Minimum wage increases go into effect in these 22 states (chainstoreage.com)

The new year brought with it minimum wage increases in more than 20 states — with more to come later in the year. Higher minimum wages took effect on Jan. 1 in 22 states (see list at end of article). The hikes come as the federal minimum wage remains unchanged since 2009, at $7.25 an hour. With the new wage hikes, employees in seven states — California, Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Washington — along with Washington, D.C. and 41 cities and counties will be guaranteed baseline pay of $15.00 or more an hour. (Some cities and counties set their own minimum wages.) At the same time, 20 states — primary located in the South and parts of the Midwest — will continue to have a legal minimum wage of $7.25 in 2024.
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Scammers Pretend To Be From Publishers Clearing House (mediapost.com)

Authorities in the Buffalo, New York area are warning residents about scammers who pretend to be from the iconic Publishers Clearing House. The scam artists inform victims that they have won the famous sweepstakes, but have to pay processing fees upfront, WKBW reports. Payment is accepted online or in person. Publishers Clearing House informed WKBW that there are no such fees connected with its legendary prizes.
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Two Sides North America Celebrates Record-Breaking Year

As we look toward the New Year, Two Sides North America has a lot to celebrate! With the help of our members and supporters who submitted greenwashing claims from their service providers, we’ve broken our all-time annual record with 30 additional wins in our Anti-greenwashing Campaign in 2023! These wins collectively represent more than 200 million North American consumers who are no longer seeing unsubstantiated environmental claims about paper from their financial institutions, utilities, insurance companies, government agencies and other organizations. But there’s more work to do! As companies face inflationary pressures, they’re looking for ways to cut costs. In many cases, this means urging their customers to go paperless and using misleading environmental claims about paper to get them to make the switch. And we know this tactic works! Two Sides North America research showed that 65% of U.S. consumers who’ve seen greenwashing claims are influenced to switch from paper to electronic communications.
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Stora Enso’s actions for nature and climate in forests and wood supply in 2023

Biodiverse nature and climate-friendly wood supply form the basis of Stora Enso's renewable business, from forest to products. In its company-wide sustainability targets, Stora Enso is committed to halve its greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and to have a net positive impact on biodiversity by improving the diversity of species, habitats, and landscapes. Take a closer look on some of the company’s concrete actions in forests and wood supply in Finland and Sweden in 2023. Stora Enso continued wetland restoration in Finland and started new projects in Sweden. Stora Enso piloted a biodiversity premium for forest owners in Finland. Stora Enso started floating pulp wood in Finland after a 14-year break. Stora Enso took steps to increase mixed forests by decreasing spruce density in Finland. Stora Enso continued controlled burnings on its forest land in Sweden to promote habitats for various species that prefer or are dependent on forest fires. Stora Enso, Tornator and WWF continued their cooperation for forest streams. Stora Enso’s effort to protect the endangered sand lizard broke records.
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FedEx Initiates $1.0 Billion Accelerated Share Repurchase Agreement

As part of its commitment to enhance capital returns to stockholders, FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) today announced that it has entered into an accelerated share repurchase ("ASR") agreement with Mizuho Markets Americas LLC (“Mizuho”) to repurchase $1.0 billion of FedEx’s common stock as part of the company’s previously announced share repurchase program. Under the terms of the ASR agreement, FedEx will pay $1.0 billion to Mizuho and receive an initial share delivery of approximately 3.2 million shares on December 28, 2023, with the remainder of the shares, if any, to be delivered no later than February 29, 2024. The total number of shares purchased by FedEx pursuant to the ASR agreement will be based on an average of the volume-weighted average prices of FedEx’s common stock during the term of the ASR agreement, less a discount.
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Promoting Creativity and Learning for Children with Corrugated Packaging

When we think about corrugated packaging, boxes used for shipping goods are probably what comes to mind for most adults. However, when given to children, those same boxes bring to life a world of wonder and creativity. What child doesn’t gravitate to empty boxes for play? From castles and robots to forts and rocket ships, corrugated boxes inspire a child’s imagination and help them understand how the world around them works. We asked employees to share some creative ways they and their children have used corrugated boxes. While moving homes, six-year-old twins put extra corrugated packaging to good use building a private fort and backdrop for their toys. “I was worried the boys would have nothing to do while we packed up the last of our house,” said Mary Beth Sharp, Vice President of Marketing. “But they came home from school and were super excited when they saw the extra boxes. They each made their own space and were content long enough for us to finish loading the moving truck.”
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Postal Service Delivery Performance Continues to Average 2.6 Days

FY24 first quarter service performance scores covering Oct. 1 through Dec. 15, included: *First-Class Mail: 86.1 percent of First-Class Mail delivered on time against the USPS service standard, a decrease of 4.9 percentage points from the fiscal fourth quarter. *Marketing Mail: 93.8 percent of Marketing Mail delivered on time against the USPS service standard, a decrease of 1.4 percentage points from the fiscal fourth quarter. *Periodicals: 81.7 percent of Periodicals delivered on time against the USPS service standard, a decrease of 4.3 percentage points from the fiscal fourth quarter.
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FSC welcomes Romania

Twenty years after FSC certification of the first forest management unit in Romania, the country now has national representation by FSC International. To celebrate this, all interested parties met on 31 October 2023 near Brasov, in the central part of the country and close to nature – a reminder that forests and their values is what brings us all together. Romania is well known for its extensive forest cover and well-connected forest landscapes, where no patch is more than 1 km from an adjacent forest (Stancioiu et al., 2018). The Carpathian mountains in Romania still harbour large tracts of pristine and biodiverse forests, which boast thriving populations of wildlife in healthy ecosystems. In addition, large local communities have lived in these forests for centuries. Local people consider the forests part of their cultural identity, and their life is closely linked to locally-grown wood – from timber for their houses to raw materials for daily life to the use of large amounts of firewood.
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Amcor Lift-Off Winner WIPE leveraging technology to evaluate packaging quality

Amcor announced Web-Based Intelligent Packaging Evaluation (WIPE) as the winning student and faculty team of the latest Amcor Lift-Off pitch competition, hosted in partnership with Michigan State University (MSU). WIPE competed for an investment and collaboration opportunity as part of Amcor’s Lift-Off program, an open-call initiative aimed at supporting early-stage start-ups focused on innovative packaging solutions and related technologies. WIPE, developed by the research group of Dr. Euihark Lee at MSU’s School of Packaging, is an AI-based digital tool designed to leverage information mined from online customer reviews to assess the journey of a package throughout the distribution process. Once collected, the data is categorized for sentiment and key metrics, providing analysis that helps manufacturers identify critical issues during distribution and the consumer experience.
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Austrian candle brand makes a natural choice for their new packaging

With their business going through a high rate of growth, the founders of an Austrian candle company Looops felt that the brand’s look and feel had reached its limits. A rebranding — including a redesign of the packaging — was the next logical step. The business started small but has since grown into new heights. As production volumes grew, the founders could no longer sustain making the glass containers out of recycled wine bottles themselves. As new types of containers were needed for the candles, rebranding the whole product line became relevant. As the outer packaging is the first thing the consumer sees, it too had to communicate the quality of the product and its brand values: pure, reduced and authentic – just like the fragrances used in the candles themselves. “We wanted the new brand design to be more than just a visual impression. We wanted it to reflect Looops’ journey, the experiences we have gained over the years and how they have improved the quality of our products. The packaging as a whole — from the material, to the visuals and the tactile feel — had to illustrate this as well,” explains one of the co-founders Julia Schliefsteiner.
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How to ensure recyclability in your flexible plastic packaging?​

As one of the policies under the EU Green Deal, the European Commission in November 2022 proposed a new regulation on packaging and packaging waste (PPWR) that will repeal the present directive (PPWD). One of the objectives is to make all packaging in the EU market recyclable in an economically viable way by 2030. But already now recyclable packaging is being encouraged through the implementation of eco-modulated fees in the different national Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes. Sign up for the webinar at: https://triowor.webinargeek.com/how-to-ensure-recyclability-in-your-value-chain Key takeaways: After watching this webinar, you will have the latest updates regarding recyclability in the coming Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation and you will be aware of the standards that are being developed by request from the European Commission to support the regulation. You will also understand the difference between “design for recycling” and “recyclable” and know the coming steps in the legislation process and how it might affect your business. You will have seen concrete examples of adjustments made in flexible plastic packaging to meet coming EU legislation as well as requirements from national EPR schemes.
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Moelven Wood and Billerud collaborate to develop a new packaging

