Proprint Achieves SQF Certification

At Royal Containers, our core strength has always been clear: Building Partnerships in Packaging. That means bringing corrugate packaging, folding carton,  POP and retail displays all under one roof. With state-of-the-art printing, Flexo, Litho, digital and state of the art finishing, mounting, die cutting, folding and gluing our customers can move seamlessly from concept to shelf with one integrated team. 

With Proprint, a division of Royal Containers, officially SQF certified for secondary food packaging, we’ve strengthened that foundation even further. 

This certification enhances our folding carton capabilities with globally recognized food safety standards, adding documented controls, full traceability, and structured compliance to the integrated packaging and display expertise our customers already rely on. 

The SQF program is recognized in more than 40 countries, with over 14,000 certified sites worldwide. Proprint is now one of them. 

What Is SQF and Why It Matters 

SQF (Safe Quality Food) is a globally recognized food safety and quality certification program administered by the SQF Institute, a division of FMI – The Food Industry Association. 

The program is benchmarked by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI), aligning it with internationally recognized food safety management standards.

For food brands, retailers, and private label programs, SQF certification signals: 

• Rigorous food safety systems 
• Full traceability of materials 
• Documented preventative controls 
• Ongoing third-party audits 

It provides an added layer of assurance that packaging partners are operating under structured, verified processes designed to protect product and brand integrity. 

The Year Behind the Certification 

When our customers grow, we grow with them. Achieving SQF certification reinforces our commitment to operating at the highest global food safety standards — without compromising the speed, flexibility, and service that sets us apart in the marketplace.

Achieving SQF certification required a year-long operational transformation. Proprint’s facility transitioned into a controlled-access food packaging environment, including: 

• Restricted plant access to authorized personnel 
• Dedicated change rooms 
• Additional handwashing stations 
• Ground and polished floors 
• Repaired and repainted walls 
• Secured shipping entry points 
• Comprehensive plant-wide signage 
• Replacement of breakable mirrors with non-glass alternatives 
• Conversion of wood surfaces to non-porous, wipeable materials 

Beyond physical upgrades, we strengthened internal systems around HACCP principles and full material traceability. Every paper stock, ink, and adhesive is documented by lot number and supplier chain-of-custody — ensuring accountability at every stage of production. 

SQF certification includes annual audits and continuous compliance monitoring. It demands discipline every day, not just during inspection.

Proprint achieved certification from our very first audit, which is a huge testament to the diligent commitment by everyone involved. From the office to production, everyone played a part in the success of this initiative. 

A True Team Effort

This accomplishment was the result of extraordinary preparation and leadership. The process was led by Richard Krakower, Martin Sonne and Joel Pelkonen. These individuals, along with many others, invested countless hours of time, focus, and energy into audit preparation, documentation, plant upgrades, training, and system implementation to make this certification a reality.

We also extend our sincere appreciation to our press crews, plant staff, and management team who embraced the operational changes required and demonstrated outstanding effort throughout the process. Maintaining SQF standards is a daily commitment, and it is their continued discipline and professionalism that keep the program alive and running every single day.

This was not the work of one department — it was a true team effort.

Strengthening Partnerships — All Under One Roof 

For our customers, SQF certification reinforces the value of working with Royal Containers Group of Companies. 

Within one integrated organization, you now have access to: 

• SQF-certified folding carton manufacturing 
• Advanced lithographic and digital printing 
• POP print and retail display expertise 
• Corrugated packaging and shipping solutions 
• Vertically integrated production capabilities 

One partnership. One coordinated approach. All supported under one roof. 

SQF certification strengthens our operational foundation and enhances the accountability behind everything we produce. It reflects the systems, standards, and structure required to support long-term partnerships and it reinforces what Building Partnerships in Packaging truly means.

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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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EV Forklifts Driving Sustainability at Royal Containers

In July, a chapter quietly closed at Royal Containers, as the last propane forklift left our St. Thomas plant. Today, the St. Thomas facility operates with an all-electric fleet. This milestone is more than a swap of fuel types; it reflects our core values and our commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability in action.

