LPI Introduces Innovative Digital Enhancement Press to North American Market

–Advanced Technology Expands Enhancement and Packaging Solutions–

NEW BERLIN, Wis. — April 26, 2021 — LPI, part of the S. Walter Packaging Group, today announced an agreement to expand significantly its high-end digital packaging and enhancement capabilities with the purchase of multiple large-format presses that will be the first of their size in North America. LPI, one of the leading custom-packaging solutions providers in the U.S., has partnered with Israeli-based Scodix to purchase the Scodix Ultra 6000 Digital Enhancement Presses, the first of which will be installed at LPI’s New Berlin location this July.

The announcement comes as more companies look to distinguish their brands with distinctive packaging solutions that include custom high-end enhancements and finishes. LPI’s expanded capabilities with the new presses allow for more highly detailed, short run and data-variable personalized projects with tactile applications such as embossing, foil, metallic effects, glitter and specialty finishes. A key advantage offered by this advanced technology is a large-format press that can accommodate 29 x 41-inch sheet sizes.

“This is an exciting development for LPI and further enhances the ability to provide new and innovative solutions to our broad base of customers,” said Kurt Koloseike, president and CEO of S. Walter Packaging Group. “The combination of digital enhancement and large sheet size elevates our entire platform to deliver on our promise of providing advanced, unique and efficient options that truly create limitless opportunities to achieve our customers’ brand experience goals,” he said.

“Being able to offer digital enhancement at a 41-inch sheet size creates a viable solution for customers to experiment with different graphic and variable imaging techniques to enhance their marketing and brand equity,” said Mike Draver, senior vice president and general manager for LPI. “As a Safe Quality Food-certified facility, we also value the increased compatibility for our food-based markets and customers.”

“LPI has always been a leading provider of new solutions for their packaging and graphic finishing customers, and their early adoption of this advanced digital technology means they can bring even more innovative business opportunities to their clients,” said Jason Rollo, president of Scodix North America. “The Scodix technology, coupled with the new 41-inch format capability empowers packaging market value growth that only digital can deliver. Scodix is honored to welcome S. Walter Packaging Group and LPI into the Scodix family.”

For more information on LPI and the new Scodix Ultra 6000 capabilities, please visit lpipossibilities.com.

About LPI

LPI is a recognized leader in providing custom packaging and graphic finishing solutions to customers throughout North America. The company’s service and solutions-based approach is supported by an extensive design and manufacturing platform combined with advanced technology that offers unique, innovative results and assures a speed to market that accommodates even the most complex projects. LPI was founded in 1984.

About S. Walter Packaging Group

S. Walter Packaging Group is North America’s premier custom packaging solutions company specializing in the design, manufacturing and delivery of products and services that are purpose-built to enhance the brand image of its over 23,000 customers. With over 116 years of experience and expertise, S. Walter Packaging Group continues to provide innovative custom packaging and logistics solutions to the retail industry combined with the best-in-class, value-added services.

About Scodix

Scodix Ltd. is a leading provider of digital print enhancement presses for the graphic arts industry, giving print service providers and converters real, measurable added value to the products they deliver to their customers. Scodix gives clients the tools they need to expand their product portfolio and stay one step ahead of the competition. Through its Scodix S Series, Scodix Ultra series and Scodix E106™ press, the company offers a range of applications including: Scodix Sense™ with exceptional tactile results for embossed effects; Scodix Foil™ utilizing all types of foil to deliver unmatched foil enhancement capabilities; Scodix Spot™ for silkscreen effects; Scodix VDP/VDE™ (with barcode) for personalization including variable foil; Scodix Metallic™ enhance print with metallic coloring; Scodix Glitter™ for a digital-glittering experience; Scodix Braille™ for short-run production; Scodix Crystals ™ replacing the manual placement of chatons; and Scodix Cast&Cure™ for 3D holographic effects. What’s more, all Scodix applications are manufactured on a single Scodix digital enhancement press. The company’s aim is to lead print enhancement into the digital age and to be known for its passion and commitment to providing what customers need the most – true brand differentiation for today’s highly competitive printing environment. For more information, visit www.scodix.com or email info@scodix.com.

Copyright 2021. All brand names are the property of their respective owners and may or may not be trademarked.

