Green Bay Packaging Inc. (GBP) has announced the acquisition of SMC Packaging Group based in Springfield, MO, USA. The transaction, which took place May 31, 2024, and marks a significant milestone for both companies.

Founded in 1972 by co-founders Ross Ausburn and Charles Bachus, SMC Packaging Group has garnered a reputation for its corrugated packaging products. With over 50 years of growth, expansion, and technological advancement, SMC Packaging Group operates across multiple locations in Missouri, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. Its Midwest roots instill a strong work ethic, a commitment to safety, and a focus on delivering quality products, customized solutions, and exceptional customer satisfaction.

“We are excited to unite two well-established, family-run businesses,” says Will Kress, chairman and CEO of Green Bay Packaging. “We look forward to the continued growth and success of both SMC Packaging Group and Green Bay Packaging.”

Plus, drupa 2024 exceeded all expectations, Messe Düsseldorf, the show’s organizers, report. It received top marks from visitors from all over the world, who left the trade fair with new ideas and clear prospects for the future. Numerous contracts signed and technological innovations inspired the printing and packaging industry.

The 11-day in show Düsseldorf, Germany, came to a successful close on June 7. It demonstrated the progress of an entire sector and demonstrated the operational excellence of the industry. A total of 1,643 exhibitors from 52 nations presented a showcase of innovations in the Düsseldorf exhibition halls and inspired the trade visitors.  The international share of the visitors was 80%, with attendees coming from 174 countries – a record figure.

After Europe, Asia was the most strongly represented region with 22%, followed by America with 12%.  Asia as well as Latin America and the MENA region are markets with great growth potential, which was reflected in the significant increase in exhibitor participation and order books. Many key players, such as Bobst, Canon, Fujifilm, Heidelberger Druckmaschinen, HP, Horizon, Koenig & Bauer, Komori Konica Minolta, Kurz and Landa, reported having signed contracts that significantly exceeded expectations.

Here are the highest-trafficked news items from the week ending on June 14:

1. Green Bay Packaging acquires SMC Packaging Group
2. Record number of deals signed at drupa 2024
3. Niagara Label hosting FLAG Annual Meeting Member Tour
4. RotoMetrics, a Maxcess brand, launches new flexible die portfolio
5. Epson unveils new ColorWorks on-demand label printer