Read the February 17th, 2026 Green Bay Innovation Group Newsletter here.
February 17th, 2026 Newsletter
Month: February 2026
February 11th, 2026 Newsletter
Read the February 11th, 2026 Green Bay Innovation Group Newsletter here.
GBIG NEWS | 78 Stories and Links on the Internet 2/11/2026
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 78 Stories and Links on the Internet below.
Featured Stories
- Multi-Color Corporation filed for bankruptcy
- International Paper to split in two
- Michigan Tech University reinvesting recycling plastics with UW Madison
- Wisconsin moves forward with pfas limits that eps is rolling back
- Orin Technologies Wisconsin: Airport remediation project showing results on pfas
- Milwaukee based Sellers receives Recognition from Top a impact Award
- pfas forever chemicals state law regulations enacted in 2026
- Online Printing Services Market Growth forecast 2025 -2032 revenues reach $34.7 billion
- Psychology of colors in marketing
- Containerboard outlook 2026 capacity cuts production consolidation
- Online food service to double from $300 billion to $600 billion by 2033
- PPC Flex acquired Oak Creek Wisconsin US Operations of Sudpack
- Tekni-Plex to close Milwaukee plant in April
- Multi-Color files for bankruptcy with multiple plants in Wisconsin
- Private Universities and Colleges had a $5.4 billion impact in Wisconsin
- Billerud North America remains strong as Europe faces pressure
Packaging
- Rethinking packaging minimizing plastic
- Why Compostable fruit labels are the future of fresh produce packaging
- Non Corrugated box world market to grow at 1.2% cagr
- The Rigid Plastics Market is thriving to booming
- 10 Packaging Expansions headed by Wisconsin based American
- Packaging Company and Charter Next Generation 4
- Five packaging trends in 2026
- 2025 Packaging Trends by the numbers. Congratulations to Amcor and Green Bay Packaging
- Food packaging red flag is easy to overlook
Plastics
- Global reveals widespread burning of plastic
- Worried about plastic in your brain? Scientists say otherwise?
- Plastic everywhere and the myth that made it possible
- Which water filters reduce microplastics
- Scientists find microplastics in fish from pristine pacific waters
- Foods likely to contain microplastics
- Japan’s research biodegradable plastic breakthrough could change everything
Water
- Humanity rapidly depleting water
- 10 of the largest natural lakes in the US by surface area
- Manitowoc County numbers two in DNR 2024 water withdrawal report
- Great Lakes water level are falling just as data center are moving in
- Scientists warn of serious risks in beloved lakes across Midwestern state
- Scientists warn the glacier at the end of the world is not only melting but is tearing apart
- Earth’s frozen regions are sending a clear warning about climate change but politicians are ignoring it.
- Microsoft and NASA launch ai powered hydrology copilot to revolutionize water management
- Wisconsin and national climate and weather center due to Trump calling them alarmist
Forests
- Columbia bans all new oil and mining projects in its Amazon and area the size of Sweden
- Africa forests transformed carbon sink to carbon source
- Russian Forestry industry faces deep production slump in 2026 and it is time to support USA Forestry Industries
- The TOP 5 countries with the largest forests in 2025
- Paper and Wood: Forest Products show signs of recovery
- More buildings boost Wisconsin Forestry Industry
- Federal roadless rule recession could threaten 70,000 areas of public land
- American forests are storing more carbon than they have in decades
- Logging isn’t all bad!
Exhibitors
- All Printing Resources, Inc. has promoted Joe Settanni to VP of Sales
- Zeta Group mobile cobot depalletizer
- BiOrgin Revolutionizing oil and grease resistant paper
- Paper Dimensions Products a premier converting company
- Precision Roll Solutions converting solutions
- Miron Construction has incorporated training to tackle jobsite harassment
- Glenros Maysville contract lamination facility proven solutions
- Voorwood
Members
- Amundsen Davis: HSR Act Changes Effective February 17, 2026
- Sun Chemical debuts solvent freedom Adhesives for flexible packaging
- Ingredion named to Fortune’s most admired companies
- Fox Valley Wood Products boosting your profits with Sustainability
- Corey Chambas First Business Bank banker of the year
Proposed PFAS Enforcement Legislation Targets Wisconsin’s Manufacturing Industries
(Senate Bill 128 and Assembly Bull 131)
Senator Eric Winberger (R – Green Bay) and Jeff Mursau (R – Crivitz) have proposed identical bills which targets the Paper, Pulp, and the Manufacturing Industries in Wisconsin. Simply put, manufacturers could be made unfairly liable for PFAS pollution which they did not cause. It would cost Wisconsin Manufacturers and the Citizens of Wisconsin Billions of Dollars with an unending liability. This means papermakers and manufacturers could be liable and subject to DNR Enforcement for past, present, and future liabilities! The DNR would be given even more control over all the resources in the State of Wisconsin. We do not need more overly burdensome and unfair regulations placed on the Business community.