Moelven Wood and Billerud are joining forces to examine the possibility of developing a new sustainable packaging solution for Moelven's interior panels. The goal is to create a paper-based solution to replace the current plastic shrink wrap. The collaboration stems from an innovation competition organized by Paper Province. "Billerud's team presented a sharp and concrete solution that conveys sustainability, reflects the content, and visually stands out in stores. We are confident that we together can develop a packaging with good technical properties, that can add value to our products and have an achievable implementation in the factory.", says Tjalling Chaudron, Product Development Manager at Moelven Wood. Replacing the current shrink wrap packaging with one made from renewable materials is a step towards reducing Moelven Wood's carbon footprint. "The packaging solution that we presented offers a modern and attractive packaging for a modern and attractive panel.", says Björn Larsson, Business Development Manager at Billerud.
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FTC Proposes New Restrictions On Behavioral Advertising To Children (mediapost.com)

The Federal Trade Commission on Wednesday proposed new restrictions on companies' ability to use behavioral advertising techniques to serve ads to children under 13. The proposal effectively would require operators of websites and apps to obtain opt-in consent from parents at least twice before serving behaviorally targeted ads to children. First, the companies would have to obtain parents' consent to collect children's personal data, including data stored in cookies or other pseudonymous identifiers; then, companies would have to separately obtain parents' consent before sharing that data for behavioral targeting purposes.
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Novolex Brands Eco-Products and Vegware Earn Prestigious Packaging Awards

Novolex® announced that two of its brands, Eco-Products® and Vegware™, have earned coveted awards for their innovative solutions in compostable packaging. Eco-Products and Vegware were each honored with the Foodservice Packaging Award for Innovation in Manufacturing, tying for first place. Eco-Products earned the award for making high-quality digital print a reality on molded fiber packaging. Vegware was recognized for creating a compostable paper cutlery solution for markets that need fiber solutions across all packaging categories. “We are extraordinarily proud of our brands for their tireless commitment to innovation, creating new products that redefine excellence as we lead the way to a more sustainable future,” said Adrianne Tipton, PhD, Chief Technology Officer of Novolex.
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Democrat Printing and Lithographing Joins EP Graphics (piworld.com)

Democrat Printing and Lithographing of Little Rock, Arkansas (DP&L) has entered into a strategic partnership with EP Graphics of Berne, Indiana. DP&L was founded in 1871 and has been in the printing business through five generations of family ownership, specializing in magazines, catalogs and other publications. “We are excited about the opportunities that this partnership brings for both our team and our customers,” said Frank Park III, co-owner and chairman of the board of DP&L. “EP Graphics shares our core values and vision, as well as our history as a family-owned business, and we are confident that this transition will result in continued success and growth. The decision to enter into this partnership was carefully considered, and EP Graphics emerged as the ideal partner to carry forward the legacy and continue the tradition of excellence established by DP&L. The strategic partnership with EP Graphics brings together two dynamic organizations, combining our strengths and expertise to create a stronger and more competitive entity in the ever-changing printing industry.”
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Georgia-Pacific Makes Approximately $2 Billion in Capital Improvements in 2023

Georgia-Pacific reinvested approximately $2 billion back into its business and operations in 2023. These capital improvement projects include launching and completing new facilities and enhancing existing operations. Each investment helps Georgia-Pacific better serve customers, and increase productivity and efficiency, while also creating greater economic opportunities for each facility's local economy. Georgia-Pacific made several investments large and small across its businesses. The projects listed below are large initiatives valued at approximately $100 million and up. For an overview of the projects, go to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ATZglG3C5m4
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ANDRITZ to deliver complete old corrugated containers line to Papel Prensa, Argentina

International technology group ANDRITZ has received an order from Papel Prensa S.A. to supply a complete old corrugated containers (OCC) line including a reject handling system to its mill in Buenos Aires, Argentina. In its initial production phase, the new line will process 180 t/d of local OCC. The line's processing capacity can be easily increased through a minor adjustment to configuration to support the expected rise in pulp demand for the production of corrugated paper. The new line will provide high pulp quality at cost-efficient and resource-saving operation, with the latest technology available.
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Billerud keeps leading position in sustainability index for 2023

Billerud – including Billerud North America - retains its position as one of the world’s most sustainable companies in its industry sector. This year’s results from the globally recognized Dow Jones Sustainability Indices show that Billerud continues to be one of the leading companies in the Containers & Packaging category. The Dow Jones Sustainability Indices is based on the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA), which is a comprehensive annual evaluation of corporate sustainability efforts and performance. The Dow Jones Sustainability World Index includes the top ten percent of more than 2500 publicly listed companies. The CSA is based on an analysis of corporate governance, environmental performance, and social performance, divided into 23 categories. Billerud is among the top 10 percent in the industry in the 2023 S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment.
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E-readers were supposed to kill printed books. Instead, they’re booming (cbc.ca)

When e-readers like the Amazon Kindle burst onto the scene, showing up next to menorahs and under Christmas trees in the early 2000s, they were predicted to bring about the death of the print book — and maybe the independent bookstore too. But publishing sales data and on the ground observations from booksellers indicate that neither prediction has come true — in fact, sales of print books appear to be enjoying a bit of a lift driven by strong performance in genre fiction and interest from younger readers. Print book sales are up 10‒14 per cent over three years in most major English-speaking markets, says Duncan Stewart, a consumer forecasting analyst for Deloitte who lives in Toronto and specializes in media and technology. He says those are quite nice numbers "for an industry that many people thought was dying."
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Savvas Introduces SIOP® Professional Learning to K-12 Educators in the Middle East

Savvas Learning Company announced that educators in the Middle East will for the first time be able to benefit from SIOP® Professional Learning, a research-based instructional framework for teaching both English language skills and academic content. SIOP® Professional Learning is based on the SIOP® Model that is highly valued by teachers for integrating language learning into everyday instruction while also making grade-level content accessible to all students. Through its SIOP® training partner in the Middle East, SAMA Knowledge Training Institute, Savvas is now offering Middle East educators who work with English learners (ELs) the Savvas SIOP® Training for Teachers Workshop. This in-depth, in-person training provides the professional development necessary to effectively implement the SIOP® Model in schools and classrooms. The introduction of SIOP® to the Middle East comes at a time when several countries in that region have set specific goals to ensure that their students develop English language proficiency in order to successfully compete in the global economy.
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ATA Truck Tonnage Index Decreased 1% in November

American Trucking Associations’ advanced seasonally adjusted (SA) For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index decreased 1% in November after increasing 0.8% in October. In November, the index equaled 113.7 (2015=100) compared with 114.9 in October. “We continued to see a choppy 2023 for truck tonnage into November,” said ATA Chief Economist Bob Costello. “It seems like every time freight improves, it takes a step back the following month. While year-over-year comparisons are improving, unfortunately, the freight market remains in a recession. Looking ahead, with retail inventories falling, we should see less of a headwind for retail freight, but I’m also not expecting a surge in freight levels in the coming months.” October’s gain was revised down slightly from our November 21 press release. Compared with November 2022, the SA index fell 1.2%, which was the ninth straight year-over-year decrease. In October, the index was down 2.4% from a year earlier.
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The winner of Metsä Group’s sustainability competition for suppliers is Soilfood

Soilfood Oy has been selected as the winner of Metsä Group’s sustainability competition for suppliers. The company produces soil improvement materials for farms and recycled materials for industry from the waste and side streams of the forest industry, for example. This year, Metsä Group invited service and product suppliers to its first sustainability competition, which received a total of 92 entries. Soilfood uses side streams containing nitrogen, phosphorus, lime and carbon, among others, in its products. “Instead of being burned, these materials arising from our production are reused and returned to nature to improve the growth conditions of fields. The material obtained from forest industry waste also reduces the need for new raw materials in the production of fertilisers. Our cooperation with Soilfood is a good example of the circular economy, which benefits all parties,” says Katja Tuomola, VP, Sustainability Management at Metsä Group.
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Saica invests over Euro 100 million in new plant in Barcelona, Spain

Work has begun on Saica Group’s new corrugated board factory in Barcelona, which will start operating in the spring of 2025. Located in the municipality of Sant Esteve Sesrovires, the plant will combine the operations currently carried out at Saica Pack El Prat and Saica Pack Barcelona. The new project involves an investment of more than Euro 100 million and aims to increase the current joint production of the two factories by up to 45%. The new factory will be equipped with the latest technology, seamlessly combining flexography and offset processes. It will offer significant advances through the digitalisation of customer services, enabling Saica to deliver the high-quality standards and service that set them apart from the market.
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Andrei Krés Appointed CFO of Billerud

