Top executives from the Grocery Manufacturers Association/Food Products Association (GMA/FPA), MeadWestvaco Corp. and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will deliver keynote addresses at the Conference at PACK EXPO. Produced by the Packaging Machinery Manufacturers Institute (www.packexpo.com), the conference complements the show at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Cal Dooley, president and CEO of the GMA/FPA, will deliver the opening keynote address on Monday, Oct. 15. The keynote session on Tuesday, Oct. 16 will be presented by John A. Luke, Jr., chairman and CEO of MeadWestvaco Corp. Dr. David Acheson, assistant commissioner of Food Protection at the FDA, will present the conference's closing keynote address on Wednesday, Oct. 17. Each day's keynote session will begin at 10:10 am.

“We are honored to have these speakers address the packaging community during PACK EXPO Las Vegas,” says Ben Miyares, vp, Industry Relations for PMMI. “Food safety and sustainability are two key issues driving today's packaging industry. These three visionaries will present their views of where the industry is heading from their unique positions in some of the world's most influential organizations.”

Cal Dooley

In a presentation entitled “Consumer Confidence: A Shared Objective of the Consumer Packaged Goods Industry and Policymakers,” Dooley points out that in order for the food, beverage and consumer package goods (CPG) industry to thrive, consumers in the U.S. and around the globe must be able to trust the brands they buy and the foods they eat. The U.S. has a tremendous track record when it comes to food safety. However, recent events have shaken consumer confidence in the safety, security and sustainability of the food supply. Working closely with policy makers and consumer products companies, the GMA has developed a comprehensive program to help modernize the nation's food safety net and bolster consumer confidence in consumer products and brands.

“The safety and security of our food supply is constantly evolving, presenting the food and beverage industry and policy makers with new challenges,” says Dooley. “Recent events have shown that food companies must remain vigilant, and also must work closely with their suppliers, as well as federal, state and local governments to prevent—and respond quickly to—food-related outbreaks and contaminations. I look forward to discussing the most recent developments in the food safety arena with the packaging community at PACK EXPO.”

John A. Luke, Jr.

In his presentation titled “Brand Sustainability: The New Relationship between Sustainable Packaging and Winning Brands,” Luke will discuss the important relationship between sustainability and brand building, as well as the strategic partnership between packagers and product managers that can help ensure generations of commercial, social and environmental brand performance. Today, discerning consumers are making more purchasing decisions based on evidence that a product or a brand has been created with a sustainability ethic in mind. Luke will tell the audience why it is in its best interest for sustainability to flourish, rather than fade. He also will describe how sustainable packaging must go beyond compliance to enable winning brands to deliver on the stewardship promise.

“Sustainable packaging is not about fitting products into sizes and shapes that ultimately do not add value,” says Luke. “With the correct approach to sustainability, packaging protects the product and captures the attention of consumers to help brands grow, while also communicating the stewardship ethic incorporated into the product brand and the packaging design. In the end, sustainable packaging will add a new, critical dimension to consumer confidence and brand loyalty.”

Dr. David Acheson

Dr. David Acheson of the FDA will present the conference's closing keynote address on Wednesday, Oct. 17. In his presentation titled “Assuring Safety in the Global Food Market: Our Shared Responsibilities,” Dr. Acheson will highlight the challenges the FDA faces in ensuring that the U.S. food supply continues to be among the safest in the world. These include increases in the volume and complexity of imported goods, growing international threats such as terrorism and emerging foodborne diseases and the significant increase during the past decade in consumption of produce, particularly ready-to-eat products.

He will describe how the FDA is focusing and renewing its food safety efforts in three key areas: emphasizing the importance of prevention, intervening through inspections and testing to ensure prevention is working and to intercept problems before they cause illness and developing faster responses. Success in all three areas will rely on progress in developing a strong scientific basis for the FDA's food safety program, enhancing effective partnerships, and improving risk-based targeting of inspection resources.

SHOW REGISTRATION

Fee: In advance of Sept. 24, $25.

After Sept. 24 or onsite, $55.

Go to www.packexpo.com or call the PMMI show office at 703/243-8555.

SHOW HOURS

Monday, Oct. 15: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tuesday, Oct. 16: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Weds., Oct. 17: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Monday: Upgrading Operations
8:30-9:10 a.m.
Improving the Packaging Line from Throughput to Footprint
Bob Risley, CEO, Materials Handling Systems, LLC (M1)
Description: A case study of a perpetual merge system that merges two or more lines into one, without using accumulation or controls, providing a steady-state throughput through the merge to the next application in the shortest possible footprint and the simplest possible configuration, using no controls and needing no accumulation to operate.
9:20-10:00 a.m.
Improving Profitability of Packaging Operations Using Real-Time Performance Management Software
David Ray, application engineer, Parsec Automation Corp. (M2)
Description: This presentation will detail how using a real-time performance-management platform can improve the profitability of packaging operations by: increasing on-time quality product delivery; decreasing unplanned downtime; decreasing cost of lost production; decreasing labor cost per unit; decreasing cycle times and increasing asset utilization.
11:00-11:40 a.m.
Technical Training Partnership: OEMs and End Users Working Together to Create Best Practices
PANEL: PMMI Technical Training Community of Practice (M3)
Description: It's time to let go of the adversarial vendor/end-user relationships that often develop during capital projects. PMMI's Technical Training Community of Practice is set up to identify and share effective training techniques and principles and implement them through training partnerships and joint initiatives. Registrants will get the first look at a Request for Proposal (RFP) template developed by the Community to facilitate communication between end users and manufacturers.
11:50-12:30 p.m.
Key Rules to Get the Best Out of a Development Project
Axel Foerster, president and managing director, Rychiger AG (M4)
Description: When off-the-shelf won't do and a development project is required, customers and suppliers become increasingly strained. Deadlines and budgets have to be met for products that often exist as a concept only. The presentation will highlight the key rules that need to be followed from both sides to make the concurrent development process a success. It is enriched with examples and lessons learned from past development projects and provides insight into the way machinery developers work. The critical phase of machinery rampup and life-long functioning are covered as well.

