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Month: September 2025

GBIG NEWS | 94 Stories and Links on the Internet 10/01/2025

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GBIG News

Get links to the latest news, events, stories, and interviews from our 5P news members. Our goal is to remind the decision-makers in Wisconsin of the importance of our industry both historically, and more importantly, into the future.

Read the latest 94 Stories and Links on the Internet below.

Events

Featured Stories

Packaging

Sustainability

Forest

Education

Non-Woven

AI

Sponsors

Wisconsin Paper Council: 2025 Golf Tournament

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Wisconsin Paper Council logo

Attend WPC’s Golf Outing to network with industry leaders while enjoying a day golfing riverside with fast greens and lush fairways. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with key players in the paper industry.

A Chance to Win up to $5,000 Cash Prize!

  • Cost: $200 – Per Player and $800 – 4 Players
  • Where: Bullseye Golf Club, 2800 Ridgewood Trail, Wisconsin Rapids, WI
  • When: Tuesday, October 7th
  • Registration: 8:30 – 10:00 am
  • Shotgun starts: 10:00 am
Register Here

Wisconsin Paper Council: 2025 WPC/NCASI REGULATORY & TECHNICAL WORKSHOP

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About Our Workshop

Wisconsin Paper Council logo

The Wisconsin Paper Council (WPC) and NCASI will host a one-day in-person Technical and Regulatory Workshop on December 4, 2025, for employees of companies that are members of WPC and/or NCASI.

  • Cost: $75 per person
  • When: December 4th, 2025
  • Where: Miron Construction Corporate Headquarters, 1471 McMahon Drive, Neenah, WI

Why Attend

  • Learn from experts on environmental regulations and technical topics
  • Explore industry challenges and solutions
  • Network with peers and professionals
  • Continuing education credit
Register Now

GBIG: Overview of the Specialty Paper Conference – a Huge Success!

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specialty-paper-conference

Green Bay Innovation Group Foundation is a non-profit business-to-business association supporting the 5P and Converting Industries and our communities. We are projecting to donate $75,000 to other non-profits in 2025. We thank our Sponsors/Members/Exhibitors for your support. GBIG offers outstanding relationship-building, education, innovation, and networking opportunities by working together. In 2025, GBIG was involved in multiple projects that provided support for Sponsors and Exhibitors, and similar opportunities are expected to continue.

The Specialty Paper Conference was an enormous success. We had 162 people register for the event. We had a very impressive lineup of speakers and outstanding panel of Paper Manufacturing Companies. We want to thank ALL the speakers and attendees for their participation. We want to thank Fox 11 News for covering our story to help educate the industry and the State of Wisconsin on the size and impact of the 5P and Converting Industries!

Fox 11 News Story

SPEAKERS

David Zamarin Founder and CEO of Impermea Materials. Forbes recognized him 30 Under 30 and is also a TEDx speaker and the founder of Impermea Materials, an advanced materials company leading the way in PFAS-free, plastic-free barrier coatings for paper, packaging, and industrial substrates. David leads Impermea in delivering high-performance solutions that meet today’s toughest sustainability and regulatory demands with barrier performance and operational efficiency.

Chris Jansen – Chris is a Principal Product Development Engineer at Amcor. His focus is on the AmFibre Portfolio, specifically paper-based flexible packaging structures that are recyclable in the paper stream and are compostable.

Breanna Van Nuland Senior Product Development Engineer at Amcor Focused on AmFiber Portfolio paper-based packaging solutions. Beanna has amassed experience in both 2D and 3D fiber converting across a variety of consumer products for packaging solutions.

Paul Fowler is the Executive Director of the Wisconsin Institute for Sustainable Technology at the University of Stevens Point where he leads laboratories dedicated to composability testing, pulp, and paper research and analytical Testing. He speaks regularly addressing matters on sustainability, paper, and paper-based packaging, bio-based plastics, and recyclability.

PANEL

Mark Hunter Director of Technology and Innovation for Hoffmaster. He has over 25 years of pulp and paper experience as an Asset Manager, Production Manager, and Process Engineering Technical Director. He leads a team of thirty-two maintenance engineers.

Jay Downey – Product Manager at Sun Chemical Responsible for Adhesives and Coatings for Flexible Packaging and Converting with over 35 years of Experience.

Dean Benjamin Director of Development at Ahlstrom. Dean is focused on developing new specialty paper products for food packaging including barrier and heat seal papers, labels, release liners, and other industrial paper. He worked at Avery Dennison, Consolidated Paper, and Pixelle Specialty Papers.