Andrei Krés has been appointed as the new CFO of Billerud. Andrei has been the acting CFO since August 2023 and will assume the permanent role immediately. Andrei Krés joined Billerud in 2011 and has since then held several different positions within the company including Head of Group Treasury, Vice President of Group Finance and since August 2023 as acting CFO. "I am entirely confident that Andrei, with his strong financial profile and deep experience within the company, will contribute positively to our financial development as well as bring valuable expertise to the Group Management Team," says Ivar Vatne, CEO and President of Billerud.
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FSC US President Search Update

The search for the new FSC US president is underway! There is still time to apply – see more information about the position and how to apply here: https://www.odgersberndtson.com/media/d4cipetx/ob-fsc-us-president-position-brief.pdf We encourage your expressions of interest or formal applications be submitted to Odgers Berndtson by the end of the year. Additionally, anyone who might like to have a conversation in confidence can reach out directly to derek.wilkinson@odgersberndtson.com to arrange that conversation.
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Flint Group launches 2023 Sustainability Report

Global print consumables supplier Flint Group has released its 2023 Sustainability Report, outlining the organisation's performance in the critical areas of social, economic and environmental responsibility. It is the company's first Sustainability Report since 2020 and marks a revised approach to sustainability reporting for Flint Group. Flint Group’s sustainability report offers all stakeholders greater insight into its sustainability initiatives and performance. In addition to demonstrating progress in the vital areas of resource efficiency and carbon footprint reduction, the report details the company's sustainability targets and PRISM sustainability framework, which focuses on three core areas: Product, Planet, and People.
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Stephanie Buka on Legislative and Postal Developments Affecting the Printing Industry (piworld.com)

What notable federal legislative activity took place in 2023? A significant win for the PRINTING United Alliance’s apparel community was the enactment of the bipartisan Integrity, Notification, and Fairness in Online Retail Marketplaces for Consumers Act, also known as the INFORM Consumers Act. The law will make it harder for criminal enterprises to operate in the shadows of the Internet. The Act took effect on June 27, 2023, and will crack down on criminals selling stolen, counterfeit, or unsafe items in online marketplaces. It requires online marketplaces to collect, verify, and disclose certain information about “high-volume third-party sellers.” The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) can issue civil penalties of $50,120 per violation.
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Postal Service Delivery Performance Continues to Average 2.6 Days

FY24 first quarter service performance scores covering October 1 through December 8, included: *First-Class Mail: 86.7 percent of First-Class Mail delivered on time against the USPS service standard, a decrease of 4.3 percentage points from the fiscal fourth quarter. *Marketing Mail: 93.9 percent of Marketing Mail delivered on time against the USPS service standard, a decrease of 1.3 percentage points from the fiscal fourth quarter. *Periodicals: 82.4 percent of Periodicals delivered on time against the USPS service standard, a decrease of 3.6 percentage points from the fiscal fourth quarter.
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NRF launches sustainability center

The National Retail Federation (NRF) has announced a new hub to support the expansion of sustainability efforts within retail. The NRF Center for Retail Sustainability aims to “generate economic value while creating net positive environmental, social and community benefits.” NRF said the center’s initial areas of focus include utilizing consumer insights around sustainability products and practices, facilitating the emergence of the circular economy (sponsored by Deloitte), and improving supply chain traceability within the retail industry.
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Cox Media Group Claims It Can Target Ads Based On Conversations (mediapost.com)

In what appears to be a first-of-its-kind boast, Cox Media Group claimed in marketing materials that it can use microphones in smartphones and other web connected devices to listen in on people's conversations, and then target ads to people based on those conversations. “It's True. Your Devices Are Listening to You,” the Cox Media Group (CMG) Local Solutions division wrote on a website (now archived) touting “active listening” technology. “With Active Listening, CMG can now use voice data to target your advertising to the EXACT people you are looking for.”
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Metsä Group is looking into the construction of a carbon capture facility

Metsä Group is exploring possibilities to construct a carbon capture facility at one of its pulp or bioproduct mills. The investigation is a continuation of the work initiated in the spring, in which Metsä Group and Fortum jointly studied the capture of wood-based carbon dioxide and its use in the chemical industry and hydrogen economy, for example. According to Pirita Mikkanen, Metsä Group’s VP, Energy, wood-based carbon dioxide is a major production side stream in the forest industry, and it could be used more efficiently. “Our cooperation with Fortum has given us good experiences of and greater insight into carbon capture. I believe we can use wood-based carbon dioxide emissions much more than we currently do. We see new cooperation opportunities with the chemical industry, among others.”
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Costco Wholesale Corporation Reports First Quarter Fiscal Year 2024 Operating Results

Costco Wholesale Corporation announced its operating results for the first quarter (twelve weeks) of fiscal 2024, ended November 26, 2023. For the first quarter the Company reported net sales of $56.72 billion, an increase of 6.1 percent from $53.44 billion for the first quarter of fiscal year 2023, ended November 20, 2022. Net sales were benefited by approximately one-half to one percent in the U.S. and worldwide from the shift of the fiscal calendar, as a result of the fifty-third week in fiscal year 2023.
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California Court Throws Out Underground Tax Regulations in Big Win For ACMA

The ACMA has won a hard-earned victory in its litigation against the California Franchise Tax Board (FTB). Siding with the ACMA, the California Superior Court ruled that the FTB went too far in dressing up substantive regulations as mere “guidance.” On December 13th, San Francisco Superior Court Judge Ethan Schulman issued a carefully reasoned order granting the ACMA’s motion for summary adjudication, concluding that two guidance documents published by the FTB in 2022, Technical Advice Memorandum 2022–01 and FTB Publication 1050, are void as invalid “underground regulations.”
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Texas State Board of Education Approves Savvas Learning Company’s Full Line of Texas Experience Science K-12 Learning Solutions

Savvas Learning Company, a next-generation K-12 learning solutions leader, is pleased to announce that its full line of evidence-based, standards-aligned Texas Experience Science K-12 learning solutions has been approved by the Texas State Board of Education. “Designed to inspire scientific discovery and real-world, experiential learning, our Texas Experience Science K-12 solutions use hands-on activities, combined with the exploration of phenomena, to engage and excite students,” said Bethlam Forsa, CEO of Savvas Learning Company. “Texas district and school leaders can have confidence that our science instructional materials are of the highest quality, giving educators the resources to encourage students to not only learn about science but to do science.”
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ATA Welcomes Funding to Expand Truck Parking in Wyoming, Iowa

The American Trucking Associations welcomed two major new federal investments by the U.S. Department of Transportation that will add nearly 400 truck parking spaces along key freight corridors in Wyoming and Iowa. “These projects in Wyoming and Iowa continue the momentum to alleviate the severe, nationwide shortage of truck parking, which consistently ranks as one of drivers’ top concerns,” said ATA President and CEO Chris Spear. “We are grateful that Secretary Buttigieg has continued to make Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding available to expand truck parking, and we applaud Wyoming and Iowa for prioritizing these projects in their transportation planning. More states should step up and follow their example to improve the efficient movement of freight and enhance roadway safety for all motorists.”
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Miller’s Professional Imaging Purchases an HP 100K HD Digital Press (piworld.com)

Miller’s Professional Imaging, the largest professional lab organization in the United States, is pleased to announce their acquisition of the HP Indigo 100K HD Digital Press. This investment underscores the company’s keen focus on enhancing their professional prints and press products as well as their passion to deliver unmatched service to customers. With facilities in both Pittsburg, Kansas, and Columbia, Missouri, Miller’s Professional Imaging serves clients in all fifty states and Canada. The company’s national footprint, combined with an innovative approach, allows it to tap into the power of technology while maintaining appreciation and respect for traditional print craftsmanship. When the company was founded in 1939, it was created with the intent to provide a full-service photo lab. Today, that remains true – Miller’s Professional Imaging continues to support established photographers with a comprehensive offering and one-stop business model.
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Adobe Reports Record Q4 and Fiscal 2023 Revenue

Fourth Quarter Fiscal Year 2023 Financial Highlights: *Adobe achieved revenue of $5.05 billion in its fourth quarter of fiscal year 2023, which represents 12 percent year-over-year growth or 13 percent in constant currency. Diluted earnings per share was $3.23 on a GAAP basis and $4.27 on a non-GAAP basis. *GAAP operating income in the fourth quarter was $1.74 billion and non-GAAP operating income was $2.34 billion. GAAP net income was $1.48 billion and non-GAAP net income was $1.96 billion. *Cash flows from operations were $1.60 billion. *Remaining Performance Obligations (“RPO”) exiting the quarter were $17.22 billion. *Adobe repurchased approximately 1.8 million shares during the quarter.
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Update Shows U.S. Ad Deflation Bottoming Out, Pricing Poised To Rebound In ’24 (mediapost.com)

