Top 10 Companies Revamping the Packaging Industry September2023

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Vonco Products

Transforming Concepts into Reality with Custom Medical Devices, Flexible Packaging, and Tailored Component Solutions

Sabert Corporation

Ensuring More Sustainable Packaging Solutions

Adapting to the Times

- by Michael Warner

ARTICLES

educing Waste Strategies for Sustainable Packaging Practices

Smart Packaging

Merging Technology and Consumer Engagement

In an era defined by rapid advancements and heightened environmental consciousness, the packaging industry stands at the forefront of a transformave journey. Tradionally viewed as a means to protect and contain products, packaging has evolved into a dynamic force that intertwines innovaon, sustainability, and consumer expectaons.

The contemporary packaging landscape is characterized by a paradigm shi towards sustainability. As consumers increasingly priorize eco-friendly pracces, the industry is responding with a commitment to reduce its environmental footprint. Companies are adopng recyclable materials, embracing minimalist designs, and exploring innovave alternaves to single-use plascs. This shi not only aligns with global environmental goals but also caters to a conscienous consumer base demanding responsible packaging soluons.

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Editor’sView The Pioneering E n

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Technological advancements are reshaping the packaging industry, enhancing both funconality and aesthecs. Smart packaging, incorporang technologies like RFID tags and sensors, not only ensures product safety but also provides consumers with valuable informaon, contribung to a more transparent and engaging shopping experience.

In this editorial, we bring forth industry leaders through the latest edion of Top 10 Companies Revamping the Packaging Industry and delve into the mulfaceted aspects of the packaging industry’s evoluon. From sustainable pracces and technological integraon to the role of packaging in brand storytelling, we navigate the intricate web of challenges and opportunies that define this crical sector. As the industry connues to reinvent itself, striking a balance between innovaon, funconality, and sustainability remains paramount.

Amidsttherapid-firepaceofmodernlife,

convenienceoftencomesatacost-acosttoour planetanditspreciousecosystems.Amongthe manypressingenvironmentalchallengesweface,plastic pollutionremainsasignificantandurgentissue.Oneofthe majorcontributorstothisproblemisplasticpackaging, whichhasbecomeubiquitousinourdailylives.However, it’stimetorethinkourrelianceonplasticpackagingand embraceamoresustainablefuture.

Inthisincreasinglyconsciousoftheenvironmentalimpact ofpackaging,onecompanyhasbeenattheforefrontofthe greenpackagingrevolutionforover25yearsPaperFoam®.LedbyvisionaryCEOWillemDerkman, ithasbeenblazingatrailininnovative,biobased,and compostablepackagingsolutions,offeringagame-changing alternativetoplasticandconventionalpackagingmaterials.

ForPaperFoam,sustainabilityismorethanamere catchphrase;it’sacorevaluethatpermeateseveryaspectof itsoperations.Employingstate-of-the-arttechnologyand patentedinjectionmoldingtechniques,theycraftpackaging interiorswithimpressivelylowcarbonfootprints.By harnessingindustrialstarchandfibersintheirprotective

,,

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. ,,

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PaperFoam® packaging exhibits spontaneous decomposition within a matter of weeks, leaving behind no harmful residues or pollution. ,,

trays,ithassetunprecedentedstandardsforeco-friendly packaging,presentingagreenerchoiceoverplastic,carton, andpulppackaging.

Withacommitmenttomakingameaningfulglobalimpact, PaperFoam’stailor-madepackagingsolutionscatertoa diversearrayofindustries.Fromconsumerelectronicsto medicaldevices,cosmeticstodryfoods,theirinnovative designsarecustomizedtomeettheuniquerequirementsof eachclient.EsteemedcompaniessuchasiZettle,T-Mobile, andAirtamehaveembracedPaperFoamastheirecofriendlypackagingpartner,adoptingasustainableapproach toproductpresentation.

PaperFoam’sjourneytowardsenvironmentalsustainability commencesintheNetherlands,wheretheirResearch& Development,packagingdesign,andmoldmanufacturing aremeticulouslyconducted.Fromthishubofinnovation,it servesclientsacrosstheglobe,withlocalsalesagents situatedinAmsterdam,Berlin,NewYork,andPenang. WithproductionfacilitiesspanningtheUSA,Malaysia, CzechRepublic,andtheNetherlands,PaperFoam’s influenceextendsfarandwide,leavingapositiveimprint onaglobalscale.

Asthedemandfortop-tierproductpresentationgrows, PaperFoamrisestotheoccasionbydeliveringcost-effective production,design,andlogisticsimplementation.Their dedicatedteamofnearly300full-timeemployees worldwideensuresseamlessexecution,providingtop-notch

packagingsolutionsthatarebothenvironmentally responsibleandeconomicallyviable.

Let us delve deeper into their journey!

Willem- Leading PaperFoam to New Horizons

WillemDerkman,theCEOofPaperFoam,hadhisfirst introductiontothecompanyduringhistechnicalbusiness administrationstudiesattheUniversityofGroningen.After joiningthemarketingandsalesdepartmentin2002,he witnessedthecompany’sgrowthandprogress.Whenthe formerCEO,MarkGeerts,begansearchingforasuccessor, Derkmanwaschosentofilltherole.Withpride,hereflects ontheachievementsandaccomplishmentsofPaperFoam throughouttheyears.

OrganizationalStandardsandValuesofPaperFoam

Quality:

ThemaingoalofPaperFoamistoofferanexcellentproduct thatmeetscustomerrequirementswithinthegiven timeframe.Fromnewproductdevelopmenttoproduction andproductdelivery,itisdedicatedtoensuringzerodefects ineverystepofitsprocesses.

This view on quality must be achieved through the following:

• Excellentcustomerservice,

• Sufficientlyskilledstaff,whofeelresponsiblefortheir workinrelationtointernalandexternalcustomers,

• Highdeliveryreliability,

• Efficient,effective,andflexibleinternalbusiness processes,

• Reliablesuppliers,withregardtoquality,deliverytime, andsupplyatcompetitiveprices,

• Agoodinternalawarenessoftheircapabilities,

• Cleanworkingenvironment.

