Rayonier Reports Second Quarter Results

Rayonier Inc. reported second quarter net income attributable to Rayonier of $26.2 million, or $0.20 per share, on revenues of $194.7 million. This compares to net income attributable to Rayonier of $109.8 million, or $0.89 per share, on revenues of $261.6 million in the prior year quarter. The prior year second quarter results included $0.6 million of costs related to shareholder litigation1 and $101.3 million of income from a Large Disposition.2 Excluding these items, proforma net income3 was $9.1 million, or $0.07 per share, in the prior year period. Second quarter operating income was $46.9 million versus $121.6 million in the prior year period. The prior year second quarter operating income included $0.6 million of costs related to shareholder litigation1 and $101.3 million of income from a Large Disposition.2 Excluding these items, pro forma operating income3 was $20.9 million in the prior year period. Second quarter Adjusted EBITDA3 was $86.4 million versus $45.0 million in the prior year period. Click Read More below for additional detail.
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Trade Sales Were a Bright Spot In a Dark Year for Sales

A 1.5% increase in sales in the trade segment was not enough to offset declines in the other major publishing categories in 2016. As a result, industry revenue was 5.1% lower in 2016 than in 2015, dropping to $26.24 billion, according to the final sales estimates released by the Association of American Publishers. Trade sales (including the religious segment) were $15.9 billion in 2016, making trade the largest publishing segment. Within the trade group, sales from religious presses increased 6.9% from the prior year, followed closely by the 6.7% gain in the children’s/young adult fiction category. The increase in sales in the religious segment was attributed by the AAP to the crossover successes of a number of inspirational titles. The gain in the children’s/YA fiction segment was due in part to the blockbuster hit Harry Potter and the Cursed Child by J.K. Rowling, which sold more than four million units. Click Read More below for more of the story.
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InnerWorkings Announces Second Quarter 2017 Results

• Gross revenue was $279.5 million in the second quarter, an increase of 4% compared with $269.2 million in the second quarter of 2016. Year-to-date gross revenue was $546.9 million, a 1% increase compared with $540.3 million in the prior period. • Gross profit (net revenue) was a record $70.2 million, or 25.1% of gross revenue in the second quarter, an 8% increase compared to $65.1 million, or 24.2% of gross revenue, in the same period of last year. Year-to-date gross profit (net revenue) was $134.5 million, or 24.6% of gross revenue, an increase of 6% compared to the prior-year period. • Net income was $4.5 million or $0.08 per diluted share in the second quarter, compared to a net loss of $2.3 million or $0.04 per share in the second quarter of 2016. Year-to-date net income was $10.0 million or $0.18 per diluted share, compared to a loss of $5.0 million or $0.09 per diluted share in the same period of 2016. Click Read More below for additional detail.
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Oil Trades Above $49 as Saudis Said to Curb Crude Sales to Asia

Oil in New York rose above $50 a barrel early last week, before slipping as signs of rising global supply eroded optimism that curbs by the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries and its partners are rebalancing the market. The failure of OPEC’s efforts amid expanding output in Libya and Nigeria and lower compliance by some nations has spurred Saudi Arabia to take more action. Prices “are profiting from Saudi Arabia’s announcement that it will be reducing its oil shipments,” said Eugen Weinberg, head of commodities research at Commerzbank AG in Frankfurt. “This announcement is remarkable to the extent that domestic demand declines in September, meaning that more crude oil will be available for export if production remains unchanged.” Click Read More below for additional detail.
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Hearst Magazines Names Jon Gluck Executive Director, Editorial Talent, Development and Special Projects

Hearst Magazines announced that Jon Gluck, formerly managing editor of Vogue, has been named executive director, editorial talent, development and special projects, a new role responsible for senior-level editorial recruiting and magazine development. The announcement was made by Hearst Magazines President David Carey and Chief Content Officer Joanna Coles. Gluck assumes his new position on September 5, reporting to Coles and Scherri Roberts, senior vice president, Human Resources. Gluck will be responsible for senior-level editorial recruitment for Hearst Magazines’ new launches and 20 brands in print, and will work closely with existing editors on magazine development. In addition, he will conceptualize new magazines and special projects, such as live events. “To say that the industry is going through an exciting period of change is an understatement,” Carey said. “Jon will play a central role in the transformation of our U.S. media business, both as we evolve our existing businesses, and acquire and start new ones.”
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Discover how new technologies can advance certification – Join the PEFC Stakeholder Dialogue

Whether it is hardware, software, services or tools, the incorporation of technology within forest certification can overcome many barriers. But what technologies exist, and how can they best be used? Join us for the 2017 PEFC Stakeholder Dialogue ‘Making Certification SMART’ (16-17 November 2017; Helsinki, Finland) to find out more! Wide-ranging applications provide solutions for everyday challenges such as improving transparency in complex supply chains, enhancing the ability to map, monitor or manage forest resources, or establishing new ways to engage stakeholders and improve cooperation. Click Read More below for additional detail.
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Appvion Reports Improved Second Quarter 2017 Results

Appvion recorded second quarter operating income of $5.1 million compared to operating income of $3.9 million for second quarter 2016. The improved earnings in second quarter 2017 were driven by volume growth for the Company's tag, label and entertainment (TLE) products and carbonless papers segment. Continued execution of profit improvement initiatives, improved manufacturing performance, and lower selling, general, and administrative (SG&A) expenses also contributed to the earnings improvement. Those results were partially offset by the impact of lower net sales caused by lower market prices for the Company's thermal receipt paper and unfavorable product mix in the carbonless papers segment. Total company shipment volume was relatively flat compared to second quarter 2016. Appvion's second quarter 2017 net sales of $164.0 million were $9.6 million lower than second quarter 2016. Year-to-date net sales of $330.7 million were $23.4 million, or 6.6%, lower compared to the same period in 2016, largely as a result of lower prices for thermal paper products as well as lower shipment volume and unfavorable product mix. Total company shipment volume was down approximately 2% compared to first half 2016. Thermal shipment volume declined more than 3%, while carbonless increased less than 1%. Click Read More below for additional detail.
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Quad/Graphics’ Successful QuadMed Health Care Program

It goes without saying that innovation has helped to propel Quad/Graphics, headquartered in Sussex, Wis., to the No. 2 spot on the Printing Impressions 400 list of the largest U.S. and Canadian printing companies. Quad’s dedication to technical innovation is second to none. In its unique approach to providing workplace health care, the company leads not only its own industry, but offers a model for the U.S. manufacturing sector as a whole. This is the legacy of QuadMed, first envisioned by Quad/Graphics founder Harry V. Quadracci in 1990. A year later, he opened the first of what is today a network of 100 on-site clinics in 22 states serving more than 350,000 employees and family members — everyone who works for Quad/Graphics, as well as employees of companies including General Mills, Dow Chemical, Huntington Ingalls and Miller Coors. Joel Quadracci, the current chairman, president and CEO of Quad/Graphics, explains that QuadMed is a self-insured health care program that situates primary care, preventative care and occupational health and wellness services in the workplace, where employees can access them most readily. In the clinics, doctors and other health care professionals spend ample time getting to know their patients and giving them the resources they need to take better care of themselves. Click Read More below for more of the story.
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Sealed Air Reports Second Quarter 2017 Results

