The Foundation of Flexographic Technical Association (FTA) has named Emerald Packaging the first recipient of its Flexographic Printer of the Year Award, recognizing excellence in print quality, innovation, sustainability and industry leadership. Emerald Packaging was recognized at FTA’s 2026 FORUM INFOFLEX during the Awards Banquet on Sunday, April 26, 2026. 

Emerald Packaging earned the inaugural honor for its strong commitment to advancing sustainable flexible packaging solutions while maintaining high levels of production performance. The company has been a leader in integrating post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials into food-contact packaging, helping reduce reliance on virgin plastics without compromising quality or functionality. 

“In addition to material innovation, Emerald continues to invest in process improvements and technologies that enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and support environmentally responsible manufacturing,” FTA said. “Its active involvement in industry collaboration and policy discussions further reflects its leadership in shaping the future of sustainable packaging.”

“Emerald Packaging exemplifies the kind of forward-thinking leadership that is driving flexography into the future. Their commitment to sustainability, innovation and performance sets a powerful standard for what’s possible in our industry,” said FTA President Nathan Ridnouer. 

Global Pouch Forum

Kevin Kelly, CEO of Emerald Packaging, will be a featured speaker at this year’s Global Pouch Forum, which will take place May 27-29 in Clearwater Beach, Florida.

Kelly will present an Innovation Spotlight on “PCR Resin Use in Potato Bag Packaging.” Emerald Packaging recently gained recognition via the Flexible Packaging Association Achievement Awards for its new 30% Food Contact Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) Resin for 5 lbs. and 10 lbs. Potato Bags, winning awards for Packaging Excellence and Technical Innovation. 

Kelly is among a stellar lineup of presenters who will be taking the stage at Global Pouch Forum. Other presenters include: 

• Dan Felton, President and CEO of the Flexible Packaging Association, who will address “The State of Flexible Packaging” during Thursday’s general session.
• Latricia Fry of Inteplast Group, who will present a Converter’s Perspective on “Driving Sustainability in Flexible Packaging.”
• Rodrigo Castaneda of TIPA Compostable Packaging, who will present a Converter’s Perspective on “Convenience and On-the-Go—Why Compostable Packaging is the Solution.”
• Haley Rapp and Astrid Torres of TOPPAN Packaging Americas, who will present a Converter’s Perspective on “Developing, Scaling, and Validating Monomaterial Pouches for a Circular Economy.”

To register for Global Pouch Forum and learn more about the event, visit www.packagingstrategies.com/global-pouch-forum