Just as U.S. consumer price inflation appears to be flattening out following a period of protracted increases, media price inflation paid by advertisers has moved in the opposite direction, according to a new quarterly update from ECI Media Management. The U.S. data estimates ad-supported media prices in the U.S. dropped sharply throughout 2023 -- from +6.6% in the first quarter to -5.1% in the second quarter. The analysis attributes U.S. ad-price deflation mainly to the impact of the Hollywood strikes, which have been settled, but won't impact the ad marketplace until the first quarter of 2024.
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Savvas Learning Company Receives 2023 Chicago Top Workplaces Award

Savvas Learning Company, a next-generation K-12 learning solutions leader, is excited to announce that for the third year in a row it has been recognized as a top workplace in Chicago. Savvas was named to the 2023 Chicago Top Workplaces list that is published by The Chicago Tribune and produced in partnership with Energage, an employee engagement technology company. Chicago’s Top Workplaces list showcases strong workplace environments and highlights companies for their commitment to their employees, customers, and corporate mission.
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Intergraf Highlights Print’s Crucial Role In Education

In response to the recently published results of the 2022 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) by the OECD, Intergraf released a statement calling for a balanced approach to education, emphasizing the importance of retaining print materials in the learning process. The PISA 2022 results show a significant decline in student performance in reading, falling by 10 points in OECD countries. This is a substantial drop, equivalent to half a year’s worth of learning in reading. This decline is unprecedented in the history of PISA, as the OECD average score has never changed by more than five points in reading between consecutive assessments. While the COVID-19 pandemic appears to be a factor contributing to this decline, trend analysis reveals pre-pandemic declines in reading performance, thus indicating a long-term problem.
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Metsä Group invests in startup FineCell that produces pulp-based materials for beauty, healthcare, and paint products

Metsä Group has made its second Swedish investment in FineCell (FineCellOx AB), developer of the FineCell technology and producer of CellOx dry cellulose powder. The company will use the EUR 1 million seed funding to improve its material application know-how, engage with potential customers, and finalise the material needed for making an investment decision concerning a demo production facility. The funding round lead by Metsä Group’s innovation company Metsä Spring consists of a group of investors, including EIT InnoEnergy and the company’s founder. The FineCell technology can turn pulp into added-value biomaterial that can be used both as a powder and as a water solution, i.e., a hydrogel. These can replace fossil-based chemicals in beauty and healthcare products, as well as in paints. FineCell is a spinout of the KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, Sweden.
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High degree of self-sufficiency in electricity at low risk

SCA is Europe’s largest private forest owner; and in addition to producing wood, the company’s 2.7 million hectares of land offer considerable wind power production capacity. This provides the company with excellent opportunities to produce renewable electricity with land-based wind power. More than 20 per cent of Sweden’s installed wind power is currently on SCA land in northern Sweden. By investing in its own wind power capacity, SCA is striving to become fully self-sufficient in electricity. In order to achieve a high degree of self-sufficiency at the lowest possible risk, the company has actively chosen not to enter into so-called Power Purchase Agreements (PPA). “We want to be able to produce renewable electricity and have a high degree of self-sufficiency to meet our own needs. We want to do this at low risk and have therefore waived PPA, for example regarding production at Skogberget,” says Mikael Källgren, President Renewable Energy at SCA.
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EU Council should support Europes circular economy

Smurfit Kappa, a global leader in sustainable packaging, and the print and paper advocacy association, Two Sides, fully support the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) as part of Europe’s Green Deal objectives. The legislation faces a crucial moment at the EU Council of Environmental Ministers on 18 December. The Council will have to decide whether it supports the European Parliament in acknowledging that both reuse and recycling systems go hand in hand in the interest of a greener Europe. The European cardboard industry has had, for decades, the best recycling system of all packaging materials. Total corrugated cardboard production in the EU is more than 30 million tonnes per year out of which over 90 per cent is recycled. A cardboard box can be recycled up to 25 times making it the most recycled packaging material in Europe. And when it isn’t, it’s still 100% biodegradable which means it disappears in nature within four months unlike other non-recyclable materials.
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Rottneros invests in Blue Ocean Closures

Rottneros AB, one of the world's leading suppliers of first-class market pulp, is now investing in Blue Ocean Closures and becomes a co-owner of the Swedish start-up, developing proprietary fiber-based packaging materials. Since just two years, Blue Ocean Closures AB has developed technology to produce fiber-based closures for consumer packaging at large scale, aiming to replace current plastic solutions on a global market. The innovative technology and material have potential for many more high volume use cases and making an impact in terms of reducing plastic pollution and its climate effects.
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Suzano again selects innovative ANDRITZ solution for major fluff pulp expansion project

International technology group ANDRITZ has received a follow-up order from Brazilian pulp and paper producer Suzano for a major conversion project at the Limeira pulp mill. The project will enable Suzano to increase its eucalyptus-based fluff pulp production capacity from 100,000 to 440,000 tons per year to meet the growing global demand for personal hygiene products. Suzano is the only company in the world producing fluff pulp from hardwood – based on ANDRITZ technology.
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Lecta, committed to purchasing certified and controlled pulp and fiber

Wood is a natural, renewable resource, and Lecta firmly supports its responsible use to preserve forests, the environment and its value for our society at large. Our Responsible Purchasing of Wood and Forest-Based Products Policy states our commitment regarding the purchasing of pulp and fiber. The policy and its requirements, along with the principles in our Code of Ethics and Lecta's Integrated Management System Policy, ensure the correct management of our purchases, in line with our sustainability targets. In keeping with these values, Lecta’s PEFC and FSC® C011032 Chain of Custody system has been in place for years to guarantee accountability and the protection of forest resources through tracking systems.
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Sappi achieves PEFC Group Scheme certification for small growers

Five small timber growers in KwaZulu-Natal, have made history by becoming the first participants in the Sappi Khulisa programme to achieve forest certification through the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) in the Sappi Group Scheme for small growers. The five timber growers, with a total 8,143 hectares of timber area, have been successfully audited and awarded a PEFC Group Scheme certificate. The recipients of this significant award and founding members of the Sappi PEFC Group Scheme are the iMfume Cluster, consisting of more than 20l individual small growers from the Mfume district near Scottburgh, Sobengwe Trading from Ixopo, MG Farming from Richmond, Mclean M from Underberg, and Braecroft Timbers (Pty) Ltd from Underberg.
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Stora Enso commits to net-zero carbon emissions

Stora Enso remains committed to deliver on its existing 2030 target to reduce absolute Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions by 50% from the 2019 baseline. This target is aligned with the 1.5-degree scenario and is approved by the Science Based Targets initiative. Stora Enso will continue its decarbonisation journey to improve energy efficiency and to switch from fossil-based energy sources to renewable ones. Stora Enso will further improve its Scope 3 performance by enhancing efficiency and lowering carbon intensity in the value chain, collaborating with its raw material suppliers, logistics suppliers, and customers. Signatories of The Climate Pledge agree to: – Measure and report greenhouse gas emissions on a regular basis. – Implement decarbonisation strategies in line with the Paris Agreement through real business changes and innovations, including efficiency improvements, renewable energy, materials reductions, and other carbon emission elimination strategies. – Neutralise any remaining emissions with additional, quantifiable, real, permanent, and socially beneficial offsets to achieve net-zero annual carbon emissions by 2040.
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Grainger Announces Agreement to Sell E&R Industrial Sales, Inc.

Grainger announced the sale of E&R Industrial Sales, Inc. to Paradigm Equity Partners, a Los Angeles-based private equity firm. E&R Industrial became a subsidiary of W.W. Grainger, Inc. in 2013. "We are excited about this next stage of growth with Paradigm Equity Partners," said Jason D'Souza, President, E&R Industrial Sales, Inc. "E&R Industrial is firmly committed to a smooth transition for our customers, suppliers and team members." Grainger will continue to serve customers with maintenance metalworking products, services and expertise while focusing on its core business of maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) products and services. Customers will continue to have access to E&R's assortment when purchasing through Grainger, while E&R customers will have access to Grainger's MRO-leading assortment when purchasing through E&R. Details of the agreement were not publicly disclosed.
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AAP September 2023 StatShot Report: Overall Publishing Industry Flat for Month of September, and Up 0.8% Year-To-Date

The Association of American Publishers (AAP) today released its StatShot report for September 2023 reflecting reported revenue for Trade (Consumer Books), Higher Education Course Materials, and Professional Publishing. Total revenues across all categories for September 2023 were flat as compared to September 2022, coming in at $1.4 billion. Year-to-date revenues were up 0.8%, at $9.4 billion for the first nine months of the year. Trade (Consumer Books) revenues were down 0.4% in September, coming in at $905.9 million. In terms of physical paper format revenues during the month of September, in the Trade (Consumer Books) category, Hardback revenues were up 7.2%, coming in at $379.2 million; Paperbacks were down 4.9%, with $299.1 million in revenue; Mass Market was down 39.5% to $11.3 million; and Special Bindings were up 11.8%, with $27.1 million in revenue.
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Penguin Random House Acquires Hay House (publishersweekly.com)