Net sales of $1.1 billion increased 3.0% on an as reported basis. Currency had a negative impact on total net sales of 0.7%, or $7 million. As reported, net sales in North America increased 9%. Asia Pacific declined 2% while Latin America and EMEA declined 4% each. Net income from continuing operations on a reported basis was $29 million, or $0.14 per diluted share, as compared to net income from continuing operations of $2 million, or $0.01 per diluted share, in the second quarter 2016. Net income in the second quarter 2017 was unfavorably impacted by $40 million of special items, including $18 million of tax expense and $18 million of charges related the pending sale of Diversey. Special items negatively impacting the second quarter of 2017 also included costs incurred related to the sale of Diversey, and restructuring and other restructuring associated costs. Net income in the second quarter 2016 included $72 million of special items, including charges related to ceasing operations in Venezuela, restructuring charges and other costs associated with our restructuring programs, and a loss on the remeasurement of our Venezuelan subsidiaries. Click Read More below for additional detail.
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Time Inc. Announces Strategic Transformation Program and Reports Second Quarter 2017 Results

Time Inc. reported financial results for its second quarter ended June 30, 2017. Time Inc. President and CEO Rich Battista said, “I am pleased with our second quarter Adjusted OIBDA of $88 million, which was roughly flat year-over-year. Our revenues continued to be impacted by disruption through the first half of 2017, as we said on our last call. Despite that revenue disruption, we executed in a highly disciplined way, which enabled us to beat Adjusted OIBDA expectations. The third quarter represents an important turning point for the Company as we are seeing strong momentum and sequential improvement of year-over-year trends for total advertising revenues. Today, we are reaffirming our 2017 Adjusted OIBDA outlook.” Battista continued: “On our last earnings call, we outlined aggressive actions—building on what we had accomplished to date—to reduce costs, expand margins, rationalize our portfolio and extend our brands into new growth revenue streams. We’ve been moving with speed and, most significantly, we are announcing today, a strategic transformation program based on a thorough review of Time Inc.’s business. Through this review, we have greater confidence in our path to accelerate the optimization of costs and revenue growth drivers. We have already targeted more than $400 million of run-rate cost savings, with the majority of initiatives expected to be implemented over the course of the next 18 months. Click Read More below for additional detail.
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UPM Raflatac expands its presence in the United States by acquiring the assets of Texas-based Southwest Label Stock

UPM Raflatac, one of the world's leading suppliers of self-adhesive label materials, has completed its acquisition of the assets of Irving, Texas-based Southwest Label Stock. Both parties have agreed not to disclose the purchase price or other transaction details. This acquisition will allow UPM Raflatac to expand its reach in the Texas and the Southwestern U.S. label markets by being highly responsive and offering a wider range of its high-quality products with fast turnaround. UPM Raflatac is also excited to announce a continuation and expansion of Southwest Label Stock's well-known small roll service. With this service, UPM Raflatac customers will be able to purchase single rolls of laminate trimless at 2,500 feet, shipped in boxes throughout North America. Click Read More below for additional detail.
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Oil Trades Near $49 as Prices Still Capped by Sufficient Supply

Oil in New York was unable to hold its advance above $50 a barrel last week as signs of rising global supply eroded optimism that output curbs by the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries and its partners are rebalancing the market. Compliance with cuts was 86 percent in July, according to a Bloomberg survey. “The market has recovered strongly from its lows on signs that the market is normalizing, but further upside at this stage seems unlikely,” said Ole Sloth Hansen, head of commodity strategy at Saxo in Copenhagen. Click Read More below for additional detail.
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Costco Wholesale Corporation Reports July Sales Results

Costco Wholesale Corporation reported net sales of $9.41 billion for the month of July, the four weeks ended July 30, 2017, an increase of 8.8 percent from $8.65 billion during the similar period last year. For the forty-eight weeks ended July 30, 2017, the Company reported net sales of $113.70 billion, an increase of 6.1 percent from $107.16 billion during the similar period last year. Click Read More below for additional detail.
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FPAC Calls for Federal Government to Rethink Caribou Protection Plans

On behalf of Canada’s leading forest products companies and the 230,000 people we employ in hundreds of communities across the country, I am sending you an urgent letter requesting that the federal government give serious thought to adjusting the procedures and timing of its Caribou Recovery Strategy to achieve a more balanced and sustainable way forward for all. We believe that the current process could jeopardize thousands of jobs and the well-being of hundreds of communities all the while not achieving caribou recovery goals. In some provinces, we believe the current federally mandated process is resulting in a situation where incomplete and ineffective caribou range plans are being developed and may cause unintended harm. We are asking today that the federal government take a step back and reconsider the processes associated with the recovery strategy in order to ensure that the most current science and socio-economic impacts are taken into account. Click Read More below for more of the story.
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Gannett Reports Second Quarter 2017 Results of Operations

Second quarter operating revenues increased 3.4% to $774.5 million, including a $9.1 million unfavorable foreign currency impact, compared to $748.8 million in the prior year quarter. The year-over-year increase was due to the contribution from acquired operations2. On a same store basis, operating revenues in the second quarter declined 10.6%, a slight improvement compared to a decline in the 2017 first quarter of 10.8%, as a result of improved domestic print advertising and circulation revenues. Total digital revenues in the second quarter grew 43.5% year-over-year to $242.6 million, or approximately 31% of total revenue, which includes the contribution from ReachLocal acquired in August 2016. GAAP net loss for the second quarter was $0.5 million, including $21.8 million of after-tax restructuring, acquisition, severance, asset impairment, facility consolidation and other related costs; approximately $14.6 million of these charges were non-cash. Adjusted EBITDA for the second quarter was $83.7 million compared to $91.7 million in the prior year quarter. Click Read More below for additional detail.
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HPE Announces Details for Expected Completion of Spin-Off and Merger of its Software Business

Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company announced that its Board of Directors has set the close of business on August 21, 2017 as the record date for the proposed spin-off of Seattle SpinCo, Inc., which will hold HPE’s software business (“Seattle”). Subject to the satisfaction of the remaining conditions to the spin-off, on the distribution date for the spin-off, HPE will distribute to HPE stockholders one share of Class A common stock of Seattle (the “Seattle common stock”) for each share of HPE common stock held as of the close of business on the record date. As previously announced, immediately following the spin-off, a wholly owned subsidiary of Micro Focus International plc (“Micro Focus”) will merge with and into Seattle, and Seattle will continue as the surviving company and a wholly owned subsidiary of Micro Focus. Click Read More below for additional detail.
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Interfor Reports Q2’17 Results

