Paul Centenari
EDITORIAL NOTE
Redefining Packaging Excellence Through Purpose and Precision
Inanindustrywhereperformance,reliability,and
sustainabilityintersect,packaginghasbecomefarmore thanaprotectivelayer.Itisnowacriticaldriverof brandidentity,operationalefficiency,andenvironmental responsibility.Organizationsacrosssectorsarerethinking howpackagingsolutionscansupportevolvingconsumer expectationswhilemaintainingcost-effectivenessand durability Thisshifthasencouragedleaderstoadopt smartermanufacturingpractices,integrateadvanced materials,andrefinesupplychaincoordinationtodeliver consistentvalue.
Asbusinessesexpandtheirreachacrossglobalmarkets,the demandforscalableandadaptablepackagingsolutions continuestogrow.Companiesareexpectedtobalance innovationwithpracticality,ensuringthattheirofferingsnot onlymeettechnicalrequirementsbutalsoalignwith sustainabilitygoals.Thiscallsforadeepunderstandingof customerneeds,strongoperationaldiscipline,anda commitmenttocontinuousimprovement.Theleaderswho standoutarethosewhocantranslatetheseexpectationsinto measurableoutcomeswhilemaintaininglong-termvision.
Inthisedition, Most Influential Packaging Leaders Redefining the Industry in 2026, werecognizeindividuals andorganizationsthataresettingnewbenchmarksin packagingthroughstrategicgrowth,operationalexcellence,
andcustomer-centricthinking.Theircontributionshighlight howthoughtfulleadershipcantransformchallengesinto opportunitiesanddrivemeaningfulprogressacrossthe industry.
Thefeaturedleaderinthiseditionrepresentsaremarkable journeyofgrowthandresilience,havingtransformeda modestmanufacturingoperationintoalarge-scale packagingenterprisewithimpressiverevenueexpansion. Withaclearfocusonoperationalefficiencyandcustomer satisfaction,thisleaderhasbuiltabusinessthatconsistently deliversqualitywhileadaptingtochangingmarket demands.Underthisleadership,theorganizationhas strengtheneditsproductioncapabilities,expandedits marketpresence,andmaintainedastrongcommitmentto deliveringdependablepackagingsolutions.Thisstory standsasatestamenttowhatdisciplinedexecutionanda clearstrategicvisioncanachieveinacompetitiveindustry
Let each page inspire reflection, purpose, and forward thinking!
-Alaya Brown
THE FRONT PAGE EXCLUSIVE
08 Paul Centenari
The CEO Who Grew a $5.5 Million Sheet Plant into a $100 Million Packaging Powerhouse
Featuring
Ahmed Warraich
Alan
Chief Execu ve Officer
Andrea Tucker
Chief Execu ve Officer
Andy Goggins
CEO
Casey Turner
Chief Execu ve Officer
Courtney Heagle
Chief Execu ve Officer
David Varsano
Chief Execu ve Officer
David Wilsted
Chief Execu ve Officer
Ed Cote
Chief Execu ve Officer
Gary Marx
CEO
Chief Execu ve Officer Company
Al um Packaging al umpkg.com
Easypak easypak.net
Veri v veri v.com
NorthGate northgate packaging.com
Cadillac Products Packaging Company cadillacproducts.com
Performance Pallet performancepallet corp.com
Pacific Packaging Products, Inc. pacpac.com
FCA Packaging fcapackaging.com
Industrial Packaging industrialpackaging.com
Brief
Strategic execu ve with strengths in global business opera ons, leadership, and innova on. Skilled in driving growth, managing teams, and execu ng complex business strategies.
Experienced execu ve with strong leadership, strategic planning, and opera onal management skills. Adept at driving growth, op mizing performance, and leading teams toward success.
Innova ve leader with strengths in customer experience, brand strategy, and organiza onal growth. Skilled in driving transforma on, team leadership, and delivering impac ul business results.
Results-oriented CEO with exper se in business development, leadership, and opera onal strategy. Known for driving growth, innova on, and building high-performing organiza ons.
Accomplished CEO with exper se in scaling businesses, opera onal strategy, and customer-focused solu ons. Known for driving growth, enhancing performance, and fostering collabora ve cultures.
Dynamic CEO with strengths in leadership, strategic growth, and opera onal excellence. Excels in team development, innova on, and delivering sustainable business success.
Visionary leader skilled in investment strategy, market analysis, and business growth. Known for strategic thinking, leadership excellence, and delivering strong financial outcomes.
Experienced execu ve with exper se in opera onal leadership, strategic planning, and organiza onal development. Known for improving performance and delivering long-term business value.
Strategic CEO with exper se in opera ons, business development, and performance op miza on. Known for strong leadership, decision-making, and delivering consistent organiza onal growth.
Piedmont Na onal piedmontna onal.com
Strategic leader with exper se in business development, opera ons, and financial management. Known for driving growth, building partnerships, and enhancing organiza onal performance.
Featuring
Gavin Ashe
Managing Partner Company
Gavin Schu en
Co-CEO
Ileana Tovaglieri
Chief Execu ve Officer
James Curleigh
Chief Execu ve Officer
Jeff Godsey
Chief Execu ve Officer
Julian Bossong
CEO
Karla Fichter
CEO
Kay Polly
Founder
Keith Smith
President and CEO
Kerrin Smith
Chief Execu ve Officer
Kite Packaging kitepackaging.co.uk
Display Pack Inc displaypack.com
Fres-co System USA, Inc. fres-co.com
Pelican Products, Inc. pelican.com
Dallas Plas cs Corpora on dallasplas cs.com
Atlan c Packaging atlan cpkg.com/
Diamond Packaging diamondpackaging.com
Pregis pregis.com
Vonco Products vonco.com
Fleenor Paper Company fleenorpaper.com/
Brief
Dynamic managing partner with strengths in investment strategy, stakeholder engagement, and business development. Excels at driving growth through partnerships, market expansion, and opera onal excellence.
Collabora ve co-CEO with strengths in leadership, business strategy, and opera onal execu on. Excels in partnership building, innova on, and driving shared organiza onal success.