Monday, Materials Advances
8:30-9:10 a.m.
Emerging Stand-Up Pouch and Other New Flexible Packaging Innovations from Japan
Neil Kozarsky, President, T.H.E.M. (M5)
Description: Now that single-serve stick-packs from Japan are gaining traction in North America, you won't want to be caught off guard by emerging innovations from this pouchcentric nation. Learn about pouches that are as space efficient as paperboard cartons and incorporate reclosure. Machinery options, fill speeds, relative economics and potential market segments where these and other new Japanese technologies could take hold will also be addressed. While the names of some of these innovations are strange (“SIP,” “EDGE STAND” and “PG TAPE”), few will complain if they result in advancing sustainability scorecards.
9:20-10:00 a.m.
Shapely Metal Containers: Passing Fad or Emerging Future?
Heidi Slocumb, marketing manager, Silgan Containers Corp. (M6)
Description: The brand protection, sustainability and shelf impact of shaped metal containers will be detailed with examples in this presentation, which also will cover the latest metal container-shaping techniques, including segmented expansion, die expansion and hydraulic bladder expansion.
11:00-11:40 a.m.
Knowing and Understanding the Hidden Costs in Your Packaging Operation
Ingrid Cole, Group Technology Manager, North American Adhesives, National Adhesives (M7)
Description: This presentation will demonstrate how to identify and quantify the costs that contribute to the total cost of end-of-line packaging operations. An interactive CD-Rom tool, loaded with industry averages against which the packager can compare their operational costs based on market data collected over 50 years, will be provided to each participant. The presenter will demonstrate the tool, walk through industry examples and explain why each expense bucket can contribute costs to a packaging operation.
11:50-12:30 p.m.
Advances in Breathable Polymers
Donna L. Visioli, senior technical programs manager, DuPont Packaging and Industrial Polymers (M8)
Description: According to a recent survey, consumers rank product freshness as a top concern and an important factor in maintaining brand loyalty. However, consumer trends toward convenient, minimally processed foods (such as fresh fish and cut fruit) make ensuring freshness more of a challenge for food processors and packaging converters because these foods have demanding requirements for high transmission of oxygen or water vapor. Technologies enabling the packaging of foods with these demanding requirements for breathability will be discussed.

Monday, Sustainability
8:30-9:10 a.m.
Case Studies for Flexible Packaging Providing Improved Sustainability
Jeffrey Wooster, Plastics North America TS&D, Dow Chemical (M9)
Description: Sustainability has become a top priority for many businesses. Many packaging producers struggle to understand how they can contribute to sustainability, especially given resource limitations and stringent performance requirements. This presentation provides an overview of sustainable packaging and numerous case studies illustrating the performance and sustainability advantages of various flexible package alternatives.
9:20-10:00 a.m.
Sustainability as a Competitive Lever
Wil Schoenmakers, global head of the Consumer Products/Management Group; David Hatrick, senior consultant; Carmel McQuaid, senior consultant; PA Consulting (M10)
Description: Companies have a great opportunity to turn the pressure for sustainable packaging into profit. Not only can they make cost savings from energy/materials-reduction programs, but also companies can use sustainability as a competitive lever to increase market share. Turning 'green into gold' requires an understanding of the commercial cost/benefit versus environmental impacts across the supply chain, where packaging plays a crucial role. An understanding of the sweet spot between consumer requirements, technical feasibility and commercial reality can lead to an increase in profit and improvement of our world.
11:00-11:40 a.m.
Maximum Performance—Minimum Packaging
John Grainda, global marketing manager, Alcoa Closure Systems Intl. (M11)
Description: Alcoa Closure Systems Intl. will address the emerging trend of beverage manufacturers reducing packaging costs by lightweighting PET bottle finishes that use “short-height” closures. In addition to packaging cost savings, the changes can actually exceed current performance standards while supporting corporate sustainability programs. Alcoa CSI will present case studies of recent beverage bottler conversions to short- height closures for carbonated beverages. Information will include a conversion checklist to assess existing bottling lines, cost advantages of new PET bottle finishes and a description of capping-system implications.
11:50-12:30 p.m.
Enhancing Sustainability through Intelligent Packaging Design for Source Reduction
Henry Wischusen III, director, Integrated Development L.C; Dr. Aaron Brody, president and CEO, Packaging/Brody, Inc. (M12)
Description: The best way to enhance sustainability is to reduce the amount of packaging used—to minimize the material used, we must optimize the “Virtual Vessel.” Consumer goods are distributed today on a platform that measures 40348-in. and defines the footprint of a virtual vessel that is approximately 51 in. tall. This 57 cu-ft virtual vessel has become the required unit of handling and distribution for most products. Most packages today are not developed to optimize their performance relative to this virtual vessel. Significant material savings are possible, by creating intelligent package design for distribution. This presentation explains both the impact of primary container geometry and secondary packaging design and material selection on overall material usage.

