Todd Huempfner

Do you have a question that needs to be answered? Do you have a story that needs to be told? Do you have a passion for what you do? Then we want to help tell your story. The Manufacturing Alliance podcast is coming back in one week, and we are filling up the calendar with amazing guests like Meaghan Ziemba , and Brian Warren, and so many others. The only requirements for participation are honesty, transparency, a passion for US Manufacturing, and the ability to either come into the studio or, have a way to teleconference in. We want to help you share your stories of success and failures, the highs and the lows, and why it matters. We want you to be a part of the Manufacturing Alliance, because lets face it, as an industry we are stronger together. If you would like to be a guest leave a comment below on the topic that you would like to discuss and tag Jack Demakis.

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Glad to see my state has joined the EPR ranks for packaging. This is a great first step in legislation. To really expand recycling, mandatory recycled content minimums must be enacted! If the end material has value, it will be collected and recycled. Trying to increase recycling rates by increasing collection and supply is not the answer. There must be an end market that is willing (required) and able to purchase it. https://lnkd.in/guAUb5QB

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Amcor Rigid Packaging partners with CRATIV Engineered Packaging to bring new child resistant sustainable packaging to the hemp, CBD, and cannabis markets. Learn more https://bit.ly/49tHAzD #packaging

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Amcor Rigid Packaging partners with CRATIV Engineered Packaging to bring new child resistant sustainable packaging to the hemp, CBD, and cannabis markets. Learn more https://bit.ly/49tHAzD #packaging

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It is great to see a fifth state implement an EPR program but it would be even better if we had a national program that addressed the shortfalls of the current recycling system. Imagine if the Clean Air Act had been a state by state law. There would still be states selling leaded gasoline, 50 years later, because it is cheaper to make. National recycling legislation with minimum content requirements would provide an effective guide for companies to follow. Real results, not more discussions, surveys and committees are required.

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Branding matters. It tells people who and what your company is all about. Samantha Ryan and Mitch Best and I had a few things to say about this illusive topic. Do you agree? https://lnkd.in/gyQsezMX #branding #marketing #roi #manufacturingalliance

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This packaging will primarily be collected through proper disposal by a highly managed and strictly regulated Solid Waste system. The plastic should be designed for Landfill Gas-to-Energy recovery (ASTM D5526) to coincide with the infrastructures we have in place today. No other option would provide greater scale, practice and return value in eliminating this application from becoming pollution. Sustainability starts with Lifecycle Accountability.

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Seriously, this is definitely worth considering. In the many years I've been assisting people with their entries, no one has ever said to me "I wish I hadn't entered" Not only should you think of the publicity - it's an opportunity to strengthen relationships with your customers & also examine how you do things. 👍 #plasticsawards #injectionmoulding #extrusion #plasticsprocessing

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Always answering the market for what we’re asked to bring. Durable…low profile…and easy to use

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🚨 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗼𝗰𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗶𝘀 𝗮 𝗗𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵 𝗦𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗣𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗿𝘀 🚨 In today’s rapidly evolving packaging industry, “good enough” is no longer good. Mediocrity doesn’t just hold you back—it actively kills your business. Here’s why: 🔴 Commodity Products Are a Trap: If you rely on commodity packaging to sustain your business, you’re in a race to the bottom. Competing on price alone erodes margins and makes you just another replaceable vendor in your customers' eyes. 🔴 Customers Demand More: Today’s customers want innovative, custom solutions that solve their unique problems. If you don’t offer specialized packaging, you’re leaving the door wide open for competitors who can—and WILL—deliver. 🔴 Your Value Is Being Overlooked: When all you offer is what everyone else does, your expertise and hard work go unnoticed. You’re reduced to a number on a quote sheet, not a trusted partner. 🚀 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗱𝗼𝘁𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗼𝗰𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆? 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘇𝗲𝗱 𝗣𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴. Specialized solutions set you apart. They eliminate competition, deliver higher margins (35%+), and turn you into an indispensable customer partner. At our Specialized Packaging Department, we provide access to cutting-edge manufacturers and solutions that no one else can offer—at costs that will shock your customers (in a good way). Don’t let mediocrity kill your business. It’s time to escape the commodity trap and reclaim your value. Let’s talk about how you can transform your packaging business and thrive in a market where most are just surviving. 💡 Are you ready to lead, not follow? Let’s connect. 💡

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As the pulp and paper industry undergoes significant transformations, the challenges faced by longstanding mills are evident. Many of these facilities, established in the early to mid-20th century, struggle to keep pace with evolving industry demands. Today's consumers prioritize sustainability and customization over the traditional focus on low cost and standardization. While cost remains a crucial factor for consumers, the shift towards tailored solutions necessitates agility and innovation from producers. Adapting quickly to meet the needs of customers is paramount in harnessing creativity. An apt analogy lies in the evolution of delivery systems from locomotives in the early 20th century to modern drones capable of delivering orders to precise GPS coordinates. Embracing change and fostering innovation are key in navigating the dynamic landscape of the industry. By staying responsive to consumer preferences and integrating advancements in technology, companies can position themselves for success in a market driven by sustainability and customization. #PulpAndPaperIndustry #Innovation #Sustainability

