I’m not a mind reader, but I’d bet a million dollars – if I were Bill Gates, that is – that I know what you’re thinking as you’re reading this column: Where the heck is Erin? Don’t be alarmed – she’s safe and sound in her humble abode, nurturing her newborn baby boy. So for the next couple of months, I’ll be holding down the fort here at Flexible Packaging until Erin returns from maternity leave.

That means you’ll be seeing a tad bit more of me than usual for a while (smiley face). For those of you who aren’t familiar, my name is Kori Winters, associate editor of Flexible Packaging. I joined the FP team last April and have spent the past year learning the ins and outs of this industry, while also growing and becoming more skilled in my passion for the editorial field. In other words, a total win-win combo!

One thing I can say is, since having joined this magazine a year ago, I’ve never looked at packaged goods the same as I once did. Now, when I stroll down the grocery-store aisles or I receive a new shipment in the mail, I find myself admiring the package design more than the actual product itself! I’m still quite a ways from becoming an industry expert, but it’s safe to say that I definitely have gained a new perspective and way of thinking when it comes to packaging.

While we’re on the subject of new perspectives, this month’s issue is filled with developing trends, technologies and innovations from across the flexible packaging industry. There are numerous strides the industry has taken as of late, and as you flip through this issue, you’ll see exactly what I mean. The cover story, for instance, compiled by the editor-in-chief herself – before she went on her baby hiatus, of course – highlights several companies that have taken this industry to the next level, all from transforming new insights into innovations (read that here).

By the time you read this, the 2014 Global Pouch Forum will probably be a day or two away, if not already happening. Last month’s cover feature, penned by Packaging Strategies Editor Joyce Routson, previewed a variety of industry topics and innovations to be discussed and exhibited at this year’s show.  For those of you who will be attending, I’m sure you’ll utilize this experience to gain new connections, new opportunities and most importantly, new insight.

So in the spirit of innovative thinking and also in honor of Erin’s new bundle of joy, I encourage everyone – including me – to take on the mentality of a newborn baby: continue observing and seeking knowledge in order to grow and gain new perspectives…or, just kick and scream until you get your way, if all else fails (smiley face).

Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/#!/flexpackmag

Like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/#!/FlexiblePackaging

Join our group on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com (under Groups, search for Flexible Packaging Magazine) 

I’m not a mind reader, but I’d bet a million dollars – if I were Bill Gates, that is – that I know what you’re thinking as you’re reading this column: Where the heck is Erin? Don’t be alarmed – she’s safe and sound in her humble abode, nurturing her newborn baby boy. So for the next couple of months, I’ll be holding down the fort here at Flexible Packaging until Erin returns from maternity leave.

That means you’ll be seeing a tad bit more of me than usual for a while (smiley face). For those of you who aren’t familiar, my name is Kori Winters, associate editor of Flexible Packaging. I joined the FP team last April and have spent the past year learning the ins and outs of this industry, while also growing and becoming more skilled in my passion for the editorial field. In other words, a total win-win combo!

One thing I can say is, since having joined this magazine a year ago, I’ve never looked at packaged goods the same as I once did. Now, when I stroll down the grocery-store aisles or I receive a new shipment in the mail, I find myself admiring the package design more than the actual product itself! I’m still quite a ways from becoming an industry expert, but it’s safe to say that I definitely have gained a new perspective and way of thinking when it comes to packaging.

While we’re on the subject of new perspectives, this month’s issue is filled with developing trends, technologies and innovations from across the flexible packaging industry. There are numerous strides the industry has taken as of late, and as you flip through this issue, you’ll see exactly what I mean. The cover story, for instance, compiled by the editor-in-chief herself – before she went on her baby hiatus, of course – highlights several companies that have taken this industry to the next level, all from transforming new insights into innovations (read that here).

By the time you read this, the 2014 Global Pouch Forum will probably be a day or two away, if not already happening. Last month’s cover feature, penned by Packaging Strategies Editor Joyce Routson, previewed a variety of industry topics and innovations to be discussed and exhibited at this year’s show.  For those of you who will be attending, I’m sure you’ll utilize this experience to gain new connections, new opportunities and most importantly, new insight.

So in the spirit of innovative thinking and also in honor of Erin’s new bundle of joy, I encourage everyone – including me – to take on the mentality of a newborn baby: continue observing and seeking knowledge in order to grow and gain new perspectives…or, just kick and scream until you get your way, if all else fails (smiley face).

Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/#!/flexpackmag

Like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/#!/FlexiblePackaging

Join our group on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com (under Groups, search for Flexible Packaging Magazine)