Penguin Random House has acquired Hay House, the self-help and health and wellness publisher founded by bestselling You Can Heal Your Life author Louise Hay in 1984. Terms of the transaction, which was brokered by Oaklins DeSilva+Philips, were not disclosed. Reid Tracy, CEO of Hay House, will continue to run the publisher, which will "retain its editorial and publishing independence," after the deal closes, the companies said in a statement. In addition, "no changes are planned" for Hay House's employees, management, or offices in Carlsbad, Calif., New York, and London.
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Transcontinental Inc. Announces Results for the Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year 2023

*Revenues of $779.7 million for the quarter ended October 29, 2023; operating earnings of $66.7 million; and net earnings attributable to shareholders of the Corporation of $41.7 million ($0.48 per share). *Launched an ambitious program including costs reductions, measures aimed at less-performing activities and the sale of real estate assets to improve the Corporation's earnings per share and balance sheet. Actions already undertaken: *Closed the Montreal recycling plant and integrated recycling into packaging plants. *Announced, on November 24, 2023, the closure of the Tomah, Wisconsin, packaging plant in February 2024.
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RRD Answers Industry’s Call for Consolidated Supplier Solutions with Specialized Life Sciences Platform

With a focus on marketing communications and the secondary packaging supply chain, this specialized offering from RRD’s Life Sciences group meets the industry’s growing need for consolidated supplier solutions amid increasing regulatory scrutiny. “From concept to consumers, our platform for product commercialization makes end-to-end visibility possible, which is something our clients find tremendous value in as they seek to reduce risk, meet inflexible timelines, and alleviate margin pressures,” says Ken Gammon, Senior Vice President, RRD Healthcare Solutions. The following core capabilities and services form the foundation of RRD’s single-source offering: *Creative execution – a global creative suite of production services *Marketing communications – industry expertise and production support for all healthcare-professional and consumer-facing communications *Packaging and labels – structural engineering, design, testing and manufacturing of product packaging and secondary packaging *Kitting and fulfillment – a globally integrated network to drive resilience, speed to market and increase market share for both indirect and direct product execution
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Anna Jonhed has been appointed CEO of Rottneros Packaging

She will take office during the first half of 2024 and will be part of the Rottneros group management. The background is that Rottneros Packaging is now entering the next phase as the leading supplier of high-quality fiber-based packaging. This involves an increased focus on developing market position and reaching the right customers with full force, as well as increasing production capacity. So far, the main focus has been on developing the product and production process. Interest and demand are growing strongly for molded fiber trays as a sustainable alternative to fossil-based packaging. As part of Rottneros' commitment, the organization needs to evolve with both more people and new skills to maintain the pace of business development and enhance the group's leading market position.
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In 50 years, it will still do the job

Our durable packaging material can be recycled up to 25 times, and still do an important job in society. They also play an essential role in the global loop of paper recycling, which requires long fiber to be constantly added in order to work. With the ability to be born again and again – first as strong packaging, later as egg cartons or tissue. After six cycles the paper material can continue its journey, being recycled up to 25 times* into various everyday applications such as egg cartons and tissue. With an estimated shelf time of two years a single batch of our paper could potentially remain in use for about 50 years. Our durable paper is an important element in the recycling loop. By choosing our paper, you are not just selecting a product; you are participating in a cycle of environmental responsibility.
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Service Performance Across USPS Network Remains Stable

FY24 first quarter service performance scores covering October 1 through December 1, included: *First-Class Mail: 87.1 percent of First-Class Mail delivered on time against the USPS service standard, a decrease of 3.9 percentage points from the fiscal fourth quarter. *Marketing Mail: 94.0 percent of Marketing Mail delivered on time against the USPS service standard, a decrease of 1.2 percentage points from the fiscal fourth quarter. *Periodicals: 83.3 percent of Periodicals delivered on time against the USPS service standard, a decrease of 2.8 percentage points from the fiscal fourth quarter.
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‘The Nation’ Reduces Print Frequency In Favor Of Bigger Issues (mediapost.com)

The Nation, which now appears every other week, is switch to monthly frequency in January. The leftist magazine is promising 84 “bigger, richer” pages instead of the 48 it is serving now, according to the New York Times. This is being done in response to reader preferences, says D.D. Guttenplan, editor, • “Unlike almost all of our competitors, The Nation has never made a lot of money from advertising,” Mr. Guttenplan points out, according to the Times. The Nation is resolutely not going to an all-digital model.
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Stora Enso’s fourth quarter 2023 impairment test results

Stora Enso will record non-cash impairments of approximately EUR 514 million in its IFRS operating result in the fourth quarter of 2023. The impairments will be reported as an item affecting comparability (IAC). Including the estimated positive tax effect of EUR 65 million, the net result impact will be approximately EUR 449 million negative. The fixed asset impairments in the Packaging Materials division mainly relate to the Business Unit Containerboard and in the Biomaterials division to the Nordic production units. The impairments are mainly a consequence of Stora Enso's predictions of a weaker outlook compared to previous estimates.
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Folding Carton Company Invests in RMGT 1060TP Press (piworld.com)

RM Machinery announces the installation of a second press from the RMGT 10-Series line to Relevant Packaging of Omaha, Nebraska—the RMGT 1060TP-8 (7/1)+DD+LD. The installation, which took place in September 2023, coincided with the folding carton company’s milestone of achieving 40 million impressions on its RMGT 1050LX-6+CC+LD, a press purchased from RM Machinery in November 2022. The two RMGT presses from the 10-Series line are now predominantly responsible for Relevant Packaging’s folding carton production. Prior to purchasing the RMGT 1060TP, Relevant Packaging operated an offset press from another manufacturer that required multiple passes during production over the course of seven days. With the 1060TP, Relevant Packaging was able to cut its production time to four days thanks to the press’s ability to print seven colors on one side and an eighth on the other using UV ink in a single pass.
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Cortec Coated Products Recognized by Wisconsin DNR with Recycling Excellence Award

Cortec® is pleased to announce that its Cortec® Coated Products (CCP) division in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, has won the Wisconsin Recycling Excellence Award! CCP is one of 11 organizations that received the award this year from the Wisconsin DNR (Department of Natural Resources) in recognition of outstanding efforts to recycle and reduce waste. CCP’s award falls under the category of “Projects and Initiatives” that have led to the recycling of more material and/or better recycling cost-effectiveness. In addition to sourcing most of its paper rolls from recycled content, CCP’s specialty is to apply a corrosion inhibiting coating that still allows the paper to be recycled after use. This is an important environmental benefit for manufacturers and distributors that use Cortec® VpCI® Paper to package and protect metal parts in a variety of industries.
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Sustainability meets efficiency: Sentrex chooses Mondi’s Advantage StretchWrap for pallet wrapping

Mondi has introduced its Advantage StretchWrap, a paper wrapping solution that replaces plastic stretch film and enables a more efficient logistics process, to Sentrex, a European manufacturer of paper bags. Advantage StretchWrap is a fully recyclable kraft paper that is made from responsibly sourced materials. Mondi developed it to stretch and resist punctures, making it ideal for replacing the plastic stretch film that has traditionally been used for pallet wrapping and transportation. Advantage StretchWrap has 62% lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions when compared to virgin plastic stretch film, and 49% lower GHG emissions when compared to plastic film made with 50% recycled content, according to a peer-reviewed independent life cycle assessment.* By switching to Mondi’s kraft paper solution and using EW Technology’s fully automated machinery, Sentrex was able to increase efficiency in the wrapping process: The production of the paper bags requires a drying process to remove moisture from the bags before they can be wrapped in plastic stretch film, to avoid condensation within the packaging. Mondi’s Advantage StretchWrap is breathable and can therefore be used to wrap and pack products immediately after paper bag production within one in-line process.
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UPM listed the only forest and paper industry company in the Dow Jones World and European Sustainability Indices

UPM has been listed as the only forest and paper industry company in the Dow Jones Global and European Sustainability Indices (DJSI) for the years 2023-2024. The indices cover environmental, social and governance aspects of responsibility. "In a rapidly changing world, companies need to accelerate their pace and commit to long-term, tangible sustainability actions. UPM has a unique role to lead the transition towards a future beyond fossils. We enable our customers and consumers achieve their own sustainability targets and contribute positively to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals. We have also adopted a transparent and holistic approach to reporting to meet the ever-expanding demands of our stakeholders," says Sami Lundgren, Vice President of Responsibility at UPM.
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Elopak selects Little Rock, Arkansas for its new production plant in the USA

