As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s a time for gratitude and reflection here at PPC. This year, our industry has risen to the challenges of an evolving world, and through resilience and community, we have achieved major objectives that strengthen the future of paperboard packaging. With the support of our members, partners, and sponsors, we have made meaningful strides toward sustainability, innovation, and workforce development. We extend a heartfelt thank you to every member who contributed to our landmark year – your commitment to PPC and our industry is the foundation of our success. Join us as we look back on 2024 and reflect on the passion, dedication, and collaboration of our members.
Honoring a Legacy of Leadership
“Our right to win will be a full-contact sport—we have to be engaged, and we’ll do it together.” – Steve Scherger, PPC Board Chair, EVP & CFO, Graphic Packaging International
2024 wasn’t just any year for PPC—it marked our 95th anniversary. This milestone honors nearly a century of leadership in the paperboard packaging industry and the strong, adaptable, and visionary spirit that has guided us through decades of transformation. Our sold-out Fall Meeting & Leadership Conference in Atlanta brought together industry leaders who shared fresh ideas, practical solutions, and a vision for the next generation of paperboard packaging. Earlier in the year, our Spring Outlook & Strategies Conference in Frisco, TX, combined tactics for managing a diverse workforce and meaningful networking with hands-on plant tours at American Carton Company and Southern Champion Tray. We also took time to honor our dedicated, long-serving volunteers and recognize exemplary safety practices, making this conference an experience that focused on building community, strategic foresight, and actionable insights.
Empowering Emerging Leaders at the Inaugural PPC Next: Leadership Summit
“Seeing so many talented individuals come together, eager to learn and grow at PPC Next: Leadership Summit was inspiring. The enthusiasm and commitment shown by this leadership cohort gives me great confidence in the future of our industry.” – Laura Brodie, Immediate Past Board Chair, CEO, Pusterla 1880 North America
In July, we launched the PPC Next: Leadership Summit, gathering emerging industry leaders in Greater Chicago for a powerful three-day experience. Sponsored by sappi North America and hosted at the RRD Corporate Offices, the summit was a sold-out success, packed with skill-building workshops and networking opportunities.
Highlights included “Leaders at Every Level,” led by Teri Kinsella, where attendees explored their leadership styles using the Predictive Index Behavioral Assessment. A keynote by Bakul Wadgaonkar from sappi North America highlighted practical strategies for sustainability, emphasizing emissions reduction, forestry, and water stewardship. And, of course, a panel with industry veterans Bill Codo and Ken Petty offered wisdom on the importance of connection, mentorship, and perseverance. Bill’s advice, “Get involved early. You’ll grow faster by surrounding yourself with sharp people,” speaks to the heart of PPC’s mission.
Showcasing Excellence and Fostering Future Talent in Paperboard Packaging
“Our objective was to develop a standout design with a ‘wow’ factor while maintaining the high-value feel that resonates with our client’s customers. The final result combines innovation and impact, elevating the product’s presentation in a way that truly connects with consumers.” – Jared Unterborn, Curtis Packaging, Winners of the 2024 Folding Carton of the Year
Every year, our North American Paperboard Packaging Competition brings together the best in design and innovation within our industry. This year’s entries shined, combining functionality, craftsmanship, and sustainability in unprecedented ways. These designs weren’t just visually stunning—they embodied the creative spirit and technical expertise that make our industry exceptional.
“Once I got into packaging, I was hooked—especially with paperboard, which is delicate yet structurally sound. As a graphic designer attending CalPoly, it’s inspiring to create something beyond just a logo—structural innovation that makes an impact motivates me to pursue this profession.” – CalPoly Student Design Challenge Finalist
Our dedication to advancing paperboard packaging also extends to cultivating the next generation of leaders through the Student Design Challenge. The passion and ingenuity that students bring to the Challenge year after year demonstrate the exciting future that lies ahead for our industry. Thank you for the commitment of the students, faculty members, and sponsors of this year’s finalists at Pennsylvania College of Art & Design (PCAD), California State Polytechnic University (CalPoly), and Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT).
Mastering the Craft: Spring and Fall Folding Carton Boot Camps
“Folding Carton Boot Camp is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and an optimal way to introduce employees to the vast Folding Carton Market. With sessions led by the industry’s top experts in a fast-paced, fun, and interactive atmosphere, attendees gain insights and inspiration that stay with them long after. Plus, the networking experience is unmatched, helping attendees stay motivated and understand the big picture.” – Eric Frank, SVP, Marketing & Product Management, Koenig & Bauer US/CA
We are committed to advancing knowledge and expertise across the paperboard packaging industry, and our Folding Carton Boot Camps are a cornerstone of this mission. Each year, our Spring and Fall Boot Camps bring together industry newcomers and seasoned professionals looking to expand their knowledge on the intricacies of carton manufacturing. Held at our headquarters in Springfield, MA, our immersive two-day programs provide attendees with a comprehensive introduction to every step of the folding carton process.
