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The Transition to Sustainable Packaging and the Challenges to Put in Place

The Transition to Sustainable Packaging is Proving Difficult, Slow and Challenging for the Food Packaging and Food Manuacturing Industries!

Marty Oaks

Packaging Manufacturers that can provide fully integrated solutions are extremely critical. In most cases, Food companies must work with manufacturers and suppliers. Food Processors that can streamline the process and reduce the complexity of transitioning to sustainable packaging will still have challenges. The company will have to integrate packaging machines, packaging material, printing, converting, labeling along with technical expertise for the complete packaging process.

The shift to sustainable packaging provides an opportunity to rethink how products are currently being packaged! By collaborating with design, production, machinery manufacturers, etc. you can review your current process with new alternatives. We have seen new innovative packaging technologies come onto the market to reduce the amount of material used without increasing costs. The collaboration not only ensures a smoother transition to sustainable packaging, its sets a high standard for the industry and customers.

Consumer awareness and education are the key to success of sustainable packaging initiatives. Companies should actively communicate the benefit of their sustainable packaging choices, explaining these decisions contribute to a healthier planet and the consumer. It fosters loyalty and encourages you to purchase your products.

Finally, measuring the environmental impact of new packaging is critical for tracking progress and making data decisions with new packaging technologies like RFID and QR Codes. Smart packaging that utilizes QR Codes, Barcodes, RFID, and other Digital Identities engage consumers, very authenticity and trace the product’s journey. Metrics such as reduced carbon footprint or the percentage of recycled material used should be monitored and analyzed communicating it with the end consumer!
The transition to sustainable packaging in the Food Industry is undoubtedly challenging for companies and complying with new FDA regulations require a significant challenge. Those who master the key elements will enjoy significant rewards in terms of consumer demand for their products.

Wisconsin and the Great Lakes States have all the resources to provide the solutions for packaging!

Marty’s Note: Sustainable Packaging Proving Difficult

For immediate release.
For more information, contact:

  • Marty Ochs, 608-698-3333 martinpochs@gmail.com;
  • Steve Van Dyke, 608-451-2554 Steve@greenbayinnovationgroup.com;
  • or AJ Buran 262-370-9563  AJBuran@outlook.com

Discover the Future of Packaging at the 5P Showcase Expo

GREEN BAY WI Oct. 1, 2024: Green Bay Innovation Group (GBIG) and International Dairy Deli
Bakery Association (IDDBA) will partner for a premier Packaging Showcase Expo. This event is set to
take place February 25-26, 2025, at the Fox Cities Exhibition Center 355 W. Lawrence St. Appleton,
Wisconsin. The expo promises to unveil the latest innovations in packaging technology, focusing
on sustainability and high-tech solutions tailored for the food, dairy, deli, bakery, and retail
markets.

The Green Bay Innovation Group and the International Dairy Deli Bakery Association are
finalizing a outstanding group of speaker’s with a focus on Sustainable Packaging for all to better
understand the challenges and issues.

What is Sustainable Packaging and Why is it proving to be so difficult especially for the Food
Packaging Industry? As we know, Food Packaging producers are under increasing pressure to
transition to sustainable packaging. The shift is driven by environmental concerns, meeting
consumers expectations and government policies. The benefits are clear: Sustainable Packaging
enhances brand image, company image, appeals to eco-concious consumers and significantly
reduces environmental impact. However, despite the advantages, food produces face significant
challenges in making the transition. The challenges include sectors requiring different types of
food packaging and materials: Chilled Food, Frozen Food, Dairy Products, Over the Counter
Foods, Fast Foods, Ambient Fruit and Vegetables plus a variety of other forms of packaging to
meet this diverse requirements.

Based upon industry reports, rigid plastics are around 45% of the market for food and that
number pose a significant challenge due to the lack of alternatives. Rigid Plastic is inexpensive
and very easy to produce to meet the increasing demand for food packaging. The Food Industry
is one of the bright spots in American Manufacturing with substantial growth projected through
2030.

The issues are:

  • Lack of Understanding of Sustainable Packaging Alternatives. Food Producers often lack the knowledge about different options available and the economic implications of these choices on the product life cycle. Without a clear understanding of the process, cost and impact on the product, it makes it difficult to commit to a new packaging solutions. The common bias is that Sustaible Packaging is always more expensive!
  • The Complexity of Current Packaging Solutions involves mutiple suppliers with the technical expertise to fully understand the whole process of making the changes! The transition requires a complete overhaul of all the systems from product design to developing the entire production cycle.
  • The lack of competent professional resources who can navigate this complex transition especially at the company. We have witnessed the past decades the trend to outsource the elements of the production process leading to the fragmentation of expertise. The transition of the entire system needs to be redesigned for sustainability with people with technical skills and understanding of the process!

