Giving Thanks for Our Partners: The Royal Values

This Thanksgiving, we’re reflecting on what truly drives Royal Containers forward: our people and our partnerships. Gratitude isn’t something we express just once a year, it’s built into how we work, how we lead, and how we show up for one another every day.

Royal Containers has always been about people first. Our success isn’t only measured by the packaging we produce, but by the connections we build on the plant floor, in the offices, and with the partners who help us grow. With an average employee tenure of 16 years, our team is the heart of everything we do, a true reflection of the loyalty, care, and shared purpose that define Royal.

We show our appreciation in tangible ways, through summer BBQs, ice cream days, and Christmas parties that bring our teams together to celebrate hard work and milestones. We welcome our customers and suppliers into our plants for guided tours that showcase the innovation, craftsmanship, and collaboration behind every box we make. And in our communities, we give back by raising money for Harvest Hands and supporting local causes that matter to our employees and neighbours alike.

Our values — We Respond, We Perform, We Care, We Lead — come alive through these moments. They’re there in every quick adjustment on the production line, every customer challenge solved with creativity, and every act of kindness shared between coworkers.

At Royal, gratitude isn’t just a feeling, it’s a culture. It’s the reason we’ve been able to adapt, innovate, and lead in an ever-changing industry.

To our employees, customers, and partners — thank you for making Royal what it is. Your trust, collaboration, and commitment inspire us every day.

From all of us at Royal Containers, we wish you and your loved ones a safe, joyful, and well-deserved Thanksgiving. Here’s to continuing to grow together, in gratitude and partnership.

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Gen Z and Gen Alpha at Work

At Royal Containers, we know that the future of our business depends on the people behind it, and that includes the next generation of talent. Gen Z is now well established in the workforce, and Gen Alpha is beginning to emerge through co-op placements, internships, and part-time roles. As these generations reshape the way we work, employers must understand what drives them and how to create a workplace where they feel valued and engaged.

Who Are They?

Gen Z (born 1997–2012) is a tech-savvy, purpose-driven group that values flexibility, feedback, and inclusion. Many of them are early in their careers, but their impact on workplace culture is already significant.

Gen Alpha (born 2013 onward) is still very young, but by the end of this decade, they’ll be part of the workforce too. These digital natives are growing up in a world powered by AI, automation, and instant access to information. They’ll expect a workplace that mirrors the speed and personalization they’ve grown up with.

What Do Gen Z and Gen Alpha Want?

1. Purpose Over Paycheques
Salary matters, but purpose matters more. These generations want to know that the company they work for is making a positive impact. At Royal, we’ve seen this firsthand in how younger team members connect with our sustainability goals and community partnerships.

2. Flexible Workstyles
Rigid schedules and one-size-fits-all expectations won’t cut it. Whether it’s shift flexibility or opportunities to cross-train in different departments, younger employees value options that allow for balance and growth.

3. Technology That Works
Gen Z and Gen Alpha expect technology to be seamless and intuitive. Slow systems or outdated processes can quickly become points of frustration. Investing in user-friendly tools and digitized workflows demonstrates your commitment to efficiency and innovation.

4. Feedback and Mentorship
They want guidance, not just evaluation. Real-time feedback and mentorship programs help younger employees feel supported and give them a sense of direction.

5. Inclusion and Belonging
Representation and respect aren’t bonuses, they’re must-haves. A workplace culture that values different perspectives and encourages authenticity helps foster loyalty and long-term engagement.

How Employers Can Respond

For companies like Royal Containers, adapting to these expectations isn’t about reinventing the wheel, it’s about refining how we connect, communicate, and collaborate. It means training leaders to coach rather than command, embracing technology that simplifies work, and consistently demonstrating that our values are more than just words on a wall.

We’re proud to be building a workplace that grows with each generation. Whether you’re just starting your career or bringing years of experience, there’s a place for you here.

