Annual donations made to southeast Wisconsin non-profit organizations working to make the world a better place for those in need.ORBIS® Corporation, a global leader in reusable packaging solutions, recently held its annual Community Giving Reception to celebrate and honor the services that nonprofit organizations provide to area communities. The event brought together over 75 attendees representing charitable organizations from across southeast Wisconsin to receive their charitable donations.Menasha Corporation, ORBIS’ parent company, was founded by Elisha D. Smith in 1849. He was a tremendous philanthropist in the Menasha, Wis. area. Today, the Menasha Corporation Foundation proudly carries on the tradition of Elisha Smith’s giving. Funding is made available by Menasha Corporation Foundation, the charitable entity of ORBIS’ parent company.ORBIS has community teams across the enterprise to serve the local, geographic communities in which its employees live. These teams identify and support local groups, agencies and causes in need of financial support, time or volunteers.The Community Action Team at ORBIS’ headquarters, located in Oconomowoc, has built partnerships with many nonprofits in southeast Wisconsin and celebrates these partnerships at the Community Giving Reception.“The Giving Reception shines a light on the positive impact nonprofit organizations make in the communities where our employees live and work,” said Jo Anne Behling, team lead for the ORBIS Community Action Team. At ORBIS, we are dedicated to giving back to organizations that are working to make the world a better place for those in need. In addition to financial donations, we also collaborate with our nonprofit partners to provide volunteers from our ORBIS teams to help support their efforts.”Strength and Service through Local Partnerships   ORBIS demonstrates a strong commitment to the communities where their employees reside, regularly partnering with local entities and businesses to engage and support. In addition to community giving efforts, one other example is the ongoing commitment and partnership with Children’s Wisconsin. In the last five years, ORBIS has achieved a staggering fundraising milestone of $1.46 million for Children’s Wisconsin at their annual Good Day for Kids golf outing. This year’s outing collected over $332,000 for Children’s Wisconsin, the region’s only independent health care system dedicated solely to the health and well-being of children.“Each year we look at the needs happening now in the community and create a path to support them where they are. We are so proud of how our employees embrace the spirit of giving back, which is visible in ongoing dedication to volunteerism and community service,” said ORBIS President Norm Kukuk. “Neighborhood involvement and improvement is a crucial part of our mission, and it excites me to celebrate their collective efforts in partnering with organizations to support and uplift the communities we serve. It’s all part of honoring the spirit of service that has set us apart for more than 175 years.”To learn more about ORBIS’ efforts in the community, please visit: www.orbiscorporation.com/en-us/about-orbis/#giving-back About ORBIS CorporationDrawing upon more than 175 years of material handling expertise and 70 years of plastics innovations, ORBIS helps world-class customers move their products faster, safer and more cost-effectively with reusable totes, pallets, containers, dunnage and racks. Using a proven approach, ORBIS experts analyze customers’ systems, design solutions and execute reusable packaging programs to create a more sustainable supply chain for their business. ORBIS uses packaging life-cycle assessments to provide directional guidance on environmental impact data to help customers make informed decisions on the benefit of reusable to single-use packaging to achieve longer-term cost savings while minimizing their overall environmental impact. As a steward of sustainability, ORBIS is committed to a better world for future generations. Headquartered in Oconomowoc, ORBIS has more than 3,300 employees and almost fifty locations throughout North America and Europe. For more information, please visit www.orbiscorporation.com.ContactAndy Jacobson612-599-5405ajacobson@nordeast.com

