Sustainability is Kindness

Join us for our first event of 2024, and also our first event showcasing solutions presented by our SMG sponsor, Spicers. Spicers is a leading distributor of commercial print and business papers, specialty products, graphic solutions, including commercial pressroom and sign & display equipment and materials, packaging and facility supplies and equipment.

Welcome to an exploration of innovative sustainability in the paper industry with a specific focus on the highly effective “Sustainability is Kindness” direct mail campaign by Monadnock Paper Mills. This engaging session goes beyond the traditional narrative, shedding light on how sustainability and quality coexist harmoniously, especially in the realm of direct mail marketing. Discover the intricacies of the “Sustainability is Kindness” campaign, emphasizing its inception, impactful design, personalized elements, and the inclusion of Kind® Bars in direct mail packages. This case study showcases the intersection of sustainability, positive messaging, and the efficacy of direct mail in delivering an authentic act of kindness to a world in need.

M oderator

Andrew Gustyn – Sustainable Mail Group – Executive Director

Andrew Gustyn is the Executive Director of the Sustainable Mail Group. Andrew is also an independent consultant focused on helping companies research, develop and implement sustainable material and operations policies. In his 25+ year career Andrew has worked in sales and marketing, product and project management and mergers and acquisitions. Notably, Andrew was Head of Sustainability for Veritiv an Atlanta based Fortune 500 Distributor of Packaging, Jan-San Products, and Printing Paper.

Kristen DeMarchi – Spicers Canada – Business Development Consultant

Kristen DeMarchi has a strong technical background in print and holds a Bachelor of Technology in Graphic Communications Management from Toronto Metropolitan University. After learning the value of production, automation, and colour management in her role as a technician she transitioned into the creative sphere. Kristen now works in the world of premium paper, supporting the design community in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

Stacy Peluso-Slaney – Vice President, Shawmut Communications Group – Owner & Executive Partner

Stacy Peluso-Slaney, brings a wealth of expertise in driving marketing and entrepreneurial success through sustainable collateral, packaging, and more. With a background rooted in Graphic Communications from Endicott College, she embarked on her journey at Shawmut in 1993 as an Account Executive, leveraging her creative prowess and business acumen.

An integral part of an influential consortium of women-owned commercial print and packaging companies across the United States and Canada, Stacy takes pride in this collective force of empowering female leaders, fostering collaboration and excellence.

Kristin Spanier – Shawmut Communications Group – Sustainable Green Printing Program Director

Kristin leads Shawmut’s Sustainable Printing Program and serves as a volunteer board member at the Sustainable Green Print Foundation. Kristin coordinates worldwide partnerships that establish Shawmut as a preferred print vendor. These partnerships align with her intention to connect with brands that are socially responsible and sustainable.

Julie Brannen – Monadnock Paper Mills – Director of Regional Sales & Sustainable Solution

Julie Brannen is the Director of Regional Sales & Sustainable Solutions for Monadnock Paper Mills, with an extensive background in the advertising, printing, paper, and packaging industries. Her passion for innovative, fiber-based, specialty paper & packaging solutions has made her a prominent figure in the field.

Julie has a Master’s Degree in Business Administration and multiple post-graduate certificates in Leadership for Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability, Julie combines her knowledge and experience to drive positive change in the industry. Brannen is instrumental in leading Monadnock’s new business development activities as well as expanding Monadnock’s unique footprint in already- established markets. As a designated FSC Expert (CAN0098) and former FSC auditor, Julie’s commitment to sustainability is unwavering.