Enews April 2025

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.

Luxury Meets Sustainability: The Enduring Appeal of Embellishments in Luxury Packaging

March 18, 2025

By Erin Judge, contributing writer, PostPress

Simplicity is emerging as a key theme in today’s packaging trends, driven by consumers’ preference for modern, minimalist designs in combination with their heightened sensitivity to sustainability. This shift has extended into the luxury goods market, where brand owners and packaging designers must navigate the challenge of blending high-end embellishments with the increasing demand for eco-friendly, recyclable packaging that still conveys a sense of luxury. PostPress spoke with packaging converters and suppliers in the luxury goods market to unearth the latest embellishment trends that are attracting high-end consumers.

Appeal of Luxury

In today’s market of ‘non-essential’ luxury items – such as cosmetics, beauty products, wine, spirits and jewelry – packaging and labels often serve as the first point of contact with the consumer, playing a vital role in shaping their perception of the product. “Luxury packaging is about creating a sensory experience that aligns with the premium nature of the brand,” said Allan Quimby, head of marketing for KURZ, the world’s top producer of transfer foils and security solutions.

Luxury brand consumers, who typically are well-versed in quality and value, expect packaging to reflect a sense of high-end exclusivity. Their confidence in a brand increase when its packaging is elevated with embellishments like foil, embossing or soft-touch coatings. These enhancements not only elevate the product’s appeal but also add authenticity, which increasingly is important as counterfeiting continues to plague the luxury goods market, and anti-counterfeiting measures are crucial for brand owners.

“The enhanced tactile experience of packaging with specialty embellishments adds to overall perceived value of the product,” noted Kandi Johansmeyer, senior vice president of sales and marketing for Orlando-based SunDance, a multi-channel print and marketing solutions company that continues to grow in the luxury packaging space.

Luxury packaging isn’t just about a product looking expensive, though. Sabine Lenz, founder and CEO of PaperSpecs, an online hub for graphic designers and brand owners who print, said, “It’s about evoking desire, signaling quality and ensuring that from the very first touch, consumers feel they’re experiencing something truly special.”

While many consumer-packaged goods companies can be restricted by the cost of these value-add embellishments, Johansmeyer explained that luxury brand owners often have higher margins with their products, which enable them to enhance their packaging with more specialty finishes that align with their brand image.

These tactile finishes and visual foils are important in luxury packaging, not only for enhancing brand authenticity, but also for driving sales. Christine Takacs, holographics development specialist at ITW ShineMark, affirmed, “It’s all about the data. Purchasing habits demonstrate a direct correlation between foil embellishments and high-margin sales volume in certain premium categories.” Takacs’s company is a global leader in the manufacturing and distribution of high-quality foils, films and laminations.

With higher budgets come high demands: Consistency is key for strong branding and quality perception. “Perfect production results are mission critical, and even minor flaws can delay launch dates and potentially cause significant financial losses,” said Thomas Leikam, director of sales and marketing, Autajon Packaging West Coast.

Autajon, a manufacturer of folding cartons, labels, set-up boxes and POS materials, has a significant global presence, with luxury packaging making up the largest portion of its customer portfolio. Leikam added that luxury packaging cartons placed side by side on the shelf must have consistent color, precise registration and strong structural integrity, all of which contribute to the overall user experience. This level of perfection is why luxury brand owners dedicate more time to the concept stage than other packaging customers, and rigorous testing regularly is conducted throughout the production process.

Luxurious Trends

While they may seem similar at first glance, each foil and embellishment on a luxury goods package tells a distinct story. Leikam explained that “a shimmery foil helps brands stand out with its reflective quality, while soft-touch and other specialty embellishments keep customers engaged and intrigued by the look and feel of the product carton.” Lenz added, “Whether it’s subtle holographic effects suggesting innovation or textured embossing reflecting a brand’s heritage, finishing techniques are more intentional than ever.”

Holographic films and foils are making a major impact in today’s luxury packaging, thanks to their modern aesthetic and minimalist appeal. ITW ShineMark recently released its HoloFrost™ products, which, according to Takacs, “overprint beautifully without muddying ink saturation and color integrity. When left unprinted, they offer an intriguing new look.”