Wisconsin and the Great Lakes States have vast resources to come up with the solutions for the
Food Packaging Industry to meet the needs of Sustainable Packaging. Wisconsin has superior
manufacturers of equipment and the largest supplier of Food Packaging in the USA. Wisconsin
has outstanding Paper, Pulp, Corrugated, Board, Film, Plastics, Flexible Packaging, Label and
Converting Industries.

The 5P Showcase Expo will be an outstanding event to learn and grow with the industry. Go to:
www.greenbayinnovationgroup.com/events – 5P Showcase to register to exhibit or attend!

GBIG NEWS | 88 Stories and Links on the Internet 10/09/2024

GBIG News

Get links to the latest news, events, stories, and interviews from our 5P news sponsors. 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 88 Stories and Links on the Internet below.

Events

Featured Stories

Packaging

Manufacturing

PM2.5

Education

Water

Kaukauna

Sponsors

EPA’s 2024 PM.25 Particulate Matter Standard

EPA’s 2024 PM2.5 Standard

Learn about the EPA’s 2024 PM2.5 Standard in this presentation about planning and permitting. Highlights include designating areas for a new health-based standard; evaluating data from wildfire impacts; and reviewing 2022 and 2023 data in Wisconsin.

View Full Presentation Here

GBIG NEWS: Sustainable Packaging – 5P Showcase Expo Highlights

For immediate release. For more information, contact Marty Ochs, 608-698-3333 martinpochs@gmail.com; Steve Van Dyke, 608-451-2554 Steve@greenbayinnovationgroup.com; or AJ Buran 262-370-9563 AJBuran@outlook.com

Discover the Future of Packaging at the 5P Showcase Expo

GREEN BAY WI Oct. 1, 2024: Green Bay Innovation Group (GBIG) and International Dairy Deli Bakery Association (IDDBA) will partner for a premier Packaging Showcase Expo. This event is set to take place February 25-26, 2025, at the Fox Cities Exhibition Center 355 W. Lawrence St. Appleton, Wisconsin. The expo promises to unveil the latest innovations in packaging technology, focusing on sustainability and high-tech solutions tailored for the food, dairy, deli, bakery, and retail markets.

“This expo is a must-attend for anyone involved in the food packaging industry who wants to stay competitive in a fast-evolving market,” said Marty Ochs, GBIG Executive Director.

IDDBA Vice President Jeremy Johnson agreed. “We are excited to showcase revolutionary technologies and materials meeting the needs of modern food processors,” Johnson said.

Attendees will have the unique opportunity to explore a variety of innovative materials and technologies, including recyclable films, sustainable packaging materials, advanced printing capabilities, and the latest in converting technologies. The expo will feature interactive exhibits and demonstrations, providing an in-depth look at the newest trends and developments in food packaging for retail.

Highlights of the Packaging Showcase Expo include:

  • Recyclable and Sustainable Materials: Discover new ways to enhance environmental sustainability through innovative packaging solutions like biodegradable films and compostable containers.
  • Advanced Printing and Converting Technologies: See how updated printing techniques and converting technologies are creating more efficient and flexible packaging options, reducing waste and energy usage.
  • 2D Barcodes and RFID Technology: Learn about the latest trends in 2D barcodes and RFID technology that enhance tracking, inventory management, and consumer engagement.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry leaders, innovators, and decision-makers. Attend keynote presentations and panel discussions led by experts in the packaging industry.
  • Trending Packaging Products: Experience the latest trending packaging products that are setting new standards for quality and innovation in the food and retail sectors.

The expo hall will be open from 9:00am to 4:00pm, followed by networking. The cost to attend the two-day event is $60, which includes lunch and refreshments. The cost to exhibit is $1,500 and $1,700 for a corner location (with setup the day before, February 24). Special sponsorships are available, also. Interested attendees can sign up at the www.greenbayinnovationgroup.com/events – 5P Showcase Expo.

The event host is Green Bay Innovation Group, which provides news, events, and collaboration opportunities for the paper, packaging, printing, pulp, plastics and converting industries.

