March/April 2023

From post-consumer resin to mono-materials to downgauging, converters and brands are responding in various ways to consumer demand for sustainability. This trend is expected to advance with changes in science and technology, presenting fresh challenges in marketing and sales for companies, as further explained in the March/April 2023 issue of FlexPack VOICE ®.

This issue also dives into cannabis packaging, a fast-growing market now that nearly 40 U.S. states have legalized its use for medical and/or recreational use. In addition, judges examine nearly 90 entries in the annual Flexible Packaging Achievement Awards Competition and explain how and why the entries are moving the industry forward in design and sustainability. 

• Obstacles Surround Sales and Marketing Trends: Companies Push Forward as Sustainability Rules Shift
• Marijuana Laws Open Packaging Opportunities: Packaging Companies Tap New Market as States Legalize Marijuana
• Standing Out: Contest Judges Mull 2023 Award Entries

January/February 2023

Pressure has been intensifying for federal officials to coordinate and lead on various issues where states are passing legislation resulting in confusion in the flexible packaging industry. in the January/February 2023 issue of FlexPack VOICE®, FPA leaders and industry lobbyists discuss aluminum tariffs, extended producer responsibility, and post-consumer recycled content, among other issues, and their impact on the industry.
 
This issue also explores how PACK EXPO’s focus on workforce development with its PACK Challenge and training programs appealed to and inspired older teens through mid-career workers to consider employment in the flexible packaging industry. In addition, the FlexPack Crash Course—for individuals who just got a job in the industry or have less than five years of industry experience—encouraged networking while presenting information on the production process. 

• What Now? Advocacy Experts Discuss New Congress
• Our Future Workforce: Schools and Companies Tout Training Programs at PACK EXPO International
• FlexPack Crash Course: New Workers Network During Daylong Seminar

November/December 2022

Leaders throughout the packaging value chain respond to a survey about the future of the industry and the technologies and trends impacting packaging by 2032. Read about the results of the “Packaging Thought Leadership Survey 2032” by packaging consultant PTIS, LLC in the November/December issue of FlexPack VOICE ®.

This issue also shares the approaches some companies are taking to create a robust circular economy for their products. Plus, FPA recognizes members who have milestone membership anniversaries and explores how FPA’s resources have helped them stay strong over the years.

• What Most Concerns You for the Future? Thought Leader Survey Highlights Legislation, Other Issues
• Beyond the Ellen MacArthur Foundation: Some Companies Create Alternative Routes to Circularity Goals
• FPA Recognizes Members Celebrating Milestones: Companies Offer Insights into Challenges, Opportunities

September/October 2022

As the manufacturing workforce seeks significant recovery, flexible packaging companies are turning to automation to fill in the gaps. Read about technology’s increasing role in hiring, training, and scheduling workers in the September/October issue of FlexPack VOICE ®.

This issue also explores the process and inspirations of participants in FPA’s Student Flexible Packaging Design Challenge. Plus, see how an innovative recycling facility is bringing the circular economy to life in the Upper Midwest—through both collaboration and a vision to do better.

• Automation Takes Hold: Using Technology to Hire, Train, and Schedule Workers
• Inside the Student Design Challenge: Judges and Students Reflect on 2022 Contest
• Expanding Recycling: CNG, General Mills, and Others Invest in Facility for Upper
  Midwest

July/August 2022

As the push toward better recycling practices continues to grow, private investors are getting skin in the game. In the July/August issue of FlexPack VOICE®, read how private-equity firms can help to broaden recycling efforts and create new, innovative recycling solutions nationwide.

This issue also covers the aluminum foil shortage and why several barriers are preventing a supply recovery. Plus, read all about trends in manufacturing cybercrime and get expert insight into how to protect your business.

• Investors Enter Recycling Arena: Private-Equity Firms See Potential for Circular Economy
• Aluminum Foil Shortage Intensifies: War in Ukraine, Tariffs, Trade Policies Frustrate Supplies
• Cyberthieves Target Manufacturers: Experts Discuss Trends, Offer Tips

May/June 2022

It’s no secret that e-commerce is booming—a great sign for the future of flexible packaging—but this issue of FlexPack VOICE® dives deeper, looking at emerging trends that will keep your business ahead of the curve.

This issue also covers sustainability and how, with the right messaging, consumers can feel truly connected to related initiatives. Plus, get a behind-the-scenes look at the judging of FPA’s 66th Annual Flexible Packaging Achievement Awards Competition.

• E-Commerce Evolves: As Pandemic Wanes, Deeper Trends Emerge
• Connecting Sustainability with Consumers: Challenges with Messages Can Hinder Goals
• At the Judges’ Table: Experts Acknowledge Fresh Looks and Designs

March/April 2022

As the flexible packaging industry looks toward a brighter tomorrow when it comes to supply, a new Shell plant in western Pennsylvania aims to be an integral part of that future. The March/April 2022 issue highlights the new operation, which is using ethane from the region’s shale gas to produce millions of tons of polyethylene per year.

This issue also dives into the M&A landscape, which continues to accelerate through private-equity partnerships, as well as an African women’s bakery looking to overcome packaging challenges to continue making an impact on its community.

• Plastics on Tap – Shell Plant in Pennsylvania Going on Line
• Mergers Accelerate – Deals Remain Robust for the Flexible Packaging Industry
• Packaging Challenges Plague The Women’s Bakery – African Company Seeks Help with Solutions

January/February 2022

Disruption is one of those factors every business leader needs to be prepared for. In the Jan/Feb 2022 issue of FlexPack VOICE®, Peter Sheahan, founder and CEO of Karrikins Group, talks about how to take those external influences and use them as internal agents of positive change—a key strategy for bettering business in today’s ever-evolving environment.

This issue also highlights how the flexible packaging industry is taking on the most pertinent workforce issues, from filling jobs to discussing sensitive topics such as vaccine mandates.

• From Acceptance to Ownership – Peter Sheahan: Transforming Your Company Starts at the Top
• Filling the Gaps – Employers Use Creative Measures to Fill Jobs
• Vaccine Mandates Stir Debate – Business Group Expresses Concern About Long-Term Precedents