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      Print Decorating, Binding and Finishing

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        Enews July 2024

        MBO Unveiled Cutting-Edge Solutions at drupa 2024

        June 28, 2024

        Press release submitted on behalf of MBO Komori Group.

        Staying ahead of the competition requires innovative solutions that enhance your business operations. At MBO America, we’re committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions that help you achieve unparalleled success. At drupa 2024, we showcased our latest innovations designed to revolutionize the printing industry.

        Innovative Solutions for Rapid Job Setup and Automation
        Our new folder K8i is a game-changer in rapid job setup and automation. With its advanced feeder technology, you can achieve high speeds and process a wide range of substrates. The offset 3rd fold knife provides easy access first knife section, and slitter shaft cassette making maintenance and adjustments a breeze.

        Increased efficiency: Reduce setup times and improve productivity
        Improved flexibility: Process a wide range of substrates
        Enhanced maintenance: Easy access to critical components

        Streamline Your Operations with the M9 Folder
        Our M9 folder takes automation to the next level to drastically decrease operator setup times, saving operators hours of work between jobs. With its camera systems and automated ejection of faulty products, the M9 is designed to increase user-friendliness and greatly reduce makeready times. It can be configured with folding sections, pressing units and delivery from H+H to create an individual production line tailored to your specific needs.

        Increased efficiency: Reduce operator setup times
        Improved accuracy: Camera systems detect and eject faulty products
        Enhanced user experience: Intuitive design for easy operation

        Maximum Flexibility with the MBO Rollfed Line
        Our latest rollfed line features a direct feed into the HOHNER Futura 9 Stitcher, which includes a new sheeter (SVC23) and buckle folder (DFT23). This innovative system offers unparalleled flexibility in book sizes and hybrid production capabilities, making it ideal for publishers and book producers.

        Increased flexibility: Process a wide range of book sizes
        Improved production capabilities: High-speed production
        Enhanced quality: Consistent book quality

        CoBo-Stack Technology: The Future of Automation
        We’re proud to introduce our new CoBo-Stack units, featuring robust Yaskawa Robotics arms. The CoBo-Stack 10i can lift a 10Kg payload, working autonomously to free operators from physical work of palletizing folded pieces. On the other hand, the CoBo-Stack 30i offers a larger stacking range, capable of filling a 40” x 48” pallet with a lifting capacity up to 30Kg.

        Increased efficiency: Reduce operator workload
        Improved safety: Integrated “light curtain” ensures safety
        Enhanced productivity: Autonomous operation

        Stay Ahead of the Competition with MBO America
        At MBO America, we’re committed to helping you stay ahead of the competition with our latest innovations. Our cutting-edge solutions are designed to enhance your printing business operations, increase efficiency, and reduce costs. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your existing production line or invest in new equipment, we’re here to help you navigate the changing landscape of printing finishing.

        To learn more about these innovative solutions, please contact us directly to schedule a demo or consultation.

        At drupa 2024, we showcased our latest innovations designed to revolutionize the printing industry. Our cutting-edge solutions focus on rapid job setup and automation, increased efficiency, and maximum flexibility in book sizes and production capabilities. With our new CoBo-Stack units, we’re pushing the boundaries of automation, ensuring safety and operator productivity.

        Odyssey Expo 2025 Travels to Atlanta

        June 25, 2024

        Press release submitted on behalf of Odyssey Expo 2025.

        Odyssey Expo 2025, the premier event for diecutters, diemakers, foil stampers, finishers, embossers and their equipment and supply vendors will be held May 7-9, 2025, in Atlanta, Georgia. Hosted every two years by the International Association of Diecutting and Diemaking (IADD) and building on the 2023 show’s successes, Odyssey Expo 2025 promises to be a can’t-miss opportunity, providing critical industry training and connections.

        Technical Training
        Education remains a top priority for the programming committee, with a continued focus on providing topics for a variety of substrates, tooling and processes, with in-depth and hands-on experiences. Technical sessions will include both fundamental and new concepts for the folding carton, corrugated, print finishing and specialty markets. Some educational programs will take place in the Techshop™, Odyssey’s simulation of a working production shop floor, offering attendees a one-of-a-kind experience with live, operating equipment for show-and-tell learning. Live-action feeds allow attendees to see all action in demonstrations or on press up close and in real time.