Interested in joining the Royal Containers team? Learn more about our career opportunities https://royalcontainers.com/careers/  

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Supporting Athletes and Building a Stronger Community

At Royal Containers, building partnerships in packaging means more than delivering exceptional corrugated products; it means showing up for people, for the families of our employees, local youth, and rising athletes who reflect our values: we respond, perform, care, and lead.

Strong businesses grow from strong communities. That’s why we invest in the people who inspire us with their dedication, drive, and integrity, on the stage, on the field, and in everyday life.

Dance Extreme: On the Road to Paris

Last year, we proudly sponsored a golf tournament in support of Dance Extreme, a dynamic team preparing to represent Canada at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. Their talent and tenacity are deeply personal to us, and one of the dancers is the granddaughter of our very own Kathy Horvath.

Their journey reminds us that greatness starts with support at home. We are honoured to be part of their story and inspired by their energy, creativity, and Olympic spirit.

Kristen Marchant: Pushing the Limits of Endurance (Royal employee since 2016)

Professional triathlete Kristen Marchant has faced injury, setbacks, and the pressure of elite competition, but she keeps showing up. This season, she kicked things off with a 7th-place finish at the St. Anthony’s Triathlon in Florida and continues to train for races throughout the summer.

Kristen also gives back, volunteering at the C3 Kids Race and mentoring young athletes as others once did for her. Her relentless spirit and community mindset perfectly reflect what Royal Containers stands for.

Jaiylen Ekanem: A Star on the Rise (son of Royal employee Kingsley Ekanem)

At just 6’5” and part of the Class of 2030, Jaiylen Ekanem quickly gained attention across North America for his powerful performance and humble leadership on the basketball court.

After a standout appearance at the MSHTV Camp in the U.S., Jaiylen continues to impress not just with skill but with the qualities that matter most: sportsmanship, teamwork, and quiet confidence. He’s a young leader on the rise, and we’re proud to support him every step of the way.

C3 Caledon Kids of Steel Triathlon: Celebrating 25 Years

On May 25th, we’ll mark a significant milestone: the 25th Annual C3 Royal Containers – Benson Steel Kids & Adult Pool Triathlon. This incredible event unites athletes of all ages and abilities in a celebration of movement, resilience, and connection. For a quarter-century, this triathlon has helped young people discover their strength and passion, and we’re honoured to be part of its legacy.

At Royal Containers, we don’t just sponsor events, we champion people. Whether it’s a dancer leaping toward Olympic gold, a triathlete chasing new personal bests, a young basketball player leading with integrity, or a child lacing up for the first time, we’re here to lift them.

Because we don’t just build boxes, we build futures. And the future looks bright.

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Royal’s Packaging Innovations

At Royal Containers, we don’t just make boxes – we think “outside of the box”. We’re reimagining what they can do for your product, your brand, and your bottom line. Royal’s packaging innovation isn’t a side project, it’s how we work, how we collaborate, and how we continue to lead in a constantly evolving industry.

Packaging that Works Smarter

Let’s face it, packaging isn’t just about putting things in a box. It’s about ensuring your product arrives safely, looks excellent, stacks well, stores efficiently, and integrates seamlessly with your supply chain. That’s a lot to ask of corrugated – but that’s where we shine.

Our design team combines creative thinking with technical expertise to craft packaging that exceeds your difficult needs. Whether you’re looking for something sleek for retail or strong enough to handle rough shipping conditions, we’re here to find the most innovative solution together.

Big Ideas Backed by Big Experience

We’ve been doing this for over 40 years. And while we’ve grown a lot, one thing hasn’t changed: we’re still just as excited about discovering new ways to improve what we do. From our high-speed machines and digital printing technology to the way we organize our production floor, innovation is evident everywhere.

We’re always looking for better ways to ensure that your packaging is done right and delivered to you faster.

Technology That Delivers Fast

We don’t invest in automation just to keep up, we do it to lead.

Automation enables us to accomplish more in less time. But we don’t just automate for the sake of it. Every machine on our floor serves a purpose: to ensure greater consistency, any new piece of equipment we invest in is designed to make life easier for both our team and our customers. That means more consistency, quicker turnaround times, and better quality control at every step.