The Paper and Pulp Manufacturing industries in the 1970’s employed from 40,000 to 45,000 people. The industry created seven jobs for each job in the Paper and Pulp Industries. Paper and Pulp Manufacturing was the largest employer in the State of Wisconsin. The Paper and Pulp industry created one of the largest Printing, Packaging, Converting, Forestry, and supporting Manufacturing in the World. The jobs created an economic boost for Northern Wisconsin. Today, the Paper and Pulp Manufacturing Industries employ 8,000. Wisconsin shouldn’t have to import fiber from outside Wisconsin and around the world. Many communities and local businesses built around these mills have struggled with the impact. Wisconsin has one of the largest Printing, Packaging, and Converting Industries dependent on Paper Manufacturing. It makes NO SENSE for Wisconsin to depend on Foreign Companies for Paper and Pulp Production. Wisconsin has vast water, forests, and transportation to support the Paper Industry.
One big reason for the closure is the strict DNR rules imposed on Paper and Pulp Manufacturing. The Paper Mills, once a Powerhouse in Wisconsin, do not have the financial resources to reinvest in the company. The Paper and Pulp Industries operate on a 2 – 3% profit margin with massive investment to keep them running. With two exceptions, the Paper Industry has not put in any new paper machines. The current paper machines are from fifty to one hundred and twenty years old!
We must oppose the bills Eric Wimberger (R – Green Bay) and Jeff Mursau (R – Crivitz) targeting the Paper, Pulp, and the Manufacturing Industries in Wisconsin.
You can make a difference! Call your local Legislators today and tell them to amend this harmful legislation to protect Wisconsin’s manufacturing jobs! You can find your local Legislator by typing in your address at the top of this link: WSL – Find Your Legislator
Hoffman Planning, Design & Construction: Our Approach
What is it like to work with Hoffman Planning, Design & Construction? More of your budget goes exactly where you want: into your building. Hoffman acts solely as their client’s ally, agent, and advocate. Clients appreciate the Hoffman’s careful vetting of subcontractors and clearly defined service fee.
Ahlstrom- Water filtration Disruptor Breakthrough Technology for Demanding Water Purification Needs
STOCKHOLM – Ahlstrom has launched a new water filtration solution for enhanced particulate removal in pre-filtration applications.
The global water purification market is fast-moving, with continuous advancements in technologies and applications. As a result, there is an increased focus on more sustainable solutions to address the growing concerns about water quality and the need for reliable water purification solutions.
Ahlstrom says it supports the water purification market and contributes to the availability of clean water with its latest filter material that can be used as a stand-alone or as a complement to the existing Ahlstrom Disruptor and Hollytex ranges.
The new pre-filter is suitable for both residential and industrial uses. It removes contaminants such as rust, sand, and other debris that may end up in water pipelines, ensuring the highest quality of water. The pre-filter delivers superior performance and quality consistency when used as a pleated filter design.
Engineered for durability, it can extend the filter lifespan and reduce the frequency of filter replacements. This not only contributes to cost savings but can also help minimize environmental impacts.
“This new pre-filter further expands our water purification range and shows our commitment to our purpose to Purify and Protect with Every Fiber for a Sustainable World. We can offer a more complete selection of filter media for customers who are looking for enhanced particulate removal,” said Clas Läck, head of Liquid Filtration. “We will continue our dedicated efforts towards providing safe and sustainable water purification materials to address the global water quality challenge.”
Tailored Adhesives: Paper Converting Adhesives
TAILORED CHEMICAL PAPER CONVERTING ADHESIVE HISTORY
Tailored Chemical Products, founded in 1977, is a leading supplier of adhesives and coatings to the paper converting industry. With over 40 years of experience in the paper converting industry, we are uniquely able to “Tailor” a wide variety of adhesive and coating solutions for paper, film or foil laminating, case and carton construction, and other specialty adhesive applications. We have an extensive history of working together with our valued customers, equipment manufacturing partners, and industry experts to innovate new solutions such as our Permadex® and Permaset® laminating adhesives and our Permatack® pressure sensitive hot melt products designed for the lowest staining fugitive applications in the world.
As Tailored Chemical has continued to grow, so has our vast and innovative product portfolio. We are confident we have the adhesive solution for your application, and in the rare instance we do not, our team of experts stand ready to work directly with your company to develop, implement and support the “Tailored” solutions necessary to support the unique needs of your company.