        “We are building tracks of technical programming in each production area to make it easy for everyone—whether you’re a machine operator, in sales or customer service or a company leader—to find the training and knowledge you’re looking for. We have expertise, but you know your team’s training goals. We welcome topic suggestions and speaker proposals—together we can create the best education event for the industry in 2025,” says Odyssey Planning Committee Chair Rob McCann of Bobst North America Inc. Ideas for technical topics or presentations related to current trends, challenges and opportunities in the diecutting and diemaking industry can be submitted at www.iadd.org/OdysseySpeakers.

        Access for All
        Odyssey Expo 2025 is expected to surpass expectations and provide a unique opportunity to discover new possibilities, network with industry experts and learn about the latest advancements in print finishing processes. Booth and Techshop™ space sales are climbing with commitments from industry leaders like SDS Automation, Arden Software, Essential Products, Monroe Rubber & Plastic and many more. Exhibitors will run live demonstrations of new technology and products, giving attendees the opportunity to take real solutions and new areas of business back to their companies.
        For travel ease—and for fun—Atlanta is the ideal location. Odyssey Expo 2025 will be held at the Cobb Galleria Centre, a 20-minute drive from the airport and near two major interstates for attendees driving in from the surrounding area. After a day at the event, networking can continue at The Battery Atlanta—a dining and retail space connected by pedestrian bridge, and next to the stadium where home games for baseball’s Atlanta Braves are held.

        More information on Odyssey Expo 2025 is available at www.OdysseyExpo.org.

        The IADD is an international trade association serving diecutters, diemakers and industry suppliers worldwide. IADD provides conferences, educational and training programs, a monthly magazine, online resource library of 700+ technical articles, industry experts to answer technical questions, publications and training manuals, recommended specifications, videos and more.
        IADD also presents Odyssey Expo, a biennial trade show and innovative concept in technical training featuring a hands-on Techshop where training programs come alive in an actual working diemaking and diecutting facility. Visit www.iadd.org or call 1-815-455-7519 for more information.

        Kongsberg PCS Celebrates Hugely Successful First drupa as Standalone Business

        June 25, 2024

        Press release submitted on behalf of Kongsberg PCS.

        Kongsberg Precision Cutting Systems (Kongsberg PCS) is celebrating a ‘hugely successful’ drupa in which the company smashed its sales and leads targets, hosted a series of crowd-pleasing demos from its impressive booth and scooped a top award for its game-changing new cutting system.

        “This was our first drupa as a standalone business, and I’m delighted that we were clearly in sync with what visitors were looking for at the event,” said Stuart Fox, President & CEO of Kongsberg PCS. “Our incredible booth design showcased the amazing levels of creativity that can be achieved using our own tables and tooling, while our demos drew significant crowds across the whole 11 days. Not only did we unveil our very latest Feeder & Stacker, showcase the MultiCam Apex3R that has already taken the U.S.A. by storm and give a sneak preview of our new 7-axis Robotic Material Handler, but we also gave visitors their first chance to see the Kongsberg Ultimate up close and in action.”

        The global debut of the Kongsberg Ultimate proved a huge draw at the Messe Düsseldorf event, with crowds gathering daily in Hall 8A for regular demos showcasing the machine’s acceleration, cutting speed and quality of finish, as well as its innovative safety features and easy-to-use operating system. “The first Ultimate demos of the show had already proven a hit with drupa visitors,” added Stuart, “and the numbers swelled further after it scooped the ‘Best Wide Format Cutting Solution’ at the EDP awards announced on the second evening.

        “We used drupa to highlight the unprecedented levels of productivity, precision and safety that the Kongsberg Ultimate delivers,” said Stuart. “We are thrilled that on the back of these demos and very positive meetings with potential customers, we surpassed all our targets for Ultimate system sales.”

        Stuart said the sales success also encompassed the full range of cutting and automation solutions the company was showcasing at this year’s global exhibition. “With drupa being the first opportunity for many to get a first look at the MultiCam Apex3R CNC router, as well as being the venue we chose to unveil our latest version automated Feeder & Stacker, we were excited to demonstrate the diversity of our table and tooling offering, and show how with Kongsberg Precision Cutting Systems you really can cut anything,” he added.

        “This was a point we underlined with our incredibly creative booth canopy, which proved a massive draw and a real talking point among visitors,” said Stuart. “The impressive construction was made from 245 individual pieces of Re-board®, all cut on a Kongsberg cutting table in less than 12 hours – and all done using just one blade!”