Elopak has announced plans to build its first U.S. production plant with the latest state-of-the-art technology for better and more efficient production. The plant will produce Pure-Pak® cartons for liquid dairy, juices, plant-based products and liquid eggs. The new production facility will be located in Little Rock, Arkansas and is expected to start production in H1, 2025. It represents a significant investment for the region of around USD 70 million including the land, the building and the equipment. The new plant will create more than 100 permanent jobs in the region for engineers, printers, operators, logistics specialists and other support groups.
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UPS to boost global trade with enhanced operations at new hub at Hong Kong International Airport

Global logistics service provider UPS (NYSE: UPS) and the Hong Kong Airport Authority have entered into an agreement that improves UPS service to customers and enhances the company’s operations in Asia with a new hub at the Hong Kong International Airport and near the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge. The new hub will serve as UPS Hong Kong’s main facility for processing and sorting imports, exports, and transshipments, to and from Europe, the U.S., and other parts of Asia. The hub is expected to be completed by 2028 and will be built on a land parcel of 20,000 square metres with direct access to aircraft. The facility is being designed to handle close to 1 million tons of annual capacity, giving UPS and its customers around the world better and more reliable connectivity to Hong Kong, the Greater Bay Area1, and the growing Asia Pacific consumer market.
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Survey: Sustainability takes back seat to price with holiday shoppers

A new survey that finds consumers value-minded this holiday season also ranks the brands they perceive as most sustainable. Bombas was rated the top sustainable brand, followed by Yeti and The North Face, according to Stifel’s “Sustainable Lifestyle Brands Index,” which ranks brands based on U.S. active/casual lifestyle consumer perception of brand sustainability practices. The brands were measured according to three metrics of sustainability: environmental, social and ethical business practices. The Index was released in conjunction with a survey in which Stifel, working with Morning Consult, surveyed 6,053 U.S. active/causal lifestyle brand consumers ages 18-55. The survey data indicates heightened price sensitivity, just as the holiday shopping season kicks into high gear.
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Novolex Unveils Food Packaging Containers that are Recyclable and Made with 10% Recycled Plastic

The newest products made with at least 10% PCR include: • Signature dessert cups: Designed to enhance dessert presentations, these transparent cups are available in three sizes and come with a universal lid. All are made with polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a strong, lightweight and recyclable plastic. • CakePak™ bases and lids: These clear containers offer the patented EZ Release™ system that features easy-to-use lift tabs, making the containers simple to open and seal. They offer different bases to fit various cake designs, with customization options available. • BreakAway™ tamper-evident containers: These clear containers keep food safe and secure with a tamper-evident feature indicating when the top has been removed. They also are stackable and available in various popular sizes and shapes. • Multi-use clamshells: These clear containers provide optimal product visibility and enhance food presentation. They also feature a secure closure that provides a tight seal to keep food fresh. The clamshells come in a variety of custom shapes and sizes, making them ideal for loaf cakes, cookies and more.
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UPM Raflatac reveals the power of labels to drive purchasing and influence tasting experience

UPM Raflatac has released the findings of a new neuromarketing study. Results show the power of different label materials and finishes to shape consumer perceptions and drive purchasing. Focused on white wine labels, the research carried out in collaboration with partners in the packaging value chain, ARGEA, SenseCatch, Kurz, and Krämer Druck, shows that label material and finishes all have a significant part to play in consumer purchasing behavior and post-purchase enjoyment. The research has been summarized in a book, which also features a foreword by Uwe Melichari, a sustainable packaging expert, designer, and Pentawards jury member. The book is available in three languages and as a digital version. A wine’s label plays a pivotal role in the consumer’s decision to buy it or not. In fact, according to a study on the wine sector conducted by wine.net, it was found that 82% of a sample of 2000 consumers relied primarily on the label to choose their favorite wine. Many other studies have also commented on the link between the perceived taste of wine and expectations, and how these are influenced by the label’s color, shape, paper, printing technique, and overall design.
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RRD Survey: Marketers Turning to Proven Channels and Strategies

A study released today by R.R. Donnelley Sons & Company (RRD) revealed that marketers' preference for channels with proven return on investment more than doubled over the past year (38% compared to 15%). The Modern Marketers Report found that economic uncertainty, increasing privacy concerns, and consumer fatigue toward marketers’ digital strategies are driving the resurgence of “tried and true” marketing channels. In addition, managing vendors was reported as a more common top organizational challenge this year than it was in 2022 (23% compared to 7%). The Modern Marketers Report, the company’s fourth annual marketing industry report, compares 1,000+ US consumers’ purchasing behaviors and preferences and attitudes toward brands’ marketing tactics with how 500+ U.S.-based marketing professionals are planning, executing, and adjusting their strategies. “During the holiday shopping season, consumers are thinking twice before they open their wallets or provide their personal information to receive deals,” said Al duPont, Chief Commercial Officer at RRD. “Results from our latest report show that marketers pairing their most reliable channels with positioning that blends convenience and savings stand the best chance for fostering customer loyalty in an increasingly competitive market.”
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U.S. Postal Service Announces Holiday Operating Schedule

The United States Postal Service today announced that all branches will be closed in observance of Christmas and New Year’s Day. This closure affects all postal services, including retail services, mail delivery and blue collection boxes. This year, Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve each fall on Sunday, when normal closures apply. There are currently no plans for limited hours on Saturday, Dec. 23 or Saturday, Dec. 30. Customers are always encouraged to check with their local Post Office for hours of operation.
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Wiley Reports Second Quarter 2024 Results

GAAP Results: Revenue of $493 million (-4%), Operating income of $46 million (-19%), and EPS loss of -$0.35 (-$1.03). GAAP earnings impacted by impairment charges of $52 million related to our held for sale or sold assets and restructuring charges totalling $25 million related to our value creation plan. “Our second quarter and year-to-date overall performance was in line with our expectations as we execute on our value creation plan to make Wiley a stronger, leaner, and more profitable company focused on driving consistent growth in our core,” said Matthew Kissner, Interim President and CEO. “We expect year-over-year revenue improvement in the second half and expect to exit the year with a stronger margin profile. Fiscal 2025 and 2026 is where we will realize the full benefits of our current actions.”
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Publishers Submit Reply Comments to Copyright Office in Artificial Intelligence Proceeding

The Association of American Publishers today filed reply comments in the U.S. Copyright Office inquiry into the intersection of copyright law and artificial intelligence (AI) in response to flawed and inaccurate assertions submitted by some tech companies and/or their investors in the first comment round including tired assertions that the rights of authors and publishers are an obstacle to innovation. AAP filed a lengthy submission that includes a multitude of points, including: *Big tech petitions the government “for cover from liability for their calculated disregard of authorship, also ignoring that rights holders today already routinely license their works for all kinds of digital uses.” *“Rather than working with copyright owners, these companies seek to appropriate literature and other invaluable intellectual property for their own commercial gain, and to bend the law to their will."
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New Aptar Mumbai Site to Increase Manufacturing Capabilities

Aptar Pharma, a global leader in drug delivery systems, services and active material science solutions, today announced the opening of its new Aptar Mumbai site, which will increase manufacturing capabilities in South East Asia. An inauguration ceremony held on December 1, 2023, marked the official opening of the new Aptar Mumbai production facility in the Palava Industrial and Logistics Park at Taloja, Mumbai. Members of Aptar’s Executive Committee and Aptar Pharma’s Global Leadership Team welcomed more than 100 key customers and Aptar employees from the Mumbai and Hyderabad, India sites to this momentous occasion, which included a ribbon cutting and tree-planting ceremony. Manufacturing capabilities at Aptar Mumbai, which began in 2012 with the assembly and supply of metered dose valves and pumps, have now been expanded to offer more innovative product solutions and ensure increased manufacturing capacity to pharma customers in South East Asia.
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‘Can Do’ Attitude Needed To Achieve 100 per Cent Recycling Rate for All Aluminium Drinks Cans

A 100 per cent recycling target by 2050 for the world’s aluminium drinks cans has been set by industry leaders at COP 28. Aluminium producers, recyclers, rolling mills, can makers and industry associations have set the target having stressed the need for enhanced recycling to support the IEAs Net Zero 2050 goal. Currently more than 70 per cent of aluminium beverage cans are recycled into new products but this figure falls short of making the complete contribution necessary for achieving the 1.5-degree target.
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Greif Reports Fourth Quarter and Fiscal 2023 Results