Visionary execu ve with exper se in sustainability, policy, and organiza onal leadership. Known for strategic thinking, advocacy, and driving impac ul, purpose-driven ini a ves.
Transforma onal execu ve with exper se in brand development, global leadership, and business turnaround. Known for strategic vision, innova on, and driving impac ul growth ini a ves.
Experienced CEO with strong leadership in opera ons, strategic planning, and business development. Proven ability to drive growth, enhance performance, and lead successful organiza ons.
Forward-looking CEO with strengths in innova on, digital transforma on, and market expansion. Skilled at leading teams, execu ng strategy, and driving compe ve advantage.
Dynamic CEO with exper se in sustainability, innova on, and business transforma on. Strong leader focused on driving impact, opera onal excellence, and long-term growth.
Entrepreneurial founder with strong vision, leadership, and business development skills. Excels in innova on, building organiza ons from ground up, and driving sustainable growth.
Visionary leader skilled in corporate strategy, financial management, and organiza onal leadership. Proven ability to scale businesses, enhance profitability, and lead transforma ve ini a ves successfully.
Forward-thinking execu ve skilled in leadership, innova on, and business transforma on. Demonstrates strong decision-making, team development, and strategic execu on across evolving industries.
Featuring
Kevin Clark
President
Mike Doss
Chief Execu ve Officer
Mitchell Kamps
Chief Execu ve Officer
Paul Centenari
Chief Execu ve Officer
PJ Wiebel
Chief Execu ve Officer
Robert Egan
Chief Execu ve Officer
Steven Tchira
Chief Execu ve Officer
Tom Miskewitz
CEO
Will Rehrig
Chief Execu ve Officer
Willem Derkman
CEO
Company
Silgan Dispensing silgandispensing.com
Graphic Packaging Interna onal graphicpkg.com
Kamps Pallets kampspallets.com
Atlas Container Corpora on atlascontainer.com
Econo-Pak econopak.com
Packaging Exchange packagingex.com Decowraps decowraps.com
Champion Container Corp championcontainer.com
Rehrig Pacific Company rehrigpacific.com PaperFoam paperfoam.com
Brief
Experienced president with strong leadership in strategic planning, financial oversight, and organiza onal development. Known for driving opera onal efficiency and fostering long-term business success.
Seasoned execu ve with exper se in global opera ons, supply chain management, and corporate strategy. Known for driving efficiency, innova on, and large-scale organiza onal success.
Results-driven execu ve with exper se in opera ons, leadership, and business expansion. Known for improving efficiency, driving growth, and building high-performing teams.
Strategic execu ve with exper se in opera ons, supply chain op miza on, and business growth. Known for driving efficiency, innova on, and building high-performing teams across compe ve markets.
Innova ve leader with strengths in strategic planning, opera ons, and team leadership. Excels at driving business growth, efficiency, and long-term organiza onal success.
Experienced CEO with strengths in opera onal leadership, financial management, and strategic growth. Proven ability to streamline processes and build high-performing teams.
Experienced CEO with exper se in opera ons, leadership, and business development. Known for improving efficiency, driving growth, and building strong organiza onal cultures.
Experienced CEO with strong capabili es in opera ons, leadership, and business growth. Skilled in op mizing performance, leading teams, and delivering strategic results.
Strategic leader with strong capabili es in opera ons, manufacturing, and business expansion. Excels in innova on, team leadership, and delivering consistent, scalable organiza onal success.
Results-driven CEO with deep exper se in global opera ons, process improvement, and innova on. Adept at leading teams, op mizing performance, and delivering sustainable business growth.
Paul Centenari
The CEO Who Grew a $5.5 Million Sheet Plant into a $100 Million Packaging Powerhouse
CEO Atlas Container Corporation
Everyproductyouhaveeverboughtarrivedinabox. Youprobablynevergaveitasecondthought,and foralongtime,thepeoplerunningpackaging companieswereperfectlyfinewiththat.Theindustrydidn't needattention.Itneededorders,andfordecades,thosekept coming.
TheSearchThatDefinedaCareer
Thene-commercearrivedandcompletelychangedthe math.Thevolumeofboxesmovingthroughtheeconomy becameapressuretest,exposingwhichcompanieshadbuilt realoperationsandwhichhadsimplybeencoastingon steadydemand.Customerswhoonceacceptedtwo-week leadtimesstartedexpectingtwodays.Thecardboardbox becameacompetitivebattleground.
Thecompaniesthatcameoutaheadwererunbypeople whounderstoodtheirbusinessatagranularlevel,whohad spentenoughyearsonthefloortoknowwherethe problemsactuallylived,andwhodidn'tneedaconsultantto tellthemwheretocutorwheretoinvest.
PaulCentenari,CEOofAtlasContainerCorporation, builthiscareeronexactlythatkindofoperationalclarity Nearlyfourdecadeslater,Atlasgeneratesover$100million inrevenue,earnedthroughdiscipline,goodpeople,anda refusaltoovercomplicatewhatworks.
Let's learn how Paul's insights, decisions, and leadership shaped both a business and the people within it!
APathThatWasNeverLinear
Paul'scareerdidn'tstartinmanufacturing.Aftergraduating fromDartmouth,hejoinedProcterandGamble,wherehe spentthreeyearssellingsoaptosupermarkets.This experiencehelpedhimunderstandsalesandhowtobuild strongcustomerrelationships.Helatermovedintosales management,wherehebegandevelopingleadershipskills earlyinhiscareer
Wantingtogrowfurther,hepursuedanMBAatHarvard BusinessSchoolafteraboutayearandahalfin management.There,hestrengthenedhisthinkingaround businessstrategyandanalysis.Aftercompletinghisdegree, heenteredinvestmentbanking,gainingvaluablefinancial experience,thoughhefeltsomethingwasmissing.
Thatshiftcamewhenhechosetoleavefinancebehind.As heputsit,“Thenwedecidedwewantedtodosomething else—getarealjobandmakesomething.”Thatdecision tobuildsomethingtangiblebecamethestartingpoint foreverythingthatfollowed.
Theideathatstarteditallwasbasedonaconceptcalleda searchfund.Itisasimplebutstructuredapproachwhere youraisemoney,findacompanytobuy,andthengrowit overtime.Asheexplains,“Fundamentally,it'swhereyou findpeopletoinvestinthesearchforacompany,withthe promisethattheycanconvertthatinvestmentintoequity andalsobuymoreequity.”