Realized 75% of Packaging Products Revenue, Meeting Goal One Year EarlySARASOTA, Fla., Aug. 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- IPG (“the Company”), a global provider of packaging and protective solutions, issued its 2024 sustainability report, Safe, Circular & Responsible, highlighting its achievements and ongoing commitment to sustainability, innovation, and positive impact on people, communities, and the planet.“In 2024, we met our commitment one year early for 75% of our revenue to come from packaging products that are recyclable, reusable, or compostable, and continued progress on the commitments we have made in product innovation, climate, energy, water, waste and safety,” said Pete Durette, CEO of IPG. “I am immensely proud of the dedication and efforts that our talented team members have made in 2024 toward achieving our commitments, and I am grateful for the continued support from our suppliers and customers who are all essential partners in our continuing efforts.”IPG’s external commitments, through the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), The Climate Pledge, the CEO Water Mandate, the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), the TRUE Zero Waste program, and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Better Climate Challenge help to steer our efforts.“Our focus remains on meeting our customers’ needs today, and planning for what they will need tomorrow,” said Jay Bolus, VP of Sustainability at IPG. “The sustainability challenge remains dynamic, and we continue our efforts to find and implement creative solutions.”Highlights from the 2024 IPG Sustainability Report include: Realized 75% of revenue from packaging products that are recyclable, reusable, or compostable, meeting our goal one year early Realized more than 68% of our revenue from products that are Cradle to Cradle Certified®, with four new products achieving certification Increased renewable energy use to 10%, up from 6% in 2023 Achieved a 30% reduction in our Scope 1, Scope 2, and material Scope 3 emissions from the 2021 baseline Awarded TRUE Zero Waste Certification at 4 facilities, increasing our waste diversion rate to 66% Achieved our safety goal to realize zero life-changing events for our employees, and reduced our total case incident rate to 1.18, down from 1.52 in 2023, a reduction of 22%IPG’s full 2024 Sustainability Report is available at www.itape.com/sustainability.Cradle to Cradle Certified® is a registered trademark of the Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute.About IPGHeadquartered in Sarasota, Florida, IPG is a global provider of packaging and protective solutions across a diversified set of geographies and end markets. The Company develops, manufactures, and sells a variety of solutions including paper and film-based pressure-sensitive and water-activated tapes, stretch and shrink films, protective packaging, woven and non-woven products, and packaging machinery. For information about the Company, visit www.itape.com.IPG’s vision is to be the Global Leader in Packaging and Protective Solutions. Sustainability is a key strategy for achieving our vision and mission and is a primary driver of operational excellence and doing what is right for our employees and communities.ContactJay BolusVice President SustainabilityIPGjbolus@itape.com

ORBIS® Corporation, a global leader in reusable packaging solutions, has been selected as a recipient of a John Deere supplier Sustainability Award and earned recognition as a Partner-level Supplier in the John Deere Achieving Excellence Program, for 2024.The Sustainability Award is presented to a select group of suppliers globally who have demonstrated a strong performance in Sustainable processes, products, or operations. Award selections are focused on three key areas – Emissions (GHG reductions projects), Product Circularity (Recyclability, Recycled materials, sustainable materials), and/or social improvement focus (Labor and Human Rights, Ethics, Corporate citizenship). John Deere created the Supplier Sustainability Award in 2021 to promote sustainability in the company’s supply base and recognize suppliers for driving innovation and measurable action.The Partner-level Supplier status is Deere & Company’s highest supplier rating. ORBIS was selected for the honor in recognition of its dedication to providing products and services of outstanding quality as well as its commitment to continuous improvement. ORBIS employees accepted the recognition during formal ceremonies held on April 10 in East Moline, Illinois. ORBIS supports John Deere’s Worldwide Logistics Program to deliver parts to their facilities.Suppliers who participate in the Achieving Excellence program are evaluated annually in several key performance categories, including quality, delivery, process alignments, value creation, and relationship. John Deere Supply Management created the program in 1991 to provide a supplier evaluation and feedback process that promotes continuous improvement.About ORBIS Corporation Drawing upon more than 175 years of material handling expertise and 70 years of plastics innovations, ORBIS helps world-class customers move their products faster, safer and more cost-effectively with reusable totes, pallets, containers, dunnage and racks. Using a proven approach, ORBIS experts analyze customers’ systems, design solutions and execute reusable packaging programs to create a more sustainable supply chain for their business. ORBIS uses packaging life-cycle assessments to provide directional guidance on environmental impact data to help customers make informed decisions on the benefit of reusable to single-use packaging to achieve longer-term cost savings while minimizing their overall environmental impact. As a steward of sustainability, ORBIS is committed to a better world for future generations. Headquartered in Oconomowoc, ORBIS has more than 3,300 employees and almost fifty locations throughout North America and Europe. For more information, please visit www.orbiscorporation.com.ContactAndy Jacobson612-599-5405ajacobson@nordeast.com

Explore the future of sustainable packaging with on-demand, right-sized solutions that are transforming packaging processes. This automated model minimizes waste, reduces costs, and enhances product protection, all while making supply chains more adaptable and eco-friendly.