For both our Spring Folding Carton Boot Camp and our sold-out Fall Boot Camp, we welcomed over 50 industry professionals for a hands-on experience, where they gained valuable insights into structural design, inks and coatings, tooling, laminating, digital diecutting, gluing and adhesives, rigid box manufacturing, and more. With a diverse lineup of industry experts, our instructors offer attendees a wealth of knowledge and practical insights that enhance their understanding of the industry. Whether learning about color theory, laminating, or the advanced techniques involved in rigid box production, our participants graduate from Folding Carton Boot Camp with a newfound appreciation for the craft and ready to make an impact in their roles.
Exploring Innovation and Connectivity at drupa 2024
“One thing is sure, our industry is experiencing a technological revolution. The emphasis on automation, connectivity, sustainability, digitalization, and workforce optimization points towards a future that is both efficient, eco-friendly and deeply integrated. Working together, we elevate the industry for the benefit of our members and a promising future.” – Emily Leonczyk, VP & Executive Director, PPC
In 2024, PPC had the unique opportunity to join the global packaging community at drupa in Düsseldorf—the world’s largest printing equipment exhibition. Walking the expansive halls, PPC’s President, Ben Markens, and Executive Director, Emily Leoncyzk, explored every corner of the event, reconnecting with colleagues and discovering exciting new advancements shaping our industry’s future. This journey wasn’t just about technology; it was a reminder of the powerful connections that drive our community forward, blending innovation with the human touch that keeps us grounded.
Emily and Ben’s days at drupa were packed with highlights—from factory tours to live demonstrations of cutting-edge packaging solutions that showcase the latest in connectivity, automation, sustainability, digitalization, and workforce optimization. These themes wove seamlessly through each display and conversation, offering us a vision of the future for paperboard packaging.
Advancing Industry Knowledge with the 2024-25 Trends Industry Outlook & Market Data Report & PPC’s Industry Benchmarking Program
“Staying ahead in today’s competitive landscape demands constant evaluation. PPC’s benchmarking program & industry trends report equips us with the tools and knowledge to thrive.” – Ken Petty, President, Indiana Carton Company
This year, our partnership with Fastmarkets RISI brought forth the 2024-25 Trends Industry Outlook & Market Data Report, equipping members with insights into economic and consumer trends impacting the folding carton market. The report has been transformative, helping members navigate the evolving landscape of paperboard packaging with data-driven confidence.
To support our members further, we continue to refine and expand our Industry Benchmarking Program, an invaluable tool for member companies aiming to gauge their performance and identify areas for improvement. By participating, members can assess their standing relative to industry standards, set informed goals, and identify best practices to enhance efficiency and competitiveness.
Through our Benchmarking Program, we recently launched the State of Sustainability Survey, exclusively for PPC members, helping to gain deeper insights into the sustainability challenges and priorities members face. Through this survey, we aim to understand our members’ sustainability needs, enabling PPC to provide targeted resources and advocate effectively on behalf of our industry.
Championing Sustainability with TICCIT
“It’s really exciting to see the kids light up with enthusiasm. We ask them a lot of questions rather than just pushing information on them and having them sit quietly and listen. They like to talk and share their feedback, and seeing their imaginations soar is fun.” – Wanda Speer, Marketing Manager, Colbert Packaging
PPC’s commitment to sustainability shines through our TICCIT (Trees into Cartons, Cartons into Trees) program, which educates students nationwide on the renewability of paper and paperboard packaging. This year, with the support of our members, we saw a remarkable 40% increase in saplings planted from 2023 to 2024. Our members led efforts to teach young people about the critical role of trees, the many applications of paper, and the importance of recycling, fostering environmental awareness in the next generation.
Thank you to all members who hosted and participated in a TICCIT event in your local communities – your dedication to environmental stewardship and community education helps us build a brighter, more sustainable future.
Looking Ahead with Gratitude and Anticipation
“Let’s ensure we put a healthy amount of fiber in the packaging diet of consumers, members, and supporters.” – Brad Fisher, sappi North America
As we express our gratitude for the achievements of 2024, we look ahead to 2025 with anticipation and excitement. Our industry’s trajectory is shaped by every member, each product, and every innovation that reinforces PPC’s mission to elevate the paperboard packaging sector. Your contributions make all of this possible, and we are honored to work alongside such passionate and forward-thinking leaders. Here’s to continued success and innovation in the year ahead.