by www.packagingpastor.com
This is a podcast where we illuminate the stories of people in the packaging industry and proudly sponsored by Specright.com Hosted by the Packaging Pastor, Adam Peek <br/><br/><a href="https://www.packagingisawesome.com?utm_medium=podcast">www.packagingisawesome.com</a>
Language
🇺🇲
Publishing Since
6/2/2019
Email Addresses
1 available
Phone Numbers
0 available
April 9, 2025
<p>About the Guest(s):</p><p><strong>Paul Rice</strong> is the founder of Fair Trade USA, an organization committed to the principles of ethical sourcing and global sustainable development. With a passionate background in international development and social justice, Paul has dedicated over two decades to promoting fair trade practices that empower farmers and workers worldwide. His work in Nicaragua shaped his vision and inspired the creation of a large network of fair trade projects, achieving measurable impact on poverty alleviation and environmental sustainability. Paul is also the author of the book "Every Purchase Matters," which explores the positive influence of conscious consumerism and fair trade.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://specright.com/ebooks/how-to-define-your-company-goals-for-sustainable-packaging?utm_campaign=2024%20Influencers&utm_source=adam%20peek&utm_content=sustainable%20packaging%20goals%20ebook">Specright eBook - How to define sustainable packaging strategies!</a></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fspecright.com%2freport%2fgartner-market-guide-multienterprise-collaboration-networks%3futm_campaign%3d2024%2520Influencers%26utm_source%3dadam%2520peek%26utm_content%3dgartner%2520collab%2520networks&c=E,1,YjAurCcZaMEUGDTdb1d-YfT4ZxVcMg3tSyJdYGAZyl0NGin_BlNn4rp4jrnwYXdZ1YbtapgR6qD1FP4JJNzOlK98f8nMrq_jGy5xj3HrmjtaI4hY9EDrya86&typo=1">Gartner Report</a></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fspecright.com%2febooks%2fthe-packaging-pros-transforming-business-with-specification-management%3futm_campaign%3d2024%2520Influencers%26utm_source%3dadam%2520peek%26utm_content%3dpackaging%2520pros%2520ebook&c=E,1,V8Mrlv1CMS-0UweAOq74s6FVx5G69IFO3RcjF_sWETD9BBNA58yeHtybiYqaiRh6Gapl1MTxg1gM4Vafkw1aKKaiQsa4bjSgFZEKw8Kv&typo=1">Packaging Pros eBook</a></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fspecright.com%2f%3futm_campaign%3d2024%2520Influencers%26utm_source%3dadam%2520peek%26utm_content%3dhome%2520page&c=E,1,9uHEv8b-qhq41psLgKjUGdYJu6-zSBXluuuytExRmXytG9pIsvmHtfIgIzEoaqiP-UUw1UETSljHIPSkUIQtOUE4DIzvI0179WQIJJoYxi2zS2kUO1RLfR8,&typo=1">Home Page</a></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://specright.com/gate/request-a-demo?utm_campaign=2024%20Influencers&utm_source=cory%20connors&utm_content=demo%20request&utm_campaign=2024%20Influencers&utm_source=adam%20peek&utm_content=demo%20request">Book a demo with Specright</a></p><p>Meyers has some incredible sustainable packaging options!</p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://meyers.com/sustainability/">Get the 2023 Sustainability Report</a></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://meyers.com/extended-producer-responsibility-ebook/">Meyers Packaging EPR eBook</a> - it is FREE!!</p><p>New sponsor is Label King! Check them out at <a target="_blank" href="http://www.labelkingcorp.com/">www.thelabelking.com</a></p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://trayak.com/contact-us/">Book a demo with Trayak (LCA’s on demand!)</a></p><p>SmartSolve has water soluble label and paper materials. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartsolve.com/water-soluble-label-stock">Learn more!</a></p><p>The Scrapp App is going to revolutionize home and corporate recycling. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.scrapprecycling.com/mobile-app">Download for your device today!</a></p><p>Episode Summary:</p><p>In this riveting episode of the People of Packaging Podcast, host Adam Peek engages with Paul Rice, founder of Fair Trade USA, in a conversation tunneling into the transformative power of fair trade practices. The discussion unfolds with anecdotes from Paul's inspiring journey, revealing how his upbringing and international experiences ignited a lifelong commitment to economic and social justice. Rice shares insights into how fair trade revolutionizes supply chains, highlighting it as a vital solution that marries profitability with sustainability, effectively driving social impact through business.