Our Story
The Earth is worth working for – Meet the Paper People
Our Leadership Team
The Paper People LLC management team has more than 150 years of combined experience in the packaging industry.
This group of entrepreneurial thinkers brings experience in paper, corrugated, plastics, laminating, printing, converting, and distribution to the table to reengineer and reinvent the sustainable packaging options in the market.
Bill Durkee
General Manager
Bill has been with the The Paper People since its founding. He brings a wealth of industry experience and knowledge, having worked in the packaging industry for 40 years. Bill started working for International Paper in 1985, where he spent the majority of his career. Bill’s ability to think “outside the box” contributes greatly to our ability to overcome complex challenges. Outside of work, Bill enjoys being a new grandpa, and spending time with family and friends.
Allan Smith
Coating Operations Manager
Allan joined the company in July of 2024. He brings years of experience in the flexible packaging industry. He began his career at Printpack in 2013, learning and working his way up to leadership and management roles. His problem-solving and leadership abilities are key components to the growth and success of the company’s Coating Division. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with family and friends, learning new things, and aviation.
Adam Ehmann
Director of Manufacturing
Adam started with the company in March of 2023. He brings years of experience in the flexible packaging industry, beginning in 2012 with Printpack. Through learning and growth, he worked his way up to leadership and management roles. His knowledge and aptitude for problem-solving have been integral in the successful launch of our manufacturing operation. During his free time, Adam enjoys spending time with his family and playing guitar.
Industry Leaders in Paper Packaging
The company was established in 2019 as a result of a pressing retail demand for an automated, 100 percent recyclable/compostable package in the United States. Armed with industry-leading technology and partners, The Paper People LLC is uniquely positioned to establish a leading role in the developing sustainable global packaging industry.
Meet the Founders
More about the mission, credibility, and the people who started it all.
100% RECYCLABLE
Pouches and roll-stock made from all-natural wood pulp!
100% paper.
OPTIONAL MESH WINDOW
Our mesh is made from natural plant fibers and is 100% recyclable! Our mesh showcases your product while allowing it to breathe.
Easy to Integrate
No need to invest in a new packaging line! Our proprietary pouch structure is designed to run on your current high-speed filling equipment.
Product Applications
Packaging Solutions for a Happy Planet
When designing your new package, have you ever asked the question “What if?” At The Paper People, we ask ourselves that question every day and our answer is always, “Why not!”
If you are ready to take the step forward into a 100% recyclable and compostable, automated paper package, then you’ve come to the right people: The Paper People!
Our newly patented, heat-sealable paper packaging offers you the ability to move into the age of truly sustainable packaging without compromising your bottom line.
Developed with several major retailers, The Paper People’s innovative new packaging gives you great visibility, quality graphics, automation, recyclability, compost-ability, and a host of packaging designs that were once only available in plastics. The best part is it will run on your existing equipment! No major changes or requirements for expensive paper-only equipment.
Whether you require vertical form fill and seal, stand-up pouch, quad seal, or horizontal seals, The Paper People have an innovative heat-sealable paper package that is right for you. Bridge the sustainable environmental gap that until now was unattainable.
Contact us today and let us show you how paper packaging can reduce your carbon footprint in the world!