INTERFOR CORPORATION recorded net earnings in Q2’17 of $24.5 million, or $0.35 per share, compared to $19.7 million, or $0.28 per share in Q1’17 and $23.2 million, or $0.33 per share in Q2’16. Adjusted net earnings1 (which takes into account the effects of share-based compensation expense and non-recurring items) in Q2’17 were $28.7 million or $0.41 per share, compared to $22.7 million, or $0.32 per share in Q1’17 and $17.5 million, or $0.25 per share in Q2’16. Adjusted EBITDA1 for the second quarter, 2017 was $77.4 million (or $84.7 million excluding the impact from $7.3 million of softwood lumber duties expense), on sales of $511.4 million versus $60.3 million on sales of $456.8 million in Q1’17. Click Read More below for additional detail.
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An Honest Look at State of the Magazine Industry — Summer 2017

Anyone working in or around the magazine industry knows one thing for certain: Everyone’s got an opinion. Prognostications on the print magazine industry range from doom and gloom to nothing but sunshine and moonbeams. If you’re in the business of print magazines, like we are, you don’t have the luxury of choosing one position or the other. Common business sense requires us to critically examine what’s really going on. Is the print magazine industry in danger of collapse? Let’s take a closer look. Roy Stevenson is a travel magazine writer and industry coach, so he’s deeply in touch with the realities of his market niche. “These naysayers will tell anyone within earshot that the Internet has completely overtaken the print industry,” Stevenson writes on his travel writing site PitchTravelWrite. “One prominent travel blogger even predicted that by the year 2020 print magazines would cease to exist! Naturally, as a print media freelance writer I feel more than a little concern when I hear these gloomy predictions,” he continues. Click Read More below for more of the story.
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Metsä Group’s comparable operating result in January–June 2017 was EUR 247 million

President and CEO Kari Jordan: “Metsä Group’s profitability in 2017 has improved from the previous year. The most significant reasons for the improved result are the clearly higher volumes in paperboard deliveries and the increased price of pulp. Metsä Group’s key development projects aiming for profitable growth are progressing according to plan. The construction of the bioproduct mill in Äänekoski, which has proceeded on schedule and on budget, is nearly completed, and the mill’s start-up will begin in mid-August. Pulp deliveries to customers will start at the beginning of September. The new production line at the Kerto® LVL mill in Lohja will likewise start up in August. The construction of the birch plywood mill in Pärnu, Estonia, and the work of converting the old paper machine hall at Äänekoski into a birch veneer mill are proceeding well. The Husum paperboard mill’s new extrusion coating line started up in April, and the related quality feedback from customers has been good. In June, we began work on rebuilding the baking paper machine at the Düren mill in Germany. The new machine will also allow us to expand our cooking paper business in the future. After years of stagnation, Finland’s economy has started to pick up. For this growth to continue, our country needs investments. Metsä Group and Finland’s forest industry in general have met this need. Click Read More below for additional detail.
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Mondi Half-yearly Results 2017

Peter Oswald, Mondi Group chief executive, said: “Mondi delivered a robust performance in the first half of 2017, with revenue up 8%, underlying operating profit of €497 million and a return on capital employed of 18.7%, reflecting management’s ongoing value focus and the strength of our business model. Profitability was down on the comparable prior year period, mainly driven by a significantly lower forestry fair value gain in South Africa and the impact of mill maintenance shuts. We continue to drive growth through our capital investment programme. During the period, we commissioned the second phase of our major investment in the ongoing development of our world-class facility in Poland, while good progress is being made on the modernisation of our kraft paper facility in Czech Republic. The integration of acquisitions completed during 2016 and early 2017 is on track. These acquisitions enhance our geographic reach and product portfolio in Corrugated Packaging and Consumer Packaging. The market outlook remains broadly positive. We saw strong demand across Packaging Paper and Corrugated Packa ging in the first half and successfully implemented price increases across certain paper grades, the full effect of which is anticipated in the second half. The second half of the year will be impacted by planned maintenance shuts at a number of our mills and the usual seasonal downturn in Uncoated Fine Paper. While we continue to see some inflationary cost pressures, we remain confident of making progress in the year and continuing to deliver industry leading returns." Click Read More below for additional detail.
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Orchids Paper Products Company Announces 2017 Second Quarter Results

Orchids Paper Products Company reported results for the quarter ended June 30, 2017. The following tables provide selected financial results for second quarter 2017 compared to second quarter 2016 and first quarter 2017. Net sales decreased $1.0 million, or 2%. Major factors include: parent roll sales volume increased $3.7 million; converted-product sales volumes declined $2.3 million; and there was a decrease of $2.3 million in average converted-product prices, reflecting both the lower prices associated with new bids which became effective in 2017 and the product mix sold to a changing mix of customers. Cost of sales increased $4.4 million, or 13%. Standard cost of sales for parent rolls increased $2.4 million due to the much higher number of parent-roll tons sold. This leaves a $2.0 million, or 7%, increase in cost of sales that is primarily attributable to converted product sales. Major contributors to this increase include: start-up costs at Barnwell including additional direct labor and overhead, the liquidation of older higher-cost inventory, fiber and other material cost increases, labor usage, and health care cost increases. Additionally, the second quarter of 2016 benefited from the recovery of $1.1 million in business interruption insurance proceeds, which did not reoccur in 2017. Click Read More below for additional detail.
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Suzano Reports Strong Operating and Financial Performance in Q2-2017

Suzano Papel e Celulose announces its consolidated results for the second quarter of fiscal year 2017 (2Q17). In the second quarter of 2017, the pulp segment continued to deliver solid results, driven mainly by strong and healthy demand from Asia. The commodity’s positive fundamentals once again supported successive price increases in all regions. The weaker BRL also had a positive effect on industry profitability. The paper segment remained pressured by Brazil’s caustic macroeconomic scenario. The Suzano Mais Program, which works to strengthen relations with agents at the end of the value chain, helped to enhance the profitability of the paper business. Click Read More below for additional detail.
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A group of titles launch ‘Deliver My Newspaper’

The service allows customers to have their favourite daily newspaper delivered to their doorstep with an initial six weeks free from delivery cost. To receive a newspaper via post, the individual needs to search for a local newsagent via DeliverMyNewspaper.co.uk, then fill out a registration form on the site and secure free delivery vouchers. Once the vouchers have arrived in the post they must take them to the selected newsagents, pay for the newspaper they want delivered and arrange the deliveries. Click Read More below for more of the story.
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Pekin Insurance Adds Brenva HD Production Inkjet Press to Existing Line-up of Xerox Presses

To keep up with rising volumes of policy and billing statements, insurance provider and in-plant printer, Pekin Insurance, needed an inkjet device that brought speed, reliability and advanced color technology. They also needed a technology partner to support and help expand their applications. Pekin turned to Xerox and the Xerox Brenva HD Production Inkjet Press, which they added to their production family in December 2016. “Since we strictly focus on cut sheet, the Brenva HD made perfect sense for our environment,” said Heidi Hutchison, operations manager for the Illinois-based insurance company. “But, beyond that, we were looking for a modern device that would be able to adapt as our company’s needs change – the Brenva HD was the answer to that as well.” Click Read More below for additional detail.
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Endangered Emojis Postcard & Poster