</p><p>Delving deeper, the episode uncovers the ethos and mechanics behind Fair Trade USA's certification model, explaining how businesses and consumers alike can partake in creating global change. As the conversation unfolds, Rice emphasizes that every purchase — from ordinary groceries to thoughtful gifts — has the potential to contribute to ethical sourcing and sustainability. As listeners navigate these nuanced discussions, they'll discover how harmonizing economic models with social responsibility can collectively uplift communities and ensure long-term business resilience.</p><p>Key Takeaways:</p><p>* Fair trade is not just an ethical choice but a strategic business approach that de-risks the supply chain and ensures long-term sustainability.</p><p>* Businesses integrating fair trade practices can foster resilience against market fluctuations while supporting global poverty alleviation.</p><p>* Conscious consumerism enables individuals to significantly influence sustainable practices and fair labor conditions through everyday purchases.</p><p>* Fair Trade USA's rigorous certification standards empower farmers by ensuring they receive equitable compensation, enabling communities to invest in development projects and preserve local ecosystems.</p><p>* Despite challenges, substantial progress and growing consumer demand for sustainable products suggest a positive trajectory for fair trade initiatives.</p><p>Notable Quotes:</p><p>* "Trade not aid, which I dare say is more relevant than ever right now during these times."</p><p>* "We are harnessing the power of companies and consumers to enable a journey of sustainability in communities."</p><p>* "My belief is that we are powerful. Each of us as individuals, we are powerful and have the ability to change the world through the purchases that we make."</p><p>* "Business can and must be a force for good in the world."</p><p>* "Every purchase matters because when you go to the store, you have a chance to vote for a product that you know is organic or fair trade… that has measurable, verified benefit for the planet and for people."</p><p>Resources:</p><p>* <strong>Paul Rice's Website:</strong> <a target="_blank" href="http://paulrice.org/">paulrice.org</a></p><p>* <strong>Fair Trade USA:</strong> <a target="_blank" href="https://www.fairtradecertified.org/">Fair Trade USA Official Website</a></p><p>* <strong>Book Mentioned:</strong> "Every Purchase Matters" by Paul Rice, available on Amazon and other major bookstores.</p><p>Listeners are encouraged to delve into the complete episode to fully grasp the engaging discussions and inspiring narratives. Stay tuned for more illuminating content on the impact and innovation within the packaging and sustainability realms.</p> <br/><br/>This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit <a href="https://www.packagingisawesome.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1">www.packagingisawesome.com</a>
March 19, 2025
<p>About the Guest(s):</p><p><strong>Melanie Yermack</strong> is a seasoned Managing Director at Mesirow, where she co-heads the packaging practice. With over 14 years at the firm, Melanie has developed deep expertise in investment banking focused on mergers and acquisitions (M&A) within the packaging sector. She started her career at PricewaterhouseCoopers and has been instrumental in navigating complex financial landscapes to deliver substantial value in packaging M&A deals.</p><p><strong>Rick Weil</strong> has dedicated 24 years to Mesirow as a Managing Director, specializing in M&A advisory. He has extensive experience in working with entrepreneur-owned businesses, providing them with tailored solutions and guidance through every facet of M&A transactions. His comprehensive understanding of both strategic and emotional components makes him a trusted advisor in the packaging industry.</p><p><strong>Nitay Laor</strong> serves as a Vice President at Mesirow, supporting Rick and Melanie in their packaging endeavors. Transitioning from an accounting background, Nitay has immersed himself into M&A in the packaging industry for the past eight years. His role involves deep analysis and strategy formation for complex, multi-year client engagements aimed at maximizing business valuation and market positioning.