A Cleaner, Safer Way Forward

The first noticeable difference is the noise level on the production floor. Electric forklifts run substantially quieter than propane machines, which not only makes the building calmer but also improves how people work together. Spotter calls, horns, and safety alerts carry farther and clearer, reducing the chance of missed signals in busy aisles.

Air quality is another immediate improvement. With propane emissions removed from daily operations, the facility now provides cleaner air throughout, supporting the wellbeing of our team while allowing us to operate efficiently in every part of the plant.

Next-Level Safety with AI Vision

Safety has always been central to how we operate. Our new forklifts are equipped with state-of-the-art AI vision systems that detect pedestrians and obstacles in real time. When someone enters the detection zone, the truck automatically reduces speed, giving operators critical reaction time. It’s proactive protection designed to keep people safe in even the busiest environments.

Smarter Technology Behind the Wheel

The technology powering these forklifts is smarter, too. Onboard telematics have turned each truck into its own diagnostic terminal, logging performance data and simplifying compliance. Pre-operation checklists are now digital, impact alerts trigger automatic notifications, and maintenance shifts from a reactive to a predictive approach thanks to real-time insights.

With connected systems, our forklifts are not just machines but responsive tools that help the plant run more efficiently.

Sustainability at the Core

This transition is also a clear statement: sustainability drives our business decisions. By eliminating propane-powered forklifts, we’ve cut emissions and reinforced our commitment to reducing our environmental footprint. For our customers and partners, it’s proof that Royal Containers is serious about building a future where packaging leadership and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.

Leading the Industry by Example

For Royal Containers, this transition reflects the values that guide every decision we make. We Lead by adopting innovative technologies that set a new standard in our industry. We Perform by delivering consistent, efficient operations. We Care by creating safer, healthier workplaces for our employees. And We Respond by building resilience and agility into our systems. Our investment in electrification and advanced safety systems strengthens our position as a leader in the corrugated industry, proving that operational excellence and environmental responsibility aren’t competing priorities, they’re inseparable. By living our core values, we’re shaping a workplace that protects our people, serves our customers, and safeguards the planet.

One lift, one charge, one shift at a time, Royal Containers is driving toward a safer, smarter, and more sustainable future, starting at St. Thomas.

Interested in learning more about our sustainability initiatives or visiting the St. Thomas facility? We’d be happy to host you for a walkthrough.

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Why Canadian Manufacturing Matters

At Royal Containers, we’ve always believed in the strength of Canadian manufacturing. From our earliest days, we’ve kept our roots firmly planted in Canadian soil, not just as a matter of geography, but as a business philosophy. In today’s global marketplace, choosing a local manufacturer isn’t just a patriotic decision; it’s a smart, strategic one.

Economic Strength Starts at Home

When you work with Canadian manufacturers, you’re contributing directly to our national economy. Manufacturing in Canada accounts for nearly 10% of GDP and employs over 1.7 million people; it’s an engine that drives innovation, creates jobs, and keeps supply chains resilient. By choosing Royal Containers, you’re not only investing in your business, but you’re also helping to strengthen our economic foundation.

Speed You Can Count On

Let’s face it, timing is everything. Our local operations mean fewer delays, faster turnaround, and direct access to our team when you need support. Whether it’s a last-minute order or an urgent design change, proximity enables us to respond in real-time. No overseas shipping delays. No long waits. Just prompt, professional service.

Reliability Built In

We take pride in our consistency, communication, and accountability. Working with a Canadian partner like Royal means collaborating with someone who understands your business climate and adheres to the same regulations and standards. There’s no confusion, just confidence. Our customers know we’ll deliver what we say, when we say it.

A Greener Way to Package

Choosing local also supports environmental responsibility. At Royal, we’re proud to reduce emissions by keeping production close to home, sourcing recycled materials, and continually improving our energy efficiency. Sustainable practices are built into our day-to-day operations, from how we manage our equipment to how we ship and recycle materials. Canadian manufacturing isn’t just more intelligent, it’s greener, too.

Tour Our Plant and See What Local Can Do

Want a closer look at Canadian manufacturing in action? Check out our St. Thomas plant tour video, where innovation, sustainability, and service all come together under one roof.

And that’s not all, we’re getting ready to launch an updated tour of our Brampton facility. Stay tuned! At Royal Containers, we’re proud of where we come from, and even prouder to show you where we’re going.