Monday, Processing
8:30-9:10 a.m.
Hot Water for Sanitation
Tammy Collins, sales manager and applications advisor, QuikWater (M13)
Description: Sanitation is required in food processing, and hot water is one of the 10 principles of sanitary design. This presentation covers the direct contact technology for heating water, including the basic theory of the direct contact technology, how it works and how it saves the food processor money. The presenter will cover a comparison between conventional hot-water heating systems such as steam boilers and heat exchangers vs direct-contact technology, and how it can save 40 percent in utility costs, operating cost and equipment costs.
9:20-10:00 a.m.
The Use of PMO Mixproof Valve Technology to Increase Productivity in U.S. Dairy Plants
Dave Medlar, president, Tuchenhagen Flow Components (M14)
Description: Traditionally, process-piping systems in U.S. dairy plants have been based on manual-swing or flow-panel technology, as well as more automated double block-and-bleed systems. These systems have inherent disadvantages in terms of piping system cleanability and high product losses, as well as being open to the atmosphere, with the chance of airborne bacteria contaminating the product. PMO Mixproof valve-based systems are fully cleanable, minimize product losses, result in fully closed piping systems and can be prefabricated at the factory, reducing site installation and startup costs.

Monday, Cost Savings
11:00-11:40 a.m.
Dannon Improves Efficiency up to 40 percent using High-Speed Video
Jerry Shoemaker, production supervisor, Dannon; Russell Leonard, vp of Business Development, Monitoring Technology Corp. (M15)
Description: The presentation outlines how Dannon was able to improve production efficiency using camera technology. Dannon states that it increased line efficiency from 45- to 85 percent in the last three months and attributes much of its success to the camera aiding in troubleshooting. Sleever improvements have been most critical. With the camera, it solved this major issue in 30 min, and the system paid for itself in less than a week.

11:50-12:30pm
Brand Protection in Packaging: Fighting through the Noise
Lynn Crutchfield, president, Brand Protection Alliance (M16)
Description: Anti-counterfeiting and gray-market diversions are hot topics in the packaging, but what can you do? With so many different technologies and messages out there, how do you find what's best for you? The Brand Protection Alliance was established to serve as a resource organization that will assist brand owners in designing, developing and implementing customized, secure solutions against counterfeiting and diversion. This presentation will give strategies on how to begin a brand-protection plan and what technologies can be used that best fit in the packaging industry.

Monday, Converting
8:30-9:10 a.m.
Emerging Flexographic Plate Technologies
Paul Lancelle, Green Bay Engraving (M19)
Description: Flexo tradeshops, printers and converters are all looking for ways to improve operational efficiencies and reduce costs, while delivering the best possible product to brand owners. This presentation will introduce new options to deliver faster and improved color reproduction, while reducing the total cost of the flexo-printed package. The adoption of a new, high-productivity digital flexo plate system that provides a remarkable step-change increase in print quality has the potential to deliver the promise of offset-like print quality, process control and productivity.
9:20-10:00 a.m.
Plate Mounting Solutions that Produce A Quick ROI
Jan Willem Boers, managing director, Polymount International B.V. (M20)
Description: Every flexographic printer should learn the alternative to mounting tape: Twinlock. The self-adhesive plate-mounting sleeve requires only a quick surface cleaning and within 30 sec is ready to hold the next set of plates. Printers save time and money, experiencing a quick ROI.
11:00-11:40 a.m.
If the Horse You are Riding is Dead
Jim Coddington, BHS Printing Machinery (M21)
Description: In today's competitive atmosphere, in an industry with over capacity and small profit margins, manufacturers of folding cartons are coming to one simple fact. To survive, they must either become the the low-cost producer or a high value-add producer. This discussion will address the following topics: Why CP groups are sick of “me-too” bids; studies show companies who do not run efficient business for commodity-type cartons are not profitable, and will either disappear or be acquired; companies who “Run in the middle” are not profitable; companies who are low-cost producers are profitable; Companies who are high-value-added producers are profitable; and how to exploit today's printing and converting technologies to fit in one or both groups.
1:30-2:10 p.m.
How to Automate and Secure the Printing Workflow Process
TBA: Global Vision (M23)
Description: The latest trends and technological advances in the field of automated proofreading will be explored, along with guidelines on how to automate and secure the printing workflow process. There is a battle with tight customer deadlines, cost-effectiveness and print perfection in this industry. Methods for automating and securing the entire workflow process can help companies save millions of dollars, increase productivity and protect themselves from major errors.
1:30-2:10 p.m.
Web Coating - Atmospheric Solution
Lee A. Ostness, product manager, Davis-Standard, LLC (M17)
Description: TBA
2:20-3:00 p.m.
A New Level of Productivity with High Vacuum R2R Coaters for Packaging Film
Andreas Weis, director, Web Business Unit, Applied Materials (M18)
Description: Over six decades, high vacuum roll-to-roll coaters have been designed for and successfully delivered to almost every region worldwide. The technology for creating higher-barrier flexible packages has become a commodity. Therefore, in conjunction with the increasing demands for higher coating qualities and system productivity, system users are requesting continuous improvement of these parameters.
2:20-3:00 pm
Predictive Maintenance: A New Tool for the Converting Industry
PANEL: L. Fenney, CEO, Sigmala Ltd; J. Round, director, Sigmala Ltd; D. Brown, reader, Institute of Industrial Research (M24)
Description: Downtime is the enemy in converting. New artificial intelligence methods have been developed at the Portsmouth Institute of Industrial Research that allow large amounts of machine data to be accurately processed in real time. This allows predictive diagnostic and predictive maintenance functions to be successfully implemented in converting machinery.

