FPA 2025 Annual Meeting
The Hotels and Venues
19999 W. Country Club Drive
Aventura, FL 33180
All attendees MUST make their own hotel reservations. We secured a block of rooms with the hotel at a rate of $369/night. The block will be open until all rooms have been secured or February 10, 2025, whichever comes first. If you would like to stay at the event property, please make your reservation early.
At any point, should you need to cancel your hotel reservation, please contact FPA before contacting the hotel.
If you prefer to call to make your hotel reservation, Annual Meeting attendees can call 1-855-999-0493. Please be sure to mention that you are attending the “FPA Annual Meeting” in order to receive the group rate.
BOOK HOTELThe FPA 2025 Annual Meeting will be held March 5-7, 2025, at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry, Aventura Florida.
The meeting will kick off our 75th Anniversary Celebration, offer great networking opportunities for industry leaders and senior management, and feature the presentation of the winners of the 2025 Flexible Packaging Achievement Awards Competition. The FPA 2025 Annual Meeting is for FPA Members Only. Non-members, who are eligible for membership, may only attend the meeting if they are sponsored by a current FPA Member and have not attended a meeting in the past. Please click here to view a list of FPA member companies.
Cancellations: To receive a refund of your registration fees, please submit a request to Emily Patten at EPatten@FlexPack.org no later than 12:00 Noon Eastern on Friday, February 14, 2025. After this time registrations cannot be refunded, however they can be transferred to another member of your company.
Printed Attendee List: To be included on the printed attendee list in the Annual Meeting Pocket Agenda, please complete your registration by 12:00 Noon Eastern on Friday, February 14, 2025. Attendees who register after that date will not be named in the printed guide, but will be discoverable on the attendee list available through the FPA mobile app.
Dress Code: The dress code for the Annual Meeting is business casual. Please note that the Welcome Reception and Dinner is a sunset cruise. There is potential for a breeze, please plan accordingly and take care when selecting footwear.
Event Agenda
Speakers
As a Principal Scientist with over a decade of experience in research and development, Chris thrives on transforming innovative ideas into groundbreaking consumer products, from lubricants and cleaners to household essentials. His journey is driven by a commitment to sustainability, product stewardship, and fostering technical partnerships that pave the way for impactful innovation. He excels in generating fresh concepts and actualizing them through collaborative synergy with internal teams and external partners. His strategic, creative approach, combined with diligent research and pragmatic risk assessment, enables him to tackle complex scientific challenges and deliver creative solutions that shape the future.
Guido Aufdemkamp is the Executive Director of Flexible Packaging Europe (FPE), FPA’s European partner organization. He is an economist by education and has been working for German and European associations for flexible packaging and aluminum foil and closures since 2003.
His core activity is representing the European flexible packaging industry at the European level and on the international stage, which involves statistics and market analysis, public relations, sustainability, food contact legislation, as well as membership management.
Overall, FPE deals with a wide range of issues relevant to the flexible packaging industry, most notably food contact, sustainability, and environmental issues. The association comprises all major European producers of flexible packaging. See more at www.flexpack-europe.org.
Kathy Bolhous is Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Charter Next Generation (CNG), a leading specialty film supplier to the food, consumer, industrial, and healthcare industries headquartered in Milton, WI. CNG currently operates 12 manufacturing facilities across the United States.
Over the past 10 years, Kathy has led CNG through several transformational acquisitions and significant organic growth. With more than three decades of experience in plastics manufacturing − including senior leadership roles at Appleton Paper, Cascade Engineering, and Magna-Donnelly – she is a trailblazer and role model for women in the industry.
Jeska Brodbeck has spent over 20 years mastering the art and discipline of Flow State, one of the most highly researched and sought-after brain states known to humanity.
Through her interactive keynotes, executive performance coaching and corporate trainings, she has taught countless business professionals how to step into a new world of meaning and enjoyment while also experiencing the highest levels of performance possible— naturally— by accessing this state.
Named a Featured Speaker for the Young President's Organization (YPO) and Distinguished Speaker at Florida International University, Jeska designs unique and highly curated journeys that teach her audiences through direct and impactful experiences.
She currently serves on the Enterprising Women Advisory Board and has also served on the boards of the Program in the Study of Spirituality at FIU and the very first World Happiness Summit. With over 1,500 hours in transformational trainings as coach, participant, and volunteer, she brings a refreshing level of depth and nuance to the conversation.
We’re standing at the edge of one of the greatest paradigm shifts of our time. In this keynote, you will learn more about how you, too, can exit the rat race and truly create a life of meaning and purpose— through Flow State.