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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 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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Royal Containers Wins Big at the AICC Box Olympics!

We’re excited to share some fantastic news: Royal Containers came out on top at this year’s AICC Box Olympics! Our team’s hard work and creativity truly shone through, earning us recognition in multiple categories. From innovative designs to standout packaging, we’re incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together!

A huge shoutout to everyone involved—this is what teamwork looks like. Let’s keep raising the bar!

The AICC, the Independent Packaging Association, and TAPPI, the Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry, recently announced the winners of their second annual Box Manufacturing Olympics competition. This event spotlights companies that excel in innovative packaging solutions and showcases the best of the best in the industry.

The competition highlights corrugated, folding carton, and rigid box manufacturers who exceed customer expectations with their designs and production capabilities. A panel of 15 industry experts—with a combined 537 years of experience—judged the entries, focusing on various criteria, including quality, design, marketing effectiveness, and technical challenges.

Our Award-Winning Designs

We are thrilled to announce our achievements in the competition:

• Category P-4A: Direct Printing on Combined Brown Board – Line Work
  • 1st Place: The Balanced Snack Box

• Category P-5B: Flexo Print on Combined Board – Line/Screen Combination
  • 3rd Place: Fresh Potatoes

• Category 8: Digital Printing – Containers and Displays – Ink Jet/Digital entries only
  • 1st Place: Nova Scotian Cookie Lighthouse
  • 2nd Place: Potato BBQ Bin

• Category P-9: E-Commerce and Subscription Packaging
  • 2nd Place: Syngenta

These wins are a testament to our team’s talent and passion. We strive to push the limits and create packaging that meets and exceeds expectations.

As we celebrate these achievements, we’re excited about the future. Innovation and excellence are at the core of everything we do, and we can’t wait to explore new possibilities in packaging design and production.

Thank you again to everyone who contributed to our success. Together, we’re making a significant impact in the packaging industry and are eager to see what we can achieve next! Here’s to more wins and continued collaboration!

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Maintaining Excellence with ISO 9001 Recertification

Commitment to Quality Management System

Quality has always been a very important core value of our organization at Royal Containers.

Improving customer satisfaction continuously requires a foundation that implements processes that must be effective and sustainable. This is why having a Quality Management System implemented and certified through a recognized standard is critical.

We are thrilled to announce that we have successfully completed the rigorous ISO 9001:2015 recertification process. This internationally recognized Quality Management System (QMS) standard provides us with a framework for delivering consistent, high-quality products and services. Royal East and West facilities’ locations have demonstrated our commitment to customer satisfaction.

The Power of ISO 9001

ISO 9001:2015 offers businesses a powerful tool to drive improvement. It enables us the ability to analyze and enhance every aspect of our Operations, Design and Development, Customer Service and Logistics. By adhering to this standard, we ensure we maintain the highest quality standards across all our processes.

The Team Approach to 3rd-Party Auditing

ISO 9001:2015 recertification process is not without its challenges. Establishing and maintaining the processes and documentation to meet the ISO standards requires a team effort.

At Royal Containers, we believe that the strength of this collaborative approach has been instrumental in our success.

Our team members across all levels of the organization worked tirelessly to ensure that our Quality Management System was robust and effective. From top management to the front-line workers, everyone played a crucial role in maintaining the high standards required by ISO 9001.

During our recent four-day surveillance audit, the Royal East and West facilities were rated exceptionally well, and we are proud to say that no non-conformities were found during the process.

Benefits to the Organization

Obtaining ISO 9001 recertification brings numerous benefits to Royal Containers. It reinforces our reputation as a company committed to quality and provides us with a competitive edge in the market. Our customers and partners can be confident in our ability to deliver products and services consistently.

It also allows us to streamline our operations, identify areas for improvement, and optimize processes, leading to reduced costs and increased efficiency. Following the ISO 9001:2015 framework, Royal Containers ensures that we maintain our focus on this core value.

Our continued successful adherence to the ISO 9001 certification process is a significant milestone for Royal Containers. With a robust Quality Management System in place, we are well-equipped to face future challenges and seize new opportunities. As we move forward, we remain committed to upholding the principles of ISO 9001 and delivering excellence in the corrugated packaging industry.

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