This is a paid advertisement. Since 1977, PFlow Industries has revolutionized vertical material handling, delivering over 20,000 custom-built vertical conveyors worldwide. From small packages to massive 100,000 lb loads, see how PFlow’s innovative, tailored solutions solve any lifting challenge—enhancing safety, efficiency, and productivity across countless industries. Watch now to see PFlow in action!

This is a paid advertisement. As the largest U.S. ecommerce food service equipment and supplies dealer, WebstaurantStore.com’s mission is to offer busy food and hospitality professionals superior service, fast shipping and the best selection and prices. Faced with continued growth and a diverse order profile, WebstaurantStore chose Sparck’s right-size automated packaging solution for efficient order boxing that is 7X faster than manual packing. Today, they have 9 total CVP Impacks installed across the US. Watch the full story now:

Compact, heavy-duty axis with two carriages optimizes space requirements and cycle times of dynamic handling applications Linear axis can accommodate two masses weighing up to 385 kg each Can be individually configured as a single axis or as a part of a multi-axis system Suited for applications with high drive torques and short cycle timesBosch Rexroth is expanding its CKR series of compact modules with an innovative dual belt axis for dynamic handling with a total load capacity of up to 770 kg. The new CKR-280 heavy-duty axis combines the functions of two linear axes into one linear system. Two, independently driven carriages in a single frame enable dynamic applications with high drive torques and short cycle times. The compact, dual-handling system reduces valuable installation space and increases productivity, while saving time and costs for engineering, assembly and commissioning. The new solution can be utilized as a single axis or combined with other linear axes into a multi-axis system, with the option also to include a drive package.Whether in battery production, intralogistics or machine tool automation, many industries are increasingly seeking compact handling solutions that can move large payloads with high dynamics. With the new dual belt version of the CKR compact module series in size 280, Bosch Rexroth offers a space-optimized, heavy-duty axis that can handle two payloads up to 385 kg each and drive torques up to 250 Nm.To enable fast and easy engineering, the compact modules can be configured online in lengths up to 5.50 m. Bosch Rexroth can also deliver longer travel ranges on request. High accelerations of up to 5g and a maximum speed of 5 m/s provide the optimal conditions for short cycle times with high precision and a repeatability of +/- 0.05 mm. Depending on the requirements, a variety of travel profiles can be implemented independently.After its market launch, the CKR-280 heavy-duty axis will also be integrated into the e-tool chain as a new size for single-axis and multi-axis systems.For more information on Bosch Rexroth’s complete line of compact module solutions, please visit boschrexroth-us.com.About Bosch RexrothAs one of the world’s leading suppliers of drive and control technologies, Bosch Rexroth ensures efficient, powerful and safe movement in machines and systems of any size. The company bundles global application experience in the market segments of Mobile and Industrial Applications as well as Factory Automation. With its intelligent components, customized system solutions, engineering and services, Bosch Rexroth is creating the necessary environment for fully connected applications. Bosch Rexroth offers its customers hydraulics, electric drive and control technology, gear technology and linear motion and assembly technology, including software and interfaces to the Internet of Things. With locations in over 80 countries, around 32,600 associates generated sales revenue of 6.5 billion euros in 2024.To learn more, please visit the local country sites:USA: www.boschrexroth-us.comCANADA: www.boschrexroth.caMEXICO: www.boschrexroth.mxThe Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. It employs roughly 417,900 associates worldwide (as of December 31, 2024). According to preliminary figures, 
the company generated sales of 90.5 billion euros in 2024. Its operations are divided into 
four business sectors: Mobility, Industrial Technology, Consumer Goods, and Energy and Building Technology. With its business activities, the company aims to use technology to help shape universal trends such as automation, electrification, digitalization, connectivity, and an orientation to sustainability. In this context, Bosch’s broad diversification across regions and industries strengthens its innovativeness and robustness. Bosch uses its proven expertise in sensor technology, software, and services to offer customers cross-domain solutions from a single source. It also applies its expertise in connectivity and artificial intelligence in order to develop and manufacture user-friendly, sustainable products. With technology that is “Invented for life,” Bosch wants to help improve quality of life and conserve natural resources. The 
Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its roughly 470 subsidiary and regional companies in over 60 countries. Including sales and service partners, Bosch’s global manufacturing, engineering, and sales network covers nearly every country in the world. Bosch’s innovative strength is key to the company’s further development. At 136 locations across the globe, Bosch employs some 86,900 associates in research and development, of which nearly 48,000 are software engineers.Additional information is available online at www.bosch.com, www.iot.bosch.com, www.bosch-press.com.Contact Bosch Rexroth CorporationEden Estabrook(704) 942-4227Eden.estabrook@boschrexroth-us.com

