Wrapping Things Up

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 investmentThe generational knowledge gap hitting manufacturing floors right nowWhy automation isn't replacing your workforce — and the ATM analogy that explains it perfectlyHow the capital equipment buying process has fundamentally changed since COVIDThe hidden cost of slow decision-making that most buyers never calculateWhat the "handshake deal" era left behind — and why contracts matter more than everWhy flexibility is the most underrated factor when speccing a packaging lineWhat Bryan would tell any buyer making a capital investment with a 5-year horizonWhether 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.

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 mattersWhy 30–40% of annual volume at a co-packer comes in on short noticeHow emerging brands can bridge the gap from commercial kitchen to retail shelfWhat co-packers wish their customers understood about contracts and pricingMSI 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

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 secondsWhy tactile, “premium” packaging can increase purchase likelihoodThe difference between the first and second moment of truthEmerging packaging trends for 2026, including human-centered design cuesSmall changes brands can make for a big impact on growth and loyaltyIf you’re in marketing, brand strategy, or packaging operations, this conversation offers practical insights into how packaging drives customer acquisition, retention, and perceived value.

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 programsThe vision behind their new automated food packaging facilityWhy dignity and quality matter in packaging for humanitarian aidLessons in scalability, automation, and mission-driven innovationWhether you’re in packaging, nonprofit work, or just need a boost of purpose-driven inspiration, this episode is for you.

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 balanceCommon flow wrap inefficiencies—and how to fix themTips for running recyclable, compostable, and paper-based filmsWhy operator training and communication are key to successHow to pilot new films without shutting down your lineWhether 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.

In this episode of Wrapping Things Up, host Meredith Denning sits down with Viking Maskek’s Director of Sales, Nick Knapp, to explore how manufacturers can future-proof their packaging operations. From planning around labor shortages and rising demand to smart automation and scalable solutions, Nick shares practical strategies to ensure your packaging line keeps up—without overcomplicating operations.You’ll learn:What future-proofing really means (and why it matters)How to balance speed, flexibility, and simplicityWhen to upgrade vs. buy new equipmentHow to avoid costly integration mistakesReal-world examples of delayed decisions that hurt growthWhether you're scaling fast or just getting started with automation, this episode is packed with sales-side insights to guide smart packaging investments.

In this episode of Wrapping Things Up, host Meredith Denning sits down with Lucas Daane, Applications Engineering Manager at Viking Masek, to explore how packaging engineering is evolving with the rise of Industry 5.0.Lucas unpacks how manufacturers are shifting from designing everything in-house to relying on smart systems and integrators, and what this means for the role of engineers today. They also dig into collaborative robotics, augmented reality for service, and how engineers can become automation influencers (and avoid project-killing scope creep).Whether you're on the plant floor or planning the next system rollout, this episode delivers key insights into the intersection of packaging, automation, and human collaboration.What you’ll learn:The difference between Industry 4.0 vs 5.0, and why it matters nowHow engineers can thrive in an age of automation, data, and ARWhy labor shortages are the #1 disruptor in packaging todayTips to prevent automation projects from failing due to bad scope or planningThe rise of pre-made pouches, spout packaging, and refillable formats in CPGPlus: clever packaging innovations Lucas can’t stop thinking about (spoiler: pancake batter pouches).Subscribe to Wrapping Things Up for more smart takes on packaging innovation, automation, and engineering.

In this special episode of Wrapping Things Up, recorded at PACK EXPO Las Vegas, host Meredith Denning chats with AJ Nelson, Founder & CEO of PCKG, to explore the fast-evolving world of packaging trends, sustainability, and automation.AJ unpacks what’s really shaping the industry, from the shift away from one-size-fits-all formats to smart sustainability practices that go beyond greenwashing. Drawing on real-world examples (like coffee packaging’s outsized influence), AJ dives into what manufacturers and marketers need to consider, including machine compatibility, design trade-offs, and how to future-proof packaging decisions for retail, e-commerce, and beyond.What you’ll learn:Why material and format changes are accelerating in coffee & CPG packagingHow to balance shelf appeal, sustainability, and machine performanceReal insights on compostables, mono-materials, degassing valves, and carbon footprint trackingWhat manufacturers must consider when launching new packaging formatsAJ’s concept of packaging as a Venn diagram of trade-offs, and how to prioritize effectivelyWhether you’re in food, beverage, or specialty packaging, this episode delivers expert insight from the frontlines of packaging innovation.Don’t forget to subscribe to Wrapping Things Up for more insider tips on packaging automation, design, and strategy.

In this episode of Wrapping Things Up, host Meredith Denning sits down with Robert Barkley, Flow Wrapping Division Leader at Viking Masek, to dive into the real ROI of packaging automation. As labor shortages, rising interest rates, and shifting consumer demands challenge manufacturers, knowing when—and how—to invest in automated packaging solutions has never been more important.Robert shares expert insights on calculating ROI, the biggest mistakes companies make, and how to plan for long-term scalability without overextending your budget. Learn how Viking Masek helps businesses choose the right equipment, prepare for implementation, and partner for success.What you’ll learn:How to calculate ROI on automation projects effectivelyThe key factors driving automation decisions in 2025Why buying for future growth matters more than everCommon misconceptions about automation and long-term costsReal-world examples of companies accelerating ROI through smart automationWhether you’re a manufacturer, operations leader, or packaging decision-maker, this episode is packed with actionable insights to guide your automation strategy.Subscribe to Wrapping Things Up for expert tips on packaging, automation, and manufacturing innovation.

In this episode of Wrapping Things Up, host Meredith Denning sits down with Robert Bur, Electrical Engineering Manager at Viking Masek, to explore how automation can help organizations overcome today's labor shortages. They discuss the spectrum of automation solutions—from simple packaging systems to fully automated operations—and how companies of all sizes can benefit. Robert also addresses common misconceptions about automation, its impact on jobs, and strategies for implementing it step by step.What you’ll learn:Why labor shortages are impacting manufacturing at record levelsPractical ways automation improves efficiency, quality, and consistencyHow even small businesses can adopt scalable automationReal-world examples of companies thriving through automated processesDon’t miss this insightful conversation about the future of manufacturing and packaging automation!

In this premiere episode of Wrapping Things Up, host Meredith Denning sits down with Jordan Miller, General Manager of Customer Care at Viking Masek, to clear the air around packaging automation. Whether you're new to the industry or scaling your operations, Jordan shares firsthand insights into the most common misconceptions customers have when entering the world of automated packaging, from tricky product types like cheese and matcha powder to outdated resealable packaging formats.Together, they explore:Why some businesses fear automation (and how to move past it)What questions to ask before investing in equipmentThe role of testing and validation in long-term successHow customer education and honesty are key to smoother automation projectsWhat’s next for packaging automation, and how to prepareIf you're looking to upgrade your packaging process, or just want to understand what’s possible, this episode will leave you informed, confident, and ready to take the next step. Follow, rate, and subscribe so you don’t miss the next episode!