You get the packaging you need, when you need it, without the stress.

Better for You and the Planet

Innovation at Royal doesn’t stop at speed or design. We also believe in doing things the right way for our customers and the environment. This means using recyclable materials, reducing waste wherever possible, and incorporating sustainability into every decision.

It’s not just good business, it’s the right thing to do.

Collaboration is Where Packaging Innovation Begins

The best ideas? They usually come from conversations. When you work with Royal, we don’t show up with a cookie-cutter box. We ask questions. We listen. We learn what matters to you—and then we get to work.

Whether you’re launching a new product, scaling your business, or just trying to solve an everyday packaging headache, we’re right there with you.

At Royal, we believe packaging should never hold you back. It should help you move faster, look better, and do more. And with the right partner, it can. If you’re ready to take your packaging to the next level, we’re ready when you are.

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Royal Containers: Proudly Canadian – Proudly Committed

At Royal Containers, being Canadian is more than just where we’re headquartered—it’s part of who we are. From our roots in Ontario to our partnerships across North America, we’ve built our business on values that reflect the best of Canada: innovation, inclusion, responsibility, and community.

Rooted in Canadian Values

Reflecting Canada’s spirit of diversity and mutual respect, Royal Containers is proud to have a workforce that brings together a wide range of cultures and perspectives—all united by a shared purpose. For us, it’s about more than packaging; it’s about fostering a workplace where people from all backgrounds can thrive and succeed together.

Our values—we respond, we perform, we care, we lead—guide every decision we make. We believe in working hard, treating people well, and doing what’s right for our employees, customers, and communities.

Canada is known for forward thinking—and so is Royal Containers. We continue to invest in advanced machinery and innovative manufacturing practices to meet the changing needs of our  clients across e-commerce, industrial, and retail sectors. We’re proud to be a Canadian company that stays ahead by staying focused on quality and continuous improvement.

Focused on Sustainability

Canada’s natural beauty reminds us why environmental responsibility matters. Royal Containers takes real steps to protect the planet, using 100% recycled containerboard and a vertically integrated model that reduces waste and keeps materials within North America.

Long-term partnerships with Tencorr Packaging and Greenpac Mill allow us to support a circular economy and reduce our carbon footprint—while producing packaging that meets today’s expectations and tomorrow’s demands.

Supporting Canadian Communities

We’re proud to support charities and causes that improve Canadians’ lives. From Hockey Helps the Homeless to the SickKids Foundation, Trillium Health Partners, Autism Speaks Canada, and the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada, we support them through financial donations, sponsorships, and hands-on participation.

We support Canadian athletes and local sports teams, from junior hockey players to world-class triathletes. Every organization we support is chosen carefully and reflects our commitment to giving back.

A Strong Canadian Legacy

Royal Containers was built on Canadian drive and determination. What started with the launch of Norbram Packaging and Tri-County Containers and Ross Nelson’s acquisition of Rowland Packaging in the 1970s has grown into one of Canada’s leading corrugated packaging manufacturers.

Our early partnership with Tencorr Packaging, North America’s first jointly owned sheet feeder, and our investment in Greenpac Mill exemplify how we’ve strengthened our operations while staying true to our roots.

Royal Containers is proud to be a Canadian company—built on hard work, strong values, and a deep commitment to people and the planet. We look forward to what’s next as we grow, support local communities, and provide packaging that performs.

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Celebrating Get to Know Your Customers Day

Get to Know Your Customers Day is a groundswell opportunity for small and large businesses to engage with their customers.

How is Customer Service at Royal Containers taking part this year?

A Royal Containers promise is that we are “building partnerships in packaging.”  And it is true!  So, our first step with new and loyal customers alike is to make every interaction feel like a good friendship, or at the very least, a super strong working relationship.  We build our CX (Customer Experience) on top of that foundation.