Haley Hutchison-Quick, vice president of Infinity® Foils, Inc., a UEI company, and a global leader in foil stamping products, emphasized that luxury packaging must strike a balance between elegance and opulence. She noted that each foil type – whether holographic, clear or security – offers its own unique appeal. In 2025, many luxury goods are turning to overprintable cold foils, like Infinity Foil’s MCOF Grade, which creates “striking designs and eye-catching effects when combined with printing and processes like refractive stamping,” said Hutchison-Quick.

Converters and suppliers agree that luxury brands are trending toward multi-step processes, such as layering foils with UV spot coatings or embossing/debossing. As Lenz observed, there’s a strong trend toward multi-sensory experiences, “where packaging feels as good as it looks.”

Personalization and customization also are becoming increasingly important in luxury packaging, with consumers seeking unique, tailored experiences. Products like KURZ’s Digital Embellishment Solutions, designed for both narrow web and sheet-fed markets, enhance packaging with high-quality, personalized designs and offer customizable metallic finishes at high volumes. Quimby added that digital embellishments in conjunction with augmented reality (AR) will transform how brands engage with their audiences through packaging, especially as technology improves. These improvements will give rise to hyper-personalization, limited editions and smart packaging, including invisible security features, to further brand stories and boost consumer engagement.

Merging Luxury with Sustainability

While foils and embellishments can convey a product’s value and capture a consumer’s attention, the way the world perceives packaging, even in luxury goods, has begun to shift. According to Leikam, “very elaborate luxury packaging may be seen as a brand’s disregard for sustainability and environmental impact.” Quimby added, “Brands are facing growing pressure to deliver eco-friendly solutions without compromising on premium aesthetics.”

Fortunately for luxury goods retailers, a study done by Trivium Packaging and Boston Consulting Group revealed that 74% of consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable packaging, with nearly a quarter of them open to an additional 10% or more in cost.

For brand owners, that means creating carefully crafted designs that incorporate sustainable materials while also working to create awareness of sustainable practices at the consumer level. Switching from laminated foil board to cold or hot foil significantly can improve recyclability. However, Leikam noted that brand owners also should consider adjusting their design to clearly communicate this change to consumers. He mentioned that many of his luxury brand clients are choosing more subtle embellishments, like micro or sculptured embossing, varnishes and embracing a “natural look” with uncoated boards.

Suppliers, too, are seeing the demand for sustainability as they work to create more recyclable products. At KURZ, Quimby said, “We’ve expanded our offerings to ensure stunning aesthetics while supporting eco-conscious values. Our goal is to empower brands with premium appeal and environmental responsibility.” He emphasized his company’s investment in research and third-party certifications to ensure the company’s products are sortable, drinkable, compostable and truly sustainable. “This shift underscores an industry-wide trend where sustainability now is essential to both brand value and consumer trust,” he added.

Takacs said that sustainability plays a key role in all product development, manufacturing and policies at ITW ShineMark. Products like its filmless EcoShine total transfer and cold transfer products will continue to grow with a correlating decline in film laminations.

Creating awareness at the consumer level is crucial, as many of the materials used in luxury packaging are inherently sustainable. Hutchison-Quick clarified that when foil is applied to paper products, it remains recyclable and repulpable, provided the paper itself also is recyclable and repulpable. Cold foil also provides excellent production efficiency and substantial value for brands and makes foiling more accessible for high-volume, long-run applications. A study commissioned by the FSEA in collaboration with Georgia Tech’s Renewable Bioproducts Institute further supports the claim that transfer foil-decorated paper and board do not pose issues for recyclability or repulpability in standard repulping processes.

To promote their sustainability efforts, luxury brand owners should consider adding information to their packaging to educate consumers. Takacs highlighted the importance of improving eco-labeling so that consumers understand they still can “embrace the enduring craft and appeal of beautifully enhanced packaging.” Leikam added that effective communication and consumer education will play a crucial role in addressing common misconceptions, such as the sustainability of recycled board, and will help brands make true progress toward their environmental and sustainability goals.

Where Do We Go From Here?

US brand owners should be aware that the political landscape may reshape the luxury goods and packaging markets in 2025 and beyond. As new policies emerge, some brands will look to domestic suppliers to combat rising costs and improve speed-to-market. However, “the essence of luxury packaging will remain the same,” said Lenz, “creating desire, elevating the brand experience and making the unboxing as memorable as the product itself.”