Withthisplan,heandhispartnerbeganalongand determinedsearch.Theycontactedaround450box companies,reachingoutthroughcallsandletters.Ittook patienceandpersistence.Outofallthosecompanies,onlya fewdozenwerewillingtotalk,andjustfiveshowedreal interest.
Intheend,theyfoundtherightfit,asheetplantin Baltimorewithabout$5.5millioninsales.Theyboughtthe businessandmovedtheretorunit,eventhoughtheyhadno experienceintheindustry.Overtime,theygrewitintoa companygeneratingmorethan$100millioninrevenue, showingtheimpactofsteadyeffortandstrongexecution.
ChoosingtheRightIndustry
Thedecisiontoentertheboxbusinesswasveryintentional. Theywerelookingforanindustrythatwaslow-tech,used unskilledlabor,andwasnotwellmanagedormarketed. Theideawastofindabusinesswheresimpleimprovements couldquicklymakeadifference.
Theyalsowantedaproductthatwasbasicandused repeatedly.Boxeswereaperfectfit.Theyareaconsumable productthatcustomersneedagainandagain,whichcreates steadydemandandlong-termrelationships.
I follow what I call the Vince Lombardi approach—block and tackle, go right up the middle. “ “
Locationwasanotherimportantfactor.Insteadofgoing nationalorglobal,theyfocusedonaregionalbusiness.This madeiteasiertocompeteandbuildstrongconnectionswith localcustomers.
Equallyimportantwasfinancialstability.Theylookedfor companieswithnodebtandsteadycashflowforatleast fiveyears.Thisgavethemacushion,knowingtheymight makemistakesearlyonsincetheyhadnoexperiencein manufacturing.
EarlyRisksandUnexpectedSupport
Startingoutwasnoteasy.Despitehavingnoprior experienceintheindustry,theydevelopedadetailed businessplan,investingaround100hoursintoits preparation.Theypresenteditto12banksinBaltimore, hopingtosecurefinancingfortheiracquisition.
Theresponsewassurprising.Tenofthetwelvebanks expressedinterestinlendingtothem.Itwasatestamentnot onlytothestrengthoftheirplanbutalsototheeconomic climateatthetime.Lendingconditionswerefavorable,and opportunitieswereavailableforthosewillingtotakerisks.
However,oneofthemostcriticaldecisionstheymadewas retainingthepreviousowners.Althoughtheagreementwas initiallysetforthreeyears,onestayedfor15yearsandthe otherfor25.Theirexperienceandknowledgewere invaluable,providingstabilityduringthetransitionand helpingthenewleadershipnavigateunfamiliarterritory
BuildingThroughSimplicity
Overtheyears,thecompany'sgrowthstrategyhasremained groundedinsimplicity.Ratherthanchasingcomplex strategiesortrends,thefocushasbeenonconsistent execution.Ashedescribesit,“IfollowwhatIcalltheVince Lombardiapproach—blockandtackle,gorightupthe middle.”
Thisphilosophyemphasizesdoingthebasicsexceptionally well.Inthepackagingbusiness,thatmeansdeliveringon time,maintainingquality,andensuringcustomer satisfaction.Itisnotaboutreinventingthewheelbutabout ensuringthateverypartoftheoperationworksseamlessly, everysingleday
Attheleadershiplevel,hisrolehasevolvedintooneof continuousimprovement.Hespendshistimeidentifying opportunitiestoenhanceoperationswhilealsofocusingon people.Keepingemployeesengagedandmotivatedisas importantasmeetingfinancialtargets.Afterall,abusiness canonlyperformaswellasthepeoplebehindit.
I consider myself a consensus leader. I need agreement from the managers; I can't force things on them. “ “
LeadershipRootedinConsensus
Leadership,forPaul,isnotaboutauthoritybutalignment. Hedescribeshisapproachascollaborative,emphasizingthe importanceofagreementamongmanagers.“Iconsider myselfaconsensusleader.Ineedagreementfromthe managers;Ican'tforcethingsonthem.”
Thisperspectivestemsfromexperience.Earlyattemptsat imposingdecisionsprovedineffectiveinsustainingchange. Overtime,herealizedthatlastingtransformationrequires beliefandbuy-infromtheteam.Thisinvolveslistening, engagingindiscussions,andsometimestakingthelonger pathtoreachasharedunderstanding.
Theapproachmaytakemoretime,butitbuildsstronger foundations.Whenpeoplebelieveinwhattheyaredoing, theyaremorecommitted,moreinnovative,andmore resilientinthefaceofchallenges.
EvolvingThroughChallenges
Nolong-termsuccesscomeswithoutchallenges,andthis journeyhashaditsshareoftoughmoments.Thecompany facedseveralnear-deathexperiences,especiallyduring rapidgrowththroughacquisitions.
Theseperiodsrevealedoperationalweaknesses.Overeight years,theworkforcehadgrownbeyondwhatwas sustainable,andamajorreductionbecamenecessary.The processtookmonthsofdiscussionandcarefulplanning.
Reflectingontheseexperiences,henotes,“Earlyon,I believedincommandandcontrol.Overtime,Irealizedthat doesn'twork.”Thisinsightshiftedhisleadershiptoward collaborationandunderstanding.
Anotherharddecisionwasclosingabusinessacquiredfrom Weyerhaeuser,whichinvolvedlettinggoof125employees. Theprocesstookayearandahalf,reinforcingtheneedto stayfocusedandmanageriskscarefully
ACultureBuiltonRespect
Atthecoreoftheorganizationisastrongfocusonculture. Themainbeliefis,“First,wetreatpeoplewithdignity.No screaming,nodisrespect.”Thismindsetguideshowpeople treateachotheracrossthecompany.
Boxes went from 'you do what?' to 'that's a sexy product. “
thanwhentheyjoined.Thisincludesgainingtechnical skills,understandingbusinessdynamics,andlearninghow theirrolescontributetothebiggerpicture.
