TLMI

UPM Adhesive Materials to showcase leading label material performance at Labelexpo Europe 2025

By: UPM Adhesive Materials

(UPM, Helsinki, July 1, 2025 at 13:00 EEST) – UPM Adhesive Materials, formerly known as UPM Raflatac, will be showcasing high-quality label solutions that demonstrate its leading adhesive material performance on its stand at Labelexpo Europe 2025.

UPM Adhesive Materials has an array of label materials designed for specific end-uses including FMCG, pharmaceuticals, logistics and industrials. It will be using Labelexpo Europe 2025 as a platform to showcase these solutions that deliver reliable performance and a high level of sustainability, that connect with customer ambitions. Visitors to the stand will learn how the company’s products and services are able to support in circularity and decarbonization, as well as provide enhanced experiences through digitalization.

“We are dedicated to delighting our customers by focusing on their needs and demonstrating how our adhesive material expertise can help renew the everyday. This approach, combined with high performance and scalable sustainability for market needs, positions us as the perfect partner to help customers navigate the ever-changing packaging landscape with our world-class labelling solutions,” comments Mathias Kroeck, Senior Vice President, EMEIA at UPM Adhesive Materials.

To find out more, visitors should stop by stand 3D29 to learn more about how UPM Adhesive Materials can provide value through its label material expertise to drive optimum technical and sustainability performance for their customers.

 

UPM Adhesive Materials
UPM Adhesive Materials provides high-performance, innovative self-adhesive products, including label materials, graphics solutions, and specialty tapes, as well as reliable services close to customers. We are one of UPM’s fastest-growing global businesses employing around 3,200 professionals. In 2024, our sales reached nearly €1.6 billion ($1.7 billion). Read more: adhesivematerials.upm.com

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UPM
UPM is a material solutions company, renewing products and entire value chains with an extensive portfolio of renewable fibres, advanced materials, decarbonization solutions, and communication papers. Our performance in sustainability has been recognized by third parties, including EcoVadis and the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices. We operate globally and employ approximately 15,800 people worldwide, with annual sales of approximately €10.3 billion. Our shares are listed on Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd.
UPM – we renew the everyday
Read more: upm.com

ePS Introduces “Inside the Corrugator” – A New Discussion Series on Process Control and Performance

By: ePS Packaging

Pittsburgh, June 30, 2025 – leading packaging software solution provider eProductivity Software (ePS) today announces the launch of Inside the Corrugator, a new industry discussion series focused on real-world best practices in corrugated manufacturing. The series offers an open and informal platform for manufacturers to explore what works and what doesn’t when it comes to process control, machine performance, and production reliability.

The first session will take place on 24 July at 11:00 am CET, led by Neil Sillick, Director of Escada Operations at ePS Packaging, and co-hosted by Fred Wiegmann of Corrugator Training & Consultancy B.V., one of Europe’s leading corrugator training experts.

Far from a traditional webinar, Inside the Corrugator is a working-level discussion designed for engineers, production supervisors, and plant managers who want practical insight they can act on immediately. Each episode will cover recurring issues with the machine, challenges related to setup, glue, and heat, as well as the strategies successful teams are using to drive measurable improvement.

“This is about sharing knowledge, not presenting slides,” said Neil Sillick. “There’s no silver bullet in corrugating. But there are known best practices and control strategies that consistently make a difference. That’s what we’re here to unpack.”

Fred Wiegmann, a respected corrugator process expert with over 40 years of industry experience, will play a leading role in the Inside the Corrugator webinar series. Fred has held leadership roles in production, operations, and technical education across Europe’s top corrugated plants, including a 17-year tenure at Smurfit Westrock (formerly Smurfit Kappa) as Corrugating Process Expert & Trainer. Now running his own consultancy, Fred works closely with manufacturers to improve board quality, reduce waste, and empower people through practical training and process insight.