</p><p>Episode Summary:</p><p>Join Adam Peek in this insightful episode of the People of Packaging podcast as he delves into the world of mergers and acquisitions within the packaging industry with experts Melanie Yermack, Rick Weil, and Nitay Laor from Mesirow. This episode unveils the intricate dynamics of preparing a business for sale, understanding market valuations, and the pivotal role private equity plays in the packaging sector. With over 40 years of combined experience, these guests shed light on how investment banking operates within this field and project what the future might hold for packaging M&A.</p><p>This episode unpacks the resilience of the packaging industry through tumultuous periods such as COVID-19 and economic uncertainties. Melanie emphasizes the importance of longevity in client relationships, underpinning the need for understanding not only market trends but also the unique value propositions of individual businesses. The team discusses the vital role of investment and strategic planning in making businesses attractive to buyers. Rick adds a perspective on the often unspoken psychological aspects of these transactions that aid family-owned businesses in preserving legacies while embracing strategic growth opportunities.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://specright.com/ebooks/how-to-define-your-company-goals-for-sustainable-packaging?utm_campaign=2024%20Influencers&utm_source=adam%20peek&utm_content=sustainable%20packaging%20goals%20ebook">Specright eBook - How to define sustainable packaging strategies!</a></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fspecright.com%2freport%2fgartner-market-guide-multienterprise-collaboration-networks%3futm_campaign%3d2024%2520Influencers%26utm_source%3dadam%2520peek%26utm_content%3dgartner%2520collab%2520networks&c=E,1,YjAurCcZaMEUGDTdb1d-YfT4ZxVcMg3tSyJdYGAZyl0NGin_BlNn4rp4jrnwYXdZ1YbtapgR6qD1FP4JJNzOlK98f8nMrq_jGy5xj3HrmjtaI4hY9EDrya86&typo=1">Gartner Report</a></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fspecright.com%2febooks%2fthe-packaging-pros-transforming-business-with-specification-management%3futm_campaign%3d2024%2520Influencers%26utm_source%3dadam%2520peek%26utm_content%3dpackaging%2520pros%2520ebook&c=E,1,V8Mrlv1CMS-0UweAOq74s6FVx5G69IFO3RcjF_sWETD9BBNA58yeHtybiYqaiRh6Gapl1MTxg1gM4Vafkw1aKKaiQsa4bjSgFZEKw8Kv&typo=1">Packaging Pros eBook</a></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fspecright.com%2f%3futm_campaign%3d2024%2520Influencers%26utm_source%3dadam%2520peek%26utm_content%3dhome%2520page&c=E,1,9uHEv8b-qhq41psLgKjUGdYJu6-zSBXluuuytExRmXytG9pIsvmHtfIgIzEoaqiP-UUw1UETSljHIPSkUIQtOUE4DIzvI0179WQIJJoYxi2zS2kUO1RLfR8,&typo=1">Home Page</a></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://specright.com/gate/request-a-demo?utm_campaign=2024%20Influencers&utm_source=cory%20connors&utm_content=demo%20request&utm_campaign=2024%20Influencers&utm_source=adam%20peek&utm_content=demo%20request">Book a demo with Specright</a></p><p>Meyers has some incredible sustainable packaging options!</p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://meyers.com/sustainability/">Get the 2023 Sustainability Report</a></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://meyers.com/extended-producer-responsibility-ebook/">Meyers Packaging EPR eBook</a> - it is FREE!!</p><p>New sponsor is Label King! Check them out at <a target="_blank" href="http://www.labelkingcorp.com/">www.thelabelking.com</a></p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://trayak.com/contact-us/">Book a demo with Trayak (LCA’s on demand!)</a></p><p>SmartSolve has water soluble label and paper materials. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartsolve.com/water-soluble-label-stock">Learn more!</a></p><p>The Scrapp App is going to revolutionize home and corporate recycling. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.scrapprecycling.com/mobile-app">Download for your device today!</a></p><p>Key Takeaways:</p><p>* The importance of crafting a well-structured and competitive process when approaching mergers and acquisitions to maximize business valuation.</p><p>* Sustainability initiatives and automation are becoming significant drivers of value in the packaging industry, attracting private equity interest.</p><p>* The packaging sector exhibits strong resilience and steadiness, even amidst global uncertainties such as tariffs and economic fluctuations.</p><p>* M&A is a people-centered business that blends sales, finance, and psychology to guide family-owned businesses through pivotal transitions.