        Stuart said the eye-catching Kongsberg PCS booth had been visited by thousands of visitors, with the team hosting hundreds of meetings across the event. “We had set ourselves some seriously challenging targets to make sure we maximized our attendance at drupa,” he said. “After 11 days in which we smashed our leads target, surpassed all expectations in terms of sales and came home with a top award for our latest innovation, we can only view our attendance at drupa 2024 as hugely successful.”

        For more information, visit www.kongsbergsystems.com/en/drupa.

        PPC Deepens Folding Carton Connections at drupa 2024

        June 25, 2024

        Press release submitted on behalf of the Paperboard Packaging Council.

        The Paperboard Packaging Council (PPC), Springfield, Massachusetts, proudly participated in drupa 2024, the premier global trade fair for printing and packaging technologies. This year’s event allowed PPC to engage with industry leaders, explore innovations, and represent the paperboard packaging industry internationally. Attending were PPC President Ben Markens and Vice President & Executive Director Emily Leonczyk, who shared their insights and experiences throughout the event.

        drupa 2024 prominently showcased several key themes that hold significant relevance for the paperboard packaging industry. Automation was a standout theme, with numerous exhibitors and PPC members presenting advanced automated solutions designed to optimize production processes. Connectivity was another crucial focus, emphasizing the integration of digital systems to ensure seamless communication across various production segments. Reflecting PPC’s core values, sustainability was prominently featured, with many exhibitors highlighting eco-friendly technologies and practices. Digitalization was also at the forefront, showcasing the role of digital tools and software in enhancing production efficiency. Additionally, addressing the skilled workforce shortage emerged as a critical theme, with several exhibitors offering innovative solutions to reduce reliance on manual labor.

        Markens and Leonczyk engaged with many PPC stakeholders, colleagues, and friends, fostering valuable connections and discussions. Their participation underscored PPC’s commitment to staying at the forefront of industry advancements and advocating for the interests of members.

        “Attending drupa was an incredibly enriching experience, brimming with innovations and forward-thinking ideas,” said Leonczyk. “These key themes reflect our industry’s dedication to harnessing technology for greater efficiency, sustainability, and innovation in printing and packaging. These advancements resonate deeply with the ongoing conversations I’ve had with our members.”

        To learn more about PPC’s time at drupa, visit the association’s website for a comprehensive summary: https://paperbox.org/reflections-on-drupa-2024. To learn more about PPC’s programs, services, and events, visit www.paperbox.org.

        About PPC
        For over 90 years, PPC has served as the premier North American association for converters of paperboard packaging and their suppliers. PPC works to grow, promote, and protect the paperboard packaging industry while providing its members with resources and tools to compete successfully in the marketplace. For more information, visit www.paperbox.org.

        McLean Packaging Entrusts Scodix 6500 SHD Press to Assist with Increasing Shelf Presence of High-End Packaging Clients

        June 20, 2024

        Press release submitted on behalf of Scodix.

        Scodix, Rosh Ha’Ayin, Israel, the world’s leading provider of digital print enhancements, today announces the sale of its Scodix Ultra 6500 SHD (Smart High Definition), to McLean Packaging Corporation, a leading packaging company based in the USA. McLean purchased the press at drupa 2024 as an investment to enhance its production capabilities and streamline operations.

        With three production facilities and over 200 employees, McLean has been a major player in the American packaging market for over 60 years. Renowned for a variety of packaging solutions from cosmetics and spirits to high end consumer goods and confectionary, the Scodix Ultra 6500 SHD Digital Enhancement Press will be a key aspect in delivering the highest quality embellishments across a range of brand packaging.

        Scodix offers the most sophisticated embellishment solutions on the market; facilitating highly intricate detailing and precision, paving the way for brands to create impact and strong identities through packaging. The newly launched Scodix Ultra 6500 SHD provides an extensive application range on one single machine, including Multi-Layer Embellishment (MLE), so brands can now apply multiple enhancement layers in a single pass.

        “Scodix has exceeded the usual benefits of digital finishing and has the added bonus of impressive sustainable credentials,” Jeff Besnick, Vice President of McLean Packaging comments. “The range of finishing embellishments is impressive. We are confident that Scodix will take our customer’s products to the next level, and we will see impressive results in our packaging.”

        Scodix has a range of sustainability credentials, including a repulpability certificate and impressive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) results, proving that Scodix’ technology can reduce CO2e (CO2 equivalent) by 85%.