The co-host is the International Dairy Deli Bakery Association, a nonprofit trade association for food retailers, manufacturers, wholesalers, brokers, distributors, and other industry professionals.

Event: Investing in Wisconsin Manufacturing – October 29th

Presented by GBIG & Cornerstone Business Services

Location: Miron Construction HQ, Neenah WI
Date: October 29, 2024

  • 7:00 am—8:00 am Registration & Networking with coffee and beverages provided.
  • 8:00 am—8:10 am Event Kick-off Marty Ochs – Green Bay Innovation Group
  • 8:10 am – 8:30 am Scott Bushkie Cornerstone Business Services – Overview and introductions of the speakers.
  • 8:30 am—9:00 am Bar LaMue President/CEO, The New North—The Strength of Manufacturing in Northeastern Wisconsin
  • 9:00 am—9:40 am Scott Bushkie, Managing Director, Cornerstone Business Services, –Three critical tips to grow successfully through acquisition & three key value drivers to make your company attractive to future acquirors
  • 9:40 am—10:00 am Networking break
  • 10:00 am—11:30 am David Beres Market Executive, WI Middle Market Banking– JP Morgan/Chase Bank
    Travis Froze – President NE Wisconsin–First Business Bank
    Different ways to finance growth—Better understand how a lender will look at your growth opportunities. What are the do’s and don’ts of getting a loan or increased LOC approved. They will explain the handling of different scenarios as they will each focus on client size and capabilities.
  • 11:30 am—1:00 pm Lunch/Break
  • 1:00 pm—1:45 pm Chris Lipsky Jr. Vantage Financial – How leasing can be a powerful tool to achieve your financial goals.
  • 1:45 pm—2:45 pm Matt Pursel, Precision Roll Solutions – How to grow your manufacturing business organically and through acquisitions.
  • 2:45 pm—3:15 pm Wrap up/Q&A
  • 3:15 pm—4:15 pm Networking/Happy Hour

Hurckman Mechanical Industries Becomes Northeast Wisconsin’s First Full-Service MEP Company with Acquisition of Van Den Heuvel Electric

Hurckman Mechanical logo

Green Bay, WI, October 3, 2024—Hurckman Mechanical Industries (HMI), a one-stop shop for complete industrial and commercial mechanical systems, is excited to announce the acquisition of Van Den Heuvel Electric, a trusted name in electrical contracting since 1928. This strategic move makes HMI the only full-service mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) company in northeast Wisconsin.

By integrating Van Den Heuvel Electric’s 95 years of electrical expertise with Hurckman’s longstanding mechanical and plumbing services, HMI can now deliver complete project solutions. Clients will benefit from streamlined project management, reduced costs and a more cohesive service experience.

“We are thrilled to welcome Van Den Heuvel Electric to the Hurckman family,” said Jake Warden, President of Hurckman Mechanical Industries. “Van Den Heuvel has been a cornerstone of Wisconsin’s electrical contracting industry for nearly a century. Their culture of quality, integrity and innovation matches our own, and we’re excited to merge these two legacies into one powerhouse MEP company.”

Founded in 1953, Hurckman Mechanical Industries began as Hurckman Metal and Roofing, Inc., operated by Frank and Anne Hurckman near HMI’s current headquarters at 164 N. Broadway Street in Green Bay. HMI has since evolved into the full-scale mechanical contractor it is today. HMI provides services for design/build, HVAC, piping, plumbing, sheet metal fabrication, refrigeration, mechanical insulation, electrical and more for customers across the country from locations in Green Bay, Wausau and Marinette.

Expanding Capabilities for Future Projects

Leading the way in northeast Wisconsin’s evolving construction landscape, HMI now offers bundled mechanical, electrical and plumbing solutions to provide greater efficiency, less downtime and more seamless execution on projects ranging from new builds to maintenance and system upgrades.

“As a company, we’ve always been dedicated to delivering on our promises,” said Warden. “This merger reinforces that commitment.”

For more information, please visit Hurckman’s website or contact Marketing Coordinator Peyton Daul at 920-764-2624 or PeytonDaul@hurckman.com.

About Hurckman Mechanical Industries

Founded in 1953, Hurckman Mechanical Industries (HMI) has grown into one of Wisconsin’s premier providers of industrial and commercial mechanical systems. Known for delivering innovative, reliable solutions, HMI specializes in design/build, HVAC, piping, plumbing, sheet metal fabrication, indoor air quality, ventilation, insulation, refrigeration and electrical. Now, as northeast Wisconsin’s first full-service mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) company, Hurckman continues to lead the industry with its commitment to quality, integrity and customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.hurckman.com.

