Converting machinery

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration continues to levy big fines on companies. But it also has begun to show new interest in cooperating with industry.

Riverwood Intl. Corp. (Atlanta, GA) and Cia. Suzano de Papel e Celulose (Sao Paulo, Brazil) have agreed to build a new carton converting plant in Brazil.

The Environmental Protection Agency wants higher post-consumer recycled paper content in government-purchased boxes. Meanwhile, packaging manufacturers fear even more supply and price problems.

Almost all packagers decry increases in corrugated costs. Users of paper and plastics find those package materials aren't far behind. These materials are most often targeted by purchasers developing strategies to hold the line on costs, according to an ex