Hehopesthatindividualsalsodevelopasleaders,learning tomanageotherswithempathyandrespect.Theselessons, hebelieves,havelastingvaluebeyondanysinglejobor company
Feedbackisgiveninahelpfulway,withthegoalof improvingperformanceratherthancriticizing.The companyalsopromotesaccountabilityandopenness. Employeesregularlyreviewtheirsupervisors,lookingat howwelltheycommunicate,train,andsupporttheirteams.
Thesereviewsmatter.Insomecases,supervisorshavebeen letgofornottreatingemployeesproperly Thisshowsthat respectisamust,notachoice.
Therearealsocross-teamreviews,wheresalesand customerserviceteamsevaluateeachother Thishelps improveteamworkandunderstanding.Theoverallgoalis tocreateaworkplacewherepeoplefeelvaluedandenjoy comingtowork.
DefiningEffectiveLeadership
Understandingwhatmakesaleadereffectivehasbeen shapedbyyearsofobservationandexperience.Onekey insightisthattechnicalskillsalonearenotenough. Discipline,attitude,andtheabilitytoconnectwithpeople playacrucialrole.
Henotes,“It'shardtofindpeoplewhoshowup,letalone performwell.”Thisrealityunderscorestheimportanceof hiringcarefullyandsettingclearexpectations.While aptitudetestsandvettingprocessescanhelp,theycannot replaceintrinsicmotivation.
Effectiveleaders,inhisview,arethosewholisten,seekthe truth,andbalanceaccountabilitywithempathy Theyare respectednotbecauseoftheirpositionbutbecauseoftheir actions.Theysupporttheirteamswhilemaintaininghigh standards,creatinganenvironmentwherepeoplecan succeed.
ALegacyBeyondBusiness
Whenreflectingonlegacy,thefocusextendsbeyond financialsuccess.Itisabouttheimpactonpeople.Thegoal istoensurethatemployeesleavetheorganizationbetter
Atthesametime,thereisarecognitionthatsuccess matters.Athrivingbusinesscreatesopportunities,stability, andasenseofachievement.Itenablesgrowth,rewards effort,andfostersapositiveenvironment.
AdaptingtoIndustryTransformation
TheCOVID-19pandemicmarkedasignificantturning pointforthepackagingindustry.Demandsurgedasecommerceexpandedrapidly.Whatwasonceconsidereda mundaneproductbecameessentialtoeverydaylife.
Hecapturesthisshiftsuccinctly:“Boxeswentfrom'youdo what?'to'that'sasexyproduct.'”Theindustryexperienced substantialgrowth,withmarketsizeincreasingfromaround $30billiontonearly$50billion.
Thistransformationhighlightedtheimportanceof adaptability.Companiesthatcouldrespondquicklyto changingdemandsgainedacompetitiveedge.Italso reinforcedtherelevanceofpackagingasacritical componentofmoderncommerce.
LookingAheadwithPurpose
Asthecompanycontinuestogrow,thefocusstayson strongserviceandconstantimprovement.Thevisionisto becomethe“FederalExpressoftheboxbusiness,”known forfastandreliabledeliverythatsetsthemapart.
Thereisalsoaclearinterestinusingnewtechnologieslike AItoimproveefficiencyandsupportbetterdecisionmaking.Thisshowsabalancebetweenstayinggroundedin corevaluesandlookingahead.
Overall,thejourneyreflectshardwork,adaptability,anda strongfocusonpeople,provingthatevenasimpleproduct likeaboxcandrivemeaningfulsuccess.
MostInfluentialPackagingLeadersRedefiningtheIndustryin2026
Empowering CUSTOMER-FOCUSED Logistics
Thewaygoodsmovefromoneplacetoanotherhas changedagreatdealinrecentyears.Customersno longerjustwanttheirorderstoarrive;theywant themtoarriveontime,inperfectcondition,andwithas littlehassleaspossible.Thisshiftinexpectationhaspushed businessestorethinkhowtheyoperatefromtheinsideout. Attheheartofthistransformationiscustomer-focused logistics,awayofrunningsupplychainsthatputsthe buyer'sexperiencefirst,notlast.
LogisticsThroughtheCustomerLens
Manypeoplethinklogisticsissimplyabouttrucks, warehouses,anddeliverydates.Inreality,itismuchmore thanthat.Customer-focusedlogisticsmeanseverydecision madealongthesupplychain,fromsourcingtoshippingto finaldelivery,isguidedbywhatthecustomeractually needs.
Thisapproachasksasimplequestionateverystep:Does thischoicemakethingsbetterforthepersonreceivingthe product?Whenbusinessesstartaskingthatquestion consistently,theirentireoperationbeginstoimprove. Deliveriesbecomemorereliable.Communicationbecomes clearer.Problemsgetsolvedfaster Andmostimportantly, customersbegintotrustthebrand.
Trust,oncebuilt,ishardtobreak.Thatiswhycompanies thatinvestinacustomer-firstmindsettendtogrowsteadily evenincompetitivemarkets.
TheRoleofPackagingintheCustomerExperience
Packagingisoftenseenasasmalldetail,somethingtothink aboutafterallthebigdecisionsaremade.Butthisisa mistake.Packagingisusuallythefirstphysicalthinga customertouches.Itcreatesanimpressionbeforethe productisevenseen.
Goodlogisticsandpackagingsolutionsdotwothingsat once.Theyprotecttheproductduringitsjourney,andthey communicatethebrand'svaluesthemomenttheyare opened.Awell-packedordertellsthecustomerthatcare wastaken.Adamagedorwastefulpackagedoesthe opposite.
Beyondappearance,packagingalsoaffectscosts,storage space,andenvironmentalimpact.Businessesthatchoose smartpackagingreducewaste,lowershippingexpenses, andmaketheiroperationseasiertomanage.Thesearenot smallgains;theyaddupsignificantlyovertime.
ConnectingtheSupplyChaintotheEndCustomer
Oneofthebiggestchallengesinmodernlogisticsisthat supplychainsarelongandcomplex.Aproductcanbe producedinonelocationoftheglobeandstoredinanother, andthenshippedtoatotallydifferentlocation. Ateach step,thingscangowrong.