Ryan Day General Manager of BPM, Inc. a Specialty Paper Company. He has held roles as Technical/Quality Control, and a Plant Manager focusing on Specialty Papers.

David Barr Director of New Product Development of BiOrgin has over 25 years’ experience in the Paper with a background in technical Manager, Operations Manager, Mill Manager in both MG, Tissue, and Secondary Fiber Development.

Brit Swisher is the Area Vice President – Northern Region at Midland Paper, Packaging, & Supplies; Midland is one of the largest independent paper and packaging distributors in North America. He has 40 years’ experience in the industries!

  • Breanna Van Nuland and Chris Jansen in Specialty Paper Conference
  • Breanna Van Nuland in Speciality Paper Conference
  • David Zamarin in Specialty Paper Conference
  • Host Dan Goymerac for Specialty Conference
  • Marty and Dan Goymerac in Specialty Paper Conference
  • Paul Fowler speaker
  • Marty Ochs as a speaker in the Specialty Paper Conference
  • woman speaking in front of the people at a conference

Wisconsin Paper Council Announces New Addition to its Environmental Leadership Team

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Keren A. Vivas, PhD, Hired as Director of Environmental Regulatory Affairs for WPC

Madison…The Wisconsin Paper Council (WPC) is pleased to announce a new member of the 57-year-old trade association’s growing leadership team. Keren A. Vivas, PhD, has joined the WPC as its Director of Environmental Regulatory Affairs.

“Our statewide trade association is thrilled to welcome Keren Vivas, PhD to the Wisconsin Paper Council’s team of professionals,” stated WPC President Scott Suder. “Keren’s impressive sustainability experience and PhD background will bring us to a new level of strategic capability for our members. We are very pleased to have a professional of such magnitude as a member of our team.”

Keren A. Vivas, PhD
Keren A. Vivas, PhD

WPC is the premier trade association that advocates for the papermaking industry before regulatory bodies, and state and federal legislatures to achieve positive policy outcomes. WPC also works to educate the public about the social, environmental, and economic importance of paper, pulp, and forestry production in Wisconsin and throughout the Midwest. The pulp and paper sector employs over 30,000 people in Wisconsin and has an annual payroll of $2.5 billion. Wisconsin is the number one paper-producing state in the United States, with the annual output of paper manufactured products estimated to be over $18 billion.

“I’m excited to begin work on behalf of an industry that is one of the economic engines of Wisconsin, which supports thousands of family-supporting jobs throughout Wisconsin,” stated Keren Vivas. “I look forward to the challenge of enhancing the Wisconsin Paper Council’s mission and strengthening its advocacy presence throughout the regulatory community.”

Prior to joining the WPC, Keren was Research Manager for the Sustainable and Alternative Fibers Initiative (SAFI) Consortium, where she led project development, coordinated member engagement, organized annual conferences, and mentored graduate students. Concurrently, she served as a Senior Research Associate at NCSU, leading consumer studies and managing benchmarking data for the tissue and towel markets.

While completing her PhD at NCSU, Keren led SAFI Consortium research on supply chains, techno-economics, and consumer behavior, focusing on the feasibility and perception of using alternative fibers in pulp and paper products. During this time, she also completed two internships with Kimberly-Clark Corporation, focusing on business and sustainability strategy management.

Beyond research, she served as Vice President of the Forest Biomaterials Graduate Student Association, was a member of the College of Natural Resources DEI Committee and worked as a teaching assistant for the Strategic Business Processes course in the Paper Science and Engineering program.

Keren was born and raised in Mérida, Venezuela, where she earned her degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Los Andes (ULA). She later moved to the United States to pursue her PhD in Forest Biomaterials at North Carolina State University (NCSU).

You can learn more about the Wisconsin Paper Council by visiting their website at www.wipaper.org.

Follow the WPC on our social media platforms:

Edana: Anti-dumping probe launched into PET spunbond for bituminous membranes imports from China

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 15/09/2025

Brussels, Belgium, 15th of September 2025 – The European Commission has opened an anti-dumping investigation into PET spunbond imports from China, following a complaint lodged by members of EDANA, the international association for nonwoven and related industries.