Dhuanne Dodrill is the CEO of PAXXUS, a global, vertically-integrated flexible healthcare packaging manufacturer. With over 35 years of experience in the flexible packaging industry, Dhuanne has worked in a variety of technical, quality assurance, and management positions. She is the Chair of the Sterilization Packaging Manufacturers Council, has served on the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors of the Flexible Packaging Association, one of the founding members of KiiP, chaired ASTM’s Committee F02 on Primary Barrier Packaging, is on the Board of the Sterile Barrier Association, and is active with IoPP’s Medical Device Packaging Technical Committee. On a broader scope, Dhuanne is on U.S. Bank's Advisory Board representing manufacturing, is on the Board of Trustees of Chicago's acclaimed Goodman Theatre, and is on the Board of Directors of Summit Insurance. She loves the science behind packaging and is passionate about promoting the role that packaging can play in improving patient outcomes.
Dhuanne has a B.S. in Chemical Engineering with honors from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Dan serves as President & CEO of the Flexible Packaging Association (FPA), the association representing U.S. converters of film, foil, paper and other materials into packages for food, medical device and industrial products. Prior to joining FPA in 2024, Dan served as Executive Director for AMERIPEN – the American Institute for Packaging and the Environment. A well-known leader in the U.S. government affairs arena for more nearly 20 years, Dan has represented multinational corporations, various coalitions, and trade associations representing several Fortune 500 companies. He is particularly passionate about environmental, sustainability, and packaging issues and has advocated extensively in those areas at the local, state, and federal levels in the U.S.
David Goch is a Partner with the Washington, D.C. law firm of Webster, Chamberlain & Bean. WC&B, founded in 1970, is the only law firm in the country that represents the tax-exempt community exclusively. WC&B has established the reputation of being the leading law firm in the United States specializing in the representation of trade associations, professional organizations, foundations, charities, and other tax-exempt entities. WC&B provides its clients with tax, antitrust, labor (employment law), trademark, copyright, litigation, standards and certification, contracts and other transactional work, corporate, regulatory, legislative, and general legal advice.
David has over thirty-three years’ experience working with nonprofit organizations of all sizes and currently represents numerous clients before the US Congress. He has served as FPA’s general counsel since the end of 2017.
David has a bachelors degree from the University of Michigan and a J.D., with honors, from the University of Maryland School of Law.
Russell Grissett is the President of Global Thermoformed and Flexible Packaging and an Officer at Sonoco. Since joining the company in 1993, he has held various leadership roles, including Division Vice President and General Manager of Flexible Packaging, Protective Solutions, and ThermoSafe®.
An Auburn University graduate with a degree in Industrial Engineering, Russell serves on Auburn’s Industrial Engineering Alumni Council and is the Chair Elect of the Flexible Packaging Association. He also contributes to Clemson University as a FRESH Advisory Board member.
Russell lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, with his wife Christina and their three children. His hobbies include boating, mountain biking, hiking, cooking, and college sports.
Weston has held several positions at Sonoco, initially joining as a sourcing professional and later taking on management responsibilities for Sonoco Flexible’s procurement of films. He more recently began supporting key CPG relationships as a Strategic Account Manager. Over the past 3 years, Weston has held several roles at FPA, initially as a member of the ELC, later as Chair of the ELC’s Advocacy Committee, and now as Co-Chair of the ELC. He holds a BS in Technology, Leadership, and Innovation from Purdue University and an MBA from the University of Illinois.
Alison Keane is an environmental attorney with over 30 years’ experience in both the private and governmental sectors. She is currently the President of the International Sleep Products Association (ISPA) and the Mattress Recycling Council (MRC), the association representing U.S. and global manufacturers of mattresses and their stewardship organization running mattress recycling programs in 4 states. Prior to ISPA/MRC, she was the President and CEO of the Flexible Packaging Association (FPA) for 8 years. Ms. Keane began her association career with the American Coatings Association (ACA), where she worked for 16 years and served first as Counsel and then as Vice President for Government Affairs. She was also the Executive Director, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary for the ACA’s product stewardship organization - PaintCare. Other employment experience includes the Environmental Protection Agency’s Headquarters office, the Maryland State Senate and private practice.
Alison has her BA in Biology from St. Mary’s College of Maryland and her JD from Golden Gate University in San Francisco. She is admitted to the practice of law in both Maryland and the District of Columbia.
John Richard has served our industry as the Director of Government Relations at FPA since 2024. As the industry’s registered lobbyist, he advocates on behalf of flexible packaging manufacturers at the state and federal level. FPA’s advocacy and regulatory efforts generally focus on extended producer responsibility, toxics legislation, advanced recycling, and labeling laws. Prior to his current role, John has worked for several other trade associations, on Capitol Hill, in the campaign world, and for the Government Accountability Office. John obtained his MPA from the University of Pittsburgh's Graduate School of Public and International Affairs.
