions,” Leonczyk added. “It is the chance to reconnect with longtime friends, meet someone new, spend time with the next generation entering our industry. We want members to leave Orlando with stronger relationships, fresh perspective and ideas they can put to work when they get home.”
For registration, the complete agenda, speaker information, and Orlando travel resources, visit www.paperbox.org/fall.