EDANA welcomes this vital move by the European Commission to counter the influx of unfairly priced goods from Chinese exporters entering the EU market. Jacques Prigneaux, EDANA’s Director of Market Analysis & Economic Affairs, stressed the need for urgent trade defence measures, stating: “The EU PET spunbond sector is facing mounting pressure from Chinese manufacturers. Since 2021, Chinese producers have rapidly increased exports of PET spunbond to the EU and have taken over a significant share of the EU PET spunbond market at the expense of the EU industry. Accordingly, we look forward to the rapid registration of imports and the possibility of retroactive imposition of anti-dumping measures.”

Anti-dumping probe launched into PET spunbond for bituminous membranes imports from China

PET spunbond is a nonwoven material made from polyester filaments and is used as a carrier layer in bituminous membranes. The product is an essential input material for the EU’s building and construction sector in their efforts to accelerate housing renovation and clean energy roof construction in line with the EU’s green transition policies.

According to the Complainants, the unfairly priced Chinese imports have caused material injury to their performance, which saw a significant decline. “This underlines the need for the European Commission to make use of its trade defence tools. EDANA stands ready to support the EU Commission during its investigation,” Prigneaux concluded.

For more information, please contact Jacques Prigneaux:
jacques.prigneaux@edana.org
Please find the official notice of initiation here.

Q&A

Why did the EU PET spunbond producers file the anti-dumping Complaint?

The Chinese PET spunbond exporting producers have been increasing their presence on the EU market. Between 2021 and 2024, imports of Chinese PET spunbond into the EU increased their market share from [0-5] % to [15-20] %. The EU PET spunbond industry therefore asked the Commission to investigate the situation with a view to restoring a level playing field in the EU.

How long does the investigation last?

The anti-dumping investigation lasts up to 14 months. The Commission will conduct an objective examination of the situation and reach its findings after hearing all interested parties.

What will be the outcome of the investigation?

The Commission will, based on the evidence collected, decide whether it is necessary to impose anti-dumping duties on imports of PET spunbond from China.

What will be the level of the AD duties?

We do not know that. That is one of the findings the Commission will need to reach based on its investigation.

When could measures be imposed?

The Commission can impose provisional measures up to 8 months after the initiation of the investigation. Definitive measures can be imposed before the end of the investigation (14 months from the date of initiation). Also, relatively early in the investigation, the Commission can be expected to direct national customs authorities to register imports. The registration allows the Commission to make the definitive measures retroactive to the date of registration.

About EDANA

Comprising over 260 members, EDANA is the international association advocating for the benefits of nonwovens for society. Since 1971, EDANA has been providing a comprehensive range of services to enhance the industry’s goals and performance, including supporting sustainability ambitions, responsible product stewardship, and addressing common technical, regulatory and market challenges. EDANA also organizes several application-specific and geographic-focused industry events.

For further information, please contact:

Felipe Cossio Cuartero
Mobile: +32 499 689 249
E-mail: felipe.cossio@edana.org
Website: www.edana.org

Quad Plus: How Industrial Automation Systems Integration Helps Achieve End-to-End Automation

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Manufacturers aiming for true end-to-end automation quickly discover that success depends on more than equipment. It requires seamless connectivity across machines, software, and processes. This is where industrial automation system integrators play a critical role.

These experts bridge the gap between standalone technologies, creating fully integrated operations. By coordinating hardware, control platforms, and enterprise systems, they ensure that every component of a facility communicates effectively.

The result is improved efficiency, better decision-making, and a reduction in costly downtime.

The Role of System Integration

System integration brings together diverse technologies into a cohesive framework. Whether it’s connecting robotics with PLCs, linking production lines to ERP software, or optimizing SCADA systems, a skilled system integration engineer ensures smooth interaction across all levels of automation.

This level of integration streamlines workflows and provides real-time data visibility. With accurate insights available at every stage, managers can respond quickly to issues, improve scheduling, and maximize output.

How Integrators Deliver End-to-End Automation

Industrial automation system integrators follow a disciplined approach that reduces risk and accelerates results:

industrial automation system control panel
  1. Discovery and Assessment. Map assets, network topology, and process constraints. Identify legacy bottlenecks and interoperability gaps.
  2. Solution Design. Specify controls architecture, I/O, communications standards, and data models that align with business goals.
  3. Implementation. Configure PLC and HMI code, commission drives and robotics, and integrate SCADA, MES, and ERP systems.
  4. Testing and Validation. Simulate edge cases, verify fail-safes, and document procedures for operations and maintenance.
  5. Optimization and Scaling. Tune recipes, add analytics, and standardize templates to replicate success across lines and sites.

Why Work with Control System Integrators

Partnering with control system integrators means more than technical expertise. They customize solutions to meet the unique needs of each facility, from small upgrades to complete plant-wide modernization.