        “We were drawn to the Scodix Ultra 6500 press because of its flexibility to offer so many different solutions across many raw material types, benefiting each of our divisions. It’s a game changer!” Besnick adds.

        Mark Nixon, Scodix EVP of Sales concludes, “It’s encouraging to see exceptional companies in the packaging market share our values for sustainability and desire to create the highest quality, intricate packaging on the market. McLean Packaging has consistently set the standard in the industry, and we are honored to support their ongoing commitment to delivering remarkable products to their customers.”

        About Scodix
        Scodix Ltd. is the world leader in digital embellishments. With a proven and successful customer base exceeding 400 across the globe, Scodix has shaped the advancement of the digital enhancement industry since its inception in 2007.

        The Scodix Ultra series of presses offer 16 embellishment applications from a single platform.

        With certifications for recyclable, repulpable and minimal environment impact, Scodix presses elevate the sustainability standards for printers and converters through verified results and accreditations.

        The Scodix Ultra series offers precision embellishments across industries from commercial print, web-to-print, publishing and folding carton packaging. With a commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, Scodix continues to prove the way for the future of embellishments.

        For more information, visit www.Scodix.com or email info@Scodix.com.

        PRINTING United Expo Show Highlights Unveiled as Registration and Hotel Figures Trend Ahead for the 2024 Event

        June 19, 2024

        Press release submitted on behalf of Printing United Alliance.

        PRINTING United Alliance, Fairfax, Virginia, the most comprehensive member-based printing and graphic arts association in North America, is excited to announce that PRINTING United Expo 2024 registration across market segments, and hotel bookings for the event, are trending ahead last year’s impressive figures. Taking place September 10-12 in vibrant Las Vegas, this year’s Expo promises to be an unmissable event for industry professionals, innovators, and enthusiasts alike. Register online today to attend the Expo and its many educational and co-located events taking place over three action-packed days: www.printingunited.com/register.

        Unprecedented Growth and Interest for the Expo
        On the heels of a strategic partnership announcement with the Messe Düsseldorf Group and drupa, and as the three-month countdown is on and the industry gears up; excitement and growth for the Expo continues to climb. Hotel room bookings are already trending at more than 10% over last year’s impressive numbers at this time. Additionally, registration is trending ahead from the same time last year across all market segments, including more than 20% ahead in Apparel, Commercial, and Graphics/Wide-format.

        “We are incredibly excited about this year’s Expo in Las Vegas,” says Mark J. Subers, president, PRINTING United Expo. “The enthusiasm from exhibitors and attendees is palpable, with hotel bookings and registration figures already trending significantly ahead of previous years. The incredible momentum underscores the value and importance of this event in this hemisphere in the printing industry. We look forward to welcoming everyone to what promises to be our most dynamic and innovative Expo yet.”

        2024 Exhibitor Showcase and Empowering Education
        More than 800 exhibitors from around the world will be unveiling their latest solutions spanning market segments in Apparel Decoration; Commercial and Publishing; Functional/Industrial; Graphic Installation; Graphics/Wide-Format; In-Plant; Labels and Packaging; Mailing, Shipping, and Fulfillment; and Promotional. View the PRINTING United Expo show floor map here for the most current exhibitor list.

        As training and education remain at the cornerstone of professional growth, educational opportunities abound at the Expo. The Alliance’s iLEARNING+ platform will take center stage, offering live demos of the latest courses and certifications. Hands-on training at the popular Apparel Zone and thought-provoking sessions at the Future State Theater are always a “must attend.” Through keynote addresses from the industry’s brightest minds to multiple educational tracks, attendees will learn about opportunities for expanding revenue streams and business operations, as well as hear about the latest topics such as AI, sustainability, and color management with new G7+.

        Learn how to stay ahead of challenges facing printers today, from labor costs to maintaining margins; and discover automation solutions and software advancements aimed at enhancing efficiency and competitiveness. View the current educational line-up here (*subject to change).

        Women in Print Unite at the Expo
        The Women in Print Alliance, an Alliance community dedicated to attracting, retaining, advancing, and advocating for women in the printing industry through education, personal and professional development, networking and community building; will host a multitude of events at this year’s Expo.

        The group has an official hotel block at the renowned Fontainebleau Las Vegas, where women in the industry can stay and participate in meetups and cocktail events being hosted throughout the week. A special networking luncheon and keynote speaker is being planned; and so much more. Visit https://womeninprintalliance.org/expo-events/ for the latest information.