Customer-focusedlogisticsoperatesbyensuringthatall thesemovingcomponentsarealignedtoasinglecommon purpose,whichistoaddvaluetotheindividualattheend oftheline.Thisrequiresclearcommunicationbetween suppliers,warehouseteams,deliverypartners,andcustomer servicestaff.
Wheneveryoneunderstandstheroletheyplayinthe customer'sjourney,theentirechainbecomesmoreefficient. Delaysgetcaughtearlier.Damageisreduced.Returnsgo down.Andcustomerswalkawaysatisfied.
BusinessesRethinkingLogisticsandPackaging Solutions
Theriseofonlineshoppinghasraisedthebarforwhat customersexpect.Peoplearenowusedtofastshipping,
easyreturns,andreal-timetracking.Theseexpectationsare notgoingaway;theyaregrowing.
Businessesthatsticktooutdatedmethodswillfinditharder tokeepup.Thosethatembracemodernlogisticsand packagingsolutionswillfindthemselvesbetterequippedto meetdemand,handlegrowth,andkeepcustomerscoming back.
Rethinkinglogisticsisnotjustabouttechnologyor infrastructure.Itisaboutadoptingamindsetthatseesevery shipmentasachancetobuildarelationship.Whena customerreceivestheirorderexactlyasexpected,ontime, wellpacked,andeasytoopen,theyaremorelikelytoorder againandrecommendthebrandtoothers.
SustainabilityasPartoftheSolution
Today'scustomersarealsomoreconsciousaboutthe environmentthaneverbefore.Theynoticewhenpackaging isexcessive.Theyappreciatewhenacompanymakesan efforttoreduceitsfootprint.Sustainablelogisticsand packagingsolutionsarethereforenotjustgoodforthe planet;theyaregoodforbusiness.
Choosingrecyclablematerials,reducingpackagingsize, andoptimisingdeliveryroutesallcontributetoasmaller environmentalimpact.Thesechoicesalsoresonatewith customerswhowanttosupportbrandsthatsharetheir values.
InSummary
Thereisnosingleformulaforgreatcustomer-focused logistics.Everybusinesshasdifferentproducts,customers, andchallenges.Buttheunderlyingprincipleremainsthe same:putthecustomeratthecentreofeverydecision,and letthatguidehowyouplan,pack,ship,anddeliver.
Companiesthattakethisseriouslywillfindthattheir logisticsstopsbeingacostcentreandstartsbecominga competitiveadvantage.Inaworldwherecustomershave morechoicesthanever,thebusinessesthatmakethings easy,reliable,andthoughtfulwillalwaysstandout.The futureoflogisticsisnotjustfaster,itissmarter,more personal,andmorepurposeful.
Amidsttherapid-firepaceofmodernlife,
convenienceoftencomesatacosttoourplanetand itspreciousecosystems.Plasticpollutionremainsa significantandurgentissue,withplasticpackagingbeing oneofitsmajorcontributors.Itistimetorethinkour relianceonplasticpackagingandembraceamore sustainablefuture.
Onecompanyhasbeenattheforefrontofthegreen packagingrevolutionforover25years:PaperFoam®.Led byvisionaryCEOWillemDerkman,ithasbeenblazinga trailininnovative,biobased,andcompostablepackaging solutions,offeringagame-changingalternativetoplastic andconventionalpackagingmaterials.
ForPaperFoam,sustainabilityismorethanamere catchphrase;itisacorevaluethatpermeateseveryaspect ofitsoperations.Employingstate-of-the-arttechnologyand patentedinjectionmoldingtechniques,theycraftpackaging interiorswithimpressivelylowcarbonfootprints.By harnessingindustrialstarchandfibersintheirprotective trays,ithassetunprecedentedstandardsforeco-friendly packaging,presentingagreenerchoiceoverplastic,carton, andpulppackaging.
AGlobalReachwithLocalImpact
Withacommitmenttomakingameaningfulglobalimpact, PaperFoam'stailor-madepackagingsolutionscatertoa diversearrayofindustries,fromconsumerelectronicsto medicaldevices,cosmeticstodryfoods.Esteemed companiessuchasiZettle,T-Mobile,andAirtamehave embracedPaperFoamastheireco-friendlypackaging partner
PaperFoam'sjourneytowardsenvironmentalsustainability commencesintheNetherlands,wheretheirResearchand Development,packagingdesign,andmoldmanufacturing aremeticulouslyconducted.Itservesclientsacrossthe globe,withlocalsalesagentsinAmsterdam,Berlin,New York,andPenang.ProductionfacilitiesspantheUSA, Malaysia,CzechRepublic,andtheNetherlands.A dedicatedteamofnearly300full-timeemployees worldwideensuresseamlessexecution,providing packagingsolutionsthatarebothenvironmentally responsibleandeconomicallyviable.
Willem:LeadingPaperFoamtoNewHorizons
WillemDerkman,theCEOofPaperFoam,hadhisfirst introductiontothecompanyduringhistechnicalbusiness administrationstudiesattheUniversityofGroningen.After joiningthemarketingandsalesdepartmentin2002,he witnessedthecompany'sgrowthandprogress.Whenthe formerCEO,MarkGeerts,begansearchingforasuccessor, Derkmanwaschosentofilltherole.
OrganizationalStandardsandValues
Quality: PaperFoam'smaingoalistoofferanexcellent productthatmeetscustomerrequirementswithinthegiven timeframe.Fromnewproductdevelopmenttoproduction anddelivery,itisdedicatedtoensuringzerodefectsat everystep.Thisisachievedthroughexcellentcustomer service,sufficientlyskilledstaff,highdeliveryreliability, efficientandflexibleinternalbusinessprocesses,reliable suppliers,andacleanworkingenvironment.From temporaryworkerstomanagement,theentirebusinessis infusedwithqualitythinking,withaconstantfocusonwhat benefitstheconsumer
Continuous Improvement: PaperFoamstrivesfor continuousimprovementsbyremainingresponsivetothe evolvingneedsofitsstakeholders,embracingemerging technologies,andundertakinggroundbreakingcustomer projects.AllfacilitiesareISO9001:2015certified, reflectingtheirunwaveringfocusonquality.