Highly experienced control system integrators possess knowledge of both legacy systems and the latest automation technologies, enabling them to design strategies that minimize risk, shorten project timelines, and extend equipment life.

The right partner also addresses cybersecurity, safety standards, and change management so improvements stick. Look for teams with a multi-vendor track record and certifications to match your installed base. A strong system integrator also hardens OT networks so production remains secure and available.

Ask for clear documentation and training to support your maintenance staff. Prioritize providers who offer post-commissioning support and set clear expectations for response times. Lastly, ensure that you and your system integrator agree on KPIs upfront so that success is measured in the same way.

End-to-End Benefits

When executed correctly by industrial automation system integrators, end-to-end automation delivers:

  • Higher Productivity. Integrated systems reduce delays and increase throughput.
  • Less Downtime. Proactive design and monitoring identify problems before they escalate.
  • Improved Flexibility. Systems can adapt more easily to new processes or production changes.
  • Data-Driven Operations. Seamless integration ensures reliable information for smarter business decisions.
  • Lifecycle Support. Standardized code, documentation, and training simplify maintenance.

By connecting equipment, software, and processes, industrial automation system integrators provide the foundation for efficient, reliable, and future-ready operations. To explore a practical roadmap for your facility, contact Adam Kahler at akahler@quadplus.com or call (815) 210-9885.

Quad Plus
1379 Unit C Carlson Ave New Richmond, WI 54017 www.quadplus.com

Paper Dimensions Announces Barry Christensen as VP and General Manager

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Paper Dimensions

Beaver Dam, WI – September 10, 2025 – Paper Dimensions LLC, a leading provider of precision paper converting solutions, is excited to announce the appointment of Barry Christenson as Vice President and General Manager. With a robust background in the paper and packaging industry, Christenson will drive the company’s growth, innovation, and business development.

Christenson brings 25 years of experience in paper and packaging, complemented by 10 years in the transportation industry. His expertise spans sales, sales management, operations, and supply chain management, with a proven record of fostering client relationships and business growth. A Wisconsin native, he holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from St. Norbert College in De Pere, WI, and a Master of Business Administration from Marquette University in Milwaukee, WI.

“We are thrilled to welcome Barry to Paper Dimensions,” said Peter Emenecker, CEO of Paper Dimensions LLC. “His deep industry knowledge and leadership will be instrumental as we continue to deliver innovative, high-quality solutions that create real value for our customers.”

As Vice President and General Manager, Christenson will oversee operations, lead business development, and drive strategic initiatives to strengthen Paper Dimensions’ position in the industry. His focus will include expanding market reach, optimizing operations, and fostering innovation.

“I’m honored to join Paper Dimensions and lead this talented team,” said Barry Christenson. “Together, we will expand our market presence, embrace innovation, and strengthen the partnerships that drive long-term success for our customers and our company.”

For more information, visit www.paperdimensionsllc.com or follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/paper-dimensions-llc.

About Paper Dimensions LLC

Headquartered in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, Paper Dimensions LLC specializes in precision paper converting, delivering high-quality solutions for diverse industries with a commitment to innovation, reliability, and customer partnership.
Media Contact:
Trista Rahn
Paper Dimensions LLC
trahn@paperdimensionsllc.com

Miron: Construction Suicide Prevention Week Stand-Down

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Preventing Suicide in Construction

Mental Health, Depression, and Suicide

Mental health in construction isn’t talked about enough, yet it is a significant safety risk. It’s even been dubbed the “silent killer,” because poor mental health can lead to depression and even
worse, suicide. Mental health in construction is indeed a significant safety risk and a crisis we have to deal with.

Miron Construction-Suicide-Prevention-Week-Stand-Down

Statistics point to the fact that a large number of construction workers struggle in some way with a mental health issue. In fact, 60% report this. Mental health issues can be caused by a wide range of variables. In construction, these problems include, but are not limited to, substance abuse, burnout, poor diet, and unrealistic expectations. However, one of the more prevalent issues is depression, which can ultimately lead to suicide.

While most individuals with depression have a full remission of the disorder with effective treatment, only about one-third (35%) of those suffering from severe depression seek treatment from a mental health professional. People often resist treatment because they believe depression isn’t serious, that they can treat it themselves, or that it is a personal weakness rather than a serious medical condition.