For customers who only place orders once or twice a year, how do you make these partnerships a reality?

That’s a great question, because there can be months between our customers’ orders and sometimes roles change within our customers’ organizations.  It helps that we are trained and encouraged to really know our products –  from being a part of the design to selecting the right material; having intimate product knowledge on all of the boxes, cartons, displays and specialty items we make in Brampton and St. Thomas helps us in customer service to answer questions as quickly as possible without having to bounce the customer around to 4 different people.

Are there ways to show that you care about customers?

Oh, absolutely!  In fact, at the heart of what we do are our core values, ‘we respond, we perform, we lead, we care.’  Ask anyone in the office to tell you our values, we love to see who can rhyme them off the fastest!  But seriously, the caring piece comes in different ways, for example, when we have a customer joining us at one of our facilities, we want to have them at “hello!”  But like any provider of excellent customer service, we know that it takes a bit of effort behind the scenes to let our care show through.

Describe what that looks like.

It’s normal to see a Sales Rep “collab-ing” with a Customer Service Rep to make sure that a customer visit is premeditated to be awesome – a visual on our TV screen (internal monitor’s) that highlights that customer, knowing how they take their coffee, reserving them a VIP parking spot, interesting product samples or new industry designs; we try to think of everything Recently, we had a customer stop by to pick up a sample and his dog was along with him for the car ride – so what did we do?  We made Bailey the Labrador Retriever’s experience great, too!

How did you do that?

It was very easy with some scratches, a bowl of water and a treat or two!  Since the Customer Service desk is steps away from our reception area, we become part of the de facto welcoming committee, and we take it pretty seriously…

Is it possible to get to know a customer over the phone or through email?

Yes, and the pandemic gave us a chance to get better at those types of interactions.  It is in our Royal CX phone and email etiquette to do things like identify ourselves by name, return messages promptly and listen closely to our customers.  We have an appreciation that, “It’s five o’clock somewhere,” and that means we actively try to get back to people as soon as possible and even if we don’t have an answer yet, we want to respond before the end of the day.  Royal is a great place to work with an authentically good vibe, so our smiles must come right through the phone!

Can you think of something a customer told you that you wouldn’t otherwise know?

When you’re providing the packaging for everything from automotive parts to food to cosmetics to beer to health care products, you learn interesting things all the time.  But, most recently, one of my customers from Ottawa told me his plans for an Ontario vacation, and it sounded so great that I have decided to take the stops on his itinerary and go with my own family!  Otherwise, I may have never known about these places.  Being a part of the Royal Customer Service team is like being on the inside of a great community that is diverse, knowledgeable, fun, and always active.

At Royal Containers, we recognize the importance of strong customer relationships, and Get to Know Your Customers Day holds a special place in our commitment to our clients. We go above and beyond by fostering relationships not only between our sales representatives and customer service representatives but also with our talented designers. We believe that trust and expertise go hand in hand, and having our experts actively engaged in meetings and site visits instills confidence in our customers. Moreover, many of our customers are also valued vendors, demonstrating our dedication to their best interests. By leveraging our extensive network of contacts, we can introduce and incorporate additional assets that enhance the value we bring to our partnerships.

With two strategically located facilities serving the Greater Toronto Area and the growing customer segment in Royal West, we prioritize efficient lead times and sustainability. We see our customers as our partners in packaging and always strive for the best possible customer experience.

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Royal Containers: A True Reflection of Canadian Excellence

As Canada Day approaches, we reflect and take pride in being a homegrown Canadian company. Established and headquartered in Ontario, we have been serving diverse industries with our innovative corrugated packaging solutions for decades. Our commitment to quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction resonates with the values of our great nation. Join us as we celebrate Canada Day and reflect on our journey as a proud Canadian company.