Corporate Social Responsibility: PaperFoam'sCSRpolicy isbuiltaroundfosteringasustainablelivingenvironment forbothcurrentandfuturegenerations.Throughoutthe wholeprocess,fromrawmaterialsourcingtomanufacture anddisposal,PaperFoamensuresthatitssolutionsare environmentallyfriendly.Italsomakesanefforttobuild long-lastingrelationshipswithpartnersandemployees whileactinginasociallyresponsiblemanner
Employer Style and Diversity: Bypromotinganopen culturewithinahorizontalorganizationalstructure, PaperFoamputsitsemployees'welfarefirst.Thecompany's principles,whichincluderespect,honesty,adaptability, trust,equality,andappreciation,areessentialtodeveloping afavorableworkatmosphere.PaperFoamalsoactively encouragesdiversityinitshiringpractices,strivingtogive peoplewhomightencounterobstaclesinthejobmarketa chancetojoinitsworkforce.
CoreValues
PaperFoamconsidersthefollowingcorevaluesimportant: Together,workingwithinternalandexternalstakeholdersto achievegoals;Flexible,accommodatingclientsandstaff alike;Creative,fosteringinnovationformore environmentallyfriendlytechnologies;Solution-oriented, findingthebestsolutionforeverycustomer;and Continuity,developinglong-lastingrelationshipsand becomingprofitableovertime.
SustainableSolutionforaGreenerPlanet
Willemsays, "Sustainable packaging is as green as it gets."
PaperFoam®sustainablepackagingpresentsatrulyecoconsciousalternativethroughoutitsentireexistence. Utilizingindustrialstarch,fibers,andwater,thispackaging incorporatesbiobasedandrenewablematerials.The outcomeofthislow-carbon,energy-efficientmanufacturing techniqueallowstheproducttobecompostedathomeor recycledalongsidepaper
PaperFoam®packagingexhibitsspontaneous decompositionwithinamatterofweeks,leavingbehindno harmfulresiduesorpollution.Moreover,PaperFoam® effortlesslydissolvesinwaterwithoutgeneratingany hazardouswaste,renderingitentirelycompostable.Dueto itslightweightnatureanddedicationtoeliminatingplastic waste,PaperFoam®significantlycontributestothe reductionofCO2emissions,withloweremissionsduring transportationaswell.
Functionality,Aesthetics,andCustomizability
PaperFoam®packagingexcelsinreducingweightbyupto 40%comparedtoconventionalproductpackaging.Despite itslightweightnature,thebiobasedpackagingformsa protectivecushionaroundtheitem,outperformingregular packagingintermsofprotection.
ThePaperFoam®mixturecanadoptanycolorsinceitis createdfromscratch,andeachmoldiscarefullytailoredto catertotheuniquerequirementsofindividualclients. Whetheroneseekspackagingenrichedwithaddedtexture, stackablepackingtrays,ortheintegrationofalogoonthe biobasedpackaging,PaperFoam®standsreadytodelivera fullypersonalizedsolution.Flexibilityisattheheartofits ethos.Bymanufacturingclosetocustomers,itminimizes shippingtimeandenvironmentalimpact,furthersolidifying itscommitmenttosustainability
PowerfulMessage
WhenyouselectPaperFoam®packaging,yougobeyond supportingsustainabilityandalsobenefitfrom:carbon footprintreductionofupto90%,personalizedand biodegradabledesignoptions,adiverseselectionofcolors andtextures,andenhancedproductprotectionthrougha perfectfit.
UntoldChallenges
Introducinganewpackagingmaterialtothemarketisnot alwayssimple,particularlywhentryingtoreplaceplastic, asWillemacknowledges.
VisionfortheFuture
Willemsharedhisenthusiasmbysaying, "We feel like we are just getting started. There is so much unnecessary plastic still used in packaging that there is still a lot to gain.
At the same time, we keep improving our process and product."
AnexcitingadvancementcomesintheformofPaperFoam Plus,anewvariantthatretainsthecoreattributesofthe traditionalmaterialwhileboastingathickerwall,enabling ittoaccommodateheavierormoredemandingproductsand offeringacompellingsubstituteforEPSorStyrofoam. PaperFoamhasalsorecentlyjoinedforceswithNissha, unitedinacceleratingresearchendeavors,affording abundantopportunitiesandresourcestoexploreavenuesfor enhancementandinnovativetechnologies.
PackagingTowardsaSustainableFuture
PaperFoamisdrivenbyafirmcommitmenttomitigating theadverseenvironmentaleffectsofpackaging.Overthe next5years,theyhavesetatargettocurtailtheworldwide carbonfootprintofpackagingbyapproximately40kilotons CO2-eq,withadedicatedannualreductionofatleast15 kilotonsinsubsequentyears.Toachievethis,PaperFoam planstoreplaceroughly500millionconventional packagingtrays,craftedfrommaterialslikepulp,PE,PET, PS,andRPet,withbiobasedandpaperrecyclable PaperFoamtrays,reducingbothoilconsumptionandwater usage.Torealizetheseobjectives,PaperFoamenvisionsan expansionofatleast15-25%annually,withsustainability remainingaparamountfocusthroughoutthisgrowth trajectory.
RavingCountlessAwards
PaperFoamhasearnedrecognitionacrossprestigious platforms,includingtheDielineAwardforHalfMagic beauty,theNLPackagingAwardforAlpine,andthe WorldstarAward2022
Ontheeco-mindedpackagingcreatedforHalfMagic, Willemexpressed, "Makeup containers rarely get recycled. Why? Because there are too many obstacles. Compacts and other containers are too small for curbside recycling, or makeup containers consist of materials that are often unsuitable for recycling to begin with. We can change that. Half Magic strives to shake up and wake up the makeup industry when it comes to reducing beauty waste. Excited to support them in promoting circularity in the beauty industry, we created PaperFoam® makeup compacts and other packaging solutions for Half Magic.”
Tohelpcustomerswininthemarketplace,itis essentialtounderstandtheirproductstrategy, consumers'needs,andsupplychainexpectations, especiallyforcompaniesintheBeauty,Fragrance,Personal Care,Healthcare,andHomecaremarkets.