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You know it's the right thing to do. So, are you ready to ditch plastic straws for good? 🧉 Your organization has most likely had many conversations about sustainability over the years. For a food and beverage company, plastic straws are one of the best ways to make a BIG change–and at UrthPact, we make it possible without any headache. We offer a range of options tailored to align with your business model and sustainability goals. Embarking on a sustainability journey or achieving your brand’s ESG commitments has never been easier–and with UrthPact, integration can be quick and seamless due to our expertise in logistics. We help you do what's right–for the planet and for your business. Learn how: https://hubs.li/Q02DDTQ30 #SingleUseStraws #CompostableStraws #PlasticAlternative #Sustainability #ESG

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🤔💡When it comes to custom urethane products, thermoset urethane holds incredible benefits that often make it the preferred material choice. In this video our team weighs out the pros and cons of each to highlight how thermoset polyurethane can result in better longevity, higher resistance to wear, and ultimately superior product quality. If you're looking for a manufacturer that can create custom thermoset urethane parts, PSI Urethanes has the right equipment for the job and the expertise you need. https://hubs.la/Q02Vhm260 #polyurethane #polyurethanes #urethane #engineering #OEM #manufacturing #manufacturingindustry #manufacturingengineer #PSIUrethanes

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Part 1: What’s Wrong with Today’s Packaging Reseller Companies? The packaging industry is evolving quickly, but many packaging reseller companies struggle to keep up. Stagnant sales, razor-thin margins, and a growing reliance on commodity products have left countless resellers wondering why they can’t seem to grow or compete effectively. The truth? The packaging reseller model is broken—and it’s time to change. 1. Over-reliance on Commodity Packaging Most packaging resellers focus heavily on selling commodities like corrugated boxes, tape, and bubble wrap. While these products are essential, they are also highly commoditized, leading to relentless price wars. Customers shop around for the cheapest supplier, eroding margins and leaving resellers stuck in a never-ending race to the bottom. 2. Lack of Differentiation Many resellers fail to stand out in a crowded market. They offer the same products, the same service levels, and the same approach as everyone else. This lack of uniqueness makes building long-term customer loyalty or command premium pricing nearly impossible. 3. No Investment in Specialized Packaging Specialized, high-margin packaging solutions like custom designs, temperature-controlled packaging, and sustainable options are in high demand. Yet, many resellers lack the expertise, supplier relationships, or courage to venture into this space. As a result, they miss out on lucrative opportunities. 4. Failure to Solve Customer Problems Resellers often operate as order-takers rather than solution-providers. They react to customer needs instead of proactively identifying pain points and offering innovative solutions. This mindset limits growth and keeps them stuck in transactional relationships. 5. Poor Training and Support for Sales Teams Many sales teams are ill-equipped to sell anything beyond essential products. They struggle to differentiate themselves and close high-margin deals without proper training in consultative selling or specialized packaging. Why Are Packaging Resellers Struggling? • Market Saturation: The packaging industry is flooded with resellers offering the same products at increasingly lower prices. • Customer Expectations: Buyers now demand customized, sustainable, and innovative solutions that many resellers are unprepared to deliver. • Technology Gaps: Resellers relying on outdated processes and technologies are falling behind competitors who invest in digital tools and automation. Thank you for reading Part 1! In Part 2, we’ll share actionable strategies for 2025: embracing specialized packaging, driving innovation, training teams, and prioritizing sustainability. Stay tuned – practical solutions are coming in a few days!

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📣Novacel Repulpable tapes are now FDA-compliant! We are excited to announce the launch of two of our highest quality repulpable tape grades, which meet the Food and Drug Administration regulation. The FDA regulations in the United States encompass a set of rules and standards designed to ensure the safety, effectiveness, and quality of products intended for consumers, including drugs, medical devices, food and cosmetics. The FDA also regulates food-contact materials to ensure they pose no contamination risks. Only substances that comply with specific standards to prevent the migration of harmful chemicals into food can be used. With these two new grades, Novacel tapes fit into this category for indirect food contact. ☑️ Introducing BN 10365, a double-sided repulpable tape designed for permanent splices. With its cellulose fibre tissue carrier and siliconized repulpable paper liner, it offers a unique high cohesion adhesive, making it a standout choice for your needs. ☑️ Meet BN 10373, a single-sided repulpable tape with a semi-extensible siliconized paper backing. This versatile tape is designed to provide good conformability, high tensile strength, and edge tear resistance, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. All the paper carrier’s components of these tapes are listed in FDA 21 CFR 176.170 (components of paper and paperboard in contact with aqueous and fatty food), and all components of adhesive are listed in FDA 21 CFR 175.105 (indirect food additives: adhesives). Ready to learn more about our FDA-compliant range? 👉Contact your sales representative to get all the details you need! #novacel #paperindustry #fda #repulpabletapes #splicing

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