Fromtemporaryworkerstomanagement,theentire businessisinfusedwithqualitythinking.Everypersonand everyprocessmustcontinuouslycheckandpreservequality intheireverydayjob.Thefirmkeepsaconstantfocuson qualitybygivingimportancetowhatbenefitstheconsumer

Continuous Improvement:

Theystriveforcontinuousimprovementsintheirprocesses inseveralways:

• Theorganizationremainsresponsivetotheevolving needsanddesiresofitsstakeholdersandthechanging environmentalconditions.Thisisaccomplished throughregularriskassessmentsandgathering feedbackfromstakeholders.

• Byembracingemergingtechnologiesandundertaking groundbreakingcustomerprojects,companiesareable tostayattheforefrontofknowledgeandinnovation.

• TheyareallISO9001:2015certified,which emphasizestheirfocusonquality.

Corporate Social Responsibility:

SustainablelivingissomethingthatPaperFoamisdedicated to.TheirCorporateSocialResponsibility(CSR)policyis builtaroundtheideaoffosteringasustainableliving environmentforbothcurrentandfuturegenerations. Throughoutthewholeprocess,fromthesourcingofraw materialstomanufactureanddisposal,PaperFoamensures thatthesolutionsitprovidestocustomersare environmentallyfriendly.Buttheirdedicationto sustainabilitygoesbeyondconcernfortheenvironment. Additionally,theymakeanefforttobuildlong-lasting relationshipswiththeirpartnersandemployeeswhileacting inasociallyresponsiblemanner.

Employer style:

Bypromotinganopenculturewithinahorizontal organizationalstructure,PaperFoamwantstoputits employees’welfarefirst.Thecompany’sprinciples,which includerespect,honesty,adaptability,trust,equality,and appreciation,areessentialtodevelopingaworkatmosphere thatisfavorableforemployees.Furthermore,PaperFoam aggressivelysolicitsandvaluestheideasofitsstaff members,encouragingthemtospotandemphasizeareas thatcoulduseimprovement.

Diversity:

Withregardtohiringpractices,PaperFoamadheresto encouragingdiversity.Thebusinessmakessurethat trainingfacilities,otherhiringagencies,andemployment agenciesallfollowthesameemploymentstandards. Additionally,whereverpossible,PaperFoamwantstogive peoplewhomightencounterobstaclesinthejobmarketa chancetojoinitsworkforce.

Local:

Initshiringpractices,PaperFoamisdevotedtosupporting

diversity Thebusinessmakessurethatallhiringagencies, includingemploymentagencies,otherhiringagencies,and trainingfacilities,followthesameemploymentstandards. Additionally,PaperFoamstrivestomakeitpossiblefor anyonewhomightencounterobstaclesinthejobmarketto joinitsworkforce.

Planet:

Inordertoproduceitspackagingmaterials,PaperFoam placesahighpriorityonminimizingitsnegativeimpacton theenvironmentandusingfossilfuelseverywhere possible.Amoresustainableworldisactivelypromotedby theirgoods.Utilizingbio-basedmaterials,theywantto createpackagingthatisbothrecyclableandcompostableat home.

PaperFoamscorevalues

They consider the following core values important:

• Together:Toachieveitsgoals,theyworktogetherwith bothinternalandexternalstakeholders.

• Flexible:Togivetheirclientsthefinestservice possible,theyareaccommodating.Additionally,they areaccommodatingtotheirstaffmembers,enabling themtoarrangetheirworkinawaythatminimizes disruptiontotheirpersonallives.

• Creative:Inordertoproduceappealingconceptsfor theirclientsandevenmoreenvironmentallyfriendly technologiesandmaterials,theyfosterinnovation.

• Solution-oriented:Theyenjoythinkingofthegreatest solutionfortheircustomerandtakingextreme measurestogetit.

• Continuity:Theywanttoensuretheircontinuityby developinglong-lastingrelationshipsandbecoming profitableovertime.

• SustainableSolutionforaGreenerPlanet

Willemsays, “Sustainable packaging is as green as it gets.”

Throughoutitsentireexistence,PaperFoam®sustainable packagingpresentsaneco-consciousalternative.Utilizing industrialstarch,fibers,andwater,thispackaging incorporatesbiobasedandrenewablematerialsinits production.Theoutcomeofthislow-carbon,energyefficientmanufacturingtechniqueallowstheproducttobe compostedathomeorrecycledalongsidepaper

Furthermore,PaperFoam®packagingexhibitsspontaneous decompositionwithinamatterofweeks,leavingbehindno harmfulresiduesorpollution.Thiscertifiedsustainable packagingbenefitsbothproducersandcustomersby exemplifyingethicalandenvironmentally-friendly practices.Moreover,PaperFoam®effortlesslydissolvesin waterwithoutgeneratinganyhazardouswaste,renderingit entirelycompostable.

Duetoitslightweightnatureanddedicationtoeliminating plasticwaste,PaperFoam®significantlycontributestothe reductionofCO2emissions.Itsreducedweightalsoresults inloweremissionsduringtransportation,makingitahighly advantageouschoiceforsustainablepackaging.

FunctionalityandAesthetics

Willemunderscorestheremarkablecustomizabilityofthe PaperFoam®mixture,emphasizingitscapacitytoadopt anycolorsinceitismeticulouslycreatedfromscratch. Furthermore,eachmoldiscarefullytailoredtocatertothe uniquerequirementsofindividualclients.Whetherone seekspackagingenrichedwithaddedtexture,the convenienceofstackablepackingtrays,ortheintegration ofalogoonthebiobasedpackaging,PaperFoam®stands readytodeliverafullypersonalizedsolution.Flexibilityis attheheartofPaperFoam®’sethos.

Speakingofitsweight-savingprowess,PaperFoam® packagingexcelsinreducingweightbyupto40% comparedtoconventionalproductpackaging.Despiteits lightweightnature,itremainsresoluteinsafeguardingthe enclosedproduct.Infact,thebiobasedpackagingformsa protectivecushionaroundtheitem,outperformingregular packagingintermsofprotection.

TheproductionofPaperFoam®traysemploysvarious recipestoensureaharmoniousblendoffunctionalityand aesthetics.