Reminder: St. John’s Ministries: Hope Gala Sneak Peek

Join us on Saturday, October 12, for an evening of support and community as we raise funds and awareness for St. John’s Ministries and prepare for the upcoming emergency shelter season.
Since November 1, 2023, St. John’s Ministries has served more individuals than ever before. There have been 716 individuals served in shelter, and 1,319 visitors to Wellspring and the Micah Center. Your unwavering support and awareness make all that we do possible, and we hope to thank you, in person, at this year’s event!

St. John's Ministries horizontal logo
  • 5:00-6:00 pm: Check-in opens. Reception at the Oneida Hotel inside 3 Clans Conference Center
    The pre-registration option allows you more time to enjoy the company, drinks and place bids or buy raffle tickets. Please try and pre-register to save yourself time on the night of.
  • 6:15 pm: Prayer, dinner, live auction, Restoring Hope Gala program, raffle winners, presentation by St. John’s Ministries Executive Director and Restoring Hope Gala awards.

This year’s program includes an exciting guest speaker:

Bob Dalton is an entrepreneur, TEDx speaker, and the founder of Sackcloth & Ashes, a company that donates a blanket to local homeless shelters for every blanket sold. He is recognized for inspiring local action and has been named a Forbes Changemaker and a CNN Champion of Change. As an advocate for localism, Bob aims to inspire people to get involved in their communities through his foundation, Love Your City.

Bob Dalton
Bob Dalton

We will also be hearing from Romelle, a previous guest of St. John’s who will be sharing her story with us. You can read more about her from a previous blog post.

Romelle
Romelle

Local musicians Nick Gonnering and Brent Felchlin are bringing their blues-inspired and soul-infused folk sound to the stage at this year’s Restoring Hope Gala. Drawing inspiration from bluegrass, funk, and rock music, this duo creates powerful, insightful, and inspiring original music.

Nick Gonnering and Brent Felchin
Nick Gonnering and Brent Felchlin
wooden table and chairs

Each year, in our live auction, we have an item that’s been handmade by the guests of St. John’s. This year, a donor hosted us in his woodshop, and we spent a day building a bistro table and 4 stools. Here’s a sneak peek of this beautiful item.

  • 8:30 pm: Silent auction closes.

COEX Filaments Manufacturers a Wide Range of Engineering Grade 3d Filaments

COEX Filaments

Coex 3D manufactures a wide range of engineering grade 3D filaments. Their commercial, educational and hobbyist customers enjoy supporting an employee-owned manufacturing company located in Green Bay. “Unfortunately, most 3D printing materials comes from overseas and many people don’t even realize that they have an option to purchase directly from a US manufacturer” says Todd Louthain, Owner of Coex 3D. Holding true to Northeast Wisconsin values, Coex 3D holds themselves to quality standards that far exceed the standards of most 3D filament producers.

Although the manufacturing of FDM style printing materials is the primary revenue source for the business, Coex 3D also provides 3D printing and design services. “Some of the commercial printing that we do is pre-production/prototype work and some of it is one-off designs. Everything from working with an independent inventor to re-creating a part that no longer exists”. We always say that the biggest limitation for 3D printing is our own imagination” says Josh Bonnin, Business partner and 3D printing operations manager. “Ironically, most of the print jobs that we run for our customers are for businesses who also purchase our filaments. They will come to us to run the print jobs that exceed their in-house capabilities or capacity. Our customers know that we will take care of them quickly and have come to count on us for quick turnaround and high quality printing.

3D printing, also known as Additive Manufacturing is a rapidly growing segment in the world of production. Coex 3D has positioned themselves to be ready to keep up with demand on both sides of their business, filament sales as well as the physical printing. Manufacturing businesses of all types are investing in 3D printing operations. Some are doing it on a large scale while many others are just beginning to explore it. It is impressive to learn how additive manufacturing can streamline the product development process or aid in efficiencies on their manufacturing floor. The possibilities are endless and Coex 3D is always happy to offer free consultation, discuss options and share examples of how others are utilizing the technologies available.