Media Contacts for Scodix

Robert Dugan
Marketing Manager at Scodix
T: +972-(3)-903-3371 (x147)
E: robert.d@scodix.com

Claire Russell-Jones
Bespoke for Scodix
T: +44 (0) 1737 215 200
E: scodix@bespoke.co.uk

OUR BRANDS

Kurt Koloseike
President and CEO

Kurt is a proven and respected leader, managing Private Equity backed growth companies with revenues in excess of $100 million. He is responsible for overseeing all key corporate operations and functional areas. Kurt has led these companies through start-up, early-stage development, growth stages, and transaction stages with specific emphasis on capital formation, allocation, and return of capital. Kurt has spent 25+ years as an entrepreneur, chief executive officer, and chief operating officer in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare technology and services, consumer products, and textile products.

Kurt’s breadth of experience and understanding encompasses several categories of operations including, strategic business development, finance, technology development, sales and marketing, manufacturing, distribution, both domestic and international sourcing channels to name a few.

Kurt earned his MBA from Penn State University and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Finance and Marketing from West Chester University.

Steve Kochanski
Senior Vice President and CFO

Steve Kochanski is the Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the S. Walter Packaging Group.

Steve is a highly accomplished, financial executive with a track record of delivering results in complex and challenging environments. He is responsible for the finance, human resources, and technology and equipment functional areas of S. Walter. Steve has lead midmarket companies within the industrial manufacturing and distribution industries. He is a trusted, strategic partner with a lean management background that emphasizes the establishment of key performance indicators to maximize capital position and drive operational and financial efficiencies. Steve is experienced in financial analysis, working capital management, strategic planning and business development, acquisitions and divestitures, technology development, and team building and performance.

Steve graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from Rider University and is a CPA in the State of New York.

Robert Cunningham
Senior Vice President and COO

Robert Cunningham currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer of the S.Walter Packaging Group (SWPG), as well as the President of the Uniflex division of the company.

During his 28-year career with S. Walter, Robert has received many awards and is a recognized leader in the sales and operations of the packaging industry. He is currently responsible for all operational functions and oversees sales for the Uniflex division. Robert began his career as a graphic artist and has held multiple leadership roles including: Art director, Production Manager, Plant Manager, and Vice President of Operations. Robert has managed multiple major IT projects and ERP implementations, plant closures, warehouse builds and moves, in addition to process improvements, and strategic buying. He has worked on MMA deals as a seller and a buyer and has experience with three current equity partnerships during his tenure at SWPG. Robert has steadily increased sales and developed key strategic relationships with large distribution customers. He has served on multiple industry committees and understands the importance of being a mentor to other suppliers in the industry.

Robert earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree from SVA in Advertising and Graphic Arts in New York City.

Mike Draver
Senior Vice President and General Manager

Mike Draver is the Senior Vice President and General Manager of the LPI operations within the S. Walter Packaging Group.

With 25-plus years of demonstrated performance in the print, in-store display and specialty packaging industries, Mike is a results-driven leader who is always striving to position LPI, S. Walter’s packaging and finishing division, at the forefront of growth and innovation. Mike has led various companies through transformative growth cycles by identifying new market opportunities, developing talented teams and driving operational excellence. An authentic leader known for providing front-line leadership, Mike excels at setting a clear vision and goals, attracting and growing talent and providing overall leadership and direction for strategy, operational performance and business development to deliver consistent, sustainable business results.

Mike earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Industrial Technology, Graphic Arts Management from the University of Wisconsin-Stout.

Gordon Summerfield
Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing

Gordon Summerfield currently serves as the Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing for the S. Walter Packaging Group (SWPG).

With over 38 years of experience, Gordon has seen the development of various products and markets giving him a keen sense of market shifts, technological innovation and product enhancements. Notable events have been the shift from traditional brick and mortar retail to online ecommerce and a greater focus on sustainable packaging products.

As owner and President of Summerfield Packaging, Gordon was responsible for all facets of the company, including sales, finance and operations. During his tenure, revenues tripled through organic growth and three acquisitions.

At. S.W Packaging (SWP), Gordon supervises more than 50 sales representatives, has transitioned four SWP acquisitions and oversees all marketing activities, including digital, for the company.

Gordon graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. He has been an active member of the packaging industry trade associations, including being a founding board member and past president of the Retail Packaging Association.