Bymanufacturingclosetocustomers,PaperFoam® minimizesshippingtimeanditsenvironmentalimpact, furthersolidifyingitscommitmenttosustainability

UnbeatableCustomizability

Willemunderscorestheremarkablecustomizabilityofthe PaperFoam®mixture,emphasizingitscapacitytoadopt anycolorsinceitismeticulouslycreatedfromscratch. Furthermore,eachmoldiscarefullytailoredtocatertothe uniquerequirementsofindividualclients.Whetherone seekspackagingenrichedwithaddedtexture,the convenienceofstackablepackingtrays,ortheintegration ofalogoonthebiobasedpackaging,itstandsreadyto deliverafullypersonalizedsolution.Flexibilityisatthe heartofitsethos.

Speakingofitsweight-savingprowess,PaperFoam® packagingexcelsinreducingweightbyupto40% comparedtoconventionalproductpackaging.Despiteits lightweightnature,itremainsresoluteinsafeguardingthe enclosedproduct.Infact,thebiobasedpackagingformsa protectivecushionaroundtheitem,outperformingregular packagingintermsofprotection.

TheproductionofPaperFoam®traysemploysvarious recipestoensureaharmoniousblendoffunctionalityand aesthetics.Bymanufacturingclosetocustomers,it minimizesshippingtimeanditsenvironmentalimpact, furthersolidifyingitscommitmenttosustainability.

Witheachstepoftheproductionprocesscloselymonitored, theteamensuresthatperfectionisattained.Oncethenew biobasedpackagingisflawlesslycraftedandpasses rigorousqualitychecks,itisstackedwithcareandshipped totheeagerlyawaitingcustomers.

PowerfulMessage

Makeaconsciousefforttopreserveourplanetbyoptingfor aneco-friendly,biobased,andpaper-recyclablepackaging solution.WhenyouselectPaperFoam®packaging,yougo beyondsupportingsustainability;youalsoreapthe followingbenefits:

• Carbonfootprintreductionofupto90%

• Personalizedandbiodegradabledesignoptions

• Adiverseselectionofcolors,intricatedetails,and textures

• Enhancedproductprotectionthroughaperfectfit

• Embracepackagingforasustainablefuture!

UntoldChallenges

It’snotalwayssimpletointroduceanewpackaging materialtothemarket,Willemremarkswhenspeaking aboutthedifficulties.Particularlynotwhentryingtoreplace plastic,asthishasbeensothoroughlydemonstrated.

VisionfortheFuture

Willemsharedhisenthusiasmduringadiscussionoffuture plansbysaying,“Wefeellikewearejustgettingstarted. Thereissomuchunnecessaryplasticstillusedinpackaging thatthereisstillalottogain.Atthesametime,wekeep improvingourprocessandproduct.”

AnexcitingadvancementcomesintheformofPaperFoam Plus,anewvariantthatretainsthecoreattributesofits traditionalmaterialwhileboastingathickerwall.This enhancementenablesittoaccommodateheavierormore demandingproducts,offeringacompellingsubstitutefor EPSorStyrofoam.

PaperFoamhasrecentlyjoinedforceswithNissha,unitedin itsprimarygoalofacceleratingresearchendeavors.This collaborationaffordsabundantopportunities,time,and resourcestoexplorediverseavenuesforenhancementand thecreationofinnovativetechnologies.

Packaging Towards a Sustainable Future:

PaperFoamisdrivenbyafirmcommitmenttosignificantly mitigatetheadverseenvironmentaleffectsofpackaging, particularlyconcerningglobalwarmingandthedepletionof non-renewableresources.Overthenext5years,theyhave setatargettocurtailtheworldwidecarbonfootprintof packagingbyapproximately40kilotonsCO2-eq. Moreover,theyarededicatedtoanannualreductionofat least15kilotonsinthesubsequentyears.Toachievethis, PaperFoamplanstoreplaceroughly500million conventionalpackagingtrays,craftedfrommaterialslike pulp,PE,PET,PS,andRPet,withBiobasedandpaper recyclablePaperFoamtrays.Thistransitionnotonly reducesoilconsumptionbutalsominimizeswaterusage.

Torealizetheseobjectives,itenvisionsanexpansionofat least15-25%annually.Throughoutthisgrowthtrajectory, sustainabilityremainsaparamountfocus.Thisincludes fosteringsustainablerelationshipswithstakeholders,such asemployeesandcustomers,whileensuringanunwavering commitmenttoenvironmentalsustainability

They want to achieve their ambitious goals by below summarizing six main topics:

• Strictlyadheretothezero-defectpolicy

• Reductionofenergyuseandgarbagegenerationat theirworkplaces.

• TheeasewithwhichPaperFoam®isaccessibleto clientseverywhere.

• Growingandsolidifyingtheircustomersamongthe industrieswherePaperFoamisapplicable.They concentrateoninitiativesforwhichtheyhavefaiththat productioncanbecarriedoutsuccessfullyand profitably Theyarewillingtotakeondifficult initiativesthatadvanceourtechnologies.

• InnovationandadvancementsinPaperFoam productionmethodsandmaterial.

• Upholdinglong-lastingconnectionswithalloftheir stakeholders,whichentailsclosecollaborationwith theirclients,businesspartners,andstrategicsuppliers.

RavingCountlessAwards

DielineAward:HalfMagicbeauty

NLpackagingawards:Alpine

WorldstarAward2022:

Eco-mindedPackagingforHalfMagic:

“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,” expressedWillem.

Sabert Corporation

Ensuring More Sustainable Packaging Solutions

Innovating Sustainability and Transforming Industries!

Ensuringthesafety,freshness,andintegrityofour dailyfoodconsumptionisofparamountimportance.Byprolongingtheshelflifeofperishable goodsandmitigatingfoodwaste,wenotonlyguaranteethis assurancebutalsomakesignificantstridestowards bolsteringenvironmentalsustainability

Thisgeneratestheneedforfoodpackaging.Thepackaging industryplaysapivotalroleinensuringconsumersafety, productquality,sustainability,marketcompetitiveness,and economicdevelopment.Itscontributionsareinstrumentalin addressingcontemporarychallengesanddrivingpositive changesinvarioussectorsoftheeconomy

SabertCorporationisattheforefrontofinnovation, constantlydevelopingnewproductsandsolutionsthat prioritizesustainability.Thecompanyunderstandsthe importanceofeco-friendlypackagingmaterialsandactively investsinresearchanddevelopmenttocreatealternatives thatmatchorsurpasstheperformanceofconventional materialswhilebeingenvironmentallyresponsible.The company,undertheleadershipofStephnyS.Halsteadas VicePresidentofMarketingandNewProductDevelopment,hassignificantlycontributedtoadvancingthe packagingindustry.