</p><p>* Engaging in long-term relationships with financial advisors can empower business owners with strategic foresight for future readiness in selling their business.</p><p>Notable Quotes:</p><p>* "Packaging companies killed it during COVID by demonstrating immense resilience and growth." - Rick Weil</p><p>* "The essence of M&A in packaging is a blend of sales, finance, and psychology." - Rick Weil</p><p>* "Sustainability is on the top of everybody's mind, and it's achieved in many ways like recycled content and recyclable packaging." - Melanie Yermack</p><p>* "There's a massive pent-up demand in private equity awaiting the right packaging opportunities." - Rick Weil</p><p>* "A lot of our clients, it's not just about valuation; it's about culture, employee care, and legacy." - Melanie Yermack</p><p>Resources:</p><p>* Visit Mesirow’s website for more information: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.mesirow.com/home">www.mesirow.com</a></p><p>* Listen to the My First Million podcast mentioned during the episode for insights on leveraging technology in business.</p><p>To experience the nuance and depth of this conversation, tune into the full episode of the People of Packaging podcast. Gain valuable insights into the evolving landscape of M&A within the packaging sector, and keep exploring further with Adam Peek and his fascinating guests. Stay tuned for more enlightening content from the series!</p> <br/><br/>This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit <a href="https://www.packagingisawesome.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1">www.packagingisawesome.com</a>
March 10, 2025
<p>About the Guest(s):</p><p><strong>Alan Beaulieu:</strong> An esteemed economist known for his insightful economic forecasts, Alan Beaulieu has been sharing his expertise at the Tag and Label Manufacturers Institute (TLMI) show for 16 years. He brings a wealth of knowledge on how policies impact economies, particularly focusing on the packaging and manufacturing sectors. Alan is a prolific author and a renowned speaker, lauded for his clear communication style and deep understanding of global economic trends. Though he is retiring, his influential ideas and published works continue to guide industries.</p><p><strong>Cory Francor:</strong> An expert in digital printing, Cory Francor plays a vital role within NAPCO, a company recognized for its comprehensive research on industry trends. He delivers consulting and strategic insights, focusing particularly on advancements in digital and packaging printing. Corey's emphasis on innovative printing technologies and sustainability has made him a valuable voice in both the industry conferences and educational platforms.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://specright.com/ebooks/how-to-define-your-company-goals-for-sustainable-packaging?utm_campaign=2024%20Influencers&utm_source=adam%20peek&utm_content=sustainable%20packaging%20goals%20ebook">Specright eBook - How to define sustainable packaging strategies!</a></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fspecright.com%2freport%2fgartner-market-guide-multienterprise-collaboration-networks%3futm_campaign%3d2024%2520Influencers%26utm_source%3dadam%2520peek%26utm_content%3dgartner%2520collab%2520networks&c=E,1,YjAurCcZaMEUGDTdb1d-YfT4ZxVcMg3tSyJdYGAZyl0NGin_BlNn4rp4jrnwYXdZ1YbtapgR6qD1FP4JJNzOlK98f8nMrq_jGy5xj3HrmjtaI4hY9EDrya86&typo=1">Gartner Report</a></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fspecright.com%2febooks%2fthe-packaging-pros-transforming-business-with-specification-management%3futm_campaign%3d2024%2520Influencers%26utm_source%3dadam%2520peek%26utm_content%3dpackaging%2520pros%2520ebook&c=E,1,V8Mrlv1CMS-0UweAOq74s6FVx5G69IFO3RcjF_sWETD9BBNA58yeHtybiYqaiRh6Gapl1MTxg1gM4Vafkw1aKKaiQsa4bjSgFZEKw8Kv&typo=1">Packaging Pros eBook</a></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fspecright.com%2f%3futm_campaign%3d2024%2520Influencers%26utm_source%3dadam%2520peek%26utm_content%3dhome%2520page&c=E,1,9uHEv8b-qhq41psLgKjUGdYJu6-zSBXluuuytExRmXytG9pIsvmHtfIgIzEoaqiP-UUw1UETSljHIPSkUIQtOUE4DIzvI0179WQIJJoYxi2zS2kUO1RLfR8,&typo=1">Home Page</a></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://specright.com/gate/request-a-demo?utm_campaign=2024%20Influencers&utm_source=cory%20connors&utm_content=demo%20request&utm_campaign=2024%20Influencers&utm_source=adam%20peek&utm_content=demo%20request">Book a demo with Specright</a></p><p>Meyers has some incredible sustainable packaging options!