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Industrial Physics report suggests more talk than action on innovative packaging

In a period where budgets are extremely tight and layoffs are being made, many companies find it difficult to justify assigning resources to innovation.




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Tetra Pak Highlights Food & Beverage Packaging Innovations at PACK EXPO

Company will have a team of experts on-site to showcase innovative equipment additions such as the Tetra Pak A1 1100 Filling Machine and the new Tetra Pak Direct UHT (Ultra-High Temperature) unit.




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MULTIVAC Roadshow Will Focus on Sealing, Labeling Fruit & Vegetable Trays

In addition to full-wrap labeling, MULTIVAC offers two other high-quality and sustainable packaging solutions for fresh produce trays. 




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MULTIVAC Roadshow Focuses on Sealing, Labeling Fruit & Vegetable Trays

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Avantium, Royal Vezet to provide PEF-based packaging for Albert Heijn salad bowls

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CMES Robotics Introduces Innovative Mixed-Case Palletizing Solutions

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Coval Designs New Vacuum Chamber

The CVGM series mini vacuum chamber was designed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.




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Piab’s Vacuum Conveying Changeover Champion

Machine learning in the new, unique piFLOW p SMART aims to take vacuum conveying to a new level.




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MULTIVAC to Display Innovative Produce Closing Solutions at interpack

The Top Wrap and Top Close labelers offer two high-quality and resource-saving solutions for the closing of fresh produce trays with labels.




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Emmepi Group Completes Acquisition of Avanti Conveyors

Emmepi Group says the objective of the acquisition is to further increase its geographic manufacturing footprint, enhancing its ability to offer a totally integrated solution, aligning with the demands of customers globally.




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Smithfield Foods Prepares for COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution to Employees

Smithfield Foods, the world’s largest pork processor, announced that it is actively preparing for COVID-19 vaccine distribution to employees and has medical capabilities at its U.S. plants. Meatpacking workers were among the groups hit hardest by the new coronavirus last year.




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Greece’s Flexopack to Open Manufacturing Facility in Pennsylvania

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Digitec Galaxus AG Orders 40 Workstations with Logivations Artificial Intelligence Software

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Technology Advances X-ray and Metal Detector Inspection Capabilities

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Norwalt Introduces Innovative Bottle Inspection System

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LEIBINGER's IQJET Industrial Printer Earns Gold German Innovation Award

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Giave, Novaflex to Showcase New Flexo Printing Technology at Labelexpo Americas

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Inovar Packaging Broadens Market Presence with Acquisition of The Kennedy Group

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Packaging’s Critical Role in the Proliferation and Appeal of Private Label Products

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Vanguard Announces Partnership with American Print Consultants

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Cultivating Our Future: Student Shadow Program Fuels Industry Interest

Cultivating Our Future: Student Shadow Program Fuels Industry Interest jhammond@desti… Tue, 07/30/2024 - 18:28

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Despite the workforce development obstacles we face, the tourism industry offers countless professional opportunities for future generations. Destination organizations can work with local community partners to create meaningful engagement with underrepresented youth, increase industry awareness, and foster inclusion.  

This article highlights the experiences of three high school students with the NAACP Hillsborough County Chapter who shadowed industry professionals at Destinations International’s 2024 Annual Convention in Tampa. It serves as inspiration for destinations to embrace similar initiatives to drive workforce development and diversification.  

7 min read

For so many of us in the tourism industry, the question “how did you get started” is often followed by a smile, a laugh, and a realization that it happened unintentionally. While some may have formally studied hospitality, most industry professionals find themselves in destination organizations through traditional channels like hotels or convention centers. Despite where we began or where our paths have led us, we share a deep passion for our work. Last week at Destinations International’s 2024 Annual Convention in Tampa, it was hard not to hear the words “I love this industry!” passing from person to person, like the catchy chorus to a chart-topping summer hit.

Yet, we realize talent attraction and retention are two enormous challenges our industry faces. A recent study on emerging leaders published by FiredUp! Culture and SearchWide Global found that 48% of 358 30 Under 30 honorees no longer work for a destination organization. Of those still employed by destination organizations, 27% indicate they will not be working for their organizations in three years’ time. Meanwhile, Destinations International’s 2023 Social Inclusion Study on Destination Organizations found that while 73% of over 450 employees want to see more diversity in their organizations, the reality is from it.  