Depression is very treatable, with the overwhelming majority of those who seek treatment showing improvement. Please don’t hesitate to seek treatment. A great place to start is by contacting your local health provider, your local EAP (Employee Assistance Program), or utilizing the resources listed below.

Struggling? It’s ok to ask for help!

For more information, click on the links below.

Construction Suicide Prevention Construction Suicide Prevention

Domino: Cover Label advances growth strategy with Domino N730i

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In a strategic move to accelerate growth, expand production capabilities, and offer unmatched print quality, Cover Label has installed the Domino N730i digital UV inkjet label press. This decision marks a significant milestone for the Los Angeles-based label converter, which has grown from a modest flexographic print shop into a cutting-edge operation serving diverse industries including food and beverage, cosmetics, health, and other consumer packaged goods.

Co-CEOs Pat Wafer and Ryder Fyrwald acquired the business, then known as Alros Label, seven years ago with the goal of transforming it into a modern label printing powerhouse. “We were looking for a solid business to grow in the packaging space,” says Ryder. “Since then, we’ve rebranded as Cover Label, expanded into digital with Domino, added multiple flexographic presses, acquired Crown Label, and moved into a significantly larger warehouse.”

Pat-Wafer-and-Ryder-Fyrwald

Today, Cover Label operates with a team of under 20 employees across staggered shifts, running one Domino digital press and four flexographic presses: a 17″ Nilpeter FA7, a 13″ Mark Andy 2200, a 7″ Mark Andy 2200, and a Webtron 7550. Finishing capabilities include a Grafotronic laser die cutter. “Fast turnaround, excellent service, and technical capability are our trademarks,” adds Ryder. “We serve customers who value speed, reliability, and standout embellishments like foils and spot UV.”

Digital Driving Demand

Digital printing has become central to Cover Label’s value proposition. The company initially installed a Domino N610i in early 2020. “At the time, we were doing under a million in revenue and took a big risk investing in digital,” Pat explains. “But it paid off immediately. COVID created unexpected demand, and we doubled our business that year.”

The Domino digital press didn’t just serve short runs—it opened new doors. “We saw multi-SKU work driving demand,” says Pat. “Having digital allowed us to win customers who later gave us flexo work, too.”

Their business has been growing at such a fast pace, Cover Label decided to transition to the Domino N730i. The decision was driven by three key factors: speed, resolution, and efficiency. “We went from 600 dpi to 1200 dpi, and from 25–30 meters per minute on the N610i, to 60–70 meters per minute on the N730i,” says Pat. “That alone doubled our capacity. The improved resolution also lets us print small text and fine gradients with unmatched clarity.” With enhanced capacity, Cover Label has shifted longer jobs to digital.

The Domino N730i also created new workflow opportunities. “We noticed our finishing equipment couldn’t keep up,” says Pat. “We’re now adding a semi-rotary die cutter to complement the laser system.”

Customer feedback has been positive, even if not formally solicited. “We have a health & beauty customer with fine four-color process text that we struggled to run well on flexo,” says Ryder. “With the N730i, we delivered digitally printed samples that were spot on. That job is now fully digital.”

Beyond operational improvements, Cover Label views the new press as a strategic sales tool. “We notified customers & prospects that we’re investing in the best digital technology,” Pat says. “It gives them confidence. When they visit and see the press, it reinforces that we’re serious about quality.”

The Domino Difference

Working with Domino has been a highlight for the team. “They genuinely care,” says Ryder. “Their service is best-in-class. Other equipment vendors don’t even come close.” Pat agrees, “From financing to training and support, Domino is our best equipment partner. We’ve got the tools and the support to keep evolving.”

A Bright Future

Looking ahead, Cover Label sees continued expansion, both in operations and technology. “We want to grow to full capacity, then expand outside of California,” says Ryder. “We’re also exploring other packaging formats like shrink sleeves, flexible packaging, and folding cartons.”

About Cover Label

Cover Label is a Southern California-based label converter specializing in pressure-sensitive labels for food, beverage, cosmetic, health, and CPG sectors. With both flexographic and digital printing capabilities, Cover Label is known for rapid turnaround, high-end embellishments, and dependable service. For more information on Cover Label, please visit coverlabel.com

About Domino

Domino is a leading manufacturer and distributor of digital printing and product identification solutions. Celebrating its 47th year in business, Domino is a global organization with world headquarters in the UK, and North America headquarters in Gurnee, Illinois. Domino has 25 subsidiaries, representation in over 120 countries, and over 3,000 employees worldwide. For more information on Domino digital printing, please visit dominodigitalprinting.com

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