Esperanto might never have really taken off, but the Internet seems to be in the process of moving us toward a far more successful and truly universal language: emojis. And as Ashley Stone inventively demonstrates in this design-school project, emojis on paper possess the ability to make us think through important issues as we work to decipher them. What I find particularly appealing about her “Endangered Emojis” series is the simple-yet-effective way in which she adapted a real fundraising campaign led by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) – its “Stamp out Extinction” initiative – to appeal to teens and twenty-somethings.
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Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Announces Second Quarter 2017 Results

“As we head into the third quarter, which is historically the busiest quarter in HMH’s selling season, we are encouraged by our results for the first half of 2017,” said Jack Lynch, Chief Executive Officer of HMH. “We experienced strong net sales and billings growth within the extensions of our core Basal business, which are comprised of intervention, professional learning and supplemental products and services, and we took important steps to reduce our fixed cost base and improve our operating efficiency.” Joe Abbott, Chief Financial Officer of HMH added, “We remain on track to deliver against the targets we set at the start of the year and continue to progress our next generation program and platform development in advance of the large new adoption opportunities we anticipate in 2018 and 2019.”
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Print 17 Announces 44 Must See ‘Ems

Print 17 announced the 2017 Must See ‘Ems – the exhibits on the show floor that attendees simply can’t miss. The 44 Must See ‘Ems winners named below will be highlighted at Print 17, occurring Sept. 10-14 at McCormick Place South in Chicago, IL. Chosen by a panel of industry experts, these technologies represent compelling advances in 11 categories spanning the print production workflow.
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Berry Global Group, Inc. Reports Third Quarter Fiscal 2017 Results

Berry Global Group, Inc. (NYSE:BERY) today reported results for its third fiscal 2017 quarter, referred to in the following as the June 2017 quarter. “This continues to be an exciting year for Berry as we celebrate our 50th year in business while also achieving a milestone in the quarter with our placement into the Fortune 500. We achieved quarterly records for net sales and operating EBITDA and continued our work integrating the AEP acquisition. Adjusted free cash flow improved 20 percent, and adjusted net income per diluted share was also 13% higher at 93 cents,” said Tom Salmon, CEO of Berry.
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Accenture Acquires Brand Learning and Search Technologies

Accenture has acquired marketing and sales consultancy Brand Learning and technology services firm Search Technologies, both for undisclosed sums. In terms of the Brand Learning acquisition, a press release states that Brand Learning's advisory team will join the management consulting and industry specialists within Accenture's Customer and Channels practice. The partnership, according to the press release, will enhance Accenture's offerings in terms of marketing and sales strategy, organizational design, industry-specific consulting, and HR and leadership capabilities – allowing the professional services company to deliver end-to-end solutions and help clients create more integrated customer experiences. It will also tap into the digital design and engagement skills of Accenture Interactive, the release reads.
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Delta and Wieden + Kennedy Build On Wall Theme

Delta Airlines is using a wall in the Williamsburg section of Brooklyn NY to depict the 133 airport codes that one can fly to from New York City on Delta. The illustrations by Celyn Brazier, who worked with ad agency Wieden + Kennedy in New York to show something special about the city or town they depict.
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How to Protect Your Work with Digital Watermarks

If your design work is out there on the internet, everybody can see it—or steal it. But fear not, for the digital watermark can save you! Stamp your images with a logo, wordmark, or both using any number of apps, including some you might already have. But whether you use visible or invisible digital watermarks, you need to learn how to protect your work using them, and about the pros and cons of using them. And keep in mind that during this day and age of social media and online sharing, you might not need digital watermarks.
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Oil Prices Drop as US Output and Opec Exports Rise

Oil prices edged lower on Friday and were on track for weekly losses, weighed down by rising Opec exports and strong output from the US. Brent crude futures, the international benchmark, were trading at $51.61 a barrel at 9.58am GMT, 40c below the last close and heading for a fall of more than 1.5% on the week. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were 40c lower at $48.63 a barrel and were set to drop by just more than 2% for the week.
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Kimberly-Clark Named #1 Employer in Consumer Packaged Goods Category by Forbes

Kimberly-Clark Corporation (NYSE:KMB) today announced it has been ranked #1 in the consumer packaged goods category on Forbes' 2017 list of America's Best Large Employers. In addition, Kimberly-Clark was ranked #48 among the top 500 employers across all industries, up from #147 last year. The annual Forbes "America's Best Employers" rankings were compiled via an independent survey of 30,000 U.S. employees in 25 industries. Employees were asked how likely they were to recommend their company to friends and family, and which organizations they would choose in addition to their own. The survey also looked at benefits, workplace diversity, career development opportunities and recognition of employee performance.
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Cascades Announces the Construction of a New Packaging Plant in New Jersey

Cascades Inc. (TSX: CAS), the leader in recuperation of recyclable materials and in manufacturing of green packaging products and tissue paper, announces an investment of $80 million USD for the construction of a new containerboard packaging plant in Piscataway, New Jersey, United States. This new plant, which will create 120 jobs, will manufacture corrugated packaging products and will be among the most modern of its kind in North America. It will begin operations in the second quarter of 2018. Once all equipment is installed, total annual production capacity will be 2.4 billion square feet. Ultimately, this represents an increase in the integration rate of approximately 5%. The facilities will have a surface area of more than 400,000 square feet.
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Post Offices ‘Abuzz’ Over Protect Pollinators Forever Stamps

The U.S. Postal Service will pay tribute tomorrow to the beauty and importance of pollinators with stamps depicting two of our continent’s most iconic, the monarch butterfly and the western honeybee, each shown industriously pollinating a variety of plants native to North America. The Protect Pollinators Forever stamps will be dedicated at noon tomorrow at the American Philatelic Society National Summer Convention StampShow in Richmond, VA. Share the news on social media using the hashtags #ProtectPollinators and #PollinatorStamps.
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UPS Commemorates 110-Year Anniversary And Seattle Roots

UPS (NYSE: UPS) celebrated the company’s 110-year anniversary today in Seattle’s Waterfall Garden Park. The anniversary, on August 28, will mark the founding of a messenger service company started by James Casey and Claude Ryan in a six-by-17-foot room beneath a tavern run by Ryan's uncle at what is now 219 2nd Avenue South, in the heart of the city’s Pioneer Square area.
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LSC Communications Reports 2nd Quarter Results

Second quarter net sales were $848 million, down $58 million, or 6.4%, from the second quarter of 2016. After adjusting for the December 2, 2016 acquisition of Continuum and the March 1, 2017 acquisition of Hudson Yards, changes in foreign exchange rates, and pass-through paper sales, organic net sales decreased 6.8% from the second quarter of 2016. The decrease in organic net sales was due to lower volume and price declines in both the Print and Office Products segments.
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Cenveo Reports Second Quarter 2017 Results