Fourth Quarter Results Include (all results compared to the fourth quarter 2022 unless otherwise noted): *Net income of $67.8 million or $1.16 per diluted Class A share compared to net income of $99.5 million or $1.67 per diluted Class A share. Net income, excluding the impact of adjustments(1), of $90.9 million or $1.56 per diluted Class A share compared to net income, excluding the impact of adjustments, of $109.0 million or $1.83 per diluted Class A share. *Net cash provided by operating activities decreased by $83.1 million to $203.5 million. Adjusted free cash flow(3) decreased by $98.3 million to $136.2 million. Fiscal Year Results Include (all results compared to the fiscal year 2022 unless otherwise noted): *Net income of $359.2 million or $6.15 per diluted Class A share compared to net income of $376.7 million or $6.30 per diluted Class A share. Net income, excluding the impact of adjustments, of $358.7 million or $6.14 per diluted Class A share compared to net income, excluding the impact of adjustments, of $471.2 million or $7.87 per diluted Class A share. *Net cash provided by operating activities decreased by $8.0 million to $649.5 million. Adjusted free cash flow decreased by $25.1 million to $481.2 million.
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VIDA to invest in Bruza Sawmill in Hjältevad, Sweden

VIDA AB, owned 70% by Canfor Corporation, announced that it will invest approximately 700 million SEK (CAD$85 million) at its Bruza Sawmill in Hjältevad, expanding production from 175 million board feet to 240 million board feet. This major investment includes a new highcapacity planing mill equipped with the latest technology, a new boiler, wood drying kilns and warehouse. “I’m very happy that we’ve made this decision to increase our capacity in eastern Småland, together with our sawmills in Vimmerby and Mörlunda. This investment clearly demonstrates that we believe in wood as the material of the future, and in Hjältevad as a place to grow our business,” said Måns Johansson, CEO of Vida AB and President, Canfor Europe.
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Who Should Use Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) in 2024? (piworld.com)

EDDM (every door direct mail) has gained popularity. EDDM as defined by the USPS is designed to help you reach every home, every address, every time. You can map out a target area, use demographic data (e.g. age, household income, and size) to select a delivery route, choose a mailing drop-off date, and pay online — all from your computer. You can create your mailings up to 30 days before you plan to mail them. Simply enter an address, ZIP code, or city and state for your target area to get started. Sounds great right? So how do you know if EDDM is right for you?
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The Future of Energy and Paper – Laakirchen / Steyrermühl

Paper production in Laakirchen and Steyrermühl is undergoing radical changes. The two sites - in future both part of the HEINZEL GROUP - are to grow together into a center for sustainable packaging papers, renewable energy and wood processing. Several key projects are planned and the projects are being presented at a press conference of Laakirchen Papier AG on Wednesday, December 6th: from the conversion of the paper machines to the production of sustainable packaging papers to the conversion of the energy supply to renewable energy sources through the use of existing recyclable and residual materials to the expansion of district heating. The HEINZEL GROUP is pursuing ambitious climate targets, focusing even more on the circular economy and planning to significantly reduce its consumption of fossil natural gas.
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Mondi’s commitment to boost saturating kraft paper gives customers the advantage

Mondi has expanded its range of saturating kraft paper and increased capacity, in order to improve and enhance its service to manufacturers of internal and external building panels, worktops, furniture and technical films. With the previously announced investment in a new paper machine at its Štĕtí plant in the Czech Republic and further increases in production efficiency, Mondi will optimise capacity across its mill network, providing increased production of its saturating kraft, Advantage MF Boost, at Mondi Frantschach in Austria and Mondi Dynäs in Sweden. Both Frantschach and Dynäs mills are ideally placed to deliver short lead times across Europe and provide customers with reassurance of good service and production back-up. These changes signal Mondi's commitment to increase the availability of Advantage MF Boost – the kraft paper that is used in laminated applications.
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Average Time to Deliver Across Postal Network Steady at 2.6 Days

FY24 first quarter service performance scores covering October 1 through November 24, included: *First-Class Mail: 87.5 percent of First-Class Mail delivered on time against the USPS service standard, a decrease of 3.6 percentage points from the fiscal fourth quarter. *Marketing Mail: 94.2 percent of Marketing Mail delivered on time against the USPS service standard, a decrease of 1.1 percentage points from the fiscal fourth quarter. *Periodicals: 84.2 percent of Periodicals delivered on time against the USPS service standard, a decrease of 1.8 percentage points from the fiscal fourth quarter.
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Hearst Newspapers Acquires Puzzle Games Platform Puzzmo

Hearst Newspapers announced the acquisition of Puzzmo, a new collaborative puzzle games platform. The announcement was made by Hearst Newspapers President Jeffrey Johnson. Developed over the last three years by founders Zach Gage and Orta Therox, Puzzmo.com is the new place for thoughtful puzzles. The site will be the home of web-based versions of Gage’s award-winning puzzle games catalog, including Apple Arcade mainstays like SpellTower and new and exclusive releases beginning with FlipArt and Wordbind. Puzzmo will connect each game and every player with a unified system of points, achievements, social connections and multi-player modes never before seen in the puzzle games category, creating a sense of community. Gage and Therox will lead game development and technology for the platform at Hearst.
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Active Interest Media Acquires The Taunton Press (mediapost.com)

Enthusiast media company Active Interest Media (AIM) has acquired Taunton Press, a consumer media and book business. Terms were not disclosed. The purchase of Newtown, CT-based Taunton doubles AIM’s reach in the gardening, woodworking and homebuilding sectors, the company states. “While the symmetry of many of our core markets is obvious; woodworking, gardening, and homebuilding; there are many other similarities,” notes Andrew Clurman, president and CEO of AIM. For one, both firms have been “aggressively pursuing the creation of new digital products, memberships, and online learning to better serve their audiences," Clurman adds. For another, the two companies share “a dedication to producing high-quality information, and inspiring enthusiasts for hands-on living,” says Andrea Roman, board chair of Taunton Press.
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Sonoco Acquires Inapel Embalagens Ltda.

Global packaging leader Sonoco is pleased to announce the expansion of its flexible packaging service operations with the acquisition of Inapel Embalagens Ltda. in Brazil. Inapel has been an industry leading flexible packaging manufacturer for over 50 years. The company currently operates two facilities in São Paulo – one in Jundiai and the other in Guarulhos – with approximately 500 employees companywide. Production capabilities range from rotogravure printing, adhesive and extrusion laminations, specialty coatings, cold seal, pouching and cylinder engraving. Inapel will add to Sonoco’s existing flexible packaging operation in Pinhais, Brazil. The Sonoco Graffo site has been a top producer of high-quality rotogravure printing and sophisticated lamination for eight years and is one of the largest converters of foil-based flexibles packaging.
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Clearwater Paper Announces Achievements in Its 2023 Sustainability Report

Clearwater Paper Corporation has released its 2023 Sustainability Report, an annual update on the company’s progress against its multi-year sustainability goals. The report also announces Clearwater Paper’s new strategic sustainability framework, Everyday Responsibility. This forward-looking strategy centers the company’s sustainability work and initiatives on three distinct pillars: Resource Stewardship, Trusted Products, and Thriving People and Communities. “Our new strategic sustainability framework reflects our unwavering commitment to Everyday Responsibility, which aligns with Clearwater Paper’s core values, sustainability goals and business objectives,” said Arsen Kitch, president and chief executive officer. “It serves to guide our present and future actions and helps us communicate with our stakeholders more effectively. Together, we will continue to be a company that customers are excited to partner with, our employees are proud to work for and that our communities can count on.”
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Georgia-Pacific Announces $150 Million Investment in Halsey Facility

Georgia-Pacific seeks to grow its retail consumer tissue business through a $150 million investment in its facility in Halsey, Oregon. Investments at Halsey, which started in 2022, will increase production capacity for high quality bath tissue, with initial production expected in 2025. When the work at this facility is complete, Georgia-Pacific will have invested more than $200 million in paper machine and converting assets. “This truly is an investment in our customers and consumers who appreciate the quality of our products,” said Vivek Joshi, president of the retail tissue, towel, and napkin business for Georgia-Pacific. “It is a clear indication of Georgia-Pacific’s focus on growing our premium tissue business and creating products that consumers value.” The Halsey facility makes both bath tissue and paper towels for the consumer market, and the improvements will support Georgia-Pacific’s premium tissue offerings, such as Quilted Northern Ultra Plush® tissue, as well as customer branded tissue.
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Magna Upgrades U.S. Ad Outlook Marginally, Cites Second Half Growth (mediapost.com)

IPG Mediabrands Magna unit this evening released the latest in a series of quarterly updates on the U.S. ad spending outlook, increasing its 2023 estimate up two-tenths of a point, and its 2024 projection up four-tenths of a point. Magna's 2023 estimate still is down dramatically from its first estimate published in June 2022, but has been climbing steady since it bottomed out at +2.5% in June 2023. Magna's 2024 estimate has climbed steadily since benchmarking it at +7.3% in June 2023.
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Ivar Vatne appointed CEO of Billerud

