With increasing consumer demand for convenience comes greater demand for high performance standards and increased sustainability. The packaging industry is no stranger to these trends taking place with consumer products across the world

Dave Dunn's May 2015 column.

I hear many salespeople complain that their product has become commoditized. This can be one of those “perception equals reality” traps; that is, if you believe your product or service is a commodity, then you are helping to make it a commodity.

The current laminating industry mindset is to simply try anything. Many manufacturers have started to realize that creative combinations of unexpected substrates might fill untapped demand for finished products that look and feel novel, are extra sturdy, or display other desirable properties that are unattainable with standard materials.

Ten years ago, a variety of adhesive construction tapes was available. The choices were limited to rubber, butyl and asphaltic tape, each offering known pros and cons to builders. As

Food and beverage packaging has come a long way since the prehistoric days of using natural materials like leaves and gourds for containers. Today’s food and beverage industry demands packaging that’s far more sanitary, innovative and eye-catching than what nature can provide.

A little over two years ago, I adopted a dachshund named Sebastian. He is absolutely adorable, with big, baby-like eyes. At just 12 lbs, he is also baby sized.

Domestic demand for construction chemicals used in on-site applications is projected to grow 8.2% per year through 2018 to $12.1 billion, according to “Construction Chemicals,” a recent study from The Freedonia Group Inc.

Dave Dunn's April 2015 column.

Kusumgar, Nerlfi & Growney recently announced it has begun its fifth “U.S. Paint & Coatings Industry” study. The industry is reportedly continuing its recovery from the global recession of 2008-2009.