Understanding SKU Proliferation: The Rising Demand for Product Variety and Its Impact on WarehousingSKU Proliferation refers to the rapid increase in the number of unique Stock Keeping Units (SKUs) that a company offers. An SKU is a distinct identifier for each individual product, variation, or item in a warehouse, typically tied to characteristics such as size, color, flavor, brand, or packaging type. In essence, SKU proliferation is driven by a company’s desire to meet growing consumer demands for variety and personalized choices, resulting in a broader and more complex product catalog.

The Protective Guarding Manufacturers Association (ProGMA) has published a blog to supplement its latest video on safety at pick modules. The video can be viewed at mhi.org/progma/videos.Here at ProGMA, we have produced a series of educational videos on protective guarding equipment in the material handling industry. ProGMA members provide fixed protective guarding products to protect personnel, equipment, and inventory in industrial facilities. A variety of such items are designed for installation at pick modules, which are multi-level structures typically constructed out of pallet rack that allow multiple pallets of product to be stored, broken down, picked, and packaged into specific orders for shipping.Our video is targeted at end users, system integrators, material handling warehouse design consultants / engineers, distributors, and safety professionals in manufacturing and distribution centers in the material handling industry, as well as students studying the sector. Many household and industrial goods we interact with every day were once stored or passed through a pick module. At the distribution centers of companies like CVS Pharmacy and Rite Aid Corporation, for example, goods are stored before being repackaged and shipped to individual stores.As the 2:23min-long video says at the outset, pick modules can have several elevated levels of materials that are handled by both automation and personnel. Although everything in the material handling industry is becoming more automated, separation of full stored cases into smaller, individual shipments is still being completed manually. The size of pick modules has been increasing over the years; in the past, you may have seen a floor plus one level system, then a floor plus two levels, and now it is not uncommon to see three or even four elevated levels. This increases potential hazards.As the video continues, it is of paramount importance that proper guarding is used from the ground up to protect structures, the product they hold and, most importantly, the people working within and around them. Rack upright columns can be difficult to replace and costly to repair because often the area has to be closed off, product has to be removed, and multiple sections need to be disassembled. These components are all dependent upon one another, so if one part fails, the entire system can fail.The video highlights three “easy and affordable” solutions: Free-standing pallet rack column protectors Post cushions Bumper guardsHowever, ProGMA members offer a variety of products for ground-level protection including guardrails, bumper guards, column protectors, bollards, rack guards, and product containment enclosures  (i.e., wire mesh or netting); and for upper-level protection, such as side and back product containment enclosures (wire mesh or netting) to prevent products from falling below.What does ANSI say?The video continues, and quotes American National Standards Institute (ANSI) 6.4.3, which states that “…any gate that provides an access opening through the guards for the purpose of loading and unloading material onto a work platform shall be designed such that the elevated surface is protected by guards at all times. Gates that swing open, slide open, or lift or leave an unprotected opening in the guarding are not acceptable.”However, it is important to note that there are many mezzanines that were installed before the ANSI standards were created that used more conventional gates, such as removable, sliding, or swinging systems—and that is the same for pick modules. Systems can be retrofitted to achieve conformity with current standardization. There is no grandfather clause for ANSI (or OSHA) so all systems whether new or old should follow their guidelines. Note that many of the protective guarding products found in the video and on the ProGMA site are easily retrofittable to these older systems.As the video stresses, only dual-gate systems should be used. The same gates used on a pick module are also the preferred method for securing all elevated pallet drop areas whether they are in pick modules, on mezzanines, or on elevated work platforms such as storage or production / blending areas. The ANSI standards that recommended the use of dual-gate systems were written specifically for elevated work platforms and since a pick module is a type of elevated work platform that should be applied.The video demonstrates how a dual-gate system uses two counterbalanced and interconnected gates that are configured so when the first gate at the ledge is open, the second gate behind the pallet is closed. Fixed guarding on the sides—often the frame of the pallet rack in a pick module—prevents access into the side of the areas. This allows material to be loaded into the area while keeping employees a safe distance from the ledge and the material. When the rear / operator gate is opened, the ledge gate automatically closes, maintaining a barrier at the ledge while