Canadian Heritage and Values

Royal Containers is deeply rooted in Canada’s rich heritage and shares its core values. Beyond our corporate values of we respond, we perform, we care and we lead, we also embrace nationwide values such as diversity, inclusivity, and multiculturalism, reflecting the mosaic of Canada’s cultural fabric. Our team is comprised of talented individuals from various backgrounds, contributing to a vibrant and inclusive work environment. By fostering teamwork, mutual respect, and equality, we embody the Canadian spirit, which extends beyond our organization and permeates into our relationships with customers, partners, and communities.

Canadian Innovation and Expertise

At Royal Containers, we take pride in the Canadian spirit of innovation and expertise. Our packaging solutions are designed to meet the evolving needs of industries across Canada and beyond. We consistently invest in machinery and corporate development to stay at the forefront of technological advancements, ensuring our products are efficient, sustainable, and tailored to specific customer requirements. Our commitment to innovation is a testament to the Canadian entrepreneurial spirit and our unwavering dedication to delivering the best packaging solutions in the market.

Commitment to Sustainability

Canada’s breathtaking landscapes inspire us to prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility. At Royal Containers, we actively pursue sustainable practices, from utilizing eco-friendly materials with our 100% recycled containerboard through vertical integration. We are committed to reducing our carbon footprint and promoting a circular economy.

Supports Canadian organizations/companies

Royal Containers is involved in Canadian charities such as Hockey Helps the Homeless, and provides financial support to the Trillium Health Partners Foundation, Autism Speaks Canada, Sick Kids Foundation, and the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada. We also proudly sponsor Canadian athletes and community sports teams, everyone from junior hockey to world-class triathletes. Whether it be physically participating in an event, sponsorship, or donations, Royal Containers hand selects the charities and communities we support that seek to improve the lives of all Canadians.

Royal Containers also chooses to invest in Canadian businesses.  We have formed several major strategic partnerships with industrial facilities. Royal Containers was founded on the Canadian entrepreneurial spirit with the launch of Norbram Packaging, Tri-County Containers, and the acquisition of Rowland Packaging in the 1970s by Ross Nelson. In the early ’90s, Royal Containers partnered with North America’s first-ever jointly-owned sheet feeder operation, Tencorr Packaging. Royal Containers also invested in a Greenpac Mill based out of Niagara Falls, N.Y.  Our supply chain partnerships with a corrugator and a paper mill have formed a vertical integration model that keeps recycled resources within North America.

On this joyous occasion of Canada Day, Royal Containers proudly celebrates our Canadian heritage and the values that define us as a company. We honour the strength, diversity, and innovation that Canada embodies. As we look to the future, we remain committed to delivering quality corrugated packaging solutions while upholding the highest standards of sustainability and supporting local businesses. We invite you to join us in celebrating Canada Day, recognizing the collective achievements of our great nation. Happy Canada Day!

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Summer Student Spotlight – Royal West

At Royal Containers, we recognize the trend of younger employees and need to better understand how to recruit Gen Z and how to connect gen Z to the corrugated industry in a meaningful way.

To do this, we place an emphasis on hiring 5-8 summer students each year, helping them build important skills and teaching them about all-things-corrugated.

Meet the Summer Students of 2022

Alexa
This is Alexa’s first summer at Royal Containers. At nineteen, she is excited about heading into her second year at York University, where she’s on track to finish her undergrad in psychology. Until then, Royal West is fortunate to have her working as an administrative assistant When asked what she likes best about working at Royal Containers, she said:

“I like the people. I feel like I am able to joke around with everyone. I also love how unique everyone is and how my co-workers can all bring their strengths to best collaborate and create an effective workplace.”

Her favourite memory while working here this summer has been the pie-in-the-face fundraiser for Harvest Hands. Her sister came into work and they both enjoyed pie-ing their dad, another employee, in the face. She remembers laughing lots and feeling so grateful to have raised over $500 for such a great cause.

When asked about what she has learned since starting at Royal, she said:

“I have really strengthened my communication skills. By having to immerse myself in different social settings with a variety of co-workers, I have learned how to better collaborate and compliment the different personalities of those around me. I will use this skill after the summer to help with networking and in my various school and work experiences.”