StephnyS.Halstead,theVPofMarketingandNew ProductDevelopmentatSabertCorp.hasbeeninstrumental indrivinginnovationwithintheorganization,particularlyin therealmofnewproductsandcustomersolutions.Withher extensiveexperienceanddeep-rootedpassionfordesign andaesthetics,shehasplayedacrucialroleinelevating SabertCorporationtoitscurrentstatusasabillion-dollar globalmanufacturerofinnovativeandsustainablefood packagingproductsandsolutions.

EnsuringCustomizedSolutions

SabertCorporation,establishedin1983byAlbertSalama, initiallyboastedamodestportfoliocomprisingjustfive

We understand our signiicant role in helping push sustainability forward, which is why we have been at the forefront of providing our customers with sustainable and innovative packaging solutions for 40 years.

cateringtrays.Overtheyears,underStephny’sleadership, thecompanyhasevolvedintoacelebratedfoodpackaging organizationrenownedforitsgroundbreakinginnovation andcustomizedsolutions.Sabert’spresenceextendsacross sevendomesticmanufacturingplants,adomesticrecycling facility,twostate-of-the-artAdvancedDevelopment Centers,andfourinternationallocations,allsupportedbya dedicatedteamofover3,000employees.

Withacareerspanningovertwodecadesinthepackaging industry,Stephnyhasbornewitnesstothedynamic evolutionoffoodpackagingwithintheever-changingfood servicelandscape.Hereducationalbackgroundinfashion merchandisinganddesignhasbeenafoundationalaspect, ignitingherpassionforaestheticsandmaterials,whichshe seamlesslyintegratesintohercurrentrole.

Transitioningfromfashionmerchandisingtopackaging marketingandsubsequentlyintoproductdevelopment, Stephnyhasfoundafulfillingchanneltoexploreher creativeinterestswithinhercareer.Herjourneyhas involvedcollaborativeeffortswithtalenteddesigners, extensiveexplorationofpackagingmaterialsandinnovative technologiesintherealmofmaterialscience,anda profoundunderstandingofrestaurantmenudevelopment anditsassociatedoperationalchallenges.

Overall,Stephny’scareerinthepackagingindustrystands asatestamenttoherabilitytomergeherlovefordesign

andpresentationwiththeintricateworldofpackaging, ultimatelycontributingtothesuccessandreputationof SabertCorporation.

PushingSustainabilityForward

Today,theindustryisnavigatingthelegalcomplexitiesand heightenedconsumerfocusonsustainability,specifically sustainablefoodpackaging.Foodpackagingisanimportant partofthesolutiontosomeoftheworld’smostpressing problemsofclimatechange,foodaccessibility,and consumerwaste.Sabertunderstandsitssignificantrolein helpingpushsustainabilityforward,whichiswhythe companyhasbeenattheforefrontofprovidingitscustomerswithsustainableandinnovativepackagingsolutionsfor 40years.

IthasdevelopedEarthtelligent,asustainabilityplatform,to ensureitcontinuestoinvestinresourcesandinitiativesto driveimprovementsinenvironmentaloutcomesacrossthe entireorganization,fromitsmanufacturingtoproduct innovations.Outof268ofitsnewproductsin2022,81% weresustainable.Thecompanyalsobenefitsfromitsglobal footprint,whichgivesitthestrengthandscaletostayahead ofmarkettrendsandenablesittotakeadvantageofbest-inclassresources,technology,andexpertisetodrivecontinuedgrowth.

Eco-friendlymaterialsthatcanmatchtheperformanceof conventionalmaterialsareoftenmorecostly.Thisfactcan discouragesomefoodserviceoperatorsfromadopting sustainablepackaging,especiallyifoperatorsfacehavingto compromisebetweenenvironmentalandfinancialgoals. Sabertactivelyseekssolutions,whetherthroughmaterial innovationsorinvestinginoperationalenhancements,to helpitscustomerstransitiontomoresustainablepackaging solutionsinthemostcost-effectivewayspossible.Atthe endoftheday,itsgoalistohelptheindustrymovetowards

agreenerfutureandimprovetheconsumerperceptionof theoverallvalueoffoodpackaging.

FosteringInnovation

Saberthasadeeppassionforfoodanda40-yearheritageof pioneeringinnovation.It’singrainedinitsidentityandhas beenfromtheverybeginning. Atthecuttingedge,the SabertCentersforInnovationteamisdedicatedtoadvancingitsexistingproductandprocesssolutionsanddevelopingnewwaystooptimizetheuseofpaper,pulp,andplastic infoodpackaging.

Sabert’sproductdesignsoriginatewithitsin-houseSabert DesignStudio,wheretheteamcollectivelybringsover100 yearsofproductdesignexpertise.Tofosterinnovation,the companyincorporatesaBlue-SkyProcess,whichallocates 20%ofitsdesigners’weeklyschedulestocontemplate solutionsforthefuture.Thisdedicatedtimeenablesthemto continuallybrainstormnovelsolutionstocatertothe distinctivefoodpackagingrequirementsofvaluedcustomersandpartners.

TM AninnovationSabertisexcitedaboutisits EcoEdge PaperCutlery.Thisgroundbreakingdisposablecutleryline offersoperatorsaviableandsustainablealternativeto plasticcutlery.DerivedfromFSC-certifiedrenewable TM resources,EcoEdge PaperCutleryachievesthesame fitnessforuseasplasticcutlery,standingupagainsthot, warm,andcoldfoods. Sofar,thecompanyhasreceived initialpositivefeedbackfromoperatorsthatthepaper cutleryfarsurpassestheperformanceofwood,bamboo, andotherplant-basedalternativecutlerysolutions.