Looking ahead, luxury brands will embrace modern and alluring designs that blend simplicity with eye-catching, eco-friendly embellishments. For brand owners, this means focusing on creating packaging that not only conveys high-end appeal but also raises consumer awareness of eco-friendly practices.

BW Converting introduces the Winkler+Dünnebier

March 11, 2025

Press release submitted on behalf BW Converting

Under its Winkler+Dünnebier (W+D) brand, BW Converting, Green Bay, Wisconsin, a leader in envelope converting, printing and inserting technology for 112 years, announces the launch of the BB816+ high-performance mail inserter. This new addition to the 800 series platform of servo-driven, easier-to-operate mail inserters is built for direct mail, transactional mail and specialized applications such as vote by mail, offering the highest levels of integrity and adaptability for customized solutions.

The BB816+ is the next-generation successor to the widely trusted BB700 mail-inserting workhorse, with hundreds of units installed worldwide. The BB816+ introduces advancements in ease of use, speed of changeover, mail product control and automation, further solidifying BW Converting and its W+D brand as an innovator with unparalleled knowledge of the performance characteristics of the envelope.

The BB816+ is a future-proof inserting investment due to the new 800 series platform’s modular scalability capabilities. The BB816+ can be configured to smaller floor spaces and expanded for changing market demands. It also offers interchangeability with BW Converting’s flagship inserter, the W+D BB820+, a 20,000 piece per hour machine model.

The BB816+ operates at up to 16,000 pieces per hour across the widest format range of any high-performance inserter, including envelope sizes from US #7 (3 ¾ inches by 6 ½ inches) up to 10 inches by 13 inches (C6 up to B4). This highly flexible system can handle product thicknesses up to 6/10 inch (15 millimeters).

Key innovations include a dual lug chain for enhanced product control at high speeds, an upgraded insertion module with an optimized insert pusher assembly, advanced envelope feeder and size-dependent linear speed control to ensure seamless operation across varying envelope dimensions. The system also features BW Converting’s patented W+D Auto Mismatch Recovery Technology, the unique solution to handle multiple personalized products with limited or no operator intervention. The BB816+’s robust design, a W+D brand hallmark, allows inserting of express or cardboard envelopes (FedEx, DHL, UPS, USPS, etc.) as well as USPS TED-C envelopes.

BW Converting equipped the BB816+ with a BSC4.0 human-machine interface (HMI), featuring an intuitive wide-screen interface with onboard operator support and EasySet for rapid job changeovers. Online operator support boosts ease of use, quick make-ready and error recovery, making it ideal for less skilled or newly-trained operators. Enhanced periphery options, including SL2 mobile autoloaders and OC4 vertical stacker with PT4 Tray Assist, provide further automation to maximize efficiency and throughput.

“With the development of the BB800 family, BW Converting is reacting to the changes in the mailing markets,” said Eric Royal, Director of Sales – Mail, BW Converting. “The BB800 platform with the BB820, BB820+ and now with the BB816+, enables us to now compete down-market with a smaller footprint, new high-speed input options and new 4-color inkjet solutions while offering speed, intelligence and user-friendliness with newly introduced automation. One BB816+ inserter will do more types of work and work that other inserters can’t do. We are confident that one new BB816+ will replace two to three Flowmaster inserters or three to four swing arm inserters; capabilities now allow a new economic business model for mailers. Moving forward, it’s about doing more with less for mailers.”

The first BB816+ machines ordered will start delivering in February 2025.

BW Converting invites attendees of Hunkeler Innovation Days, to be held February 24 to 27 in Lucerne, Switzerland, to learn more at booth #B3, where product experts will share its industry-leading capabilities and discuss its features in detail. You can also request information on the new BB816+ by emailing inserting@wdnorthamerica.com.

SUN Automation Group Expands Offerings Through Partnership with Kolbus Group

February 28, 2025

Press release submitted on behalf of SUN Automation Group

SUN Automation Group, Glen Arm, Maryland, a global leader in innovative solutions for the corrugated industry, has announced a strategic partnership with Kolbus Group, a renowned manufacturer of corrugated machinery. Effective immediately, SUN will serve as the exclusive U.S. and Canadian agent and distributor for Kolbus machinery, parts, and service, including the RD rotary die cutter and BX Motion product lines. Additionally, SUN will manage aftermarket parts and service for Hycorr rotary die cutters—supporting the hundreds of Hycorr machines currently operating in North America.

