Evelio Mattos, Adam Peek, and Cory Connors welcome industry experts Matthew Wright, CEO of Spec Right, and Ryan Fox, an authority on packaging data analytics. The episode sets an exciting tone by addressing the ever-evolving landscape of the packaging industry, exploring recent trends, and discussing future predictions for 2025.
Throughout the discussion, the emphasis is placed on the importance of specification data management and its role in preparing companies for the upcoming changes in legislation and consumer demand. Matthew Wright, alongside Ryan Fox, delves into the impact of global consolidation, the significance of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws, and how businesses need to adapt strategically. The conversation highlights the need for efficient data systems in staying flexible and competitive amidst such uncertainties, targeting key areas such as corrugated packaging market dynamics and tariff implications.
About the Guest(s):
Matthew Wright: CEO of Spec Right, Matthew Wright has significantly contributed to the packaging industry by driving innovations in specification data management. His leadership at Spec Right focuses on helping organizations streamline data management processes for better cost efficiency, sustainability, and speed to market.
Ryan Fox: Known for his data-driven insights, Ryan Fox has a rich background in the recycling and packaging industry, previously working at Pratt Industries. He is recognized for his efforts in providing analytical perspectives related to the corrugated industry and sustainability metrics.
Specification Data Management: Integrating data systems is crucial for adapting to industry changes, ensuring compliance with regulations, and achieving sustainability goals.
Corrugated Market Insights: Ryan Fox highlights that with fewer box plants and employees, corrugated production has maintained levels similar to those in 1994, underscoring shifts in global manufacturing and imports.
EPR and Sustainability: Upcoming Extended Producer Responsibility laws demand that companies prepare by controlling data to avoid significant cost implications.
Market Adaptation: Companies must be ready to shift from white top packaging materials due to potential tariffs, and consider sustainable alternatives like craft packaging.
Collaborative Change Management: Organizations need to foster collaboration across silos to drive impactful changes in packaging strategies.
Matthew Wright: "I think it's a really interesting time. As I said at the beginning of the show, I think we're on stage. Packaging is on the stage now, and it's time to really grab it and run and show what we can do."
Ryan Fox: "The conversation about pricing in the marketplace may change dramatically because the total cost of ownership should be something that people are thinking about."
Adam Peek: "I think it could end up creating a very competitive landscape for things like down gauging, for reduction in overall packaging, for right-sizing packaging."
Matthew Wright: "The silos have to come down; the pressures on business… All these things are coming at companies today so fast that it's about organizational readiness and just changing behavior."
Ryan Fox: "When you can calculate them and you can measure them, then you can see what kind of impact you'll have through the entire value stream."
Spec Right: Learn more about specification data management and upcoming events like Spec Summit.
Rand-Whitney's Ryan Fox: For insights and methodologies related to corrugated boxes and recycling rates.
Packaging Dive: For industry articles covering the latest trends and challenges in packaging and materials.
Explore these insights and much more by tuning in to the full episode of "Packaging Today". Stay informed with industry-leading discussions from experts in the field—subscribe for more compelling content in the world of packaging.