ElevatingBrandAwareness

Sabertprioritizessafety,performance,andquality.Its experiencedmanufacturingteamoperatesstate-of-the-art equipmentinanenvironmentcertifiedbyBRC,enabling thecompanytodevelophigh-qualityfoodpackagingthat complieswithglobalfoodsafetyinitiatives.Withadvanced materialsandinnovativefeatures,forms,andfunctions,its productsperformatthehighestlevelsinthemostdemandingconditionsandcompetitivemarkets.

Fromperformancetopresentation,foodpackagingisa significantconsumertouchpointandcanmakeorbreak someone’sdiningexperience.Therightfoodpackaging shouldenhancetheexperienceofseeing,holding,buying, andenjoyinggoodfood.Italsoneedstoensurethefood staysfreshandsecureduringtransport. Saberthasalso seenanuptickinitscustomerslookingforwaystoelevate brandawareness,especiallynowasmorepeopleare experiencingfoodoff-premises.Customprinting, embossing,andinteractivepackagingfeatures,suchas audiblelockingsystems,aregreatexamplesofhowtouse foodpackagingtoenhancetheconsumerexperiencewhile ensuringyourbrandstaysfrontandcenter

Decades-LongLegacy

Sabertbelievesthatthebestwaytobreakintothepackagingindustryistodiveinandgetfamiliarwiththedifferent aspectsofthebusiness,frommanufacturingtomarketingto sales.What’sultimatelyimportantistocometothetable withapassionforthefoodserviceindustryandawillingnesstolearnthebusiness.Saberthasseenemployeesstart theircareersontheplantfloorandmoveintoleadership roleswithintheoperationsandmanufacturingteams. Internshipscanbeagreatfirststepingettingstartedinthe industry.

IndustryRecognition

ThecustomersviewSabertasatruepartner.Sabert collaborateswiththem,listenstotheirneeds,anddelivers results.ThisapproachisatestamenttowhySaberthas longstandingcustomerrelationshipsspanningdecades. WhatalsomakesSabertsuccessfulisitspeople.The companyisproudofitscultureandcommitmentto empoweringemployeestogrowandsucceed.Asatestamenttotheseefforts,SabertwasvotedoneofAmerica’s GreatestPlacestoWorkforDiversity,forWomenand Parents&Familiesin2023,andoneofAmerica’sGreatest PlacestoWorkby Newsweek.

Where Experience and Innovation Converge for Custom Solutions!

Intherealmofmedicalscience,innovationstandsasa beaconofhope,promisingenhancedpatientcareand improvedoutcomes.Theintersectionofcutting-edge technologyandhumaningenuityhasledtothecreationof groundbreakingmedicaldevicesthathaveredefinedthe boundariesofthemodernhealthcareindustry

Fromstate-of-the-artsurgicalrobotsthatofferunparalleled precisiontowearablehealth-monitoringdevicesthat empowerindividualstotakechargeoftheirwell-being,the spectrumofmedicalinnovationknowsnobounds.These remarkableinventionsnotonlysavelivesbutalsoelevate thequalityoflifeformillionsaroundtheglobe.

Vonco,anexemplarofinnovation,standsattheforefrontof progressiveendeavors,drivenbyanunwavering commitmenttocustomercontentment.Asapioneering leaderinthemedicalpackagingindustry,VoncoProducts possessestheprowesstotransmuteabstractideasinto tangiblerealities,bestowingtailoredsolutionsinflexible packagingandcomponentsacrossdiversemarkets.Atthe helmofthisdynamicenterpriseresidesthevisionaryleader, Mr.KeithSmith,whoholdstheesteemedpositionsof PresidentandCEO.

Oversixdecadesago,Voncoembarkedonatrailblazing journeyasapioneerincustomequipmentandpackaging, quicklyamassingareputationforunparalleledprecision andquality Withtheindustry’sevolution,Vonco’sexpertise expanded,leadingtothediversificationofitsofferingsto includecustommedicaldevicesandcomponents,flexible packaging,andcontract-manufacturedsolutions.

AbeaconofstrengthliesinVonco’sabilitytocraftliquidtightbagsflawlesslytailoredtoanydesiredshapeor fitment.Leveragingbothsupportedandunsupportedfilms, Voncohasmasteredtheartofpersonalizedpackaging solutionsthatcatertoitsclients’uniquerequirements.This exceptionalcapabilitygrantsVoncoacompetitiveedge, particularlyinthemedicalandconsumermarkets,where precisionandreliabilityholdparamountsignificance.

Embracingcutting-edgetechnology,itrevolutionizes interactionswithpackagingandamongindividuals.Fusing state-of-the-artmanufacturingprocesseswithextensive investmentsinresearchanddevelopment,Vonco perpetuallyelevatesthestandardsofproductqualityand customerexperiences.Theirinnovativesolutionsnotonly

captivateconsumersbutalsoholdfar-reachingimplications forhealthcare,safety,andsecurityacrossindustries.

Let us delve deeper into their journey!

TheVisionaryLeader- Igniting Innovation and Impact

KeithassumedleadershipofthecompanyinDecember 2012.Beforethisrole,heheldthepositionofGeneral ManageratAppletonPapers,overseeingtheCarbonless RollsandSecurityPapersdivision,whichwasasignificant partofa$1billionpapercompany.Keith’seducational backgroundincludesabachelor’sdegreeinindustrial engineeringandanMBAfromNorthernIllinoisUniversity. HehasalsoearnedLeanandSixSigmacertificationsfrom theUniversityofMichigan,showcasinghisdedicationto continuousimprovementandefficiency

Keithisrenownedforhisabilitytocultivatecontagious energywithinhisorganizationsandhisunwavering commitmenttofosteringinnovation,creativity,inspiration, andaspiritofadventure.Beyondhisprofessionalpursuits, heactivelydedicateshistimeandresourcestosupport fellowentrepreneurs,education,athletics,andhealth initiatives,exemplifyinghispassionformakingapositive impactonvariouscommunities.

CommitmenttoInnovation

Voncoiscaptivatedbytheintersectionofcreativity, innovation,technology,andpracticalityinthesolutions theyprovidetohospitals,patients,andconsumers. Packagingplaysavitalroleinshapingconsumer experiences,ensuringproductandpeople’ssafety,and conveyingbrandvalues–Asignificancethatcannotbe overlooked.