</p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://meyers.com/sustainability/">Get the 2023 Sustainability Report</a></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://meyers.com/extended-producer-responsibility-ebook/">Meyers Packaging EPR eBook</a> - it is FREE!!</p><p>New sponsor is Label King! Check them out at <a target="_blank" href="http://www.labelkingcorp.com/">www.thelabelking.com</a></p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://trayak.com/contact-us/">Book a demo with Trayak (LCA’s on demand!)</a></p><p>SmartSolve has water soluble label and paper materials. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartsolve.com/water-soluble-label-stock">Learn more!</a></p><p>The Scrapp App is going to revolutionize home and corporate recycling. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.scrapprecycling.com/mobile-app">Download for your device today!</a></p><p>Episode Summary:</p><p>In this engaging episode of the People of Packaging podcast, host Adam Peek reports from the TLMI (Tag and Label Manufacturers Institute) show at La Cantera Resort and Spa in San Antonio, Texas. Engaging discussions surrounding economic forecasts and digital printing advancements unfold, featuring presentations from reputable figures like economist Alan Beaulieu and digital printing expert Corey Francor. Each presenter offers unique insights into current trends and future expectations within the packaging industry.</p><p>Alan Beaulieu shares a comprehensive economic outlook, forecasting global growth from 2025 through 2029 and highlighting potential economic challenges into the 2030s. The session also addresses U.S. export trends, labor shortages, and the influence of immigration laws on the workforce. Meanwhile, Corey Francor discusses the increasing demand for digital printing solutions, focusing on their importance for short lead times and cost-efficiency. He emphasizes how brands are adapting to digital and sustainable practices, stressing transparency with regulatory compliance and sustainability documentation as crucial for industry credibility.</p><p>Key Takeaways:</p><p>* Expect global economic growth from 2025 to 2029; be prepared for potential economic downturns in the early 2030s.</p><p>* U.S. manufacturing and exports are critical, with European and Mexican markets as top import partners.</p><p>* Digital printing is increasingly favored by brands for its efficiency and cost benefits, especially within the label printing sector.</p><p>* Sustainability is a top priority for brands, with a significant demand for clear and documented information from packaging suppliers.</p><p>* Embracing data and technology for improved efficiency is vital for navigating future economic uncertainties.</p><p>Notable Quotes:</p><p>* "I'm going to talk about how policies are impacting the economy, not how politics are" – Alan Beaulieu.</p><p>* "Digital printing is driving the label industry forward with short lead times and cost efficiency." – Cory Francor.</p><p>* "Listen to millennials because they tend to have a mindset towards efficiency." – Alan Beaulieu.</p><p>* "Brands are demanding the digital experience over just the digital capability." – Corey Francor.</p><p>* "Remember, data and technology have to be done with a purpose." – Adam Peek.</p><p>Resources:</p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-beaulieu-246988/">Alan Beaulieu on LinkedIn</a></p><p>* Corey's Resource at NAPCO</p><p>* Tag and Label Manufacturers Institute (TLMI) official website: <a target="_blank" href="https://tlmi.com/">TLMI</a></p><p>* Spec Rite: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.specrite.com/">Spec Rite Website</a></p><p>* Packaging Is Awesome Substack: <a target="_blank" href="https://packagingisawesome.com/">Subscribe Here</a></p><p>Discover more in this episode to learn how the interplay of economic trends and technological advancements is shaping the future of the packaging industry. Don't miss out on future insights; subscribe to the People of Packaging podcast today for continued educational and industry-shaping content.</p> <br/><br/>This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit <a href="https://www.packagingisawesome.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1">www.packagingisawesome.com</a>
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