Net sales in the second quarter of 2017 were $355.0 million compared to $410.1 million in the same period last year, a decline of 13.4%. The Company generated net sales of $736.9 million for the six months ended July 1, 2017, compared to $850.6 million for the same period last year, a decline of 13.4%. The sales decline was primarily driven by: (i) lower sales in the envelope segment, primarily due to lower demand in office product and wholesale envelope product lines primarily due to marketplace trends and lower direct mail demand primarily from our financial institution customers; (ii) lower sales volumes in the commercial print group and the publisher services group, primarily driven by lower customer demand and continued pricing pressures; and (iii) lower sales in the label segment, primarily due to the decision to exit our coating operation which was completed in the second quarter of 2016, and lower sales driven by product mix changes.
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Resolute Reports Preliminary Second Quarter 2017 Results

Resolute Forest Products Inc. (NYSE: RFP) (TSX: RFP) today reported a net loss for the quarter ended June 30, 2017, of $74 million, or $0.82 per share, compared to a net loss of $42 million, or $0.47 per share, in the same period in 2016. Sales were $858 million in the quarter, down $33 million, or 4%, from the second quarter of 2016. Excluding special items, the company reported a net loss of $3 million, or $0.03 per share, compared to net income, excluding special items, of $2 million, or $0.02 per share, in the second quarter of 2016.
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Sappi Delivers Solid Profit During Third Quarter

“I am pleased to report that during the past quarter Sappi delivered profits up 81% from a year ago, reduced debt by a further 17% (US$265 million) year-on-year. We also repaid US$400 million in bonds from cash reserves which will generate savings of approximately US$21 million per annum on our net interest charge. “Sappi’s third quarter is seasonally and historically its weakest quarter due to the slow-down in business activity during the Northern Hemisphere summer holiday period and Sappi’s choice to use this quarter to undertake major annual maintenance shuts. The past quarter’s earnings (EBITDA ex special items) at US$155 million where almost flat on a year ago. Higher volumes were offset by higher raw material prices and a stronger Rand/Dollar exchange rate.
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Neenah Reports Second Quarter 2017 Results

"Each of our businesses delivered top line growth in the second quarter, overcoming currency headwinds and global capacity constraints as we ramp-up our new U.S. filtration capacity. Customer qualification of this filtration facility continues to progress well and start-up costs of $3 million in the quarter were in line with projections. Bottom line results also reflected a timing lag as we implement selling price increases to offset the rise in input costs in the first half of the year," said John O'Donnell, Chief Executive Officer. "With our strong financial position and continued success in targeted categories like filtration, performance materials and premium packaging, we remain confident about future investment opportunities for organic and strategic growth that can deliver value for our shareholders."
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Georgia-Pacific Acquires PAX Corrugated Products

Georgia-Pacific continues to expand its corrugated packaging business with the acquisition of Ohio-based PAX Corrugated Products. PAX operates a corrugated sheet plant with more than 100 employees in Lebanon, Ohio. Terms of the deal are not disclosed. “Georgia-Pacific has had a working relationship with PAX Corrugated for many years so we knew their organization would be an excellent fit with the GP Corrugated team,” said Billy Medof, president – GP Corrugated. “The PAX team will continue to deliver quality products and service to their customers as they do today. Their graphics and converting proficiency will accelerate our growth in digitally printed sheets from our Digital Print Solutions business and their display capability will expand our growing display business.”
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Rum Label Is Passport to Caribbean Culture

Project M Plus has designed the label and packaging for Atlantico rum, distilled and blended in the Dominican Republic. To elevate the product and the brand, the designers capitalized on their love of the Caribbean, taking their cues from the culture and lifestyle — including “the beautiful ceramic tiles found throughout the islands, the sun at Golden Hour, the salt on your skin to the salt on your rim.
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Clearwater Paper Reports Second Quarter 2017 Results

The company reported net sales of $429.7 million for the second quarter of 2017, down 1.6% compared to net sales of $436.7 million for the second quarter of 2016. Net earnings determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP, for the second quarter of 2017 were $8.0 million, or $0.48 per diluted share, compared to net earnings of $20.9 million, or $1.21 per diluted share, for the second quarter of 2016.
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WestRock Reports Fiscal 2017 Third Quarter Results

WestRock Company ("WestRock") (NYSE:WRK), a leading provider of differentiated paper and packaging solutions, today announced results for its fiscal third quarter ended June 30, 2017. “Our WestRock team delivered strong earnings and cash flow, and grew our differentiated packaging business by completing the acquisitions of MPS and U.S. Corrugated, which have expanded our presence in attractive markets and increased our vertical integration,” said Steve Voorhees, chief executive officer. “We increased our daily box volumes over the prior year by 5.7%. While we continue to face a challenging cost environment, we are focusing on areas within our control – serving our customers well and driving synergy and productivity improvements across our company.”
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PCA Roanoke Partners with Virginia Tech

On April 20 PCA’s sheet plant in Roanoke, Virginia, hosted 35 students from Virginia Tech’s packaging program for their annual Plant Tour and Social Day. Students toured the box plant, watched a presentation about PCA and enjoyed lunch with employees. In addition to the Plant Tour and Social Day, PCA Roanoke is proud to partner with Virginia Tech in a number of other ways. The plant has hired a number of interns from the Packaging School, some of which have gone on to become PCA employees after graduation.
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The Role of Food and Beverage Packaging in Limiting Climate Change

It has been almost a year since the Paris Climate Change Agreement was adopted in December of 2015. The agreement set out a goal and initiated a global action plan to put the world on track to avoid dangerous climate change by limiting global warming to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, and pursue efforts to limit it to 1.5°C. It took most of 2016 for the Agreement to be signed and ratified and the Agreement did not enter into force until November 4, 2016. Key to this process was a joint ceremony on April 22, 2016 in which President Obama of the United States, and President Xi Jinping of China signed and ratified the Agreement on behalf of their respective countries. The US and China are the two largest emitters of greenhouse gases on the planet.
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Sustainably Inspirational Cities

With more than 80 per cent of North Americans now living in urban areas, the actions of city governments, residents and businesses are critical to making inroads in sustainability. We’ve found four examples of inspirational initiatives which are changing cities for the better that mirror the values that drive our sustainable manufacturing practices – from reducing greenhouse gas emissions to conserving water and using life cycle assessment to understand the environmental impact of our products.
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20 Beautifully Illustrated Alternative Movie Posters

At a time when official movie poster reveals are arguably as exciting as opening weekends, it’s no wonder so many creatives are carving out time to create their own alternative movie posters—whether for a client, for self-promotion or just for fun. Similarly, it’s no wonder we can’t help but drool over all the beautiful illustrated and painterly work we’ve seen lately. That’s why we’ve rounded up 20 of our favorite unofficial posters below. You may not have seen these illustrated posters in the wild during the respective film’s marketing campaign days, but they’re just as fun to look at now.
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Parents Magazine Debuts Redesign With September 2017 Issue