Thepackagingindustryisinaconstantstateofevolution, continuouslyadaptingtochangingconsumerpreferences, technologicaladvancements,patientneeds,andindustry trends.Recently,therehasbeenaheightenedfocusonecofriendlymaterials,notonlyinhealthcarebutalsoacrossthe consumerindustry.Voncoiscommittedtostayingatthe forefrontofthesechanges,offeringsustainableproducts andpackagingtoprotectourenvironmentwhilemeeting consumerdemands.

Moreover,Voncorecognizestheimmensepotentialof artificialintelligenceandtechnologyinthenextfiveyears. Theseadvancementswillrevolutionizesupplychain management,producttracking,andconsumerengagement.

Ase-commercecontinuestoflourish,Voncoisdetermined tofindefficientandstreamlinedwaystodeliverits packagingandproductstoitsvaluedcustomers.

JourneyAhead

Inthenextfiveyears,Voncowillfacebothchallengesand opportunitiesinsustainablepackagingandtechnology integration.Toachievetheirsustainabilitygoals,theyplan toadoptinnovativeapproacheslikeusingrecyclable, compostable,andbio-basedmaterialsandembracing circulareconomyprinciplestooptimizedesignsand minimizematerialusage.

Astechnologyadvancerapidly,Voncowillcontinueto explorenewcuttingedge-technologieswithinallindustries theyserve.Itemssuchas:newequipment,AItechnology, andsmartpackagingareallupfordiscussion.Addressing thecomplexitiesinimplementationandintegrationof advancementchangesiscrucial.

Tomanagethesechallenges,Voncowillstayinformed aboutconsumerpreferencesandconductcompetitor research.Continuouslearningandtrainingprogramsfor employeeswillkeepthemupdatedonpackagingtrendsand newtechnologies.Buildingstrongpartnershipswith suppliersandcustomersbasedontrustandtransparencyis essential.

Tomaintainitsmarketedgeandcustomersatisfaction, Voncowillinvestinresearchanddevelopment,driving

innovationinnewpackagingmaterials,designconcepts, andtechnologies.Proactiveeffortsinsustainabilityand technologyintegrationpositionthemasindustryleaders whilecontributingtoamoresustainableandtech-savvy future.

AdvancedPCRApproaches

VoncoispresentlyengagedinthedevelopmentofitsPCR andrecycle-readystructures.Thecompanyplacesgreat importanceonprovidingthesesolutionstothemarket,asit alignswithitscommitmenttostayingabreastofthelatest industrytechnologiesandmarketdemands.Vonco’s primaryobjectiveistodelivercost-effectivesolutions withoutcompromisingthenecessarymaterialproperties requiredtoensurethesecurityoftheproductorfluid.

UnlockingInfinitePossibilities

Voncospecializesincustomsolutions,withonlyalimited selectionofstockitems.Thesalesteamscollaborateclosely withclientstofullycomprehendtheirrequirementsand specifications.Theengineersthenofferarangeof resources,suchascommercializationroadmapsthatoutline potentialrisksandconsiderations,aswellashowthe productwillbeefficientlyproducedanddistributed. Additionally,Voncoprovidessamples,customprototyping, anddesignanddevelopmentservicesthroughtheirSpark InnovationSessions.Moreover,dependingonthesupply chainstatus,italsooffersstockingprogramstoensure clientshaveasecuresupplyandtimelymarketentry

RevolutionaryInnovations

Themedicaldeviceandpackagingindustrythriveson innovation.Keithrevealsthattheyhavedevelopedtwo highlyinnovativeproducts:TheWillowmilkbagandthe EnteraLocFlowfeedingpouch.TheWillowbagisa uniquelydesigned,leak-proofbagspecificallymadeforthe Willowbreastpump.Willowisdescribedastheworld’s firstall-in-onewearablebreastpumpthatfitsinsideabra,it incorporatesadoughnut-shapedpouch/bagthatholdsbreast milk.Thebaggeometryisparticularlyuniqueinthatithad tofitaconfinedspacewhilestillunfoldingwellenoughnot tohidertheflowofbreastmilkwhileitfills.

Ontheotherhand,the Flowpouchisa EnteraLoc™ groundbreakingenteraldevicethatsetsanewstandardfor directconnectdeliveryofnutrition,whetherblendedor non-blended.Itisthefirstclosed-loopenteralfeeding solutionthatseamlesslycombinesaleak-proofseal,

adirect-connectENFit®device,atube,andcanholda varietyofnutritiousfoodoptionsprovidedbybrandowners tocompleteacomprehensivefeedingsystem.

Industry-leadingQualitySystems

ThefacilitiesinTrevor,WI,andGeneva,ILbelongingto Vonco,maintainqualitysystemsthathavereceivedISO 13485:2016certificationandarecompliantwithFDA21CFR 820regulations.Voncoensurestheintegrityofitsproducts withaleak-proofguarantee,utilizingpackagingtechniques andmaterialssuchasTyvekandFoiltooffervariousbarrier optionsforsafetransportandstorage.Leveragingitscrossfunctionalindustryexpertise,Voncocanassistin implementingeffectivequalitysolutionsforyourproducts. Theircommitmenttomeetingorsurpassingregulatoryand customerrequirementsisevidentintheproductsandservices theyprovide.

ImpactfulPackaging

Voncooperatesintwovitalindustries-healthcareand consumerproducts-Wherepackagingholdsparamount importance.Beyondmereprotection,packagingplaysa pivotalroleinestablishingabrand’sidentityandforging connectionswithconsumersthroughthoughtfuldesign, colors,andlogos.Awell-craftedpackagestirsemotions, sparkscuriosity,andbolstersbrandrecognition,while consistencyfostersloyalty

Keithhighlightspackaging’spotentialforproduct differentiationinfiercelycompetitivemarkets.Exceptional designssetbrandsapart,captivatingconsumers’attentionand evokingcuriosity.Theseblueprintsetchbrandprinciples, ingenuity,andeminenceintominds,ultimatelyinfluencing purchasingdecisions.

Packagingalsoservesasaninformationconduit,providing vitalproductdetailslikefeatures,usageinstructions, ingredients,andcertifications.Clearlabelingempowers consumerstomakeinformedchoices,fosteringtransparency andtrust.Additionally,packagingactsasasilentsalesperson, effectivelycommunicatingproductbenefitsandaddressing consumerconcerns.