VERTICAL INTEGRATION
For over 40 years, highly-respected manufacturers have trusted Tailored Chemical Products as the critical supply partner of their adhesive products. With the rapid consolidation of the adhesive industry in recent years, Tailored Chemical made the long-term commitment to become vertically integrated by investing $20,000,000 in 2015 to build one of the newest and most state-of-the art polymer plants in North America. This significant vertical integration investment demonstrates our commitment to our customer base by ensuring security of supply in a rapidly consolidating industry. It also allows for the development of proprietary technologies driven by extensive research while providing consistent and competitive pricing to our customers.
TAILORED CHEMICAL BENEFITS
- We have our own fleet of tankers and tractor-trailers to ensure your product arrives on time, every time.
- We work with equipment manufacturers and customers to “Tailor” adhesives specific to your need.
- ISO 9001:2015 Certification
- Vertically integrated in polymer production, keeping our water-based products priced competitively.
- On-site technical and sales support for recommendations, trialing/demo, conversion, and continuous audits to ensure long-term performance.
- Continuous development of new and innovative products for the marketplace.
APPLICATIONS
- Core Winding
- Tube Winding
- Laminating
- Specialty Laminating
- Glue Lap
- Transfer Glues
- Honeycomb
- Folding Cartons
- Envelopes
- Padding
- Ream Wrap
- Bag Assembly
PACKAGING OPTIONS
HOT MELTS
- Palletized Boxes
(25 lbs, 40 lbs) - Drums
- Super Sacs
- Gaylord-type containers
LIQUIDS
- Bulk Tankers
- Totes
- Drums
- Pails
Tailored Adhesives: Packaging Hot Melts
HOT MELT ADHESIVES
Tailored Chemical Products, founded in 1977, has manufactured high-quality hot melt adhesives for decades. Packaging hot melts are part of our core competency. We have the capabilities to manufacture hot melts in pellets, chubs, and drums with a number of different packaging options available. If one of our current offerings is not perfectly suited for your application, we are happy to “tailor” one to your needs.
EVA
Our Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate (EV A) line offers versatile products that can be formulated to meet a wide range of applications. We can tailor these adhesives to vary the viscosity and control the set time as well as the open time. EVAs are widely used in general packaging, case and carton sealing, filter manufacturing, and other product assembly applications.
METALLOCENE MPE & MPP
Metallocene adhesives are a relatively new innovation in adhesives. We offer a full line of Metallocene adhesives that can eliminate many common adhesive problems such as charring, plugged nozzles and filters, odor, and stringing. In addition, these formulations, TAILOR — through their lower density and aggressive bond nature, can greatly reduce the amount of adhesive you use per box and significantly reduce your total cost in use.
COST PER PACKAGE OPTIMIZATION PROGRAM
Tailored Chemical Products utilizes a Cost Per Package Optimization Program as a measurement tool to quantify what it costs a manufacturer in adhesive to make a package. The Cost Per Package Optimization Program allows customers to realize their total adhesive spend, while enhancing the overall package quality and optimizing line efficiency. This program encompasses 2 major steps:
Initiate line audit with current adhesive and settings to quantify adhesive costs and areas for improvement:
- Collecting current adhesive volume by weight
- Bead width and length for each box run
- Recording equipment settings and conditions
- Record and photograph fiber tear information
- Input data into the hot melt cost calculator to determine current costs
Conduct an adhesive trial with Tailored hot melt technologies:
- A trial or setup date and time are agreed upon
- Tailored Chemical Product’s personnel assist in purging and cleaning of the hot melt tanks.
- New Tailored Chemical Products technology is implemented into the system.
- The Tailored Chemical technology is run using all current line settings, and a line audit
is conducted. - Adhesive line is optimized to represent best setting with new technology.
- New gram weights are recorded and implemented into hot melt cost
calculator to reveal true adhesive savings.
Once the optimization solution is implemented, the value is maintained throughout the relationship by:
- Regularly scheduled line audits
- Ongoing training and communication with the
packaging teams - Use of established line cards displaying correct hot melt
unit settings
Bardes Plastics Celebrates 75th Anniversary
75 Years of Innovation: Bardes Plastics Celebrates its Diamond Anniversary MILWAUKEE, WI – In an industry where trends change as quickly as the seasons, longevity is the ultimate mark of quality. This year, Bardes Plastics officially marks its 75th anniversary, celebrating three-quarters of a century of American manufacturing excellence, creative design, and a steadfast commitment to the “Made in the USA” tradition.
Legacy Rooted in Innovation
Albert Bardes founded the A.G. Bardes Company in 1951. Starting with a focus on thermoformed and vacuum-formed plastic containers, the groundwork was laid for what would become a cornerstone of the Milwaukee manufacturing landscape. Over the decades, the company transitioned to a fully integrated design and production powerhouse.