Tuesday, E-Machinery
8:30-9:10 a.m.
Distance Learning and Control: Tips and Techniques for Economically Monitoring Remote Packaging Lines
Markus Sandhoefner, sales manager, B&R Industrial Automation (T1)
Description: What does it mean to take time and distance out of operating, maintaining and fixing equipment? How can it be achieved? Surprisingly enough, a lot of “e-machinery” techniques are simple added features to new automation technologies with minimal budgetary impact. The presentation will cover: Remote monitoring; web server functionality; preventative maintenance; and intelligent components for easy firmware management.
9:20-10:00 a.m.
Tapping the Ethernet to Monitor Multiple Remote Packaging Operations
Robert Bisbee, vp-operations, George Gordon Associates, Inc. (T2)
Description: We will present MachineNet, an Ethernet network approach to providing complete communication in a multiple-line system between each line and each machine to include both an upstream and downstream interface with any location. A bakery-line model with five wrappers will demonstrate machines that “talk,” with a live demo to our show floor wrapper. The remote Dynamic Monitoring Communication (DMC) uses the latest electronic functionality, for multi-machine integrated supervision, which allows any wrapper to monitor an entire system with virtual redundancy from any location anywhere in the world.
11:00-11:40 a.m.
Here or There? Weighing the Feasibility/Costs of Jobsite vs Off-site Systems Controls
Mark Zelnick, president, Zed Industries Inc. (T3)
Description: This discussion will educate attendees regarding e-machinery feasibility and installation. Topics include: capabilities or limitations for E-Machinery; remote process monitoring; troubleshooting/repairing equipment via modems; qualifications for purchasing machinery; updating existing equipment; and cost of updating existing equipment versus jobsite service. Most importantly, the resources required to take advantage of time and cost savings associated with e-machinery. This presentation will also include handouts with presentation a outline for notes; and an open-forum during presentation will provide attendees with the opportunity to address their particular applications.
11:50-12:30 p.m.
Leveraging E-Machinery to Stay Up and Running
Jeff Suffet, project manager; Paul Imaoka, director, Field Service; Domino Amjet, Inc. (T4)
Description: The use of networking and remote diagnostics for equipment operation, maintenance and troubleshooting is becoming an essential part of increasing overall operational effectiveness. For a 24/7 packaging line, the cost of waiting for a service technician can be substantial. With remote access, manufacturers' technicians can access equipment through the internet or a plant operator can download status information and e-mail the appropriate personnel for immediate troubleshooting. Diagnostics can be done in real time, even if the service person and equipment are thousands of miles apart. Production managers can use the same technologies to monitor equipment status to address issues before they halt production.

Tuesday, Upgrading Operations
8:30-9:10 a.m.
Lean Changeover
John Henry, CPP, Changeover.com (T5)
Description: Many companies focus on “quick” changeover. Unfortunately, “quick” often means trying to do the same old things faster. “Lean” changeover focuses on eliminating waste in changeover. This will take the form of wasted motion, effort, skills, paper, materials and product. Eliminating these will eliminate wasted time, resulting in faster changeovers. This presentation will provide a four-step approach to achieving lean changeover: 1) Eliminate all unnecessary tasks; 2) Externalize all possible tasks; 3) Simplify the remaining tasks; 4) Make all changeover adjustments quantifiable and repeatable. The presentation will include slides showing practical examples of each of the steps.
9:20-10:00 a.m.
Packaging Execution Systems—A New Way of Thinking About Packaging Operations
David DeJean, director of sales, Serialization Products, SYSTECH Intl. (T6)
Description: A Packaging Execution System (PES) is a trend in designing packaging lines to capture performance/safety data from disparate automation and monitoring devices. It then synthesizes data into actionable intelligence and shares information for real-time decision-making at line, plant and enterprise levels. PES is repeatable on lines or plants as regulatory demands increase and higher levels of efficiency are expected. Systech will address how companies are investing in this new approach to their packaging operations, its implementation and how it enables companies to provide protection, clarity and optimization to their business.
11:00-11:40 a.m.
Six Sigma and the World of Packaging
Joe Finan, executive analyst, Genesis Innovation (T7)
Description: Today's packaging lines operate in a highly competitive global environment, necessitating efficiency and quality levels that yesterday were elusive goals. Many packaging companies are ISO-certified and therefore assume this will ensure these lofty targets will be achieved automatically. This presentation shifts the focus from ISO-driven internal processes to the employment of product-driven Six-Sigma methodologies, with concentration on packaging production efficiency and quality. Attendees gain an understanding of the importance of statistically quantifying their packaging processes.
11:50-12:30 pm
Automation Solutions for Changeover and Uptime Optimization
Helge Hornis, PhD, manager, Intelligent Systems Group, Pepperl+Fuchs, Inc. (T8)
Description: Faster changeover and increased machine uptime are two areas where users of packaging machinery can still expect to see productivity increases. Industrial networking solutions will play an important role in this next step of productivity increases. The focus of this presentation will be on networking safety devices and to demonstrate how this enhances flexible, high-speed packaging systems. Using this approach, users can perform changeovers quickly. Better diagnostics of safety systems is expected to increase overall uptime.