Fromamarketingstandpoint,eye-catchingdesigns,strategic placement,andinnovativeformatsonretailshelvesentice customerstopickupproducts.Packagingcanincorporate promotionalmaterialstoengageandencouragerepeat purchases.

Voncorecognizesthesignificanceofeco-consciousness amongconsumers.Embracingsustainablepackaging alignswithconsumers’values,reducingecological footprintsandenhancingbrandreputation.Introducing PCRandRecycle-readyalternativesdemonstrates Vonco’scommitmenttoprovidingsustainablepackaging choicesforitsvaluedconsumers.

KeyAdvice

Keithadvisesaspiringentrepreneurstofocuson establishingrobustpartnershipswithstrategicsuppliers, manufacturers,andstakeholdersinthepackaging ecosystem.Bycollaboratingwithdependableandwellregardedpartners,entrepreneurscanenhancetheir capabilities,productioncapacity,andresourceaccess.

RemarkableAchievementsintheIndustry

EnteraLocisrecognizedbytheFlexiblePackaging Associationandwonfourgoldawardcategoriesin2022. The categories included:

·GoldAward,ExpandingtheUseofFlexiblePackaging

·GoldAward,TechnicalInnovation

·GoldAward,Sustainability

·GoldAward,PackagingExcellence

Client testimonials:

Willow bag is recognized by the Flexible Packaging Association and won three awards the categories include:

Gold Award, Technical Innovation

Silver Award, Expanding the Use of Flexible Packaging Silver Award, Packaging Excellence

“Greatcompetencyandsupportofcustomersneedtohelp solveproblems.”

“MyproductionteamconfirmsVonco’scustomTyvek packagingisthebestwehaveseeninyears!

“GenesisPlasticsWelding,adivisionofVoncoproducts, consistentlydeliversqualityresultswithtop-of-the-line manufacturingcapabilities.Everythingfromresearchand developmenttoproductionishandleddiligentlyand accurately.”

for Sustainable Packaging Practices Strategies

Reducing Waste

Imagineaworldwherepackaging,insteadofpilingup inlandfills,transformsintofertilegroundfor innovationandenvironmentalresponsibility Aworld whereeverycontainerwhispersastoryofresourcefulness, efficiency,andadeeprespectforourplanet.Thisisthe promiseofsustainablepackaging–arevolutionnotjustin materialsbutinhowwethinkaboutconsumptionandour sharedfuture.

Inthisarticle,wecrackthecodeofwaste,exploringfive keystrategiesthatbusinessescanimplementtoditchthe unsustainableandembracepackagingpracticesthatnurture athrivingtomorrow.Fromreusablewondersto compostablechampions,we’llunlockthepotentialof materialsthatgobeyondprotectionanddelveintothe poweroftransparencyandcollaboration.Getreadyto rethink,redesign,andrewritethenarrativeofpackaging, oneinnovativesolutionatatime.

PrioritizingReusableandRefillablePackaging

Themostsustainablepackagingisn’tpackagingatall. Optingforreusableorrefillablealternativeslikeglassjars, stainlesssteelcontainers,andfabricbagsallowsfor repeateduse,significantlyreducingwaste.Inindustrieslike foodandbeverage,refillablesystemsaregainingtraction, withconsumerswillingtopayadepositandreturn containersforreuse.Businessescanincentivizesuch choicesthroughpricediscountsandloyaltyprograms.

MinimizingandOptimizingPackagingMaterials

Whileeliminatingpackagingentirelyisn’talwaysfeasible, minimizingitsuseiscrucial.Businessescananalyzetheir packagingneedsanddesignefficientcontainersthatusethe leastamountofmaterialpossible.Lightweightalternatives likepaperpulppackagingcanreplacebulkyplasticoptions, whileconcentratedproductformulascanreducetheneed forlargecontainers.Everygramsavedtranslatestoreduced environmentalimpactandcostsavingsforbusinesses.

EmbracingBiodegradableandCompostableMaterials

Movingawayfromfossilfuel-basedplasticstowards biodegradableandcompostablematerialsisagamechanger.Plant-basedplasticsderivedfromcornstarch, algae,ormushroomsoffersustainablealternativeswithout compromisingproductprotection.Thesematerialsbreak downnaturallywhencomposted,returningvaluable nutrientstothesoilinsteadofcontributingtolandfillwaste.

Adaptingto the Times

Navigating Global Supply Chain Challenges with Resilience and Innovation

Inanagedefinedbyinterconnectedeconomiesand

rapidtechnologicaladvancements,globalsupply chainsplayapivotalroleintheseamlessmovementof goodsandservicesacrossborders.However,thisintricate weboflogisticsandoperationsisnotwithoutitschallenges. TheCOVID-19pandemicservedasastarkreminderofthe vulnerabilityofglobalsupplychains,disrupting manufacturinganddistributionprocessesworldwide. Lockdowns,restrictions,andlaborshortageshighlighted theneedforresilientsupplychainscapableofwithstanding healthcrises.Consequently,companiesarenowfocusingon diversifyingsourcinglocations,investingintechnologyfor remotework,andimplementingrobustcontingencyplans.

Geopoliticaltensionsbetweenmajoreconomiespresent anotherlayerofcomplexityforglobalsupplychains.Trade disputes,tariffs,andpoliticalunrestcanhaveadirect impactontheflowofgoods.Theimpositionoftariffs,for instance,canincreaseproductioncosts,prompting companiestoreevaluatetheirsupplierrelationships.To mitigatethesechallenges,businessesarediversifying suppliers,exploringalternativemarkets,andclosely monitoringgeopoliticaldevelopmentstomakeinformed decisions.

Assupplychainsbecomeincreasinglydigitized,theriskof cybersecuritythreatsrises.Fromdatabreachesto ransomwareattacks,thepotentialfordisruptionsis significant.Companiesarerespondingtothischallengeby investingincybersecuritymeasures,implementingrobust encryptionprotocols,andconductingregularauditsto identifyandrectifyvulnerabilities.

Extremeweatherevents,exacerbatedbyclimatechange, poseasignificantthreattoglobalsupplychains.Hurricanes, floods,andwildfirescandisrupttransportationroutes, damageinfrastructure,andimpactproductionfacilities.To buildresilience,businessesareincorporatingclimaterisk assessmentsintotheirsupplychainstrategies,diversifying sourcingtospreadrisk,andadoptingsustainablepractices tomitigateenvironmentalimpact.