Speaking on the value of the upcoming webinar series, Fred says: “I’m 100% sure people will learn something from these webinars – whether it’s a new idea, a different perspective, or simply the chance to reflect on their own process. We’re not here to tell you what to do. We’re here to ask the right questions, challenge the way things have always been done, and help you think differently about your machine, your people, and your performance.”

Topics from the series will also feed into discussions at the FEFCO Technical Seminar in Rome, 8-10 October 2025, where ePS will co-host a panel session on Generative and Applied AI in corrugated manufacturing.

The 24 July session will be available both live and on demand.

Register now to join the conversation: https://epackagingsw.com/inside-the-corrugator-best-practice-process-control-an-overview

 

About ePS Packaging

ePS Packaging, an operating unit of eProductivity Software (ePS), empowers packaging companies around the globe through cutting-edge technology, strategic partnerships, and over 30 years of industry expertise. Its comprehensive ERP, MES, and industry-specific solutions enable seamless workflow management across the corrugated, folding carton, label, and flexible packaging segments. By integrating advanced automation capabilities, these solutions enhance product quality, minimize waste, and maximize throughput, helping businesses lower manufacturing costs, improve efficiency, and achieve sustainable growth. Addressing the unique challenges of the packaging and corrugated industries, ePS Packaging helps companies optimize operations, boost profitability, and thrive in competitive markets. For more information, please visit www.epackagingsw.com.

Roland DGA Announces the Launch of All-New DIMENSE DA-640 Dimensional Surface Printer

By: Roland DGA

Irvine, Calif., June 26, 2025 – Roland DGA, a leading provider of large-format inkjet printers, printer/cutters, and other innovative digital devices, has announced the launch of the new DIMENSE DA-640, a state-of-the art wide-format dimensional surface printer that produces full-color prints with unique embossing effects more easily and cost-effectively than alternative methods, allowing for high-value, high-impact output across a range of applications, on-demand. Whether you’re a print provider who wants to expand into décor or an interior designer creating exclusive rich finishes and textures, the DA-640’s unique capabilities open the door to profitable new channels for you and your business.

 

Equipped with newly developed printheads engineered to deliver stunning output, the DA-640 is the centerpiece of the DIMENSE solution, which also consists of specialized media that raises up to 2 mm in thickness when exposed to heat in the printer and a structural ink that precisely controls where the embossing occurs on the print. The DA-640’s advanced design, simple operation, and streamlined workflow ensure outstanding productivity, while low running costs and media waste reduction features maximize profitability. Further enhancing ease of use and convenience are a built-in 7-inch touchscreen display, a newly designed torque-based take-up system for hands-free media management during longer runs, and an advanced 14-zone heater system that allows for easy setup and calibration while also helping to maintain consistent production.

 

“Roland DG developed the DIMENSE DA-640 in response to growing demand within the hospitality, commercial, residential, and retail sectors for unique indoor settings that reflect individual styles, stand out, and create a lasting impression,” said Kitt Jones, Roland DGA’s Segment Manager of Interior Design and Surface Decoration. “Together with its specialized DIMENSE media and inks, this revolutionary machine creates wallcoverings, fine art, displays, roll-up banners, and more with incredible visual and tactile appeal in one simple, seamless process. It’s a cutting-edge system that gives not only interior designers and architects, but also print providers, the ability to supply what the marketplace is asking for and profit significantly.”

 

The DA-640 unlocks the potential of full-color dimensional printing, enabling on-demand production of textured interior surfaces without requiring specialized design skills. From “one-offs” to large-quantity repeatable projects, this printer broadens creative possibilities beyond standard surface printing by allowing you to utilize your own designs, ready-made artwork, or customizable creations. Users can enhance prints with embossed effects and customize single-pass four-color prints or structure-only paintable media with the DIMENSE solution. This creates unique, attention-grabbing finishes that command premium prices and foster customer loyalty.

 

DA-640 users can choose from a wide variety of specialized DIMENSE media available, such as matte, suede, silver, gold, pearl, and chameleon offerings. This lineup includes media that is compliant with the U.S. Type Ⅱ standard, which defines the performance of wallpaper for commercial applications and provides assurance that it offers a high level of scratch resistance. In addition to the DIMENSE media options, users can print on select third-party media, further increasing the DA-640’s versatility and range of applications. Tension fabric and roll-up banners for indoor signs and displays are available for selecting the most appropriate media for different situations.