Parents magazine unveiled a fresh, new look with its September 2017 issue, on sale nationwide August 8. The dynamic redesign incorporates a modern logo, lively layouts and photography, and an evolved personality that reflects the candor, humor and confidence of today's mom. The September 2017 cover features Rebecca Minkoff – the fashion designer powerhouse and mother of two – as its Back-to-School Mom star with a personal interview and exclusive photos. Under the direction and leadership of Parents Editor-in-Chief Liz Vaccariello, the print redesign focuses on revitalizing the iconic brand. The magazine continues to offer readers its signature trusted content and focus on the needs of diverse millennial women in families of all shapes and sizes. Health and safety articles will advocate for every child's wellbeing, while the lifestyle coverage has evolved to reflect the millennial's unique mindset about food, home and travel. Click Read More below for additional details.
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Quad/Graphics Reports Second Quarter and Year-to-Date 2017 Results

Net earnings improved during the second quarter of 2017 to $7 million, a $15 million increase, versus an $8 million net loss in 2016, despite a 6.7% decrease in net sales to $963 million. Organic sales decreased 4.8% due to ongoing industry volume and pricing pressures after excluding pass-through paper sales (-1.7% impact) and foreign exchange (-0.2% impact). The organic sales decrease is consistent with the Company’s previous guidance. Diluted earnings per share improved to $0.13 compared to a $0.16 loss in 2016 primarily due to lower depreciation and amortization, and cost reductions and productivity improvement activities. Second quarter 2017 Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA decreased $1 million to $97 million compared to $98 million in 2016; however, Adjusted EBITDA margin improved to 10.0% from 9.5% in 2016. Non-GAAP Adjusted Diluted Earnings per Share improved by $0.21 during the second quarter 2017 to $0.24. The improvement in Adjusted EBITDA margin and Adjusted Diluted Earnings per Share was primarily due to cost reductions and productivity improvement activities. Click Read More below for additional details.
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RR Donnelley Reports Second Quarter 2017 Results

Net sales in the quarter were $1.65 billion, up $13.4 million or 0.8% from the second quarter of 2016. On an organic basis, consolidated net sales declined 0.8% driven by volume growth in the International and Strategic Services segments and favorable changes in fuel surcharges which were more than offset by lower postage pass through sales in the Strategic Services segment, net volume declines in the Variable Print segment and modest price erosion across all segments. Gross profit in the second quarter of 2017 was $303.1 million or 18.4% of net sales versus $316.4 million or 19.4% of net sales in the prior year quarter. The decline was primarily due to unfavorable mix in several businesses, modest price pressure in all segments and unfavorable changes in foreign exchange rates. Click Read More below for additional details.
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Macmillan Heads Downtown, Leaving Flatiron Building

Macmillan Publishers will be leaving its long-time offices in New York's Chelsea neighborhood in 2019. The publisher, which currently occupies all the office space in New York's iconic Flatiron Building, has signed a 20-year lease at 120 Broadway, called the "Equitable Building," in lower Manhattan. "We are delighted to be moving to 120 Broadway," Andrew Weber, COO of Macmillan, said in a statement. "The move will be great for our people and our planned growth, and the architectural heritage of 120 Broadway means we will be moving from one of New York City's great iconic buildings to another." In moving to lower Manhattan, Macmillan will follow HarperCollins and Abrams who have moved south in search of new offices. St. Martin's was the first Macmillan division to move to the Flatiron Building and over the years other divisions followed. Click Read More below for more of the story.
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Barnes & Noble Announces Special Back-to-School Educator Appreciation Days Every Saturday & Sunday in August to Celebrate Pre-K-12 Teachers & Administrators

To celebrate pre-K-12 public, private and homeschool educators and administrators, Barnes & Noble, Inc. will kick off the school year with new Educator Appreciation Days every Saturday and Sunday in August. Starting Saturday, August 5, local stores will feature special discounts* including 25% off most merchandise like books, toys and games; and limited-time giveaways from Sterling Publishing, while supplies last. The offer will also be valid online at www.BN.com Saturday, August 26 and Sunday, August 27. “We are thrilled to announce Barnes & Noble’s Educator Appreciation Days to ring in the new school year,” said Tracy Vidakovich, Vice President, Business Development for Barnes & Noble. “Educators and administrators are one of our most loyal customer bases and we want to continue to show our commitment to them with this initiative and savings on their back-to-school purchases.” Click Read More below for additional details.
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Oil Trades Near $49 on Signs U.S. Stockpiles Unexpectedly Rose

Futures slid as much as 1.2 percent in New York after losing 2 percent Tuesday, the first drop in seven sessions. Inventories rose by 1.78 million barrels last week, the American Petroleum Institute was said to report. A Bloomberg survey showed nationwide stockpiles fell for a fifth week. OPEC output climbed in July as Libya boosted supply, according to a Bloomberg survey of analysts, oil companies and ship-tracking data. “Prices are under pressure as the recent gains are seen as unsustainable,” said Eugen Weinberg, head of commodities research at Commerzbank in Frankfurt. “The API is contributing to the overall situation, and should the DOE data confirm the trend, it’s likely to weigh on prices,” he said, referring to the U.S. Department of Energy figures due for release on Wednesday. Click Read More below for additional details.
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Boise Paper Wins 3M Supplier of the Year Award

Boise Paper, a division of Packaging Corporation of America, was honored with the 2017 3M Supplier of the Year Award in recognition of the company’s contribution to improving 3M’s competitiveness. This year, 3M recognized 15 suppliers – among thousands in its global supply base – for world class performance in providing products and/or services. These suppliers were identified and rated based on strategic spend, contract compliance, actions taken to improve 3M’s relevance and overall supplier performance (quality, delivery, responsiveness, cost, technology roadmaps). An awards ceremony will be held Aug. 4 at the 3M Championship in Blaine, Minn. Click Read More below for more of the story.
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Adult Trade, College Material Sales Up in Q1

Sales of adult trade books rose 3.4% in the first quarter of 2017, over the comparable period in 2016, according to the latest figures released by the Association of American Publishers' StatShot program. The adult trade segment was one of three major publishing categories to see an increase in the first three months of the year, over the same time frame in 2016. The higher educational course materials segment experienced the largest gain in the period, with sales up 24.3%. Within adult trade, hardcover sales jumped 18.1% in the quarter, offsetting declines in the paperback formats. Downloadable audio had another strong period, with sales rising 23.1% in the quarter. But e-book sales continued to drop, falling 4.5% in the three-month period. Click Read More below for additional details.
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Crown Honors Three Plants for Sustainability Achievements

Crown Holdings, Inc. has recognized three of its facilities for outstanding sustainability achievements from 2015 to 2016. First introduced in 2012, the biennial Chairman’s Sustainability Awards program honors exemplary contributions made by the employees based in the Company’s international network of 146 facilities. The Chairman’s Award Program consists of three categories: Crown’s Economic Sustainability Award recognizes actions and projects that display a significant, measurable reduction in the Company’s use of resources that enhance Crown’s competitiveness, including energy, water, freight and fuel. Click Read More below for additional details.
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Benefits of Digital Printing for Packaging and Displays

