In an industry that thrives on innovation, Brian Wagner has built his reputation on delivering creative solutions to consumer packaged goods companies. As the keynote speaker at the 2017 Global Pouch Forum, he will explain how a holistic perspective can lead to the development of successful flexible packaging that delivers top-line growth and profitability, and mitigates risk.

The evolution of packaging – especially in the fast-growing pouch segment – has brought an added dimension, Wagner says. His presentation, titled “Flexible Packaging in the Fourth Dimension,” will cover all aspects of packaging design: 2D graphic and visual, 3D structural, and the integration of digital, the fourth dimension.

Now celebrating its 20th year, the Global Pouch Forum will be held June 14-16 at the Intercontinental Hotel in Miami, Florida. Known for its strong educational agenda, excellent networking opportunities and extensive flexible packaging exhibition space, the forum attracts a large attendance each year. In 2016, the conference drew more than 600 attendees. This event is sponsored by Packaging Strategies and its sister publication, Flexible Packaging.

Wagner recently joined AMERIPEN, the American Institute for Packaging and the Environment, as senior director with responsibilities that include the development of future-focused programs as well as member development. His 30-year professional career as an entrepreneurial business and technical leader has included stints at Packaging Technology Integrated Solutions (PTIS), which he co-founded, Kellogg’s, Sara Lee, Multiform Desiccants, Carton-Craft Corp., Burger King and General Foods.

HAVI Global Solutions acquired PTIS in 2011, and Wagner worked as vice president of consulting services until 2016. Over 16 years, PTIS helped more than 250 organizations globally to achieve better results by developing future-focused growth and productivity initiatives, as well as consumer and market insights, design, brand innovation, sustainability and organizational strategy. In addition, he works with The Mighty Shed, a U.K.-based design agency, and with Altair ThinkLabs, optimizing human structure interaction through better process, product and package design.

The 1½-day symposium features 13 sessions, including a presentation by Robert Knieper of ConAgra, who recently led the development of portion-controlled pouches for Hunt’s tomato paste. Those pouches won five awards this year from the Flexible Packaging Association. Two food and beverage entrepreneurs will also deliver the compelling stories of how pouches have helped them launch their successful, growing businesses. There will also be sessions on global pouch innovations, packaging in e-commerce, neuroscience, qualitative research, premade vs. rollstock as well as preparing for mergers and acquisitions.

The Global Pouch Forum also promises two in-depth panel discussions on topics of high interest to those in flexible packaging. Dennis Calamusa of AlliedFlex will lead a conversation in innovation that features five major co-packers. The conference will wrap up with a panel discussion on the challenges of recycling flexible packaging, featuring representatives from ConAgra, Procter & Gamble, Dow Chemical and RSE USA. 

Global Pouch Forum Pre-Show Events

On June 14, before the Global Pouch Forum opens, TAPPI will offer a pre-conference workshop on standup pouches that includes several speakers who will address pouch-making technologies. Separate registration is required for this co-located event.

In addition, conference attendees can tour the headquarters and technology center of equipment maker Karlville on Wednesday, June 14, prior to Global Pouch Forum. This facility is located about 15 minutes from the Forum venue. Transportation to and from the hotel will be provided.

With two networking sessions, a luncheon and several program breaks, the Global Pouch Forum offers an excellent opportunity to meet industry peers and make new contacts. The event kicks off Wednesday, June 14, with a welcome reception sponsored by Charter NEX Films. The Thursday, June 15, evening reception and exhibition, sponsored by Evergreen Packaging, will feature more than 80 tabletop exhibitors.

Other sponsors include ProAmpac; HQC, Inc.; Zip Pak; DNP; Bemis; Sonoco; Jindal Films; Menshen Packaging USA; AlliedFlex Technologies; Emerson Branson; Kuraray; Evergreen Packaging; Karlville; Slide-Rite; Elplast; and Hoffer.