During his 24-year career, Esteban has experienced all aspects of the petrochemical value chain, through commercial and marketing assignments with Repsol Química in Spain, Tetra Pak in Panama, and New Castle Industries in Houston. That cycle of experiences, spanning chemical producers, polymer converters, and consumer product companies, was a key success factor for his transition to the chemical consulting industry, where Esteban worked under the umbrella of renowned firms like Townsend Tarnell, Nexant ChemSystems, CMAI (now part of IHS Chemical), and Wood Mackenzie, honing his price research, reporting and forecasting, market research, and analysis and feasibility studies skills.
During his tenure at CMAI, Esteban was responsible for the discovery and analysis of supply, demand, cost, and price dynamics for polyethylene and polypropylene in the Americas. He was also the lead in several proprietary studies, including feasibility studies, market analysis, and due diligence reports.
Before founding ChemPMC, Esteban headed Wood Mackenzie’s polymer practice, designing and implementing the company’s polymer services, which features scenario-capable long-term supply and demand models, logistic demand forecasting tools, global trade grids, as well as seasonality-driven short-term supply and demand models, and in the process trained a global team of analysts located in Houston, London, and Singapore.
Esteban has been a featured speaker at North and Latin American chemical and polymer associations meetings including APLA, IPA, ANIPAC, Canadian Plastics, or CERI, as well as consulting firms and producers-led events. Esteban holds a Chemical Engineering Degree from the Instituto Químico de Sarrià in Barcelona, Spain as well as an MBA from Rice University’s Jones School of Business.
Hotel Amenities
Golf
The Soffer Course
Home to LPGA and PGA events, it offers a risk and reward scenario at nearly every hole. Avoid the creeks that crisscross several fairways. Beware of lagoons that creep into many landing areas. Challenge yourself with our newly implemented Tif Eagle greens providing a consistent green speed. When you reach 18, prepare for a par four that tests your fortitude with a picturesque Peninsula Green sitting on a legendary finishing hole. The Soffer Course is a champion masterpiece.
The Miller Course
Shorter than the Soffer Course, this shot-maker’s layout requires solid drives and pinpoint irons. Rolling fairways framed by mature ficus, banyan, and olive trees put a premium on accuracy at every hole. Try not to be distracted by the pink flamingos nesting on Lake Julius – named for Julius Boros, US Open Champion and our first Director of Golf. The Miller Course is a strategic gem.
Spa
A wellspring of relaxation and zen, the state-of-the-art âme Spa is a wellness destination in and of itself. The 25,000-sq-ft. facility spans three floors, combining a spa and beauty salon and 3,600-sq-ft. fitness center. Our comprehensive amenities and 50+ group fitness classes per week make it easy to achieve your goals and prioritize wellness even on the busiest days.
Services include:
Wellness-Circuit:
- Three-step Journey to Wellness
Beauty:
- Skincare
- Non-invasive treatments
- Non-traditional spa treatments
Body-Therapy:
- Signature experiences
- Spa Couples Suite
- Massages
- Special Body treatments
Salon:
- Hair and nail care
Visit https://www.amewellness.com/miami-spa-services for more information.
Fitness Center
The JW Marriott Miami Turnberry features cardiovascular equipment, elliptical machines, exercise bikes, free weights, rowing machines, stair climbers, strength equipment, Tour de France exercise cycles, treadmills and weight machines, locker rooms, saunas, and steam rooms.
Pools
Cascata Pool
Where Mediterranean style meets Miami exclusivity. The adults-only pool is ideal for sunbathing and relaxation, open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Tidal Cove Water Park
Head to Tidal Cove, the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry’s world-class waterpark, for all the latest slides and rides. Give surfing a shot on our FlowRider stationary surfing machines, float along a lazy river, or send the kids to play in the Kids Cove while you bliss out by the Oasis Pool or beneath a luxury cabana. Guests of JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa enjoy complimentary exclusive access.
Attractions/Activities/Amenities:
- Pool attendants
- Poolside dining
- Luxury cabanas
- Seven water slides
- Private adult pool
- Kids Cove
- Lazy river
Dining
A culinary destination in its own right, at JW Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa, bold flavors, garden-fresh ingredients, and chef-inspired menus turn every meal into an outstanding epicurean experience. Whether you’re dining al fresco by the pool at Surf House, on the breezy patio of CORSAIR kitchen & bar, or in the elegant atmosphere of our award-winning BOURBON STEAK, you’ll enjoy South Florida’s freshest, most imaginative cuisine.