It’s no surprise then, that eight sessions at Destinations International’s 2024 Annual Convention addressed challenges and insights surrounding workforce development and diversification. These conversations served as a springboard to educate and inspire the nearly 2,000 industry leaders in attendance. From talent development to upward mobility, to pay equity and beyond, opportunities are abundant. And while much of this work will be long-term, creative solutions may be closer to home – and easier to implement - than we think. 

Community Partnerships Build Career Paths

Destinations International’s Social Inclusion framework encourages destinations to engage with their communities. By fostering trust and working together to eliminate barriers to inclusion, destination organizations and their stakeholders can create thriving and welcoming environments that lead to economic growth. Through this lens, talent attraction and retention can be addressed by engaging with our communities. When destinations establish a trusted presence, they can highlight the importance of this industry and create career pathways for residents of all backgrounds and abilities.  

The 2024 Annual Convention served as a tangible and inspiring opportunity for Visit Tampa Bay (VTB) and the NAACP Hillsborough County Chapter. Through an existing strong relationship, VTB’s Chief Operating Officer, JoLynn Lokey and Hillsborough County Chapter President, Yvette Lewis connected with DI’s Sophia Hyder Hock to explore arrangements during the July event. Lewis welcomed the idea of bringing three high school students onsite, providing them with the opportunity to gain exposure to the industry.  

She appointed three rising seniors, Malachi Brown, Kaejah Evans, and Taleah Scott, to attend the Annual Convention. Each student was given a curated schedule based on their interests to shadow industry leaders, attend educational sessions, and expand their professional network. In two jam-packed days, Malachi, Kaejah, and Taleah explored the breadth of our industry, through marketing and creative lenses, event management, and technology. Their experiences were overwhelmingly positive: the students realized that tourism offers promising, professional career paths and above all is a welcoming, inclusive sector.  

In Their Own Words

Malachi Brown, Middleton High School 

"To start I just wanted to say thank you for even thinking about exposing high school students to this industry, it was not on my radar at all but now I can seriously see a future in this space. My first thought about the travel and tourism industry was a whole bunch of timeshares and hotel managers. Being at Destinations International showed me that there is an entire ecosystem of business that is behind the scenes. Whatever internship, schooling, or even career I will pursue can be translated to the travel and tourism industry, from sales, marketing, data analytics, and more can all be done here and that has truly inspired me. The main highlights were interacting with so many people that were genuinely interested in making sure I was welcomed and comfortable. Connecting with all these amazing professionals not only expanded my network but expanded my horizons by learning and listening to everyone’s insights. Special shout out to the team at Soliman Productions and Paradise Advertising & Marketing for letting a brother tag along for a couple of days.”  - Malachi Brown

Kaejah Evans, Blake High School 

"Destinations International’s Annual Convention was one of the best experiences I could’ve been a part of. I’m truly grateful to have been a part of the convention and met such amazing people from such diverse backgrounds. Before attending the convention, I had a very small amount of information and interest in the world of travel and tourism. After meeting so many people that are a part of this company showed me an even bigger and more in-depth understanding of how great working in this level of hospitality can benefit someone. I’ve learned about some programs and have been introduced to several internships that I’d enjoy taking part in once I graduate.” - Kaejah Evans

Taleah Scott, Sumner High School 

"I truly enjoyed my time interacting with people who are passionate about their careers. The main highlight of my time at Destination International's Convention was attending the breakout sessions of my interest. Not only did it make me feel in control of the steps I'm taking toward my future, but it also exposed me to different aspects of the travel and tourism industry. I originally had no connection to the field, so I wasn't sure what to expect. To my surprise, the travel and tourism industry makes great efforts to follow sustainable practices and be mindful of the communities they're affecting. They also created a space to discuss products that improve accessibility for some users. This made me feel more connected to the experience because it showcased purpose in the work being done here. Another highlight was getting to see people in their element. The travel and tourism industry has so many wonderful facets and the people exude a passion for their positions I haven't seen in most places of work. This experience taught me you can work hard and enjoy life. Not a single person I encountered seemed unhappy to be there. This inspired me to take charge and work hard now so I can set myself up for my future. I plan to get more acquainted with networking (as was suggested by one of the amazing women I was shadowing) so I can pursue a career in cybersecurity. I also now have an interest in taking part in internships to improve my academic and experiential arsenal.” - Taleah Scott

A Promising Path Forward

The experiences of Malachi, Kaejah, and Taleah underscore a crucial truth: our industry shines when we invest in the next generation and pursue a sense of belonging. By engaging local students and providing them with hands-on industry exposure, we can inspire and cultivate future tourism professionals. In turn, we can make strides in overcoming talent attraction and retention obstacles.