Coex 3D is also a strong supporter of STEM based educational programs and offers a generous Educational Discount program. All educational programs qualify for the discount and Coex 3D even offers sponsorship opportunities for STEM based programs and clubs. Todd Louthain says that “About 20% of our overall business is with schools. We work with programs throughout the country and we especially love working with local schools and districts. I believe that the students of today will be the engineers and designers of tomorrow. Anything that we can do to help and promote additive manufacturing will mutually help us and them down the road”

A visit to Coex 3D will help you to understand how they do all that they do. Walking into the showroom will set the tone for your visit. You’ll be greeted with colorful prints ranging from decorative pieces to Star Wars themed prints and Cosplay masks. There is also no shortage of examples of commercial grade 3D prints. Coex is easy to find at 1228 Elizabeth St in Green Bay. The showroom then leads to two different 3D print centers, one that is a classic “Print Farm” which produces the same parts day in and day out. The other print center consists of newer technology as well as some large format 3D prints. After seeing the showroom and the printing operation, the great folks at Coex 3D are always happy to give a quick tour of the manufacturing floor. Just seeing the precision of the manufacturing process will make you appreciate working with a US company. “It definitely costs more to do what we do in the US and we are very proud of what we do. Our customers find that any price differential is easily made up for given the fact that we are here to support them with superior products, printing advice and immediate fulfillment. We offer so many things that an Amazon purchase cannot. We love being able to talk to our customers about any challenges they are having, recommending the right material for whatever it is that they are printing and then getting them the materials that they need quickly”, says Todd.

Whether your business is already doing 3D printing or considering it for the future you need to make contact with this small, local and forward-thinking business.

Menasha Corporation Ranked Among Largest Private Companies in Wisconsin

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MENASHA CORPORATION RANKED 18 LARGEST PRIVATE COMPANY ON DELOITTE’S 2024 WISCONSIN 75™

Menasha Corporation

NEENAH, Wis. (September 26, 2024) – Menasha Corporation announced today that it ranked No. 18 on Deloitte’s Wisconsin 75™, a ranking of the 75 largest private companies in Wisconsin, based on sales revenue.

Menasha Corporation also achieved a distinguished performer award in the Community category, recognizing its efforts that focus on giving back to the community.

“The private companies that make up the Wisconsin 75 set the standard for what’s possible when a business is committed to making an impact both within their organization and the community. We’re proud to recognize their contribution to our economy and state for the 22nd year.” – P.J. DiStefano, Wisconsin managing partner of Deloitte LLP.

Menasha Corporation ranked 18th on the 2023 Wisconsin 75 list and has been featured on the list since its inception. Additionally, Menasha Corporation achieved a distinguished performer award in the Sustainability category in the 2018 Wisconsin 75™ program.

About Deloitte’s 2024 Wisconsin 75

Deloitte’s annual Wisconsin 75 list salutes the largest privately held Wisconsin-based companies. These companies play a key role in the state’s economy. The Wisconsin 75 list is selected based on annual sales revenue.

To be eligible for Deloitte’s Wisconsin 75 recognition, companies must have a majority ownership by an individual(s), family, employee stock ownership plan, or private equity firm. Public companies are eligible when greater than 50 percent of the value or vote of the shares are owned by individuals, family, an employee stock ownership plan, or private equity. Additionally, companies must have annual sales revenue of at least USD 50,000. The Wisconsin 75 excludes cooperatives and accounting, tax, legal, and consulting service companies.

About Menasha Corporation

Menasha Corporation is a leading corrugated and plastic packaging manufacturer and supply chain solutions provider. comprised of two companies, Menasha Packaging Company and ORBIS Corporation. Menasha Corporation’s products and services are used by major food, beverage, consumer products, healthcare, pharmaceutical, heavy equipment, agriculture, industrial, and automotive companies. Established in 1849, Menasha Corporation is one of America’s oldest privately held, family-owned manufacturing companies. Headquartered in Neenah, Wisconsin, the company employs more than 7,800 employees in 100+ facilities in North America and Europe. For more information, visit menashacorporation.com.

About Deloitte

Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, a UK private company limited by guarantee (“DTTL”), its network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL (also referred to as “Deloitte Global”) does not provide services to clients. In the United States, Deloitte refers to one or more of the US member firms of DTTL, their related entities that operate using the “Deloitte” name in the United States and their respective affiliates. Certain services may not be available to attest clients under the rules and regulations of public accounting. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more about our global network of member firms.

Green Bay Innovation Group

Bringing Green Bay Companies Together. Green Bay Innovation Group is committed to building an authentic networking experience where innovation can thrive.

Contact Information

Phone: 608-698-3333 
martinpochs@gmail.com
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