 

The DIMENSE digital printing solution is also eco-friendly, providing users with extra peace of mind. DIMENSE media is PVC-free, the CMYK inks are water-based resin, and the structural ink is butylene glycol-free and meets various safety standards, including AgBB, A+, UL, and GREENGUARD Gold “Unrestricted wallcoverings.”

 

For ease of use, print data creation can be done not only in popular design applications, but also in the new Roland DG Connect Designer DIMENSE Module, which lets you create everything from simple designs to embossing layers and offers a visualizer for previewing the output effects before printing. VersaWorks® 7 software (now compatible with both Windows and macOS) is included with the DA-640 as well. This powerful, intuitive RIP allows anyone to easily set detailed print settings and produce high-quality output, so even first-time users can start printing immediately after installation. DA-640 users will also appreciate having access to Roland DG Connect – a comprehensive Cloud-based platform that provides real-time device monitoring, usage analytics, firmware updates, inventory management tools, and a host of additional features and resources.

 

“At present, only about 5% of wallpaper printing has been digitalized, so there is tremendous growth and profit potential for the high-end digital printing of interior surfaces,” noted Jones. “The introduction of the DA-640 creates new opportunities to add texture and value to a wide range of applications and makes the DIMENSE solution accessible to a wider group of potential users.”

 

Available now through authorized Roland DGA dealers, the DA-640 comes bundled with a BOFA air filtration unit, a set of DA-IA inks, and four different types of DIMENSE media (Matte Extra, Pearl Type II, Pearl Textile and Suede). Backed by Roland DG’s legendary reliability, unmatched support, and an expanding eco-system of digital tools and materials, the DA-640 is more than printer – it’s a business growth machine.

 

To learn more about the new DIMENSE DA-640, visit https://www.rolanddga.com/da-640. For more information on Roland DGA or Roland DGA’s complete product line, visit https://www.rolanddga.com.

 

About Roland DG Americas

 

Roland DGA serves North and South America as the marketing, sales, distribution, and service arm for Roland DG Corporation. Founded in 1981, Roland DG of Hamamatsu, Japan is a worldwide leader in wide-format inkjet printers for the sign, apparel, textile, interior design, personalization, and vehicle graphics markets; engravers for awards, giftware and ADA signage; photo impact printers for direct part marking; and 3D printers and CNC milling machines for the dental CAD/CAM, rapid prototyping, part manufacturing and medical industries.

EMT International Launches Advanced Creasing Technology for Finishing Heavy Substrates Without Print Cracking

By: EMT International

Hobart, Wisconsin, USA (June 26, 2025) – EMT International, a global leader in finishing equipment for digital print and label production, has introduced a next-generation creasing solution designed to help printers and mailers maintain flawless folds — even on heavy stocks and coated substrates.

 

Now available as a modular upgrade, EMT’s new Cross and Linear Creasing module delivers traditional, high-quality creases that prevent cracking and preserve print integrity throughout the finishing process. The system supports both cross-web and in-line creasing applications and is ideal for high-value direct mail, greeting cards, postcards, and other folded formats.

 

“Many of our customers are working with heavier materials and demanding print finishes, where scoring alone just doesn’t cut it,” said Mike Herold, Vice President of Marketing and Sales at EMT International. “This new creasing technology gives them the control, precision, and automation they need to protect their work — and their margins.”

 

Key features include:

  • Dual-direction creasing: Easily configure tools for both fold directions to support a wide range of jobs
  • Adjustable crease depth: Fine-tuned control to match media thickness and optimize quality
  • Barcode and recipe integration: Automate crease setup using 2D barcodes and pre-programmed job recipes for seamless changeovers

Compatible with EMT’s Chameleon line and other finishing systems, this technology is designed for easy integration into existing workflows.