From Farm to Table (and Everywhere in Between)
If you’ve ever picked up a fruit platter at a summer picnic or a football-shaped tray during the Super Bowl, chances are you’ve held a piece of Bardes history. The company’s expansive line of Seasonal and Sports containers has become a staple in grocery stores and delis nationwide.
“We don’t just make containers; we make displays that do the selling for you,” has long been the spirit of the Bardes design team. From classic holiday motifs to specialized sushi and charcuterie packaging, Bardes has spent 75 years perfecting the art of food presentation.
The “Under One Roof” Advantage
While many competitors shifted operations overseas, Bardes Plastics doubled down on its Milwaukee roots. By keeping in-house design engineers, CNC tooling, and manufacturing in a single facility, Bardes provides a level of speed and customization rare in the modern market. This integration allowed the company to expand into diverse sectors, including:
- Custom Retail: High-visibility blister packs and clamshells.
- Medical & Electronics: Precision-engineered protective packaging.
- Automotive: Heavy-duty dunnage and shipping solutions.
Looking Toward a Sustainable Future
As Bardes Plastics enters its next chapter, the focus is squarely on the future of the planet. The company continues to lead the way in sustainability by incorporating recycled materials and ensuring their products remain reusable for the end consumer.
“Seventy-five years is a remarkable milestone, but we are just getting started,” says Bardes ownership.
“Our goal remains the same as it was in 1951: to provide innovative, high-quality solutions that help our customers succeed.”
As Bardes Plastics celebrates this diamond anniversary, they aren’t just looking back at their history— they are shaping the next generation of American manufacturing.
Keller, Inc. Acquires Hoffman Planning, Design & Construction, Inc.
The acquisition solidifies Keller’s position as a growing leader in the design/build and construction industry
KAUKAUNA, Wis. (Feb. 2, 2026) — Keller Inc., a design/build general contractor headquartered in Kaukauna, Wis., is proud to announce its acquisition of Hoffman Planning, Design & Construction, Inc., a design and construction management firm based in Appleton, Wis. This acquisition establishes Hoffman as A Keller Company, further solidifying Keller’s position as a leader in its industry.
“This acquisition is a natural fit for both companies because of the complementary markets that we work in,” explained Cory VandeWettering, president and CEO of Keller. “Hoffman has earned its reputation through high-quality design and construction and takes a personal approach to every project — values we share at Keller. We acquired Hoffman to support its success, and they will continue delivering exceptional work while strengthening our portfolio.”
Hoffman will operate as A Keller Company while retaining its Hoffman name, a reflection of its strong reputation, trusted relationships and deep roots in the communities it serves. Both Hoffman and Keller will remain operationally independent, continuing to deliver the distinct services and expertise that define them in their respective markets.
As part of the acquisition, Sam Statz, former president and owner of Hoffman, will transition to a business development role. Leading Hoffman moving forward will be Chad Ulman.
“It was important to find a company that values what we’ve built here,” said Chad Ulman, executive vice president and COO of Hoffman. “Keller’s alignment with our principles strengthens Hoffman’s legacy, upholds our commitment to quality and positions our team for a successful future.”
Hoffman will continue to operate out of its downtown Appleton office location. For customers, all current projects for both companies will proceed as planned with no disruption to timelines, quality or relationships with project team members.
To learn more about Keller, visit kellerbuilds.com.
To learn more about Hoffman, visit hoffman.net.
About Keller, Inc.
Keller, Inc. is an award-winning, 100% employee-owned design/build general contractor headquartered in Kaukauna, Wis., with additional offices in Madison, Milwaukee and Wausau, Wis. With on-staff architects, interior designers, project managers and more than 180 skilled teammates in the field, Keller serves a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, financial, warehouse, agricultural and municipal markets. Keller builds new facilities, enhances existing spaces and supports long-term growth. If you’re considering a building project, experience the difference that is Keller at www.kellerbuilds.com.
About Hoffman, A Keller Company
Hoffman Planning, Design & Construction, a Keller Company, is a design and construction management firm based in Appleton, Wis. Hoffman’s mission is to make a positive impact on people’s lives and their environment by providing creative ideas and responsible solutions. Hoffman acts solely as the owner’s ally, agent and advocate, providing an integrated project delivery approach, 100% competitive bidding, no markups on subcontractors and more building for an owner’s budget. They have significant architectural design and construction experience in the education, manufacturing, senior living, religious, commercial and sustainable markets. To learn more about Hoffman Planning, Design & Construction, a Keller Company, visit www.Hoffman.net.