BOURBON STEAK by Michael Mina
Our award-winning steakhouse features a wood-burning grill and serves perfectly prepared cuts of steak, along with fresh seafood and over 1,000 fine wines.
CORSAIR kitchen & bar
An American-inspired kitchen and bar, Corsair’s contemporary cuisine attracts those looking for lighter comfort food prepared with regionally sourced, wholly natural ingredients.
BOURBON STEAK by Michael Mina
Our award-winning steakhouse features a wood-burning grill and serves perfectly prepared cuts of steak, along with fresh seafood and over 1,000 fine wines.
Starbucks®
Get your gourmet coffee fix at our new Starbucks® serving up signature, small-batch roasted specialty coffee drinks and fresh pastries.
SOFF's Lobby Lounge
Our lobby bar channels the spirit and style of old Miami with lovingly crafted cocktails.
Poolside Dining
Savor fresh fare and cool drinks without leaving the comfort of your sunny poolside setting.
Freestyle
Located within Tidal Cove, Freestyle is our quick-serve restaurant and modern snack bar.
Surf House Bar & Grill
Located within Tidal Cove, Surf House Bar & Grill is our market-fresh grill and lively vacation bar all about those good vibrations.
Area Attractions
Don Soffer Exercise Trail
Open 24 hours a day, year-round. The Trail is free and open to the public. The 3.1 mile exercise path circles our JW Marriott Turnberry Miami Golf Course along Country Club Drive. The Trail consists of a 10-foot wide paved ADA-accessible path, landscaped with an abundance of shade trees complete with ground lighting, benches, chilled water fountains, trash receptacles, and crosswalks.
Aventura Mall
Miami’s definitive shopping destination, and one of the top shopping centers in the nation with a mix of over 300 luxury boutiques, including Anthropologie, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Zara. With a wide array of shops, Aventura Mall offers over 50 dining options, including Treats Food Hall. This hot spot also has a 24-screen AMC movie theater, and the Arts Aventura Mall program, showcasing 20 museum-quality masterpieces.
Bayside Marketplace
Dive into a world of retail wonder in our diverse array of shops and boutiques, offering everything from the latest fashion trends to unique artisanal finds. Delight your taste buds in our culinary haven, where waterfront cafes, gourmet eateries, and cozy bistros await to tantalize your palate with flavors from around the world. After a day of exploration, retreat to our comfortable accommodations, where luxury meets relaxation and every amenity is at your fingertips. Whether you’re seeking excitement, indulgence, or relaxation, Bayside has it all.
https://baysidemarketplace.com/
Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park protects an unparalleled landscape that provides important habitat for numerous rare and endangered species like the manatee, American crocodile, and the elusive Florida panther. It is an international treasure as well - a World Heritage Site, International Biosphere Reserve, a Wetland of International Importance, and a specially protected area under the Cartagena Treaty.
https://www.nps.gov/ever/index.htm
Gulfstream Park Racing & Casino
Blending entertainment, innovation, and Thoroughbred horse racing like no other event of its kind, the Pegasus World Cup Championship Invitational Series has captured the attention of the world. South Florida's premier Thoroughbred horse race occurs annually at Gulfstream Park in January to deliver heart-pounding thrills, A-list headline performances, gourmet food from five-star Miami restaurants, and VIP hospitality. Join the racing elite and an audience brimming with celebrities, tastemakers, and influencers from around the globe for the ultimate luxury race day and entertainment experience.
https://www.gulfstreampark.com/
loanDepot Park, home of the Miami Marlins
loanDepot Park is a retractable roof stadium located in Miami, Florida, and is the ballpark of Major League Baseball's Miami Marlins. It is located on 17 acres (6.9 ha) on the site of the former Miami Orange Bowl in Little Havana about 2 miles (3 km) west of Downtown Miami.
https://www.mlb.com/marlins
Zoo Miami
Travel the world in one day by foot, on a safari cycle, or a tram tour! With almost 750 acres and 4 miles of walkways, Zoo Miami is home to more than 2,500 animals representing close to 400 different species. From jaguars in the Amazon and tigers in Asia to koalas in Australia and crocodiles in The Florida Everglades, a trip to Zoo Miami will transport you around the globe. Don’t forget to visit the Conservation Action Center, a new indoor interactive exhibit where you can crawl through a python to learn about invasive species, whack out environmental threats in “Habitat Whack A Mole,” or race to scoop the “poop” in a composting game. Plus, enjoy water play areas and up-close animal encounters and feedings!