To learn more about EMT’s new creasing solutions, visit emtinternational.com/product/cross-creaser

 

About EMT International, Inc.

With over 80 years’ experience, EMT International is recognized as a world leader in engineering and manufacturing superior quality finishing equipment, accessories, and web transport solutions, serving OEM and converting customers worldwide in the paper, document processing, packaging, label, and printing industries.

 

EMT has the design and development expertise to create highly customized, application-driven solutions in offset, flexo and digital inkjet technologies. Headquartered in Northeast Wisconsin and Siek, Germany (Rotocontrol), EMT’s global success was built on a reputation for innovation and world-class service.

Knight Abbey Boosts Competitiveness with Roll-to-Roll Automation and HEIDELBERG Stahlfolder TH 66

By: Heidelberg

Kennesaw, Ga. June 25, 2025 – To strengthen its position as a leading print provider for the casino industry, Knight Abbey has recently shifted the majority of its production from traditional cut-sheet to roll-to-roll. This transition has significantly accelerated the company’s speed to market – crucial for meeting the tight deadlines of casino work. Supporting this shift, Knight Abbey invested in a specialty Stahlfolder TH 66 from HEIDELBERG, combined with Tecnau unwind and sheeting technology. The system, equipped with the unique hybrid feeder for roll-to-finished production, marks the first installation of its kind in North America.

Knight Abbey serves over 100 casinos along with clients in the financial, education, and political sectors – specializing in producing high-quality variable data postcards, brochures, and booklets. The general commercial printer and direct mail facility, which employs nearly sixty, is conveniently located in Biloxi, MS – a Southeastern hub for gaming and casinos. With significant investments in front-end automation, Knight Abbey is focused on streamlining time-sensitive data processing. “When you’re dealing with the types of data we receive from casinos, it’s extremely complex,” said Tonya Spiers, President of Knight Abbey. “It’s critical that we turn that information around quickly and get it into production as fast as possible.”

Complementing its front-end investments, Knight Abbey has installed a full roll-to-roll press along with three roll-to-roll finishing lines over the past two years. This strategic move away from traditional cut-sheet production has dramatically improved efficiency and boosted overall throughput. As part of these enhancements, the company became an early adopter of HEIDELBERG’s Stahlfolder TH 66, specially configured for seamless integration with roll-to-roll printing. Featuring fugitive glue capabilities on both the parallel and second folding stations, the TH 66 is ideally suited for the high volume of bi-folds, tri-folds, and booklets the company produces and mails.

“Initially, I didn’t think HEIDELBERG was an option in the roll-to-roll space, but I engaged them because they have been such a good partner to us over the years,” said Spiers. “HEIDELBERG’s equipment is rock solid so I knew when I purchased the Stahlfolder, it would be reliable and a strong addition to our production.” She added that the team’s existing familiarity with Stahlfolder technology made for a quick and seamless start-up.

Since transitioning to roll-to-roll, Knight Abbey has eliminated the need to move sheets between six to seven different touch points before getting the job into the mail stream. One of the company’s standard jobs, which previously required 39 hours to complete using traditional methods, is now finished in under eight hours with the new configuration. According to Spiers, “We can now print, and it goes straight to the Stahlfolder finishing line. It’s really helped get finished products out the door faster.”

Knight Abbey’s increased capacity has allowed the company to onboard eight new casino clients in a single month. Despite the increase in workload, improved efficiency has enabled operations to run smoothly – even through several recent retirements – without the need to add new staff. “We had been struggling to find employees,” said Spiers, “but this newer equipment is far more user-friendly and better suited to the next generation entering the workforce.”

While Knight Abbey has embraced roll-to-roll production, the company continues to handle a significant volume of offset and digital cut-sheet work. To support this part of the business, Knight Abbey installed a Stahlfolder BH 66 from HEIDELBERG in 2023. With its simplified operation and automation features, the BH 66 has dramatically reduced makeready times compared to the older Stahlfolder it replaced.