Digital print for packaging and displays has many benefits and is ideal for customers who are looking for alternatives to traditional offset printing which is a plate or tooling driven process. It offers a way to professionally brand protective packaging and in-store signage and displays with custom print without the need for large production runs. Digital printed packaging, labels, and displays is a fast-growing market – and for good reason – it offers many benefits to the customer including: •Cost Effective: Digital print requires no die-cut tooling or print plates which can be an unexpected upfront expense for the customer or out of range cost for smaller businesses. •Small Production Runs: Digital print allows for production of small volume jobs and print runs. •Universal Application: Digital print has a universal application and prints on any substrate including metal, plastic, wood and corrugated paper. Click Read More below for additional details.
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B&NE Steps Up Fight Against Counterfeiters

In another move to combat the spread of counterfeit textbooks, Cengage, Elsevier, McGraw-Hill Education, and Pearson announced an agreement with Barnes & Noble Education to implement the industry’s Anti-Counterfeit Best Practices. The best practices were developed earlier this year by the Educational Publishers Enforcement Group (EPEG) with the goal of assisting publishers and distributors looking to tamp down on the growing availability of counterfeit print textbooks. In agreeing to adhere to the best practices program, B&NE will verify the sources of its textbooks. It will also inspect inventory that has a high risk of being counterfeit, and prevent it from infecting the rest of its inventory. And, according to the agreement, when B&NE finds counterfeit books it will share information about the title and supplier with publishers. Click Read More below for more of the story.
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Sealed Air Announces Price Increases for Its North American Product Care Products

Sealed Air Corporation announced that it is implementing a price increase on all products in its North American Product Care division. The increases will be effective September 1, 2017. The price adjustments are the result of escalation in resin costs of over 7% since the start of the year with over 9% of additional increases expected to be announced in the near term. Other raw materials costs have also been on the rise including chemical components (MDI/Polyol) which are up 15% since the start of 2017, and recycled paper and corrugated up with Old Corrugated Container (OCC) costs climbing more than 50% year-to-date with further increases expected. Click Read More below for additional details.
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Smurfit Kappa Group plc today announced results for the 3 months and 6 months ending 30 June 2017

Second Quarter & Half Year Key Points: *Group revenue growth of 5% for the first six months with strong demand in most markets. *Second quarter EBITDA of €292 million with increased sequential EBITDA margin of 13.9%. *Kraftliner demand robust with additional €50 per tonne price increase implemented in the third quarter. *Containerboard price increases feeding through to corrugated price recovery. Click Read More below for additional details.
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Stein Mart Announces Five New Stores Opening This Fall

Stein Mart announced the locations of its five new stores opening this fall to complete its 2017 store plan to open a total of 10 new stores this year. "We look forward to introducing our customers to these new locations where they will always find great values on the best designer and name brand merchandise, in an attractive, easy-to-shop setting," said Hunt Hawkins, CEO of Stein Mart. "With new merchandising initiatives and a new marketing campaign being launched this fall, we invite all of our customers — new and loyal — to come see and hear what's new at Stein Mart this fall." Click Read More below for additional details.
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Book Publishers Begin 2017 with 4.9% Revenue Growth

Revenues for book publishers were $2.33 billion for the first quarter of 2017, a $108 million (4.9%) increase over the first quarter of 2016, according to the StatShot report from Association of American Publishers (AAP). Much of the growth is attributed to increased revenue in the two of the largest categories - Adult books and higher education course materials. StatShot tracks publisher revenue for about 1,200 publishers of trade (fiction/non-fiction/religious), PreK-12 instructional materials, higher education course materials, university presses and professional books. Click Read More below for additional details.
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Torstar Corporation Reports Second Quarter Results

Highlights for the second quarter: • Ended the second quarter of 2017 with $48.4 million of cash and cash equivalents and $9.1 million of restricted cash; Torstar has no bank indebtedness. • Our net loss attributable to equity shareholders was $7.0 million ($0.09 per share) in the second quarter of 2017. This compares to a net loss of $23.9 million ($0.30 per share) in the second quarter of 2016. • Adjusted loss per share was $0.03 in the second quarter of 2017, an improvement of $0.10 from adjusted loss per share of $0.13 in the second quarter of 2016. Adjusted loss per share in 2017 and 2016 included $0.24 and $0.50 per share effects of amortization and depreciation. • Our segmented operating loss was $8.1 million in the second quarter of 2017 which included $19.2 million of non-cash amortization and depreciation expense as well as $6.2 million of restructuring and other charges. Click Read More below for additional details.
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PBS to Unveil America’s Favorite Books in New TV Series

The Great American Read, an ambitious eight-episode documentary series that PBS has just announced, will explore the place of reading in American culture. The show, which is set to start airing in the summer of 2018, will kickoff with a two-hour program that will reveal a list of America’s 100 best-loved books. The inaugural episode of the series, set for May 2018, will feature the list of 100 best-loved books, chosen by the public and by a panel of literary experts. The final program in the fall will unveil a Top Ten list of America's best-loved books, culminating in the first-ever nation-wide vote to reveal America's single best-loved book of all. Funded by the Public Broadcasting System and produced by the TV production house, Nutopia, The Great American Read will marshal the entire PBS network in a multiplatform campaign. The TV series will be supported by social media campaigns and community reading groups, in addition to testimonials and appearances by figures from the worlds of entertainment, sports, news and literature. Click Read More below for more of the story.
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O-I Reports Second Quarter Results

"With half of the year behind us, expected strong business performance through the second half and favorable non-operational tailwinds, we are raising our guidance on our full-year earnings performance." Net sales in the second quarter of 2017 were $1.8 billion, similar to the prior year second quarter. On a global basis, the 1 percent increase in price was offset by modestly lower sales volume and adverse currency translation. For the first half of 2017, the net sales increase of more than 50 basis points reflects a stronger first quarter and softer second quarter which was partly due to higher shipping days in the first quarter. Click Read More below for additional details.
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WestRock Acquires Hannapak

WestRock Company announced that it is expanding its consumer packaging portfolio with the acquisition of Hanna Group Pty Ltd (Hannapak), one of Australia’s leading providers of folding cartons to a variety of markets, including beverage, food, confectionary, and healthcare. The acquisition will build on WestRock’s established and growing packaging business in the region. “Hannapak has built an outstanding folding carton business in Australia based on their superior capabilities and customer service,” said Steve Voorhees, chief executive officer of WestRock. “We have a strong relationship with the company and the Hanna family based on an 18-year partnership as one of our key converting partners in the region, and we are excited about the clear cultural and operational fit between the two companies. This acquisition expands our geographic footprint to better serve global and local customers, and will enable us to improve WestRock’s beverage packaging business in the region while expanding our participation to a variety of other attractive end markets.” Click Read More below for additional details.
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Madison Paper Industries concluded the sale of its hydro power facilities in North America to Eagle Creek Renewable Energy