        Co-Located Events and PRINTING United AFTER DARK Sizzle in Vegas
        Attendees can take part in a variety of co-located events, such as the many on-site forums, Happy Hours, and – new this year — PRINTING United AFTER DARK offering! This program offers unparalleled networking opportunities and a chance to unwind after a day of exploration. Join fellow industry professionals for a memorable evening of camaraderie and fun. Learn more about PRINTING United AFTER DARK here.

        Register Today
        Register for this year’s Expo now at www.printingunited.com for an unforgettable experience and to best explore areas for diversification within your business operation.

        To take advantage of member-exclusive experiences at PRINTING United Expo 2024, as well as having direct access to leading industry experts, services, and resources, visit www.printing.org/membership to learn more about all the benefits of being an Alliance member.

        About PRINTING United Alliance
        PRINTING United Alliance is the most comprehensive member-based printing and graphic arts association in North America, comprised of the industry’s vast communities. The Alliance serves industry professionals across market segments with preeminent education and training via iLEARNING+, workshops, events, research, government and legislative representation, safety, and environmental sustainability guidance, as well as resources from our leading media brands – Printing Impressions, Packaging Impressions, Wide-format Impressions, In-plant Impressions, and Apparelist. A division of PRINTING United Alliance, Idealliance is a global leader in standards training and certification for printing and graphic arts operations across the entire industry supply chain.

        PRINTING United Alliance also produces the PRINTING United Expo, the most influential days in printing. The expansive display of technology and supplies, education, programming, and services are showcased to the industry at large, and represents all market segments in one easily accessed place.

         

        Duplo USA Celebrates 45 Years as the Leading Provider in Digital Print Finishing

        June 18, 2024

        Press release submitted on behalf of Duplo USA Corporation.

        Duplo USA Corporation, Santa Ana, California, is proud to announce its 45th anniversary as it solidifies its position as a trusted partner for commercial, quick, and in-plant printers. Their growing line of on demand finishing, binding, packaging, and embellishment solutions continue to help print providers elevate their products and bring them to the finish line.

        Founded in 1979 by Juko Shima and a member of the global Duplo brand, Duplo USA serves print businesses in North America. Its products – renowned for their automation, efficiency, and precision – have helped countless printers improve their productivity and profitability as technologies have led to shorter runs.

        Most recently, the company expanded its offerings with two major launches for B2 inkjet, digital, and offset press owners alike: the DSM-1000 B2 Platen Die Cutter and the DuSense DDC-8000 B2 Raised Spot UV Coater. The DDC-8000, with its cold foil capabilities, opens up the possibilities for more unique finishes utilizing holographic, metallic, and matte foils without lamination.

        “We are thrilled to be celebrating 45 years of innovation, collaboration, and excellence,” said Rick Salinas, president of Duplo USA. “Our journey has been marked by our commitment to customer satisfaction and cutting-edge solutions. As we look back on our legacy, we also look forward to the exciting possibilities that lie ahead. This milestone would not have been possible without our dedicated team, loyal customers, and valued partners.”

        In addition to reaching this milestone anniversary, Duplo USA recently surpassed 2 million views on their YouTube channel and over 200 videos. It demonstrates their dedication to providing valuable content for print providers looking to take their work to the next level.

        For more information, visit www.duplousa.com.

        Standard Demonstrates New Products at drupa 2024

        June 14, 2024

        Press release submitted on behalf of Standard Finishing Systems.

        Standard Finishing Systems, Andover, Massachusetts, a leading supplier of post-press and paper handling solutions, traveled to drupa 2024 to join their manufacturing partners Horizon and Hunkeler to demonstrate their latest feeding and finishing technology for North American customers.

        Hunkeler showcased their updated Generation 8 Roll-to-Cut/Stack line with Cobot automation. This solution, optimized for commercial printers, can run applications on heavy offset coated media like greeting cards, 3-up postcards, posters, calendars, and more. The Cobot robot arm is situated at the end of the system to automatically transfer stacks to pallets. Other Hunkeler solutions will be on display in partner booths across the show, including the Starbook Plowfolder Solution with the RX8 Media Changer hosted in the Canon booth, a Roll-to-Roll/Roll-to-Stack combination line hosted by HP, and two lines hosted by Screen: A Roll-to-Roll line and a Roll-to-Stack line.