SilganDispensinghasspentdecadesprovidingworldwide brandswitheffectiveandinnovativedispensingsolutions thatenhanceconsumerexperiencesandboostbrandvalue. HeadquarteredinRichmond,Virginia,SilganDispensingis aleadingglobalsupplierofhighlyengineeredtriggers, pumps,sprayers,anddispensingclosuresolutionstomajor companiesinthehome,health,andbeautymarkets.
Leadingthismissionisthecompany'sPresident,Kevin Clark,whoworkstirelesslytoensureapositiveexperience forcustomersandconsistentlymeettheiruniquedemands.
We had an exclusive opportunity to interview Kevin to glean insights into Silgan Dispensing's journey to becoming a best-in-class dispensing solution provider
ACustomer-CentricTeamandCulture
ThefoundationofSilganDispensing'sdifferentiationand successisitsteamandculture. "We have a very knowledgeable team and a collaborative culture," says Kevin. "Our team works together to create solutions that address our customers' business challenges and then works closely with our customers to deliver those solutions to their consumers."
ThisapproachhasbuiltSilganDispensing'sreputationasa trustedpartner.Beyonditsstand-outteam,thecompany maintainsawideportfolioofhigh-performanceproducts,a globalfootprintenablinglocalmarketservice,and extensivemarketing,newproductdevelopment,and innovationteamsthatworkinconcertwithcustomersto determinesolutionsthatmeetconsumerneeds.
HelpingBrandstoEnhanceConsumers'Lives
SilganDispensing'svisionistoprovidepackagingsolutions thathelpbrandsenhancethelivesoftheirconsumers,and itsmissionistobetheworld'sleadingdispensingcompany Theteamachievesthisbyleveragingmarketandconsumer insightstocreatedispensingsolutionsthatelevatetheend user'soverallexperience. "When we enhance consumer perception of our customer's brand, we have achieved our vision," saysKevin.
When
you partner with Silgan Dispensing, you partner with a team of approximately 6,500 associates across the globe, each one committed to delivering better experiences that move your brand and your business forward.”
We're proud to say that we offer one of the broadest portfolios of sustainable dispensing solutions on the market. We've modified a lot of our designs to be able to offer more eco-conscious solutions to our customers.”
Market-LeadingProductsandServices
"First, we bring a team of people, with expertise in different areas, to engage with our customers with the goal of identifying a range of solutions that support their business strategy," Kevinexplains. "This is the foundation of how we stand out from the competition." Oursolutionsinclude consumer-usageinsights,newproductdevelopmentteams, responsiveserviceprograms,and,forsomeapplications, productmixingandfilling.
SilganDispensing'sportfoliospansmarket-leading dispensersandtriggersprayers,finemistsprayersand fragrancepumps,stockandcustomclosures,aninnovative ophthalmicdropper,battery-operateddevices,andfully filledmicropackagesutilizingtheblow-fill-sealprocess.
ValuesinAction
SilganDispensing'scorevaluescenteronleveragingthe capabilitiesoftheentireteamtobringvaluetoeach customerrelationship.Twovalues:customer-orientedand driventoexcel,whichformthefoundationofitsproduct developmentphilosophy "This continuous improvement mindset is required in the ever-changing consumer landscape where products and service solutions need to be adapted to reflect consumer needs," Kevinadds.
Kevinplacesgreatvalueonpeople.SilganDispensing fostersasafe,inclusiveworkenvironmentdedicatedto professionalgrowth. "We do our best when we work together, that's the power of one team in action. By engaging broadly throughout the organization, we create opportunities for every team member to contribute and develop."
Eco-ConsciousDispensingSolutions
SustainabilityiswovenintoeveryaspectofSilgan Dispensing'sstrategy "As a primary packaging supplier to many leading brands, we have an opportunity to help position these products and brands as environmentally sustainable with consumers," saysKevin.
Thecompanyoffersoneofthebroadestportfoliosof sustainabledispensingsolutionsonthemarket.Over30of itscoreproductsareavailablewithapost-consumer recycled(PCR)option.SilganDispensingrecently launchedtwoproductsutilizingitsLifeCycle™ Technology:Pearl®2,anext-generationairlesssystem,and SP05™R,acertifiedrecyclabletriggersprayer.LifeCycle isarevolutionaryplasticspringthatenablesremovalof non-recyclablematerialsandmetals,makingthedispenser almostentirelyofasinglepolyolefinandmorecompatible withtoday'srecyclingstreams.
Beyondproducts,SilganDispensingisimplementing practicesacrossitsmanufacturingsitestoreduceitscarbon footprint,includingreducingenergyandwaterusage, minimizingwaste,andworkingwithEcoVadisandCDPto trackandcommunicatemeasurablesustainabilityprogress.
SettingTrendswithInnovation
InnovationisakeyfocusforSilganDispensing'steam. "New trends, challenges, and needs are constantly emerging in our market," Kevinnotes. "We strive to adapt and identify unique solutions to meet these shifting demands, and we feel our NPD (New Product Development) teams are the best in our industry." Thecompany'sinnovation processbeginswithresearchingconsumerusagepatterns andlisteningcloselytocustomers,thenpairsthoseinsights withitsexpertiseintechnology,design,manufacturing,and ergonomicstocreatethebestpossiblesolutions.
OvercomingtheChallenges
Recruitinganddevelopingpeoplewhothriveinafastpaced,innovation-drivenenvironmentremainsanongoing focus.Sustainabilityisequallycentral,notasastandalone pillar,butwovenintoeveryaspectofthebusinessstrategy SilganDispensingalsofocusesonquicklyandcosteffectivelydevelopingnewproductsacrossgeographic regions,sinceconsumerneedsvaryaroundtheworld,and hasimplementedacomprehensivesetofmanufacturingand servicestrategiestosupportitscustomers'omnichannel salesmodel.
When we enhance consumer perception of our customer's brand, we have achieved our vision.”
WordsofGuidance
Forprofessionalslookingtoenterthepackagingindustry, Kevinshares: "If you are passionate about building brands, developing new products, designing a dynamic supply chain, operating state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, solving customer needs, and want to be part of a team that creates products that touch so many people in their everyday lives, then there's a place for you at Silgan Dispensing. We know our most valuable resource is our people, and we are dedicated to investing in their growth and their well-being."