This collaboration represents a major expansion of SUN’s product and service portfolio, reinforcing its commitment to providing world-class solutions for both independent and integrated boxmakers.

“The U.S. corrugated market presents the biggest growth opportunity for Kolbus, and this partnership with SUN Automation Group positions us to better serve customers in this key region,” said Dr. Thomas Grimm-Bosbach, CEO of Kolbus Group. “We are fully committed to the corrugated marketplace and excited to work alongside SUN, a trusted leader known for its service and innovation.”

By leveraging SUN’s established infrastructure and aftermarket expertise, this partnership ensures unmatched domestic support, service, and accessibility for the Kolbus product line.

“Kolbus aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver the best-in-class technology, innovation, and support to the corrugated industry,” said Greg Jones, Executive Vice President at SUN Automation Group. “Our partnership is built on trust, confidence, and a shared commitment to providing boxmakers with high-quality, performance-driven solutions.”

As the exclusive U.S. and Canadian distributor, SUN’s industry-leading aftermarket support will provide a seamless experience for existing Kolbus and Hycorr customers, delivering the high level of service and reliability the industry has come to expect.

“By aligning with SUN, Kolbus gains the infrastructure needed to provide the domestic aftermarket support that is critical for long-term success in the U.S. and Canada,” said Jeff Dietz, President of Kolbus Americas Inc., “Our partnership strengthens our ability to support customers at every stage, providing them with a competitive advantage in an evolving market.”

“Kolbus’ engineered solutions complement our existing product line, strengthening our ability to serve more boxmakers across the industry,” said Chris Kyger, President of SUN Automation Group. “Our confidence in their technology and shared commitment to innovation and customer service make this partnership a natural fit.”

To learn more about Kolbus’ corrugated machinery, service offerings, and aftermarket support, visit sunautomation.com/kolbus.

About SUN Automation Group
SUN Automation Group® is a global industry leader providing corrugated box plants with innovative equipment for feeding, printing, and converting. The wide range of products are proven solutions for increasing production, efficiency, and profitability. With 24/7 on-site technical support, SUN Automation is known for its exceptional service. Headquartered outside of Baltimore, MD, SUN Automation has service centers around the globe. To keep up with SUN Automation’s innovations and news, visit www.sunautomation.com or follow @SUNAutomation on X.

About Kolbus Group
Kolbus Group is a leading manufacturer of high-performance machinery for the corrugated, paperboard, and packaging industries. With a legacy of engineering excellence and innovation, Kolbus continues to expand its footprint in the corrugated sector, delivering state-of-the-art solutions tailored to the evolving needs of the industry.

Industry Influencer: Jules VanSant

December 10, 2024

Jules VanSant is the executive director at Two Sides North America, located in Portland, Oregon, – a global non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the unique sustainable features of print, paper and paper-based packaging. VanSant brings a high-profile presence to her position, with experience in a variety of roles in manufacturing, nonprofits and associations in the print and graphic communications space. Her focus is on truth in messaging around sustainability and greenwashing issues through marketing, direct outreach and community building. VanSant also is a partner at Bubble & Hatch Marketing and serves on several industry boards.

Jules VanSant, executive director at Two Sides North America

What are the mission and goals of Two Sides North America? How did the initiative for Two Sides begin?

Two Sides North America (TSNA) is part of the nonprofit Two Sides global network, which includes more than 600 member companies across North America, South America, Europe, Australia and South Africa. TSNA’s member companies span the graphic communications and paper-based packaging value chain, including forestry, pulp, paper, paper-based packaging, chemicals and inks, pre-press, press, finishing, printing, publishing, envelopes and postal operations.

TSNA began in 2008 to fill a need to elevate the environmental truth about paper and paper-based packaging. In common purpose with members of the graphic communications and paper-based packaging industry, TSNA aspires to ensure that in a world of scarce resources, renewable, recyclable and sustainable products can be enjoyed for generations to come.

Using a straightforward, balanced approach, TSNA is telling the sustainability story of print, paper and paper-based packaging using specific research and facts in the US and Canada. TSNA tackles the relevant environmental and social issues head-on with factual, authoritative information that exposes the myths, explains the industry’s true sustainability capabilities and gives stakeholders a solid foundation for making well-informed decisions about the use of print and paper products.

How do you see the printing/finishing industry embracing global trends, such as the circular economy and sustainability demands from brand owners and consumers?