Tuesday, Brand Protection
8:30-9:10 a.m.
The Main Event—Metal Detection vs X-Ray: Which Contaminant Detection Technology Will Win in the Long Run?
Bob Ries, product manager of Metal Detectors and X-Ray Systems, Process Instruments Division, Thermo Fisher Scientific (T9)
Description: HACCP principles have resulted in the deployment of tens of thousands of metal detectors in a wide variety of applications in food-packaging production lines. Unfortunately, these detectors only find metallic foreign objects and do not always offer the highest level of food safety. Advanced technologies like x-ray can offer more complete inspection, but are more complex and costly. So the question before many quality professionals and plant engineers is when and where to apply which technology?
9:20-10:00 a.m.
Anti-Counterfeiting Options for the Packaging Process
Gary Parish, president, Complete Inspection Systems (T10)
Description: Presentation discusses utilizing advanced imaging technology combined with standard packaging processes to detect and prevent the counterfeiting of packaged products. The process can be done online and in real time using Imaging Technology. In addition, the presentation will include other new technologies including micro markers that can be added to both the package and products to detect and track products, invisible bar codes and lenticular printing.

Tuesday, Track & Trace
11:00-11:40 a.m.
RFID on the Packaging Level—How to Get the Chip on the Box!
Gerald Steinwasser, general manager, Muhlbauer, Inc. (T11)
Description: RFID is an emerging technology to be used in volume for the identification and tracking of goods. For contactless communication with pallets, boxes and individual items, an RFID label is applied onto the goods. Due to an intended one-way use, the cost target for a smart label currently is 5 cents or less. To achieve this ambitious goal, the development of novel manufacturing strategies for RFID products is of major importance. Several attempts are made to streamline the production process with the goal to create a smart label on the packaging level. The improvements in printing of conductive inks for antennae in combination with pre-packaged RFID chips (so-called straps) open new opportunities to move from a relatively costly slap-and-ship approach to an integrated smart-label production process on the packaging level.
11:50-12:30 p.m.
Enhancing RFID Through Layering Other Technologies
Peter Ettinger, president; Patrick White, CEO; Document Security Systems (T12)
Description: Enhancing RFID through the layering of other types of technologies to ensure anti-counterfeiting protection and optimum safety in the event of an electronic failure.

Tuesday, Processing
8:30-9:10 a.m.
The Benefits of Pre-Packaging Optical Inspection
Tim Reardon, Industry Marketing Manager, Key Technology, Inc. (T13)
Description: Optical inspection systems (sorters) have long been used for quality control in processing lines. As part of a new, emerging trend, these systems are being inserted into lines after processing and just before product packaging. A detailed discussion on the primary functions of optical inspection at this point in the processing line will be presented: including product safety, final quality control, and the collection of product data for the feedback control of upstream processes. The benefits of various optical-inspection system types in the pre-packaging area and in various food-product applications will also be discussed, as well as the wide range of technologies available from cameras to lasers and belt sorters to channel sorters.
9:20-10:00 am
X-ray Inspection—The Future of Processing
Oscar Jeter, national sales manager, Mettler-Toledo Safeline, Inc. (T14)
Description: X-ray inspection is the ultimate product-integrity checking system for food, beverage and pharmaceutical packaging lines. Our speaker will explain the technology and its specific application to these industries. Modern x-ray technology can identify metal, glass, stone, bone and dense plastic contaminants, inspect for missing or damaged products and verify fill levels. All of this can be done in the final sealed product container, whether it is in foil, plastic or on a card. It is reliable, safe and easy to use.

Tuesday, Material Advances
11:00-11:40 a.m.
Signs on the Road to Sustainable Packaging: What to Ask for, What to Say and How to Do it.
Dave Lunati, director of marketing, Monadnock Paper Mills, Inc. (T15)
Description: As an EPA Performance Track company and a manufacturer of some of the most environmentally friendly packaging materials available, Monadnock will advise brand owners on selecting, designing, printing and processing options to achieve the highest sustainability scores. What do PCW, pre-consumer waste, FSC, Recycled, SFI, Green E, PCF, ECF mean? Attend this session and find out.
11:50-12:30 pm
Achieving Greater Profitability and Sustainability in the Packaging Supply Chain
Brian Reilly, senior director, Innovation Institute, Georgia-Pacific (T16)
Description: A how-to presentation on achieving greater profitability and sustainability in the packaging supply chain based on Georgia-Pacific's new Packaging Systems Optimization (PSO™) program. Emphasisis is put on the importance of analyzing the complete packaging supply chain. This includes assessing cost savings, efficiencies and measuring sustainability from sourcing through distribution. The presentation will also cover the need to improve sustainability metrics in light of Wal-Mart's packaging scorecard. Discover new methods for measuring sustainability and quantifying cost-savings and learn about a sustainable alternative to non-recyclable, wax-coated boxes commonly used for produce and other perishables.

