What You Missed at the FBA 2026 Annual Meeting

The Fibre Box Association 2026 Annual Meeting brought members together at the Lodge at Torrey Pines in La Jolla, CA, for two days of insight, discussion, and connection around the key issues shaping the corrugated industry.

Industry Outlook and Leadership Perspectives

The general sessions opened with a State of the Corrugated Industry address from Chris Drees, President and CEO of Menasha Corporation, who shared strategic insights on market trends and approaches to creating customer value in a changing packaging landscape.

Garry Ridge, Chairman Emeritus of WD-40 Company, followed with a compelling look at the link between organizational culture and customer experience. His remarks emphasized how trust, accountability, and belonging inside an organization directly influence customer loyalty and long-term success.

The morning concluded with The Daily Briefing from former White House Press Secretary Ari Fleischer. Fleischer offered a timely analysis of current political developments, providing context on the administration, Congress, and federal policy issues impacting businesses

Safety, Technology, and Policy

Day two of general sessions focused on the operational and strategic realities facing corrugated manufacturers.

Keith Hamilton, President of Georgia Pacific Corrugated, discussed Georgia Pacific’s safety driven mindset and how leadership, employee engagement, and technology support an injury free workplace.

Sam Richter returned to the FBA Annual Meeting to examine how artificial intelligence is being adopted across the industry. He shared practical lessons and examples of how companies are using AI to improve efficiency, preserve expertise, and support more informed decision making.

The session concluded with a fireside chat featuring Chase Kammerer, FBA's Manager of Technical Services, and Danielle Waterfield, Policy Director and General Counsel with AMERIPEN, on Extended Producer Responsibility and recycling policy, offering insight into the evolving regulatory landscape and what it means for corrugated packaging producers.

Engagement and Networking

Attendees also connected throughout the meeting during scheduled networking opportunities, including optional golf at Torrey Pines, pickleball at the Barnes Tennis Center, and an offsite evening reception at a distinctive San Diego venue, Evans Garage.

The 2026 FBA Annual Meeting reinforced the strength of the fiber box industry and the leadership guiding it forward. Through thoughtful discussion on culture, safety, innovation, and regulation, members gained valuable perspective on how to navigate change while continuing to deliver performance, sustainability, and value. FBA thanks all speakers, attendees, and partners who contributed to a meaningful and productive meeting. We hope you can join us next year, May 17-19, in Boston, MA, for the 2027 FBA Annual Meeting!