The Board of Billerud has appointed Ivar Vatne to be the President and CEO of Billerud. Ivar Vatne has been acting President and CEO since July 2023 and enters the permanent position with immediate effect. “The Board has conducted a thorough recruitment process and has evaluated both internal and external candidates. We are very pleased that Ivar is willing to take on the job and it shows real strength that we find the best candidate within the company. Ivar is a highly appreciated leader, and he has deep knowledge about the company’s strategic direction. He has also proved that he understands the importance of continuous improvements to secure competitiveness, and has the ability to drive them”, says Jan Svensson, Chairman of Billerud.
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Lecta unveils new functional Metalvac papers

Lecta has developed new metallized papers with functionalities specifically oriented towards flexible packaging, recyclable products with the aim of replacing some of the materials currently in use that contain plastic. The new Metalvac Seal and Metalvac Barrier WV are the result of innovative w​ork based on Lecta's expertise in direct high-vacuum metallization, the application of coatings and the search for the appropriate components to achieve the desired functionalities. Both products we present have characteristics suitable for specific flexible packaging applications, and in both cases, they are recyclable and therefore more sustainable. Metalvac Seal: Suitable for graphic and flexible packaging applications (such as flowpacks, sachets, envelopes, or wrappers) for non-food products (collectible cards, stickers, toys, hotel amenities, etc.) and food products that do not require a specific barrier. Metalvac Barrier WV: Suitable for flexible packaging applications (such as flowpacks, sachets, wrappers, caps, etc.) for both non-food and food products (such as confectionery, coffee, tea, powdered products, etc.).
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Mativ Announces Completion of Sale of Engineered Papers Business

Julie Schertell, CEO of Mativ, commented, “We are very pleased with the completion of the sale of Engineered Papers. They have a great team and strategy in place for a successful future. For Mativ, this is an important part of unlocking our strategy to become a leading manufacturer of specialty materials. As we head into 2024, over 80% of our revenue will be from our Advanced Technical Materials segment, where we have strong positions in large, growing, profitable markets.” The net impact of the transaction on Mativ’s debt is expected to be a reduction of more than $600 million, which equates to approximately 35% of Mativ’s outstanding debt balance as of the end of the third quarter, and is subject to customary post-closing adjustments. This debt reduction is expected to be effective early December 2023. “This transaction fully aligns with our commitment to continued debt reduction and operational focus in attractive markets that accelerate our growth and expand our margins,” stated Schertell. “It marks a key milestone in the transformation of Mativ and aligns with our strategy to focus our efforts, accelerate growth, and drive value for our shareholders.”
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Pulp and Paper Manufacturing – Water Quality Explained

It’s important that the use of water to make products doesn’t result in contamination of waterways. Pulp and paper manufacturing requires a large amount of water, and facilities are often located near rivers or lakes to be close to a good water supply. Once the water is used in the process, it is treated in an effluent treatment plant, and regulatory standards have been established to ensure that the final discharged effluent meets government environmental regulations for the protection of waterways. EPAT provides water quality data, such as TSS, COD, BOD and AOX, to its users and they can be especially useful to buyers of paper-based products who are tracking the environmental performance of their paper or packaging suppliers.
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Ulta Beauty Announces Third Quarter Fiscal 2023 Results

Third Quarter of Fiscal 2023 Compared to Third Quarter of Fiscal 2022 *Net sales increased 6.4% to $2.5 billion compared to $2.3 billion, primarily due to increased comparable sales, strong new store performance, and strong growth in other revenue. *Comparable sales (sales for stores open at least 14 months and e-commerce sales) increased 4.5% compared to an increase of 14.6%, driven by a 5.9% increase in transactions and a 1.4% decrease in average ticket. *Gross profit increased 3.0% to $992.1 million compared to $962.8 million. As a percentage of net sales, gross profit decreased to 39.9% compared to 41.2%, primarily due to lower merchandise margin, higher inventory shrink, and higher supply chain costs, partially offset by strong growth in other revenue. *Operating income was $327.2 million, or 13.1% of net sales, compared to $361.9 million, or 15.5% of net sales. *Net income was $249.5 million compared to $274.6 million.
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Postmaster General Louis DeJoy Shares Approach To Leadership and Vision for Transformation of USPS

Postmaster General Louis DeJoy recently delivered remarks at the 2023 Concordia United States Summit in Cary, NC. DeJoy highlighted how he has leveraged his private sector background to reshape and strengthen the U.S. Postal Service, the nation’s most trusted agency. Following his remarks, DeJoy was interviewed by Michelle Giuda, CEO of the Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy at Purdue University. “It’s about innovation. It’s about a commitment to work and precision. It’s about competing in a marketplace ... and getting a competitive advantage on everything around you,” DeJoy said in response to a question from Giuda about his approach to leading USPS. DeJoy’s remarks focused on how the Postal Service is continuing to transform and improve operating practices across the organization.
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Sheridan to Advance Bindery Operations with Two State-of-the-Art Muller Martini Perfect Binding Systems

Sheridan is delighted to announce not one, but two steps forward in its binding capabilities with the installation of two cutting-edge Muller Martini perfect binding systems. Installation of a Muller Martini Publica PRO12 binding system is currently underway at Sheridan’s Versailles, KY facility and is expected to be fully operational by year end. This highly automated system boasts a robust 12,000 cycles per hour and features a 24-pocket gathering line, end-sheet tipping and lining station, EVA and PUR glue application, trimmer, and stacker. Another perfect binding system, also a Muller Martini Publica PRO12, has been installed at the Grand Rapids, MI facility and is ramping up operations.
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BLUE4EST® Checkout Receipt Can Be Disposed of as Wastepaper

Recently, there has been an increase in contradictory information being spread about the recyclability of Blue4est® checkout receipts. Whereas the German Environment Agency states it is fully recyclable, according to the association INGEDE (International Research Community for De-Inking Technology) blue checkout receipts can cause problems when disposed of as wastepaper, even in small quantities. This statement is inaccurate, and is causing confusion among consumers. The first sustainable and recyclable thermal paper Blue4est® – also known as the blue receipt or eco-receipt – was launched onto the market in 2015. Now, a host of customers across Europe are using these sustainable checkout receipts. The innovative technology has since been refined, with the introduction of Blue4est® Pro paper for labels in 2022. Blue4est® is produced entirely without chemical developers, which is why the German Environment Agency recommends disposing of it as wastepaper. This allows the paper to be recycled and reused as a new raw material. Some time ago, the German Environment Agency officially confirmed – including via an announcement on its website – that blue checkout receipts can be disposed of as wastepaper.
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UPM Raflatac partners with Soprema to promote label waste recycling with the RafCycle™ service

UPM Raflatac announces Soprema as its main partner in label waste recycling in the EMEIA region. Soprema, one of the world's leading companies in waterproofing and a specialist in roofing and insulation, will transform the label waste collected through RafCycle™ by UPM Raflatac recycling service into new construction and insulation materials. Soprema is a key player in the construction sector. With a presence of 123 manufacturing sites and over 120 subsidiaries worldwide, Soprema is known for its commitment to sustainable construction solutions and investment in innovation. The collaboration with UPM Raflatac further underlines Soprema's dedication to sustainability. UPM Raflatac’s RafCycle service is committed to liner waste recycling. With this innovative partnership, label waste is converted into insulation solutions, supporting the use of renewable sources in the construction industry at Soprema’s site in France.
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Local Coca-Cola bottler to replace 200,000 pounds of plastic a year with WestRock paper packaging solution

Liberty Coca-Cola Beverages, a local Coca-Cola bottler serving Philadelphia, New Jersey and New York City, and WestRock will collaborate to implement a paperboard carrier that replaces plastic rings for its multipack bottled beverages. WestRock’s PETCollar™ Shield Plus paper-based packaging will be used at Liberty’s Philadelphia production facility to package Coca-Cola’s top brands in multipacks. The 12 ounce (355 millileter) and 16.9 ounce (500 milliliter) products packaged with the durable, easy-to-hold carriers will be distributed throughout Liberty’s multi-state territory. Liberty Coca-Cola Beverages will be the first bottler in the world to implement the PETCollar Shield Plus bottle clip solution. “We’ve made it our mission to invest in technology that produces recyclable beverage containers that can return to our system while significantly reducing the need for secondary plastic packaging,” said Fran McGorry, co-owner of Liberty Coca-Cola Beverages. “We know the most valuable change to reduce plastic waste occurs when bottlers and packaging producers work together. We are proud to partner with WestRock to make this change.”
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