Madison Paper Industries, a partnership of UPM and Northern SC Paper Corp., a subsidiary of The New York Times Company, concluded the sale of its hydro power facilities to Eagle Creek Renewable Energy, LLC, a hydroelectric power producer, based in Morristown, NJ, USA on 31 July 2017. The transaction was announced by Madison Paper Industries in April 2017.
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Appvion Extends Its Triumph High-Speed Inkjet Paper Line

Appvion, Inc. has extended its Triumph® High-Speed Inkjet Paper line with the addition of four treated products: 9 pt. Triumph Treated Universal in rolls and sheets, 9 pt. Triumph Treated Ultra P in rolls, and 32 lb. Triumph Universal and Triumph Ultra P in rolls. “We continue to expand our portfolio of Triumph High-Speed Inkjet Papers to meet the ever-advancing demands of the inkjet printing industry,” states Scott Harman, Appvion’s director of digital products. “Appvion’s commitment is to add value to paper. With these product extensions, we are offering our customers added value through more high-quality, superior-performing paper choices—all which yield the excellent finish and vibrant color that provide exceptional results to meet their various application needs.” Click Read More below for additional details.
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Oil Rises Above $50 as OPEC Trims Exports, Sets Meeting on Cuts

“There’s been some constructive developments coming out of OPEC,” Tamar Essner, an energy analyst at Nasdaq Inc. in New York, said by telephone. “The data out of OPEC has been bearish.” Oil has rebounded on growing signs that the market is coming back into balance, with futures climbing above the 200-day moving average last week for the first time since May. Members of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries such as Saudi Arabia and Kuwait promised to reduce crude exports. U.S. crude stockpiles have been on a steady decline and are estimated to have dropped further last week. Click Read More below for more of the story.
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MillerCoors Designates CROWN Beverage Packaging Mexico as its 2016 Supplier Of The Year

MillerCoors has named CROWN Beverage Packaging Mexico as its 2016 Packaging Materials Supplier of the Year. Crown’s facility in Monterrey, Mexico supplies MillerCoors with crowns and aluminum roll on closures for glass bottles. “CROWN Mexico has been a longtime supplier to MillerCoors’ operations in the United States, consistently providing us with excellent quality bottle crowns and great customer service throughout the years,” said Tod Galloway, Vice President, US Head of Regional Procurement, MillerCoors. “They continuously strive to innovate with us and help grow our brands, all at a competitive cost within the industry. 2016 was a particularly strong year for CROWN Mexico, and as such, they were presented our Packaging Supplier of the Year Award. We are fortunate to have such a long-standing and reliable partner.” Click Read More below for additional details.
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Glatfelter Reports Second Quarter 2017 Results

Glatfelter reported a net loss of $5.7 million, or $0.13 per share for the second quarter of 2017 compared with net income of $2.0 million, or $0.04 per diluted share in the second quarter of 2016. On an adjusted earnings basis, the loss for the second quarter of 2017 was $2.6 million, or $0.06 per share compared with adjusted earnings of $2.8 million, or $0.06 per diluted share, for the same period a year ago. Consolidated net sales totaled $387.3 million and $406.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively. In the Composite Fibers and Advanced Airlaid Materials business units, net sales increased by 1.4% and 4.9%, respectively, on a constant currency basis. Specialty Papers’ net sales declined 8.6% in the quarter-over-quarter comparison. Click Read More below for additional details.
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International Paper Prices $1.0 Billion of Senior Unsecured Notes

International Paper Company announced that it has priced $1.0 billion of 4.350% senior unsecured notes due 2048. The notes were issued at a public offering price of 99.898%. The offering was made pursuant to an effective shelf registration statement. International Paper intends to use the net proceeds from this offering, together with available cash and other borrowings, to make a voluntary cash contribution to its pension plan in the aggregate amount of $1.25 billion by September 15, 2017.
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Klabin Reports Second Quarter 2017 Results

Klabin, Brazil's largest paper producer and exporter, the leading manufacturer of paper and board for packaging, corrugated board packaging and industrial bags, and the only company in Brazil to produce hardwood, softwood and fluff pulp in the same plant, registered its 24th consecutive quarter of growth in financial results. The company recorded adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) of R$595 million in the second quarter of 2017, which is 11% higher than in the same period in 2016. In the second quarter of the year, the company highlights in its balance sheet the strong and sustained performance of the Puma Unit which, after the annual maintenance shutdown at the end of March this year, concluded the ramp-up process and recorded pulp sales volume of 337,000 tons in 2Q17, 12% higher than in 1Q17.Of the total sales volume in the second quarter of this year, 252,000 tons were hardwood pulp and 85,000 tons were softwood and fluff pulp. Click Read More below for additional details.
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Water soluble film by Mondi reduces packaging waste and improves end consumer safety

As a result of its customer focused research and development, Mondi’s technical films business has created and introduced a water soluble film for the smart and convenient packing and dosing of powders, tabs and granulates. Dissolving completely in water, the film is ideal for single doses of dry materials, such as dishwasher and laundry tabs or bath salts. The water soluble film is an example how customers benefit from Mondi’s synergized research and development strategies having its core competencies in areas such as plastic films, packaging, paper and coating brought together under one roof. The film offers excellent sealing and deep drawing properties, provides an effective barrier to oxygen and is completely soluble even in cold water. Consumers are also protected from direct contact with the contents, which adds an extra layer of safety. Customers can bolster their sustainable credentials too, through the environmental benefits water soluble films provide compared to standard plastic films. In addition to reducing overall packaging waste, the films are also considered to be biodegradable, non-toxic and non-inhibitory. Click Read More below for additional details.
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Book Publishing Annual StatShot Survey Reveals Religious Crossover and Inspirational Books Supported Trade Book Growth in 2016

The Association of American Publishers (AAP) announced that the U.S. book publishing industry generated $26.24 billion in net revenue for 2016, representing 2.7 billion in units (volume). Books with religious and inspirational themes from religious presses and trade publishers were among the best-selling books. StatShot Annual estimates the book publishing industry’s size and scope, tracking the sales and volume data for trade (fiction/non-fiction/religious), PreK-12 instructional materials, higher education course materials, university presses, and professional books. While publisher revenue (1.5%) and units sold (2.8%) both increased for trade books, the overall publishing industry saw a decline in revenue (-5.1%.) This may in large part be attributed to a challenging year in the education and scholarly publishing markets, which together comprise about 40% of tracked revenues. Click Read More below for additional details.
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Xerox Reports Second-Quarter 2017 Earnings

Revenues were $2.57 billion in the quarter, down 8.1 percent or 6.4 percent in constant currency. Post sale revenue was 79 percent of total revenue. Second-quarter adjusted operating margin was 13.3 percent, up 0.4 percentage points from the same quarter a year ago. Xerox generated operating cash flow of $343 million from continuing operations during the second quarter and ended the period with a cash balance of $1.25 billion. The company returned $68 million in dividends to shareholders. Click Read More below for additional details.
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