AICC, The Independent Packaging Association, in partnership with Board Converting News, proudly announces the winner and finalists of the 2025 Innovator of the Year Competition. Designed to recognize forward-thinking solutions that enhance the efficiency, productivity, quality, and profitability of independent box plants, this year’s competition once again showcased the creativity and commitment to progress that define AICC members.
For over two decades, the Innovator of the Year Competition has provided a platform for box makers and suppliers to showcase their most impactful innovations. The program continues to evolve as a leading industry forum, spotlighting the technological and operational advancements that drive success across production, material handling, manufacturing, training, and administrative processes.
Each year, the AICC Plant Innovations Committee issues a call for entries from member companies in various categories. Submissions are carefully reviewed, and finalists are selected to present their innovations to attendees at the AICC Annual Meeting, where members cast their votes to determine the winners. This year’s category was box maker innovations and ideas.
2025 Innovator Of The Year Winners & Finalists
The 2025 competition culminated during the AICC Annual Meeting in Chicago, where attendees voted to select this year’s top innovators. Their achievements represent the ingenuity and community spirit at the heart of independent packaging.
First Place: Atlas Container Corporation
A Second Chance Program: From Detention to Successful Reintegration
Atlas Container was recognized for its powerful workforce initiative that provides individuals transitioning from detention with meaningful employment and support for reintegration into society. The program demonstrates how innovation in human resources and social responsibility can strengthen both people and businesses.
Second Place: Liberty Diversified International
Lead the Line: Innovation in Frontline Leadership
Liberty Diversified International earned second place for its innovative leadership development program designed to empower frontline managers. This initiative enhances communication, accountability, and team performance—driving operational excellence through leadership at every level.
Third Place: Coastal Container
A One-Page Plan: Visual Management
Coastal Container’s entry secured third place with a streamlined visual management system that simplifies strategic planning. The “One Page Plan” improves clarity, engagement, and alignment across teams, turning complex business goals into actionable, measurable outcomes.
“All this years’ finalists have implemented difference making concepts that provide answers to the challenges of labor, efficiency, and customer satisfaction,” said AICC President Mike D’Angelo. “Atlas Container’s Second Chance program really resonated with the voters as a practical and compassionate solution that can be repeated at many other AICC member operations.”
AICC congratulates all the finalists and thanks every member company that submitted entries this year. Their innovations inspire progress and strengthen the independent packaging community.
The category for the 2026 Innovator of the Year competition is Supplier Non-Machinery. Call for entries will begin in May of 2026. For more information about the Innovator of the Year Competition and to watch videos of the finalists, visit www.AICCbox.org/Innovator.
https://boardconvertingnews.com/atlas-container-named-2025-innovator-of-the-year/
Comments are closed.