The business of packaging—conservatively estimated at around $600 billion globally—encompasses end-use manufacturers, equipment and material suppliers, contract packagers, distributors and integrators … all working together to satisfy the demands of consumers and simultaneously taking costs out of the packaging supply chain; a real oxymoron if ever there was one. Now more than ever, packaging has been thrust into the spotlight to address brand marketing, distribution and safety issues. Packaging is a huge business and is complex to define. It’s different things to different people and a diverse function, which crosses all manufacturing segments and virtually all markets. This very diversity, in fact, has some analysts estimating the “packaging economy” at closer to $1 trillion. It’s a lot of territory to cover and we’re fortunate to have a print and Web publishing team at Packaging World with the experience, vision and focus to meet the challenge. Our mild-mannered art director, Dave Bacho, has skillfully guided us through the immense redesign process over the past few months. Working hand-in-hand with PW editors, Dave (pictured, right) has designed a visually exciting publication with a business-like format, to complement the credible reporting you’ve come to expect from Packaging World. Though smaller in size, we won’t sacrifice the visuals; as a horizontal book in the crowded business-to-business publication field, it’s vital that Packaging World be as attractive and as user-friendly as possible. An expanded news section with more machinery and materials coverage complements our regular features. We also introduce new “special reports” from PW editors—such as this month’s cover story on contract packaging (page 53). We’ve added a little more personality each month with our “Q&A” column (page 30) and end with thoughts from our editor, Arnie Orloski, in his “Pipeline” column…bulldog and all (page 136). And in keeping with true print/Web integration, look for enhanced coverage beyond the printed page with links to our exclusive articles on our Web site, Packworld.com, and online videos at Packworld.tv. Throughout the magazine we encourage you to visit suppliers directly by using the Web-site addresses and phone numbers we’ve included. Our new Advertiser Directory will also help guide you to the host of suppliers represented in each issue. Our mission from day one has been consistent: to bring the packaging community the best-written and most attractive packaging publication in the world. We’re confident your total experience with Packaging World and Packworld.com will exceed your expectations. As you look for packaging solutions and suppliers, Packaging World will be your companion as you navigate this great business of packaging. We are always open to suggestions and hope you’ll let us know how we’re doing by contacting us at [email protected] or just drop us a note in the mail. Our publication and our Web site are here for you and we’ll continue to adapt as your informational needs evolve. All the best for the New Year.
Joseph L. Angel VP/Publisher
