Why the Best Brands Treat Co-Packers Like Strategic Partners

What’s Driving Packaging Automation Investment Right Now

The packaging industry is moving faster than ever — and the decisions companies make about automation in the next 3–5 years will define whether they keep up or fall behind. In this episode, Meredith sits down with Bryan Lacy, President and Chief Revenue Officer at Viking Masek, for an unfiltered look at what's actually happening in the packaging equipment market right now. Bryan brings nearly 14 years of industry experience to the conversation — and he doesn't hold back. What we cover: * Why labor shortages (not growth targets) are the real driver behind packaging automation investment * The generational knowledge gap hitting manufacturing floors right now * Why automation isn't replacing your workforce — and the ATM analogy that explains it perfectly * How the capital equipment buying process has fundamentally changed since COVID * The hidden cost of slow decision-making that most buyers never calculate * What the "handshake deal" era left behind — and why contracts matter more than ever * Why flexibility is the most underrated factor when speccing a packaging line * What Bryan would tell any buyer making a capital investment with a 5-year horizon Whether you're evaluating a packaging line purchase, managing a production operation, or just trying to make sense of where the industry is headed — this episode gives you a ground-level view from someone who talks to customers, operators, and leadership teams every day.

Why the Best Brands Treat Co-Packers Like Strategic Partners

In this episode of Wrapping Things Up, guest host Robert Barkley sits down with Mike Reilly — VP of Engineering, Maintenance & Safety at MSI Express and former General Mills veteran — for a candid conversation on how co-packers and co-manufacturers actually work, what brands get wrong, and how to build partnerships that last. In This Episode: * Co-packing vs. co-manufacturing — and why the difference matters * Why 30–40% of annual volume at a co-packer comes in on short notice * How emerging brands can bridge the gap from commercial kitchen to retail shelf * What co-packers wish their customers understood about contracts and pricing * MSI Express's move into gummy manufacturing (including a former Ferrara/Jelly Belly facility) * The "easy button" philosophy behind how MSI Express supports brands at every stage

Packaging Psychology and Why Shoppers Choose What They Choose

In this episode of Wrapping Things Up, Meredith Denning and Alex Sielaff sit down with packaging design consultant Vicki Strull to explore the psychology behind great packaging. From first impressions on the shelf to the “moment of truth” when a product is opened at home, Vicki breaks down how design, touch, structure, and storytelling influence buying decisions. You’ll learn: * What really happens in a shopper’s mind in those first few seconds * Why tactile, “premium” packaging can increase purchase likelihood * The difference between the first and second moment of truth * Emerging packaging trends for 2026, including human-centered design cues * Small changes brands can make for a big impact on growth and loyalty If you’re in marketing, brand strategy, or packaging operations, this conversation offers practical insights into how packaging drives customer acquisition, retention, and perceived value.

How Packaging, Automation, and Supply Chains Advance Humanitarian Aid

In this inspiring episode of Wrapping Things Up, host Alex Sielaff sits down with Jim Raynor, Senior Director at Convoy of Hope, to explore how packaging is playing a key role in feeding the world. Jim shares the powerful story behind Convoy’s global mission, from feeding over 640,000 children daily to responding to natural disasters, and how a new packaging facility in partnership with Viking Masek will help scale that impact. What to expect: * How Convoy of Hope serves millions through food, disaster relief, and empowerment programs * The vision behind their new automated food packaging facility * Why dignity and quality matter in packaging for humanitarian aid * Lessons in scalability, automation, and mission-driven innovation Whether you’re in packaging, nonprofit work, or just need a boost of purpose-driven inspiration, this episode is for you.

What Engineers Need to Know About Flow Wrapping Speed, Precision, and Sustainability

In this episode of Wrapping Things Up, National Sales Manager Robert Barkley returns to dive deep into flow wrapping efficiency, seal integrity, and the realities of working with sustainable films. From pressure-heat-time tradeoffs to real-world packaging mistakes and upgrades, Robert breaks down what packaging engineers and operators need to know to optimize line performance—without sacrificing product integrity. What you’ll learn: * Speed vs. seal quality: how to strike the right balance * Common flow wrap inefficiencies—and how to fix them * Tips for running recyclable, compostable, and paper-based films * Why operator training and communication are key to success * How to pilot new films without shutting down your line Whether you're managing packaging for baked goods, bars, or high-speed snack lines, this episode is packed with hands-on insights for engineers and ops teams alike.