AGamePlanfor2022andBeyond
Withapassionateteam,strongcorevalues,andcontinuous innovation,SilganDispensingiswell-positionedfor growth.Thecompanyiscurrentlybringingseveralnew productstomarketandhasplanstoenhanceits manufacturingfootprinttoprovideevenbetterservice goingforward.
SilganDispensinghasgrownbothorganicallyandthrough strategicacquisitions. "The acquisitions of Cobra Plastics, Albea's global dispensing business, and Unicep have enabled us to significantly expand the portfolio of solutions we bring to our customers. This portfolio is helping them
grow by integrating mor fully into their business development strategies and supply chain teams," Kevinshares.
TheLeaderinCharge
KevinClarkisthePresidentofSilgan Dispensing.Hejoinedthecompanyin2013to leaditssales,marketing,andinnovationteams andassumedfullresponsibilityforthebusinessin2015. Priortothat,Kevinledotherglobalconsumerpackaging businesses.SilganDispensinghaswonnumerousawards andrecognitionfromcustomersandindustryplatforms. Kevinsaysheandhisteamaremostproudofworkingwith manyofthemosticonicbrandsintheworld,andthat customersconsistentlychooseSilganDispensingastheir partner
Logistics Service Redefining
PROVIDERS
Theworldoflogisticshaschangedagreatdealover theyears.Whatwasonceasimpleprocessof movinggoodsfromoneplacetoanotherhasgrown intosomethingfarmorecomplexandstrategic.Today, logisticsserviceprovidersarenolongerjustmoversof products.Theyhavebecomefullpartnersinhowbusinesses operate,grow,andservetheircustomers.
Attheheartofthischangeisagrowingfocusonpackaging. Itmayseemlikeasmalldetail,butpackagingtouches
everypartofthesupplychain.Itaffectshowproducts travel,howtheyarrive,howmuchspacetheytakeup,and howcustomersfeelwhentheyopenabox.Thisiswhythe roleofthemodernlogisticsproviderhasexpandedto includedeepknowledgeofpackagingasacoreservice.
PackagingasaBusiness-CriticalDecision
Notlongago,packagingwastreatedasanafterthought.A productwouldbemade,thensomeonewouldfigureout
howtowraporboxitbeforeshipping.Thatapproachno longerworksintoday'sfast-movingmarket.
Customersexpectproductstoarriveinperfectcondition. Businesseswanttoreducewasteandcutcosts.Retailers demandpackagingthatfitstheirshelfspaceandstorage systems.Alloftheseneedspointinthesamedirection; packagingmustbeplannedfromtheverybeginning,not addedattheend.
Logisticsserviceprovidersthatunderstandthishavemoved quicklytobuildpackagingexpertisewithintheirteams. Theynowofferguidanceonmaterials,design,size,and structure,allwiththegoalofmakingthesupplychain smootherandmoreefficient.
TheRoleofSupplyChainPackagingExperts
Thisiswheresupplychainpackagingexpertscomein. Theseprofessionalsbringauniquemixofskills.They understandthetechnicalsideofmaterialsandconstruction, buttheyalsounderstandlogistics,howgoodsmove,where theygetdamaged,andwhatdrivescostateverystepofthe journey.
Whenabusinessworkswithsupplychainpackaging experts,theygainmorethanjustapackagingsolution.They gainapartnerwholooksattheentirejourneyaproduct takesanddesignspackagingthatsupportsthatjourney This reducesdamage,lowersthenumberofreturns,andkeeps customershappy.
DrivingEfficiencyAcrosstheSupplyChain
Goodpackagingdoesmuchmorethanprotectaproduct.It simplifiestheoperationsofawarehousebyenabling productstobestoredandtransferredwithease.Itassistsin quickersortingandscanninginthedistributioncentres.It minimizesthequantityofmaterialconsumed,andthis reducescostsandpromotesthesustainabilityobjectives.
Logisticsserviceprovidersthatofferpackagingaspartof theirservicesareabletocreateamoreconnectedand efficientoperationfortheirclients.Insteadofworkingwith separatevendorsfortransportandpackaging,businesses geteverythingunderoneroof.Thissavestime,reduces confusion,andleadstobetterresults.
MeetingtheDemandsofaSmarterMarket
Themarketissmarterthanever.Consumersarepaying attentiontohowproductsarepackaged.Theynoticewhen packagingisexcessiveorwasteful.Theyappreciatewhena packageiseasytoopenandrecycle.Thismeansthat businessesmustthinkaboutthecustomerexperiencefrom themomentpackagingisdesigned.
Supplychainpackagingexpertshelpbusinessesmeetthese expectations.Theybringknowledgeofthelatestmaterials, trends,andregulations.Theyhelpcompaniesstayaheadof changesinthemarket,whetherthosechangescomefrom newenvironmentalrulesorshiftingcustomerpreferences.
CompetitiveEdgeofFull-ServiceProviders
Inacrowdedmarket,businessesarealwayslookingforan edge.Partneringwithlogisticsserviceproviderswhoalso offerpackagingexpertiseisoneofthesmartestmovesa companycanmake.Itmakesthesupplychaineasier,it minimizestherelationshipstodealwith,anditmakesthe production-to-deliveryexperiencemoreconsistent.
Thecompaniesthatarewinningtodayarethosethattreat thesupplychainasawholesystem,notacollectionof separatesteps.Packagingisnotaseparatestep;itiswoven intoeverypartoftheprocess.
InSummary
Thefutureoflogisticsbelongstoproviderswhooffermore thantransport.Itbelongstothosewhobringrealknowledge andproblem-solvingtoeverypartofthesupplychain. Packagingwillcontinuetogrowinimportanceas businessesfacemorepressuretobeefficient,sustainable, andcustomer-focused.
Supplychainpackagingexpertsembeddedwithinlogistics operationsrepresentthenextevolutionoftheindustry.They arenotjustaniceaddition;theyarebecomingessentialto howmodernsupplychainsarebuiltandrun.Forbusinesses readytoimprovehowtheyoperate,thefirststepissimple: findalogisticspartnerwhotrulyunderstandspackaging. Thatpartnershipcouldchangeeverything.
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