the pallet is accessed and picked. This creates what ProGMA calls a controlled-access area so there is always a barrier between the worker and the ledge.For information, ProGMA members that manufacture such solutions include Mezzanine Safeti-Gates Inc., Wildeck, and Heartland Engineered Products. Although companies still provide swing gates for pallet drop areas where a single pallet is loaded and staged, they are not an acceptable solution according to ANSI and could potentially create a situation where they are in violation of OSHA code.A self-closing swing gate, also featured in the video, should only be used when integrated with pallet flow lanes where multiple pallets are loaded into the system. The pallet flow lanes are pitched so the pallet rolls into the storage area. This allows the gate to immediately close once the pallet is loaded.  By comparison, when used for a single pallet position without flow rails, the staged pallet would hold the swinging gate open, preventing it from closing.For securing multiple deep pallet flow lanes, a dual-gate system is the preferred safety method because not only does it make sure a barrier is in place all times for fall protection, but it also keeps people out of the pallet flow lanes when pallets are being loaded. The two types of incidents we see in these areas are falls from the ledges and pallets being pushed into the legs of employees who have entered the lane. Only the dual-gate system keeps people out of the lanes when the lane is being loaded. The self-closing swing gate, however, does secure the ledge for fall protection.Hand in gloveOftentimes, a safety aspect can be used to increase productivity. For example, the self-closing swinging gate on pallet flow lanes will allow pallets to be quickly loaded into the system. Any time the lift truck operator wants to load a pallet into the area, they just push the pallet through the swinging gates. The dual-gate system has the potential of the gates being in the incorrect position for loading, meaning that the ledge gate is closed when the lift truck is trying to replenish pallets into the area. So they can go to load but a barrier is in place preventing them from doing so.A user can power operate these gates for remote operation but often this isn’t feasible due to the number of areas. Manual operation can actually create a safer and faster environment. The position of the gates in a dual-gate system can be used as a signal between the picker up on the platform and the lift truck operator below. In other words, when the ledge gate is closed that means the picker is picking from the pallets or the area doesn’t need to be replenished.When the picker has finished in that bay or when they notice the pallets need to be replenished in that bay, they just manually close the gate near them, which opens up the ledge gate. Now the lift truck operator can look up and see which areas are safe and ready to be replenished. This is an example of a safety system helping communications among the different workers.In conclusion, it’s evident that, despite automation, people remain at the center of activity in and around pick modules. ProGMA and its members are a one-stop-shop for leading safety solutions, whether it be for preventing hazards associated with falling boxes, product, or workers; or structural protection of the system itself from impact. As the video serves to reiterate, even in automated systems there are still people moving around the facility, either on ground level or on the elevated levels. Even if people are not used for the picking of material, there are areas where empty pallets or totes are removed that need to be guarded.The product-centric video doesn’t feature specific brands, but free-standing pallet rack column protectors, post cushions, and bumper guards are available from ProGMA members including Adrian’s Safety Solutions, A-Safe USA, Bluff Manufacturing, Boplan, DamoTech, Folding Guard, Husky Rack & Wire, Heartland Engineered Products, Jesco, McCue, Slowstop Guarding, SpaceGuard Products, Steel King, Troax, VisiPlas, Wildeck, and WireCrafters.Costs range from inexpensive, light-duty products to more expensive, heavy-duty solutions. Importantly, talking with the manufacturer about the application will help source the right product/s for the facility. No two pick modules or applications are completely alike and that’s what the member companies of the ProGMA are here to help with.The ProGMA website—mhi.org/progma—features details of 22 member companies and hundreds of solutions to help companies with older systems find protective guarding solutions to update / upgrade their pick module system.See the latest video and others in the series at mhi.org/progma/videosShould you be using a ProGMA member to enhance the safety and productivity of your pick modules?About ProGMAThe Protective Guarding Manufacturers Association (ProGMA) members are the industry’s leading suppliers of fixed protective guarding products designed to protect personnel, equipment, and inventory in industrial facilities. Member companies meet regularly to review, discuss, and revise the standards for design and performance of protective guarding products used in the material handling industry. ProGMA member companies are committed to the development, maintenance, and publishing of industry standard specifications for these systems. Visit the website at mhi.org/progma.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.Contact for editorial enquiries: Ashley Skidmore, askidmore@mhi.org or 704-676-1190