        Hunkeler and Horizon will also be partnering on two lines to be hosted in the Horizon booth (#F21) in Hall 6. The first will be a Hunkeler Generation 8 Roll-to-Cut/Stack line with the Horizon LBF-500 Book Block Feeder, BQ-500 Perfect Binder, and HT-1000V Trimmer. The second will be a Hunkeler UW8 Unwinder and CS8 Cutter inline with the Horizon StitchLiner Mark V Saddlestitcher and the Horizon HSF-50D Feeder, a new high-speed cut-sheet feeder making its debut at drupa that can run at speeds of up to 45,000 sheets/hour and supports variable-count production using mark sensors.

        In addition to the HSF-50D, Horizon will be debuting several new solutions at drupa including the BQ-300 Perfect Binder and SPF-2000 Bookletmaking System. The new BQ-300 Perfect Binder is a fully automated, single-clamp perfect binder that is capable of variable thickness production of up to 500 books per hour. The new SPF-2000 Bookletmaking System features automated changeover that is 20% faster compared to previous models with zero manual adjustment required for parts. Both of these new products feature a newly designed 15” touchscreen panel for easy, intuitive operation of each machine by operators of any skill level.

        Joining these new products in the Horizon booth will be 15 other systems including the Case Bind Book Block Production System featuring the ESF-1000 End Sheet Feeder, LBF-500 Book Block Feeder, GF-500 Gauze Feeder, BQ-500 Perfect Binder, and HT-300 Trimmer, the StitchLiner Mark IV Saddlestitcher, the AFC-746F Large-Format Folder featuring a palletizing robot arm, and Horizon’s iCE LiNK Bindery Control System which will be connected to all solutions in the booth. Horizon solutions will also be running in the Canon booth, the Konica Minolta booth, the Fujifilm booth, and the HP booth.

        “We’re excited to return to drupa after 8 years,” said Paul Steinke, Director of Sales at Standard. “Standard representatives will be in attendance for the duration of the event, and we are looking forward to showing North American customers the latest solutions from Horizon and Hunkeler. With increasingly advanced automation, robot-assisted production, and AI-optimized workflows, this is a brand new era for print and finishing, and we look forward to seeing the latest innovations from drupa make their way onto production floors.”

        Printers from the U.S. and Canada who are interested in a personalized tour of the Horizon or Hunkeler solutions at drupa are encouraged to reserve an appointment with Standard by registering at the following link: https://www.sdmc.com/drupa2024/.

        FPA Announces President & CEO Departure

        June 13, 2024

        Press release submitted on behalf of Flexible Packaging Association.

        The Flexible Packaging Association (FPA), Annapolis, Maryland, the leading advocate and voice for the growing US flexible packaging industry, announces that its long-serving President & CEO, Alison Keane, will step down from her position on August 1, 2024. The organization announced at the same time that it is initiating a search to identify a new leader.

        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.

        “It’s been an honor to lead FPA through 8-years of growth and evolution,” says Keane. “During that period, we have been able to expand how FPA helps its members. No organization offers the level of support that FPA offers the flexible packaging industry—one of the fastest growing segments in packaging and provides a wealth of information to its members through focused programs and services. I am very grateful to have been a part of those efforts throughout the last 8 years.” Keane attributes the success and growth of the association to strong, passionate leaders, talented staff, and members who actively participate. “This leadership will continue to drive the association and the industry forward.”

        William Jackson, Ph.D., Chief Technology Officer for Amcor Flexibles and FPA Chair notes, “Alison has provided the FPA with exceptional leadership over the last 8 years. She has helped us navigate in times of crisis and change. Under Alison’s leadership, we grew the FPA and kept the budget and revenue on track with expectations. Her work with advocacy, particularly around materials of concern and governmental regulations, has been noteworthy. Her humor, positive attitude, and passion for the FPA have been noted across the Executive Committee, Board of Directors, and the membership. For the better part of a decade, Alison has done an outstanding job, and replacing her will be difficult.”

        Over the last 8 years, Alison’s leadership has been instrumental in driving the association forward, fostering innovation, and collaboration in addressing key issues related to our industry,” states Russell Grissett, President of Sonoco Flexible Packaging, and FPA Vice-Chair. “She has been a tireless advocate, promoting and advocating on behalf of our members and our industry while championing sustainability within the flexible packaging industry. Alison’s dedication and vision have left an indelible mark on our organization, and we are grateful for her unwavering commitment.”