“HEIDELBERG and Knight Abbey have been partners for a very long time,” said Spiers. “HEIDELBERG’s focus is always on what’s best for the customer, and we’ve consistently found success with them in the past and are confident that will continue well into the future.”

About Knight Abbey

For more than forty years, the Knight Abbey name has been synonymous with exceptional printing. The company prides itself on producing persuasive, enduring and cost-effective communication for a variety of industries, but it is even more proud to provide extraordinary customer service. Knight Abbey’s goal is to take the load off its clients, so they never have to worry about their print projects being completed on time or to their specifications. Keeping clients in the loop for all phases of production so there won’t be any surprises, Knight Abbey provides confidence in every finished product.

About HEIDELBERG:

Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (HEIDELBERG) is a leading technology company that has been standing for innovation, quality and reliability in mechanical engineering worldwide for 175 years. With a clear focus on growth, HEIDELBERG as a total solution provider is driving further development in the core areas of packaging and digital printing, software solutions and the lifecycle business with service and consumables so that customers can achieve maximum productivity and efficiency.

The company is also focusing on expanding into new business areas such as high-precision plant engineering with integrated control, automation technology and robotics as well as the growing green technologies. With a strong international presence in approximately 170 countries, the creative power and expertise of its around 9,500 employees, its own production facilities in Europe, China and the USA and one of the largest global sales and service networks, the company is well-positioned for future growth.

www.heidelberg.com

Siegwerk Joins Masterpress Media Day to Champion Collaborative Innovation in Sustainable Packaging

By: Siegwerk

Siegburg, Germany, June 24, 2025 – Siegwerk, one of the leading global providers of printing inks and coatings for packaging applications and labels, is proud to share its participation in the Masterpress Media Day, which took place on June 5, 2025 at Masterpress’s site in Białystok, Poland. At the event, industry leaders discussed the future of sustainable packaging in light of the evolving EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) and other market trends.The event featured a high-level panel discussion titled “Removing the ‘buzz’ in collaboration – delivering a ‘Competitive’ EU PPWR through collaborative efforts across the packaging supply chain”. During the panel Siegwerk was represented by Alina Marm, Head of Global Sustainability and Circular Economy, and Marc Larvor, Head of Global PSR & Sustainability Inks and Coatings.

Alongside partners from Masterpress and Taghleef, the panel explored regulatory blind spots in the PPWR, the importance of design-for-recycling (DfR) guidelines, and how cross-industry collaboration can drive innovation. Siegwerk also shared insights into its CIRKIT product portfolio, which combines functional coatings and inks that maintain recyclability while enabling mono-material packaging solutions. The company also highlighted its leadership in developing deinkable and low-migration ink systems and its proactive role in collaborative testing to meet EU and national regulations, such as the German Ink Ordinance 1.2.

“Despite all its challenges the PPWR is a unique opportunity to create a packaging industry that offers  functional, sustainable and in the end cost-competitive packaging as it makes  recyclable packaging the only viable option”, said Alina Marm. “By working closely with partners across the value chain, such as Masterpress and Taghleef, we’re turning regulatory challenges into opportunities for scalable, sustainable solutions.”

Masterpress Media Day emphasised the importance of collaboration in creating a circular packaging economy, and Siegwerk is proud to be at the forefront of this change.

About Siegwerk
Siegwerk is one of the leading global manufacturers of printing inks and coatings for packaging applications and labels. Based on 200 years of expertise, we provide customized solutions for all types of packaging needs – from functional and eye-catching to safe and sustainable. As a seventh-generation family business, we have long been aware of our responsibility for future generations. Under the motto “rethINK packaging”, we are therefore actively driving the transformation to a circular economy by developing eco-friendly solutions that enable packaging circularity. Here, 30+ country organizations and ~5,000 employees worldwide ensure consistent high-quality products and customized support around the world. Learn more at www.siegwerk.com

Fedrigoni Self-Adhesives Expands BS5609 Certified Portfolio with Launch of Kimdura® Inkjet TW

By: Fedrigoni

Graham, NC – June 23, 2025: Fedrigoni Self-Adhesives North America (FSA), part of The Fedrigoni Group, a global leader in the production of premium self-adhesive materials, has expanded its line of BS5609-certified materials with the launch of Kimdura® Inkjet TW (PD50MG651), a next-generation, HDPE-based white film engineered for pigment inkjet platforms and designed to perform in the most demanding environments.

