If not for the pandemic, members of the Paperboard Packaging Council (PPC – Springfield, MA) would be traveling to Denver, Colorado this March for the association’s 2021 Spring Outlook & Strategies Conference. The event will now be held online only March 24 – 26 and focus on topics that will most affect paperboard packaging today and into the future – highlighting trends and news in sustainability, economy, industry and leadership. Visitors will be treated to a virtual tour of Denver, Colorado featuring the city’s vibrant arts scene, in addition to industry speakers and virtual networking. The virtual conference will also serve as a stage for professional growth, inspiration and personal connections.
To address sustainability, PPC will welcome David Feber and Daniel Nordigaarden of McKinsey & Company, to discuss emerging global themes and opportunities in sustainability. Afterwards, the American Forest & Paper Association’s Brian Hawkinson will introduce a new recycling design guide for paper-based packaging. Offering perspectives on the industry and the economy at large, attendees will also hear keynotes from Arsen Kitch, CEO of Clearwater Paper, as well as celebrated economist Alan Beaulieu.
“Knowledge is power,” said Ben Markens, PPC President. “Through our Spring Conference, we want to arm folding-carton industry executives with information to effectively navigate market challenges, while being the best leaders they can be.” The leadership portion of the program will focus trust. PPC will welcome to the virtual stage David Horsager, best-selling author of The Trust Edge, The Daily Edge, and the upcoming Trusted Leader. Horsager specializes in helping leaders and organizations drive business results through trust. The event will also feature a virtual exhibit hall, allowing box makers to learn about the latest technologies and products from industry suppliers. Attendees can connect in real time, or schedule appointments for later once inside a ‘virtual booth.’ The virtual platform will also allow PPC to offer enterprise pricing, so that folding-carton companies can send any number of employees for one fixed rate.