The nature of the gateway operations requires lower guardrail to protect areas from tugs and dollies and are much lower to the ground than a feeder, forklift, or package car and need protection at multiple points. Previous attempts to provide a protective guardrail failed to withstand vehicle impacts without breaking, bending or completely losing their integrity. A SlowStop 4” FlexRail Double guardrail system was installed.

For warehouses and distribution centers, Destuff-it™ portable ergonomic conveyors provide a safe and efficient solution for handling floor-stacked packages in shipping containers or related vessels.

Since 1981, a growth in technology and specialized equipment has enabled Highlight Industries of Wyoming Michigan to assist their clients to think safety first when using their automated equipment. An industry leader in stretch wrappers, case sealers, strapping machines, stretch film test and quality control systems. More recently, Highlight Industries has introduced the Magnum line of case sealers and the Saturn line of strapping machines, applying over 30 years of machine experience to their new product lines.

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Ever found yourself staring at a seemingly...

Guest blog from MHI Member Company UFP Packaging...

In the bustling world of eCommerce, the heart of warehouse efficiency pulses within the final 100 feet. This pivotal space, integral to order fulfillment, has remained largely untouched by many optimization strategies - until now. Our latest episode of the MHI Industry Leadership podcast delves deep into the role of Vertical Reciprocating Conveyors (VRCs) in these critical zones, casting a spotlight on SLAM - Scan, Label, Apply, and Manifest - processes. Joined by seasoned experts Chuck Cobb and Steve Castle, we explore transformative techniques that not only enhance efficiency but also skyrocket outbound package accuracy. Their insights, garnered from decades in the material handling and VRC industries, are a goldmine for anyone keen on supercharging their order fulfillment operations. Don't miss out on these game-changing insights! Tune in, and discover how to elevate your warehouse operations to new heights!

Emmy Lou Burchette of Burchette & Associates Inc., a strategic marketing and business consulting firm, discusses MHI’s new report, “Transformation Age: Shaping your Future"

The hardest part of the delivery process is the last mile. The supply chain industry is continuously implementing solutions to get packages from the warehouse to the customer.

Price: $175.00 (a $25.00 savings)This combination package includes the following two American National Standards:ANSI MH16.1-2023, Design, Testing, and Utilization of Industrial Storage RacksANSI MH26.2-2023, Design, Testing, and Utilization of Industrial Storage Rack Decking

The use of sensors to identify the presence of an object typically to actuate another device for the process of identification, sorting, sizing, etc.

An air-powered conveyor sortation device. This device is used to redirect packages and materials on a conveyor. Pulling device travels beyond the object to be redirected and retracts, therein pulling the object in the desired direction.

The area where materials, parts, carton, packages, etc. are stored for use in replenishing a picking or fulfillment operation

This document contains detailed examples on how storage rack designers can apply the formulas and guidance found in ANSI MH16.1-2023 in their designs and calculation packages.