SPRINGFIELD, MA - On Wed., May 7, 2014, Economic Development Council (EDC) hosted its bi-annual reception and dinner for members of the Paper Cluster of Western Massachusetts, in downtown Springfield, MA. Managed by The Markens Group Inc. (TMG) of Springfield, MA, the dinner included networking and presentations by Cathy Foley, Vice President of the American Forest and Paper Association (AF&PA) and Kim Guarnaccia, Director of Marketing at TMG.

During her presentation, Foley introduced the new Paper Check-Off program, an industry-wide advertising campaign. Much like the “Got Milk” and the “Pork: The Other White Meat” campaigns, the new paper campaign will educate consumers on the sustainability, renewability, and recyclability of paper-based products, in an effort to increase sales and market share. Spearheaded by the AF&PA, the program recently appointed a Board of Directors and is currently formulating its policies and procedures.

Guarnaccia next described the necessity of implementing a social media strategy for one’s business. She first assessed participation levels amongst among Paper Cluster members and then provided statistics on the growing audience of social media users. She next outlined the benefits of participation and described the steps involved in creating a staff social media policy. Finally, she outlined the responsibilities of a social media administrator and explained how to develop a successful strategy.

The evening wrapped up with an enthusiastic strategy session in which members agreed to expand membership to a wider region in New England and to include tabletops at future meetings so that members could provide each other with more information on their individual company offerings.

“I was thrilled to see such a high level of energy and interest,” noted David Southworth, President of the Southworth Co. and Paper Cluster President. “Not only were the presentations fascinating, but discussing ways in which we can further collaborate with our colleagues in the industry was also invaluable.”

The next meeting is scheduled for September 10, 2014 in downtown Springfield, MA. To join the Paper Cluster, email [email protected]