This next-generation material is dry to the touch immediately after printing and exhibits superior resistance to water, chemicals, and solvents. Designed for durability and flexibility, this material is BS5609 Section 2 certified, provides converters with a range of calipers in the portfolio and is manufactured as a no-trim item in North Carolina.

The Kimdura® Inkjet TW PD50MG651 is a 4.5 mil HDPE white film paired with P50, an aggressive acrylic adhesive and a 50# liner. This launch complements Fedrigoni’s existing BS5609 Section 2-certified offerings, including:

●    PD37AX551 – 7 mil Teslin® / P50 / 3.2 mil LF

 

●    PD50NC651 – 3.3 mil Matte White Inkjet Polypropylene / P50 / 50#

Melissa Harton, Marketing Manager North America shared, “BS5609 Section 2 certification requires labels to withstand three months submerged in the saltwater conditions of the English Channel. Fedrigoni is proud to offer an expanded offering of BS5609 products to converters who need to meet these rigorous requirements.”

With the addition of Kimdura® Inkjet TW, Fedrigoni continues to expand its versatile portfolio of durable labeling solutions for chemical drums, industrial containers, and logistics applications that require long-term resistance and compliance with international shipping regulations.

To learn more about the full line of durable materials, visit

https://selfadhesives.fedrigoni.com or contact your Fedrigoni representative.

 

About Fedrigoni

Founded in 1888 in Verona, Italy, Fedrigoni is today synonymous with excellence in the world of labels and self-adhesive materials, special papers for luxury packaging and other creative solutions, RFID/NFC. With almost 6,000 people in 29 countries and 80 plants including production sites, slitting and distribution centers, the Group sells and distributes more than 25,000 products in 132 countries. For more information: www.fedrigoni.com

Siegwerk joins topac, the new cross value chain alliance for tobacco packaging

By: Siegwerk

Surabaya, Indonesia, June 18, 2025  – Siegwerk, one of the leading global providers of printing inks and coatings for packaging applications and labels, has proudly announced its membership in topac, an innovative cross value chain alliance dedicated to the tobacco packaging industry. This independent organization aims to deliver latest market and technology updates, supporting printers, converters, and brand owners while sharing insights into best practices and emerging trends in tobacco packaging production.

topac is committed to enhancing collaboration across the value chain, fostering innovation, and providing a platform for knowledge exchange among industry stakeholders. Dr. Daniel Drochner, Global Head of Technology BU Tobacco at Siegwerk, expressed his enthusiasm for joining this initiative, stating, “It is an honor for the global Siegwerk tobacco community to be part of this alliance along with strong partners like Janoschka, Daetwyler SwissTec, Koehler Paper, Pujadas, Bobst, Marbach, and Focke. Together, we can drive advancements in tobacco packaging and ensure a sustainable future for our industry.”

The inaugural topac summit took place in Surabaya on May 14-15, 2025, bringing together key players from across the tobacco packaging value chain. The summit serves as a platform for discussing the latest innovations, sharing best practices, and exploring future developments in the industry. Participants engage in insightful discussions, highlighting the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing in navigating the evolving landscape of tobacco packaging.