Ethan
This is Ethan’s first summer at Royal. At 23, he joins the team as a plant assistant. This role has given him the opportunity to work on many different machines within the plant, allowing him to gain an appreciation for all their functions. After the summer ends, Ethan is planning on staying on board for a while before heading back to finish his Landscape Architecture degree at Guelph University.

Ethan notes that what he likes best about working at Royal has been the chance to work on the Cobra machine. Acknowledging it as a personal favourite, the Cobra has become the machine he spends the most time on. Ethan finds the machine’s work to be especially fulfilling and interesting.

When asked about what his favourite memory has been since starting at Royal, Ethan replied:

“My brother has worked here for almost a decade and I have always loved hearing his stories. Being able to meet the people whose names I have heard for years has been awesome.”

When asked about what he has learned since starting at Royal, he said:

“My biggest takeaway is that I have learned how to be more open-minded about how I approach new work situations. I feel confident about how much machine-related knowledge I have now and would feel more self-assured tackling new experiences with this skillset.”

Michael
At 26 years old, this is Michael’s fifth summer at Royal Containers – working on and off for the past five years. This summer marks his first time in the office as an administrative assistant. Before that, Michael had extensive experience with various machines in the plant.

After this summer, Michael hopes to stay on a little longer as he works towards completing his accounting diploma at Fanshawe College, and then his CPA certification at Western University. When asked what he likes best about working at Royal Containers, he said:

“I love the set tasks, clear follow-through, and consistency. Some may say that it is monotonous but I thrive on knowing what I am doing and how I can keep improving to get even better at my machine. As well, the people here are good. There is always someone willing to help you better learn the machines.”

Michael also comments on how much he has loved learning about the production side of the business, finding he was amazed as to how much work goes into every single box. While he does see himself continuing within the administrative side of things, he considers his manufacturing experience a resource to call upon whenever looking holistically to find solutions. Overall, this summer has given him improvement in his communication skills and mechanical knowledge – both of which will help him in the future.

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Summer Student Spotlight – Royal East

At Royal Containers, we recognize the trend of younger employees and need to better understand how to recruit Gen Z and how to connect the next generation to the corrugated industry in a meaningful way.

To do this, we place an emphasis on hiring 5-8 summer students each year, helping them build important skills and teaching them about all-things-corrugated.

Meet the Summer Students of 2022

Kylie

This is Kylie’s first summer here. At sixteen, she is excited about entering her grade 12 year at summer’s end. Until then, she is joining us in a hybrid position as an administrative assistant and employee on the Gluer machine in the plant. When asked what she likes best about working at Royal Containers, she said:

“The people. I just love the way everyone just connects [with each other] and how they feel at home here.”

Her favourite memory while working here this summer has been “doughnut day,” a guilty pleasure that office staff has been known to engage in.

According to Kylie, one of the most important things that she is learning is:

“Appreciation for plant workers, the heat they have to deal with, and the toll it takes on their body. And the physical strength it takes to work in there! My people skills have also improved by working the phones when I am in the office. I will use this skill after the summer in future jobs where I have to interact with all different kinds of people.”

Claudia

This is Claudia’s first summer at Royal, joining the team as a project coordinator specializing in developing ISO-approved work instructions for both plants. She has made a great addition and will be missed when she returns to Wilfrid Laurier University to finish her last year of her Bachelor of Business Administration. When asked what she likes best about working at Royal Containers, she said:

“The overall company culture. Since my first day, everyone was very welcoming and helpful. There is a huge open-door policy here so you never feel afraid to ask for help or speak to somebody when needed.”

Her favourite memory was when one of our customer service reps accidentally had her banana eaten by another staff member. She remembers the day was full of laughs and sleuthing about who could possibly be the infamous “banana thief.” Claudia explains some of her learnings:

“This past summer has shown me what I enjoy doing and where I could end up. On one of my days here, I dipped my toes into consulting and that was my best day so far! I have really strengthened my communication skills as I have had to interact with a bunch of people in the office and the plant and needed to adapt my conversations to best fit their needs and what outcomes I was trying to attain.”

