Packaging

Sonoco Focusing on Consumer Packaging Issues at Pack Expo International 2008

Monday 10. November 2008 - Company to Feature Topics around the Future of Packaging, the Recession-Minded Consumer and Sustainability

Packaging for recession-minded consumers, the future of packaging and sustainability are hot-button topics for consumers, consumer-products companies and retailers. At Pack Expo International 2008, Sonoco (NYSE: SON) will conduct theme days at its exhibit Nov. 10-12 to address these issues and share packaging strategies about each topic.

“Anyone involved in the packaging industry today clearly understands that these are issues our customers and consumers are interested in,” said Charles Sullivan, executive vice president, Consumer. “As the economy continues to struggle, people want to know what companies are doing to reduce packaging costs, whether it’s through materials reduction, conversions or other initiatives. They also want to know about the latest packaging sustainability efforts and how improved recycling programs can reduce cost and further protect the environment. And they are interested in knowing what lies ahead; what new technologies and ideas will influence packaging in the future.”

In addition to these featured topics, Jim Bowen, Sonoco’s senior vice president, Global Paper and Recycling, is scheduled as a featured speaker at Pack Expo. His presentation, which is set for 11:50 a.m., Wednesday, Nov. 12, will outline the approach Sonoco has taken to reduce landfill waste through its own recycling efforts and steps other companies can take in striving for that same goal. He also will discuss the falling prices of recovered paper and other recyclable materials and the impact those prices are having on businesses involved with or considering recycling.

Following is a schedule of Sonoco’s featured topics:

Monday, Nov. 10 “The Future of Packaging”

Tuesday, Nov. 11 “Packaging for the Recession-Minded Consumer”

Wednesday, Nov. 12 “Sustainability”