TSNA bases its approach and work on the premise that “Sustainable development meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”

TSNA sees the printing/finishing industry embracing global trends around environmental responsibility, prioritizing eco-friendly practices and sustainable materials. Many aspects of the production and recycling processes are part of a greater circular economy. Sustainability demands from brand owners and consumers continue to push improvements, as do national and local legislation.

Companies increasingly are adopting circular economic principles by implementing processes that reduce waste, promote recycling and encourage using renewable resources. Today’s industry leaders continue exploring innovative technologies and eco-friendly alternatives to traditional print and finishing materials and methods.

What are the biggest challenges the paper and printing industry faces as it relates to sustainability? How should the industry respond to successfully grow and thrive?

It’s exciting to see the ongoing focus on advancing environmentally friendly inks, films, coatings and overall recyclability. It’s important to tell the story, share the facts and get these in front of manufacturers, employees and, most importantly, consumers. But no matter how the industry advances, one of the biggest challenges it faces are the misconceptions and misleading language used in greenwashing claims.

Greenwashing is defined in the Oxford Dictionary as, “Disinformation disseminated by an organization to present an environmentally responsible public image.”

Environmentally conscious consumers rely on messages from corporations, government agencies and other organizations to inform their communication choices. Yet it is not uncommon for these organizations to make unsubstantiated and misleading environmental claims that promote switching from paper to electronic communication as better for the environment, e.g., “go paperless – go green” and “go paperless, save trees.”

In a recent TSNA survey, 65% of Americans who had seen anti-paper greenwashing claims said they were influenced to switch to paperless communications.

What resources does TSNA provide Print Service Providers (PSPs) to help stop greenwashing and misinformation on print and paper?

TSNA provides Print Service Providers (PSPs) with a variety of resources to help combat greenwashing and misinformation surrounding print and paper. Some of the resources TSNA offers include:

Fact Sheets and Research: We create and keep updated informative fact sheets that debunk common myths and misconceptions about the environmental impact of print and paper. We also conduct in-depth research studies that highlight the sustainability and recyclability of print and paper products, providing the entire supply chain with data-driven insights to counter greenwashing claims while supporting sustainability messaging.

Campaign Materials and Industry Advocacy: We offer marketing campaign materials and messaging templates that PSPs can use to educate their customers and stakeholders about the sustainable attributes of print and paper. These include blogs, videos, social media posts, and print and digital ads. We also recently relaunched our Love Paper campaign (www.lovepaperna.org). In addition, we advocate on behalf of the print and paper industry, working to promote accurate information and challenge misleading greenwashing practices.

By leveraging these resources, PSPs effectively can combat greenwashing and misinformation, ensuring that accurate and balanced information about the environmental impact of print and paper is communicated to their clients and the public.

What are your predictions for the paper and print industry in the next five to 10 years?

TSNA already sees the paper and print industry evolving and adapting to prepare for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation and the impacts of the EU Regulation on Deforestation-Free Products (EUDR). These will continue to influence consumer preferences and drive technological advancements and environmental considerations throughout the supply chain over the next five to 10 years. This will push a variety of trends in the print and finishing space, including:

Increased Focus on Sustainability: We anticipate a greater emphasis on sustainability throughout the paper and print supply chain, with manufacturers and individual companies continuing to expand their eco-friendly practices, material sourcing, utilization of renewable resources and reduction of environmental impact.

Digital Integration: The industry will see further integration of digital print technologies to streamline processes, improve efficiency and enhance customer experiences.

Innovation in Print Products: There will be continued innovation in print products and finishing techniques, focusing on the incorporation of embellishments that have improved the environmental footprint and can create a unique and customizable impact while providing value to customers.

Circular Economy Initiatives: The industry has continued to embrace circular economy principles, leading to increased recycling rates, reduced waste and a shift toward closed-loop production systems. This will continue well into the next decade.

Consumer Education: There will be a growing effort to educate consumers about the sustainability of print and paper, dispelling myths and promoting the positive environmental attributes of these materials. TSNA is at the forefront of providing fact-based data, resources and community to support these initiatives.

Overall, TSNA believes that the paper and print industry will continue to thrive and adapt to changing market dynamics, consumer preferences and sustainability challenges in the coming years, positioning itself as a sustainable, innovative and essential component of the modern business landscape.

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