The 2024 DI Annual Convention shadow experience is just the beginning for Visit Tampa Bay and the NAACP Hillsborough County Chapter. Together, these organizations will continue to collaborate and provide students with education and mentorship. Their partnership reinforces the importance of building strong relationships between destination organizations and their communities.  

This shadowing initiative sets a powerful example for other destination organizations to follow. We encourage all industry leaders to consider how they can implement similar programs in their own communities. Start by reaching out to local schools, organizations, or industry partners to explore collaborative opportunities. Share your successes and learn from others. Together, we can break down barriers, enhance educational opportunities, and mentor young talent. Together, we can build a resilient, innovative, and inclusive industry that thrives on the collective strength of its people.

As we reflect on the success of this first shadow program, let us be reminded of the words that echoed throughout the 2024 DI Annual Convention: “I love this industry.” It is through our passion and commitment to inclusion that we will shape a bright future for the tourism industry and the communities we serve. 

About the Author

Ava Wells

Social Inclusion Manager
Destinations International

Ava Wells is the Social Inclusion Manager at Destinations International, working under the guidance of Chief Inclusion Officer, Sophia Hyder Hock. In this role, Ava spearheads the development and implementation of strategies that further the organization’s social inclusion goals. She expertly manages programs and fosters stakeholder engagement to enhance DI’s impact in this vital area.

With a rich background spanning over a decade in member and partner engagement, Ava possesses deep expertise in harnessing insights and building robust relationships to drive strategic transformations. Her experience includes seven years in the tech sector, where she focused on advancing workplace inclusion, equity, diversity, and enhancing employee engagement initiatives.

Ava’s professional journey began in the travel and tourism industry, where she spent three enriching years at the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corporation. She is excited about her return to this dynamic field, particularly driven by her passion for regenerative tourism, cultural vitality, and generating positive community impact.

A champion of collaboration and innovation, Ava values curiosity and the power of connection. Originally from Boston, she has embraced life in Montreal since 2018 with her Canadian spouse. In her leisure time, Ava enjoys cooking, running, and reading. She speaks French and maintains an active and travel-filled lifestyle. 

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Green shoots in China? Excavator sales grew 15% in October

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  • that's +15.1% y/y

More notably, excavator sales in the Chinese domestic market are estimated at 8,266 units

  • +21.6% y/y
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Is this a sign of green shoots for the economy in China?

There has been plenty of stimulus announcements, that the market has been disappointed with. But, are thye having an impact?

This article was written by Eamonn Sheridan at www.forexlive.com.




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Dukascopy Bank Celebrates 20 Years of Innovation and Stability in Trading and Banking

Since its founding in 2004, Dukascopy has grown into a trusted, innovative leader in the fintech and online trading space, providing clients with advanced tools and a stable platform for smart financial decisions.

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  • Services inflation is pretty sticky
  • Energy prices are more likely to go up than down
  • Sees more volatility and upward bias to some inflation drivers

Do keep in mind that Mann is arguably the most hawkish member among the BOE policy committee. So, her comments here are not as striking as they might seem to be.

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Toolkit Launched to Provide Media With Best Messaging Practices, Guidance on COVID-19 Vaccine Education

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Broadcasters Pledge Support for Vaccine Awareness National Month of Action Beginning June 4

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PILOT Opening Application Window for 2021 Innovation Challenge

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PILOT Announces Winners of the 2021 Innovation Challenge




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PILOT Opens Window for 2022 Innovation Challenge Applications

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NABiQ Places Innovation at Center of NAB Show’s Networking Opportunities

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PILOT Announces Winning Teams for 2022 Innovation Challenge

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Sophi.io Joins NAB PILOT Broadcast Innovation Coalition

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