Packaging

KraftPal Launches Lower-Cost KP25039 Pallet Machine Amid EU PPWR Push

London – September 16, 2026 -- KraftPal Holdings Ltd has completed construction of the KP25039, a new semi-automatic paper pallet production machine capable of producing up to 100 pallets per hour, as the company accelerates its licensing-based manufacturing network.

KraftPal cuts entry costs to speed licensing partner adoption

The KP25039 is designed as a lower-cost, entry-level alternative to KraftPal's existing production lines, aimed at lowering the barrier for businesses to become licensing partners and manufacture lightweight corrugated pallets locally. The machine requires greater manual labor to operate than KraftPal's fully automated systems, but its faster engineering build cycle allows the company to produce more units and enable quicker in-country production start-ups.

Woodpack Global Launches Crate Design Software to Modernize Wood Packaging

Alexandria, Va. – September 16, 2026 -- Woodpack Global has launched Crate Design SystemTM (CDS), a new software tool aimed at replacing decades-old methods still used across the wooden crate and industrial wood packaging industry.

Crate design tools have lagged behind industry needs since the 1960s

Much of the foundational research underpinning wooden crate design dates back more than six decades, forcing engineers and manufacturers to rely on outdated calculation methods not built for modern crate applications. CDS is positioned as the first purpose-built software option for this segment, adapting fastener behavior, wood property, and structural performance models from Woodpack Global's existing Pallet Design SystemTM (PDS).

Ball Corp Adds Two Veteran Executives to Board of Directors

Westminster, Colo. – September 14, 2026 -- Ball Corporation (NYSE: BALL) has appointed Darlene J. Nicosia, CEO of Maker's Pride, and Sherry L. Buck, former CFO of W. L. Gore & Associates, to its board of directors, adding decades of manufacturing, procurement and finance expertise ahead of the company's push for profitable growth.

Nicosia brings 30 years of food and beverage operations experience

Nicosia spent much of her career at The Coca-Cola Company, where she served as President of Canada and Northeast U.S. and Chief Procurement Officer. She began her career at PepsiCo and Kraft Foods Group, and previously chaired the Audit Committee at Foot Locker, Inc. from 2020 to 2025. At Ball, Nicosia will join the Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee and Finance Committee.