Tuesday, Converting
8:30-9:10 a.m.
Upgrading & Modernizing Your Coating Equipment—Do's & Don'ts, Part 1:
John Pasquale, senior vp, New Era Converting Machinery, Inc. (T19)
Description: This seminar will review the choices available when upgrading a coating line to meet more demanding, changing and growing markets. It prompts a discussion regarding the reasons to change the coating head, the types of coating methods needed to manufacture present and future products, the coating head options available and the approximate cost to undertake the change.
9:20-10:00 a.m.
Upgrading & Modernizing Your Coating Equipment—Do's & Don'ts, Part 2: Modernizing Existing Drying Systems
Dan Bemi, regional sales manager, MECTEC Systems (T20)
Description: Is your tired, old drying system limiting your production throughput? Are dryer operating costs sending your profits up in smoke? Is it time for a new dryer? Perhaps, but depending on the age and condition of the equipment, the nature and extent of the problems you are experiencing along with economic viability considerations, you may want to consider upgrading your existing system rather than replacing it. In this presentation, the author will discuss potential system upgrades including: air handling system modifications; controls enhancements; nozzle replacement; and other modernization options designed to increase line speed, eliminate costly defects, reduce energy costs or expand line capabilities without incurring the capital cost of a new dryer or coating line.
11:00-11:40 a.m.
Upgrading & Modernizing Your Coating Equipment—Do's & Don'ts, Part 3: Drives and Controls Modernization
Michael Murphy, vp, sales and marketing, Circonix Technologies (T21)
Description: Circonix Technologies recently delivered a completely integrated solution to upgrade and modernize converting machinery. The equipment required a complete control and automation overhaul as well as mechanical modifications. This session will focus on drive and control aspects of the process.
11:50-12:30 p.m.
Upgrading & Modernizing Your Coating Equipment—Do's & Don'ts, Part 4: On-line Gauging for Coating Processes
Ted Schnackertz, strategic accounts specialist, NDC Infrared Eng. (T22)
Description: Online gauging for real-time process measurement and control continues to gain importance. The demand for increased functionality and higher quality in multilayer films and coated web products is rising, resulting in more complex and costly structures. Layers and coatings are getting thinner, production runs are shorter and line speeds are increasing. To meet this demand and remain competitive requires an efficient process able to run quality product, within specification, from the start to finish of a run. This cannot be accomplished with periodic lab sampling. Add requirements for proof of compliance, the ability to conduct effective product development and real-time process troubleshooting and an on-line gauging system becomes a tool in this effort. The presentation will discuss applicable gauging-sensor technologies and coating-measurement techniques.
1:30-2:10 p.m.
Web Coating—UV Solution
Eric Midlik, PRIME Systems (T23)
Description: TBA
2:20-3:00 p.m.
Adhesion Promotion Using Flame Plasma Surface Treatment
Joe Digiacomo, Flynn Burner Corp. (T24)
Description: Adhesion of inks and coatings on polymer substrates is an issue faced by all converters. This presentation describes flame treatment and why it provides better results and other methods. Troubleshooting and problems will all be discussed.
1:30-2:10 p.m.
Recent Advances in Surface Treatment Technology
Rory A. Wolf, vp, business development, Enercon Industries Corp. (T17)
Description: A discussion of how to leverage lean manufacturing will be presented, including features of existing and new technology in surface treatment to increase production speed and reduce investments in labor and utility costs.
2:20-3:00 p.m.
Expanding Packaging Applications Using Electron Beam Technology
Richard Sanders, sales & marketing, Energy Sciences Inc. (T18)
Description: This session will provide an overview of various applications using electron beam (EB) technology in the packaging market. The presentation will include new technical developments using EB curable inks, adhesives and coatings.

Wednesday, Upgrading Operations
8:30-9:10 a.m.
Competing Globally: Are We Missing Das Boat? Technician Training in Germany
John Kowal, global marketing manager, ELAU, Inc. (W1)
Description: It can be argued that German maintenance technicians receive more useful education than our degreed engineers. There, automation technicians study for four years, with fully half of their studies spent in practical, hands-on apprenticeships on the plant floor working on real projects, with real engineers. They learn IEC automation programming, electronic and mechanical engineering skills. And the “best of the best” compete to become “mechatronics” technicians because they know these jobs are in highest demand. Learn what German apprentices study, what can we do to upskill our packaging workforce, and how PMMI members are working behind the scenes to bridge the technical skills gap.
9:20-10:00 a.m.
Secrets of Best-in-Class Manufacturing Operations: Based on a Real-Time Benchmark Study of CPG Operations
Sudy Bharadwaj, CMO & vp, Solutions Consulting, Informance Intl. (W2)
Description: Best-in-class enterprises use manufacturing intelligence to build, accelerate and sustain operational performance and achieve business objectives. They have thorough visibility of key metrics, real-time measurement of those metrics and they can quantify and understand the financial impacts of change. As a result, they typically increase capacity, reduce inventory, improve cycle time and increase working capital. Their entire workforce—machine operators, plant managers, operations management and enterprise management—can respond to variances and opportunities as they arise. Learn what characteristics differentiate best-in-class manufacturers from average and laggard performers and learn how one best-in-class manufacturer built on their improvement initiative and adapted best-in-class strategies.
11:00-11:40 a.m.
Robotics—This is Why It's Hot
Matthew Job, technical director, Hartness Visy Automation, Inc. (W3)
Description: Find out what technological advances in robotics have led to the re-emergence of robotics into high speed applications such as beverage and personal care. The presentation focuses on the challenges of rainbow packing.
11:50-12:30 p.m.
OEE and TEEP—What do they Mean? Are they Related and What Value can They Give Me?
Paul J. Zepf, director of engineering, Zarpac Inc. (W4)
Description: Today, the terms OEE and TEEP are being used more and abused. OEE means Overall Equipment Effectiveness and relates to understanding the production process during the scheduled time. TEEP means Total Equipment Effectiveness Productivity and relates to understanding the production process considering all time. This presentation will try to demystify these terms and give you a simple road map to use back in your operations to give insight as well as strategic and tactical value. Simple equations and methods of how to get OEE and TEEP values from rudimentary data will be shown, as well as how to obtain data to drill down to aid in problem solving and developing solutions.

