Smithers Packaging Expert to Speak at 2026 ISTA Forum

James Raw, Director of Packaging Testing Operations, will explore sustainability regulations and their impact on packaging testing and supply chains.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 5:52am

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Smithers, a premier sponsor of the 2026 ISTA Forum in Phoenix, Arizona, announced that James Raw, the company's Director of Packaging Testing Operations, will be speaking at the event. Raw's presentation, titled 'The Convergence of Sustainability Targets and Revolutions: How Packaging Must Evolve,' will examine key regulations around packaging sustainability, such as the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (PPWD), extended producer responsibility (EPR) obligations, and post-consumer recycled (PCR) content initiatives, and how these changes are affecting testing requirements and the global supply chain.

Why it matters

As governments and regulatory bodies worldwide implement new guidance and regulations around packaging sustainability, understanding the implications for packaging testing and supply chains is crucial for brands, retailers, and packaging companies. Smithers, as a leader in packaging testing and evaluation, can provide unique insights into these evolving industry trends.

The details

Raw's presentation is scheduled for Thursday, April 9, at 11:00 a.m. MST during the 2026 ISTA Forum. With over 30 years of experience in packaging testing and evaluation, Raw has managed projects in Europe, Asia, and Latin America, giving him extensive knowledge of test methods, shipment hazards, and real-life conditions on an international scale. His experience includes damage reduction, pack design, cost avoidance, and packaging for dangerous goods.

  • The 2026 ISTA Forum will take place from April 7 to April 9 in Phoenix, Arizona.
  • Raw's presentation is scheduled for Thursday, April 9, at 11:00 a.m. MST.

The players

James Raw

Director of Packaging Testing Operations at Smithers, with over 30 years of experience in packaging testing and evaluation.

Smithers

A premier sponsor of the 2026 ISTA Forum and a leading provider of packaging testing and evaluation services.

Sam Sheppard Fidler

Vice President and General Manager for Europe, Materials Science and Engineering at Smithers.

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What they’re saying

“Governments and governing bodies all over the world are implementing new guidance and regulations around packaging sustainability. James can offer unique insight into these changes from the perspectives of retailers, brand owners, packaging companies, and consumers.”

— Sam Sheppard Fidler, Vice President and General Manager for Europe, Materials Science and Engineering

The takeaway

As the packaging industry navigates evolving sustainability regulations, understanding the impact on testing requirements and supply chains is crucial for brands, retailers, and packaging companies. Smithers' expertise in this area can provide valuable insights to help stakeholders adapt and stay ahead of these changes.