Kieran

This is Kieran’s second summer at Royal Containers, working on both the 66” Martin and Gluer machines during his time here. After this summer, he is headed back to school to finish his grade 12 year, looking forward to his upcoming football and lacrosse seasons. When asked what he likes best about working at Royal Containers, he said:

“The flexibility. I am usually busy with my athletics and this company is really great about giving me the times and days off that I need.”

Kieran’s favourite memories are the summertime Ice Cream Truck days. He notes that these days make him feel like a valued employee at Royal Containers. “It’s a nice break, especially on hot summer days.” When the work term concludes at the end of summer, Kieran plans on using the teamwork skills he has learned in other athletic and academic settings.

Hannah

This is Hannah’s second summer as a human resources intern. After summer ends, she is heading back to Queen’s University to finish her undergraduate degree in Sociology and Employment Relations. She is excited about her future plans to pursue a career in HR. When asked what she likes best about working at Royal Containers, she said:

“The people. Every morning on the way to my desk, those who I pass by always say hello or strike up a conversation – and I can tell they genuinely care about the answer. There is always a lot of laughter here which makes Royal a fantastic place to work.”

Her favourite memory while working here this summer has been celebrating the retirement of Paul Haggerty. To celebrate his 36 years of dedication to Royal, she purchased a cake that got slightly “smushed” during transport. She remembers laughing a lot as she and her co-worker tried to fix the cake. When asked about what she has learned since starting Royal, she said:

“Royal Containers has taught me a lot about Human Resources and about how to come up with creative solutions to different problems. In this role, I have had the opportunity to research and help develop new policies, brainstormed and developed presentations on potential employment engagement initiatives, and moonlighted on our social media. I have learned how to screen resumes for potential candidates and how to organize company events such as our annual BBQ and monthly Ice Cream Truck days. I will definitely use these skills in other positions I go into, especially ones within an HR field.”

Luke

Luke has been working at Royal Containers for four summers, acting in various positions. After three summers working in the plant on the 66” Martin, Luke is enjoying his summer as an administrative assistant. In the fall, Luke is heading back to Humber College for the second year of his Business Administration degree. When asked about what he likes best about working at Royal Containers, he said:

“I love how it’s a good environment. There are so many friendly and helpful people who work here.”

His favourite memory while working here this summer has been the recent pie-in-the-face fundraiser for Royal’s partnered charity: Harvest Hands. He found it hilarious to watch his previous supervisor from his time in the plant, Vlad, get pie’d in the face! Throughout his employment, Luke has learned lots about:

“The importance of all different departments working together to achieve a common goal. I have learned to better my organizational and communication skills to help achieve these goals as a valued team member. I will now be able to use these skills at school, especially with group projects.”

Jenna

Jenna has worked at Royal Containers for four years during the summer months, and in the last year, part-time during the winter. This summer she is the continuous improvement project team lead but has also worked as a finance and accounting co-op student, and administrative assistant. She is looking forward to her last year at Guelph University in her Bachelor of Commerce degree program. Post-grad, she is excited about learning more about the various business sectors to find a career that best suits her. When asked what she likes best about working at Royal Containers, she said:

“I love the culture and how welcoming everyone is, especially to newcomers, it is one of the reasons why I keep coming back. Working in a positive environment has cultivated such positive working relationships between employees that allow us to continuously learn, grow and add value to the organization as a whole.”

Her favourite memory while working here this summer was when she and the rest of the ISO audit team were taken out for lunch by the company’s CEO, Kim Nelson. Jenna explains her cumulative learnings over the past four summers:

“Going into my fourth summer, I feel as though my level of professionalism has improved each year. This can be attributed to the various meetings I partake in, presenting to executives, as well as the additional responsibility I have assumed as I continue to gain experience. Moving forward, I will continue to use this skill to create various opportunities for myself and further develop positive working relationships as I become a fully functioning member of society.”

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