        The association is drawing on the steps in its succession plan to guide the process of selecting a new President & CEO. It formed a search committee to oversee the process and has retained executive search firm Vetted Solutions to coordinate the search. The search will commence in June.

        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 $45 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.

        Industry Influencer: Gary Cohen

        June 11, 2024

        Gary Cohen is the executive director of RadTech International North America, a trade association devoted to promoting the use and development of ultraviolet (UV) and electron beam (EB) processing as an industrial technique offering energy savings, elimination of pollution, greater productivity, higher yields and the opportunity for improved, new or unique products. The association serves as an international forum and reliable source of education and information for individuals and organizations involved in the use of UV and EB processing or who supply equipment, chemicals or other materials to such users. With a background that includes work at the US International Trade Commission, Cohen is focused on supporting US manufacturing across a wide variety of industries, including print and packaging.

        How did your career develop into your involvement with RadTech North America and the UV and EB curing industries?

        I was born and raised in the Washington DC area – so, way too many lawyers and lobbyists concerned about politics. I started out at the US International Trade Commission looking at imports to the US that may be unfairly harming US industry. From that time on, my work always has focused on manufacturing, with subsequent positions at the Association for Manufacturing Technology and the Consumer Electronics Association / Consumer Electronics Show. That broad manufacturing perspective, focused on technology users, seemed to be a good fit for RadTech as UV/EB has so many applications across industries.

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

        The UV/EB industry is all in on circular economy and sustainability. In fact, it is members who encouraged us to tag our 2024 biennial event as UV/EB for Sustainable and Responsible Manufacturing. Over the years, our industry had grown a bit frustrated as we always have offered low to no VOC, CO2 and Hazardous Air Pollution solutions, but it was difficult for many companies to make the investment to change their processes. Moving to UV/EB means not just changing equipment, but also much of the process. Many of our members used to say that our real job was “changing mindsets” to get the word out about the various operational benefits of UV/EB that come with a more sustainable process.

        What are the biggest challenges the UV, UV LED and EB curing industries are facing? How should the industry respond to successfully grow and thrive?

        Understandably, it is hard for many manufacturers to make major changes to their processes. In some instances, companies have been running successfully for generations with their equipment, and change always comes with some perceived level of risk. The challenge of the UV/EB industry is to demonstrate not only the benefits of the technology, but that the technology may be implemented seamlessly
        and easily.

        As we are seeing federal and state regulations pop up around sustainability, UV/EB sometimes are excluded by regulators as they are not familiar with the technology and/or may have heard some misconceptions. Education is the key opportunity for our industry.

        What trends are emerging in design and production that will influence the future of the UV, UV LED and EB curing industry? How do you believe this will affect the printing and packaging industries?

        With increased computing power and artificial intelligence (AI) design programs, the ideas we have been talking about for years, such as mass customization, are becoming a reality. This technology is perfect to implement for inkjet, customization, direct to object and special effects. UV/EB offer nearly infinite tuning and precise curing.

        Which markets/verticals are growing their use of UV, UV LED and EB curing technologies?

        The graphic arts industries are by far the largest segment for UV/EB in North America. UV/EB seems to be accelerating its growth in food packaging and all types of printing, offering safe, sustainable solutions to printers for a range of substrates. That includes metal can decorating and coatings, and coatings and decorations for various flooring and wall covering applications.

        While sustainability certainly is a driver to the growth of the technology, the main driver for UV/EB always has been the fact that it is an “enabling” technology, offering enhanced capabilities to print, coat and adhere on a wide range of substrates that may not be practically done in any other way. In addition to the environmental benefits, the hyper-speed (UV/EB cure nearly instantly, in most cases, with products ready for pack and ship immediately), increased capabilities to make new products and the efficiency of the UV/EB processes offer manufacturers real opportunities to benefit their bottom line.

        What are your predictions for the UV/EB industry in the next five to 10 years?

        I have been in the UV/EB industry for a long time, and part of the reason is because the technology and applications are rapidly evolving, making me very fortunate to be involved with this exciting technology. Big, amazing surprises about new applications and processes almost are a certainty, if the past is any indicator.

        If the emphasis on energy savings, CO2 emissions and sustainability continues, the outlook for this technology is very exciting. In many cases, I am not sure there is any better way to meet such enviro-goals while enhancing product and process performance.

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