Wednesday, Track & Trace
8:30-9:10 a.m.
Effective Recall Strategies Begin with Effective Product Tagging
David Habib, product manager, MARKEM Software & Solutions; Jerry Horne, solutions key accounts manager, MARKEM Solutions (W5)
Description: Blanket recalls can cost unnecessary millions, as some recent headlines indicate: Sony Battery: $429M; Sanyo Battery: $17M; Con-Agra Peanut Butter: $50-60M; Cadbury Schweppes Chocolate: £20M; Menu Foods Pet Food: $40M. These figures do not include critical revenue hits such as: loss of shareholder value, imposed fines, loss of future sales, lawsuits, workforce reductions and the cost of disposal. Does your company have enough market strength and brand credibility to recover from an expensive recall? What is your strategy to survive? To initiate “target” recalls, a robust track-and-trace strategy must be in place that details raw materials utilized, when and where products were produced, product quantities and inventory locations, products picked and products shipped. The key target recall strategy enabler is the marking of finished-good items at the unit, packaging, case and pallet levels. How do marked items address your critical recall issues, and what type of vendors and products can aid your track-and-trace strategies?
9:20-10:00 a.m.
RFID—Improved Logistics and Product Tracking
Ed Housler, RFID business development manager and product specialist, Siemens Energy & Automation (W6)
Description: With increased market awareness, in large part because of the retailers, RFID technology is getting much deserved recognition for the value it can provide. Packaging OEMs and end users have the opportunity to understand the RFID value proposition. RFID can have an impact in all markets not just retail and automotive. Understand how RFID can reduce or eliminate business processes that take profits from the bottom line. RFID is a proven technology with decades of ROI examples. Learn how RFID can help you.
11:00-11:40 a.m.
Automatic RFID Label Application—Keys to Success
Ann Marie Phaneuf, director of marketing, Weber Marking Systems, Inc. (W7)
Description: This session covers the basics of label auto-apply systems and then focuses on the additional RFID issues that need to be addressed to find the best system for your company, including how to integrate RFID auto-apply into existing production and conveying lines, the options for incorporating RFID case and pallet tagging in packaging operations and how current processes and movement of product through the operation affect decisions. In addition, this session will cover issues relating to how to avoid reduced throughput, software and hardware connectivity issues, challenges and lessons learned, label applicator technology, and trends for the future.
11:50-12:30 p.m.
RFID Advanced Topics: Packaging as the Tag; Packaging Asymmetry
Daniel P. Mullen, president, AIM Global (Moderator); PANEL: TBD (W8)
Description: Update on printed electronics (i.e. “plastic” ICs, organic and nonorganic materials). Packaging as Tag: where do we stand?; Issues with generic cartoning (i.e., effect of contents on tag performance); Packaging Asymmetry—will RFID be disruptive to packaging design?

Wednesday, Safety
8:30-9:10 a.m.
Selecting and Implementing a Safety Architecture (including Networks)
Lyle Masimore, business manager, Safety Business, Rockwell Automation (W9)
Description: The session will explore the use of contemporary safety solutions available in the market to control costs while providing a safe and competitive design on packaging machines.
9:20-10:00 a.m.
Using Drive-Based Safety Technology to Improve OEE
John Wenzler, corporate account executive, Bosch Rexroth Corp. (W10)
Description: Safety is usually associated with adding cost to the machine. End users struggle with how to make their machines safe without making the machine too costly to buy. What if the safety technology incorporated on your new machine actually improved your OEE, with minimal cost impact? That's what drive-based safety technology offers.
11:50-12:30 p.m.
New Generation of Chemical Dispensing Systems
Thomas Braun, business unit manager, Chemical and Packaging Products, Colder Products Co. (W16)
Description: Ensuring the safety and integrity of container contents, as well as the people handling them, is an ongoing concern for chemical companies. Environmental factors are also coming into play, and chemical suppliers and their customers are seeing a dramatic shift toward closed-system dispensing and single-use containers made of recyclable materials. In this presentation, the audience will learn the following: 1) Industry trends in chemical dispensing systems, and the differences between “open” dispensing systems used today and “closed” systems of the future; 2) The benefits derived from adopting a closed-system approach: simplified logistics; reduced chemical waste; exposure and costs; enhanced worker safety; and minimized environmental impact. 3) How RFID technology can be used to enhance safety of dispensing systems.