Theexponentialgrowthine-commerce,coupledwith congestionatportsandtransportationhubs,hasledto logisticalbottlenecks.Thesebottlenecksresultindelays, increasedcosts,andoperationalinefficiencies.

Toaddressthis,companiesareexploringadvanced technologiessuchasblockchain,artificialintelligence,and theInternetofThings(IoT)toenhancevisibility,optimize routes,andstreamlineoperations.

Alackoftransparencyandvisibilityacrossthesupplychain canleadtoinefficienciesanddifficultiesinrisk management.Companiesaretacklingthisissuebyadopting advancedanalyticsandreal-timemonitoringtoolstotrack inventorylevels,demandfluctuations,andpotential disruptions.Enhancedvisibilityenablesproactivedecisionmakingandminimizestheimpactofunforeseenevents.

Inconclusion,theglobalsupplychainisacomplex ecosystemthatrequirescontinuousadaptationtonavigate thechallengesposedbyanever-changingworld. Companiesthatinvestinresilience,agility,andinnovation willbebetterpositionedtoweatherdisruptionsandthrive inthedynamicglobalmarketplace.Byembracingnew technologies,diversifyingsourcingstrategies,and prioritizingsustainability,businessescantransform challengesintoopportunities,ensuringthecontinued successoftheirglobalsupplychains.

Merging Technologyand Consumer Engagement

Intheageofhyper-connectivity,consumersyearnfor experiencesthattranscendthemundane.Brands,in turn,arescramblingtofindinnovativewaystostand outandforgedeeperconnectionswiththeirtargetaudience. Surprisingly,theanswermightlienotinflashyadvertising orloyaltyprogramsbutinsomethingasubiquitousas packaging–withatechnologicaltwist.Entertheworldof smartpackaging,wherephysicalcontainersmorphinto interactiveportals,blurringthelinesbetweenproductand digitalexperience.

BeyondProtection:UnleashingthePowerof Information

Gonearethedaysofpackagingsolelyservingtheutilitarian purposeofprotectingandtransportinggoods.Smart packaging,infusedwithtechnologieslikenear-field communication(NFC),QRcodes,andevenaugmented reality(AR),transformscontainersintoinformationhubs. Imaginescanningacerealboxtoaccessinteractiverecipes, nutritionalinformation,orevenfungamesforchildren.Or envisionawinebottlerevealingthestoryofthevineyard wherethegrapesweregrown,completewithimmersiveAR toursoftheestate.Smartpackagingnotonlyenhances brandstorytellingbutalsoempowersconsumerswith deeperknowledgeandpersonalizedexperiences.

PersonalizationandGamification:EngagingEvery Individual

Inanagewhereindividualityreignssupreme,generic packagingsimplydoesn'tcutit.Smartpackagingallows brandstopersonalizethecustomerjourneylikenever before.ImagineacoffeebagembeddedwithanNFCchip thatrecognizesyourpreferredbrewingmethodand recommendstheperfectgrindorstrength.Orconsidera beautyproductcontainerthatadjustsitsinstructionsbased onyourskintypeorscannedskincareroutine.Such personalizedexperiencesbuildloyaltyandfosterasenseof brandintimacy,makingconsumersfeelvaluedand understood.

Gamificationaddsanotherlayerofengagement.Integrating interactiveelementslikequizzes,scavengerhunts,or loyaltyprogramsdirectlyintopackagingturnstheunboxing experienceintoaplayfuladventure.Consumersbecome activeparticipantsinthebrandstory,sharingtheir experiencesonsocialmediaandboostingbrandvisibility organically

AugmentingReality:BlendingPhysicalandDigital Worlds

ARtakesengagementtoawholenewlevel.Imagine scanningabagofchipstowatchthepotatoesbeing harvestedinavirtualfieldorpointingyourphoneata shoeboxtoseetheshoescomealiveandstrutdowna virtualcatwalk.ByblendingthephysicalproductwithAR experiences,brandscantransportconsumersfromtheir livingroomstoimmersivebrandworlds,forginglasting memoriesandemotionalconnections.

RevolutionizingSupplyChains:Transparencyand Sustainability

Smartpackagingextendsitsbenefitsbeyondconsumer engagement,playingavitalroleinoptimizingsupply chains.Sensorsembeddedinpackagingcantrack temperature,humidity,andevenfreshness,ensuring optimalproductqualityduringtransportandstorage.This real-timedatahelpspreventspoilage,reduceswaste,and optimizeslogistics,benefitingbothbrandsandconsumers.

Moreover,blockchaintechnologyintegratedintosmart packagingcanprovidecompleteproductprovenance, allowingconsumerstotracetheproduct'sjourneyfrom farmtoshelf.Thistransparencybuildstrustandempowers

consumerstomakeinformedchoices,drivingethicaland sustainableproductionpracticeswithinthesupplychain.

ChallengesandConsiderations:EmbracingtheFuture Responsibly

Whilethepotentialofsmartpackagingisundeniable, implementingitresponsiblyrequiresthoughtful considerationofchallenges.Dataprivacyconcernsmustbe addressed,withrobustsecuritymeasuresensuring consumerinformationisprotected.Additionally, accessibilityremainsaconcern,asnotallconsumersmight haveaccesstothetechnologyrequiredtointeractwith smartpackaging.It'scrucialtofindwaystobridgethis digitaldivideandensureinclusivityinthefutureof packaging.

APackagingRenaissance

Smartpackagingrepresentsaparadigmshiftinthewaywe conceptualizeandengagewithproducts.It'snotjustabout protectinggoodsanymore;it'saboutforgingconnections, tellingstories,andcreatingpersonalizedexperiencesthat resonatewithconsumers.Byembracingthepowerof technologyresponsibly,brandscantransformpackaging fromamundanenecessityintoapowerfultoolfor engagement,buildingloyalty,andshapingamore sustainablefuture.Thefutureofpackagingissmart, interactive,anddeeplyconnected,andthosewhoembrace thisinnovationwillbetheoneswhotrulyunpackthe potentialoftheirbrands.