November 6, 2024
SuperCorrExpo® 2024 electrified the corrugated packaging industry, drawing nearly 4,000 professionals to Orlando for a dynamic week of innovation and collaboration in September. With 276 exhibiting companies spanning 143,600 square feet of floor space, attendees were immersed in cutting-edge technologies, networking opportunities, and forward-thinking ideas.
The event’s stellar lineup of keynote speakers, interactive workshops, and expert panels offered invaluable insights into the future of packaging. From artificial intelligence (AI)-driven production innovations to maximizing operational efficiency, SuperCorrExpo® provided a unique platform for learning, connecting, and pushing the boundaries of the industry’s potential.
SuperCorrExpo® 2024 delivered a robust educational experience with three impactful keynote presentations featuring NFL Hall of-Famer Cris Carter, futurist Sean DuBravac, and “The Manufacturing Millennial” Jake Hall.
The event also included executive panel discussions with industry leaders. Attendees benefited from specialized sessions about AI on the production floor, in marketing, and applying AI in a box plant. Effective Methods to Maximize Die Cutting Productivity and Paper, Testing, and Profitability as well as sessions about automation, building expansion, capital expenditures, and cybersecurity offered insights into innovation, technology, and operational efficiency.
AICC Champion Award
Finn MacDonald of Independent II and Hood Container was awarded the highly esteemed AICC Champion Award during this year’s SuperCorrExpo®. As a long-serving and dedicated Membership committee chair, MacDonald has played a pivotal role in recruiting new members, retaining those needing support to continue their membership, and fostering greater engagement among AICC member companies. His unwavering commitment and leadership have significantly contributed to the Association’s growth and vitality.
Student Design Competition Winners
This year, students were challenged to create an innovative, 360-degree shoppable, freestanding point-of-purchase floor display for their small-format retail stores. The project came from a real-life corrugated display buyer, Rocky Mountain Chocolate. Jerry Frisch of Wasatch Container helped to bring this real-world opportunity to AICC and the students.
All winning teams were from California Polytechnic State University. Winning teams included:
- Structure Category
- Isabel Mendoza
- Alex Nishida
- Crystal Quan
- Andrew Reitz
- Jessica Wong
- Graphics Category
- Julianne Hom
- Abigail Yee
- Evy Nguyen
- Lara Daghlian
- Christian Angulo
Box Manufacturing Olympics Winners
Back by popular demand, the Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry’s (TAPPI’s) CorrPak Competition and AICC’s Packaging Design Competition joined forces once again for the 2024 Box Manufacturing Olympics (BMO). The competition was open to all TAPPI and AICC members from around the globe who produce corrugated, rigid box, and folding cartons, as well as their suppliers.
All entries were prominently displayed during SuperCorrExpo® in Orlando. Entries were evaluated by BMO judges based on various criteria, including design, quality, graphic excellence, technical difficulty, and innovative application.
Best of the Industry Corrugated Printing
Vanguard Companies: PopSockets Grip & Go Target EndCap
Best of the Industry Corrugated Structure
Peachtree Packaging & Display: Bodyarmor Stadium
2024 Attendees’ Choice
Arvco Container: Custom Food Trays
See all winners at www.SuperCorrExpo.org.
AICC/Board Converting News Innovator of the Year
Geo. M. Martin earned the top accolade for its innovative SmartShingle system, which effectively minimizes or eliminates feed interrupts during stack or bundle discharges, addressing a significant operational challenge in die cutting.
SUN Automation Group won second place for the SUN 625HD, a revolutionary heavy-duty 66-inch rotary die cutter. Bahmüller took third place for Unique Turn, a high-speed turning module for specialty folder-gluers.
Additional Finalists
- Kongsberg: Ultimate Precision Cutting System
- JB Machinery: AutoDryer Control
- EAM Mosca: Max-Core Unitizer
- Durst: Digital White
- EFI: Nozomi 14000AQ
- EFI: Packsize X5 Nozomi
Attendees of SuperCorrExpo® witnessed videos showcasing all finalist innovations and cast their votes, selecting Geo. M. Martin as the 2024 Innovator of the Year. Open exclusively to AICC Associate members, this year’s competition focused on machinery.
Learn more at www.AICCbox.org/innovator.