Wednesday, Cost Savings
11:00-11:40 a.m.
Boost Profits and Sustainability with Optimized Purchasing
Bill Petersen, account manager, Iconotech (W11)
Description: Disconnecting corrugated purchasing from the production schedule can save companies tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars. Replacing preprint with a comprehensive, generic case-printing program puts the power of choice into the hands of the buyer through optimized purchasing and competitive bidding. It also boosts sustainability scores by substantially reducing scrap, obsolescence, recycling and by eliminating printing plates. The case studies and cost models to be presented on the impact of generic case printing will speak directly to anyone involved with private labeling dozens to hundreds of stockkeeping units. Attendees will also receive an assessment tool to gauge the benefits of a generic case program for their operation.
11:50-12:30 p.m.
A Cost Analysis of Printing Secondary Packaging versus Ordering PrePrinted Containers
Graham Podmore, secondary packaging product manager, Videojet Technologies Inc. (W12)
Description: Product manufacturers are realizing distinct cost advantages when choosing to use large-character ink-jet printers to print variable data like bar codes, lot information and even graphics on secondary packaging. Over time, it is less costly to use such printers to mark blank corrugated cases than buying preprinted cases that must be reordered. Additionally, today's large-character printers are able to create more distinctive graphics, which can aid in branding initiatives. The seminar will analyze costs between marking secondary packaging in-house vs preprinted counterparts, and provide examples of manufacturers that implemented that strategy and the resultant benefits.

Wednesday, Processing
8:30-9:10 a.m.
A Realistic Approach to Traceability
Patrick Pilz, CEO, CSB-System Intl., Inc. (W13)
Description: Current events, such as spoiled produce and legislation such as the Bioterrorism Act, make product traceability a top topic. A lot of companies however, don't have a realistic approach. Many technologies exist that can improve the concepts, but they are also costly and sometimes not very cost-effective. The seminar would include a pragmatic approach to traceabilty, explaining how to go about determining the level of granularity of your traceability system from an economical point of view and which very simple things you can do to enhance the traceability capabilities in your organization.
9:20-10:00 a.m.
Tackling Waste and Process Line Inefficiencies by Using Real-Time Process Control
Eric Doern, design engineer, FMC FoodTech (W14)
Description: To stay competitive, food processors today must focus on ways to minimize waste and improve product yield. Many processors experience fluctuating periods of high and low flow rates, causing drastic process inefficiencies and material waste. The proposed presentation will examine how processors can reduce operation inefficiencies with real-time process control, and real-life examples will be provided. For instance, a poultry processor using real-time data can automatically adjust processes on the production line such as seasoning application and freezer loading, thus minimizing seasoning loss and optimizing freeze time. Controlling processes based on real-time data is critical in optimizing process-line performance.
11:00-11:40 a.m.
Aseptic Processing: Innovation for Manufacturers, More Options for Consumers
Jean Pierre Berlan, processing group director, Tetra Pak (W15)
Description: The presentation will offer the pros and cons of some shelf-extending technologies such as heat treatment, microfiltration, bactofugation, etc., and will cite examples. The goal is to demonstrate how aseptic packaging/processing represents a unique opportunity for manufacturers in the healthy food/beverage category. The presentation will also provide showgoers with an opportunity to review tests and performance of aseptic technology across a wide range of pH levels, from dairy to juice to soy, and other products.

Wednesday, Converting
8:30-9:10 a.m.
Focus for Profits
Bill Bowie, COO, Resin Technology, Inc. (W19)
Description: The packaging industry is hectic and constantly changing. There is only one way to make a difference in whether your business is thriving and profitable or struggling to keep up—focus. At processors all across North America the number-one cost of goods is resin, on average making up 50- to 75 percent of the cost of the products; yet it's rarely given the focus and attention it deserves. This enlightening presentation will open your eyes to the importance of a resin focus and arm you with insider secrets that will help you find the savings to make a difference.
9:20-10:00 a.m.
New Coating Technology for Improved Ink Release and Reduced Plugging
Steven Wilkinson, ARC Intl. (W20)
Description: Premature plugging and loss of volume are the major factors that result in poor print quality, slower press speeds and inconsistent densities, as well as coating weight. New, advanced ceramic coatings formulated with advanced release properties are now available that can resolve many of these issues, particularly in the area of higher-like line-count engravings.
11:00-11:40 a.m.
The Printer and the Human Factor: Pumping Solutions for Flexo & Gravure Printers
Bill Mason, sales manager, Powerwise Ink Pumps (W21)
Description: Printers will benefit from hearing about ink-handling problems and how to solve them. By directing them to various methods, changing practices and looking at new ways to handle ink pumps, attendees will learn about why the human factor can derail the best laid plans. Examples will be included.
11:50-12:30 p.m.
Increase Profits by Aligning Your Assets
Richard Henry, vp, Advanced Maintenance Solutions, Inc. (W22)
Description: What if your existing production machinery were operating at optimized efficiency? Would that mean that you would have a minimum of scrap, exceptional quality, higher line speeds, reduced maintenance costs, no capital investment and ultimately higher profit? Many companies are realizing the benefits of aligning their assets. How about you?