About Siegwerk
Siegwerk is one of the leading global manufacturers of printing inks and coatings for packaging applications and labels. Based on 200 years of expertise, we provide customized solutions for all types of packaging needs – from functional and eye-catching to safe and sustainable. As a seventh-generation family business, we have long been aware of our responsibility for future generations. Under the motto “rethINK packaging”, we are therefore actively driving the transformation to a circular economy by developing eco-friendly solutions that enable packaging circularity. Here, 30+ country organizations and ~5,000 employees worldwide ensure consistent high-quality products and customized support around the world. Learn more at www.siegwerk.com

Fifteen years of cooperation with SOS Children’s Villages worldwide: Siegwerk continues its commitment

By: Siegwerk

Siegburg, Germany, June 17, 2025. For 15 years, Siegwerk, one of the world’s leading global providers of printing inks and coatings for packaging applications and labels, has partnered with SOS Children’s Villages worldwide. Siegwerk employees around the world are engaged in initiatives run by the children’s rights organization to support children and young people from vulnerable backgrounds to successfully manage the transition into independent life. This commitment will continue in the coming years.

 The collaboration between Siegwerk and SOS Children’s Villages worldwide began in Mexico City in 2010, when the SOS Children’s Village on-site had to be completely rebuilt due to serious structural defects. Siegwerk financed the construction of a new building for eight children and their SOS mother. This project marked the beginning of a long-standing partnership. Since then, every year, Siegwerk has supported projects run by the children’s rights organization in South America and Asia with an annual contribution of €100,000. Additionally, employees from nearby Siegwerk sites contribute their expertise and time to selected projects, supporting young people in their personal and professional development by mentoring, training and teaching them relevant social and technical skills. These projects also align with Siegwerk’s values and core themes, such as digitalization and sustainability. 

Giving young people a future perspective with YouthCan!

Following this mentoring approach, Siegwerk has partnered with the global employability initiative YouthCan!, run by SOS Children’s Villages worldwide, since 2018. This project empowers young people to transition to independent careers. Local employees of Siegwerk are personally involved in supporting young adults through skills training and by acting as role models, trainers, and mentors. Joint workshops and events are regularly organized to promote the professional and personal development of youth participants. Siegwerk volunteers share their knowledge and experience, while also providing young people with access to the working environment. Some young people have since become Siegwerk employees themselves. Between 2020 and 2024, Siegwerk and the local SOS Children’s Villages associations have implemented more than 150 projects and activities as part of YouthCan!.

“Social commitment is firmly anchored in Siegwerk’s corporate culture. We want to give back to the communities in which we operate,” said Dr. Nicolas Wiedmann, Chief Executive Officer at Siegwerk. “We are very proud that our employees have contributed their expertise and time for 15 years to help children and young people pave their way to a better, self-determined life. SOS Children’s Villages worldwide is a strong partner that makes this possible and does exceptional work.”

Siegwerk currently supports ongoing projects in Brazil, Guatemala, Mexico, the Philippines, and Thailand. In addition to promoting vocational qualifications, the goal is to also provide young people with the knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes necessary for a sustainable and resource-efficient society and economy.

Strong partnership with added value for everyone involved

This collaboration benefits both parties, as employees gain valuable experience and improve their skills. This is confirmed by the annual survey conducted by SOS Children’s Villages worldwide among Siegwerk volunteers and YouthCan! participants (YouthCan! Volunteer and Youth Surveys, 2020–2023).

  • 89 percent of volunteers feel that their work has helped them improve relevant skills, such as presentation, teamwork, leadership, and communication.
  • 93 percent are also more satisfied with their job and feel prouder to work for Siegwerk.
  • Of the young adults, 90 percent say that participating in YouthCan! has given them a positive outlook on the future and a plan for their next steps in life.
  • Looking back, 91 percent of young people confirm that the skills they gained are important for their job.

Siegwerk plans to continue its commitment in the coming years. As part of their long-standing partnership, Siegwerk and SOS Children’s Villages worldwide are developing a joint strategy. This ensures a needs-based approach, providing support where it is needed most.  “Our 15-year partnership with Siegwerk demonstrates how sustainable corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies can bring about positive social change,” said Barbara Gruner, Member of the Executive Board of SOS Children’s Villages worldwide. “Through the active engagement of its employees and global cooperation as part of the YouthCan! initiative, Siegwerk is setting standards for corporate engagement. This effective, long-lasting partnership serves as inspiration and a model for future-oriented corporate social responsibility.”