Welcome to Breaking Down Boxes. We have compelling conversations with entrepreneurs in the packaging space.

In this episode of Breaking Down Boxes, hosts Simona Georgescu and Brian Suarez sit down with Randall Rigsby, Founder of Altex Packaging, for a deeply personal and wide-ranging conversation about entrepreneurship, family, and perseverance in the packaging industry.

From his early days in Saudi Arabia to building a thriving packaging business in Alabama, Randall shares the unconventional path he took—shaped by his time in the Navy, his work in dog training, and a relentless drive to succeed without a college degree. This episode dives into the human side of business, the critical role of family support, and the moments that tested—and strengthened—Randall’s resolve.

Listeners will walk away with real-world insights into building company culture, navigating industry changes, and the mindset it takes to grow a business through both triumph and adversity.

Resources

• AICC CEO Group

About Randall & Altex Packaging

• LinkedIn
• altexpackaging.com

New episodes drop the first Monday of every month. Remember to rate, review, and subscribe!

This podcast is brought to you by AICC, The Independent Packaging Association. Learn more at www.AICCbox.org. When you invest and engage, AICC delivers success.

Breaking Down Boxes is sponsored by Ox Box, offering strength you can depend on.

Welcome to Breaking Down Boxes. We have compelling conversations with entrepreneurs in the packaging space.

In this engaging conversation, George Perreira of Moyy and Mike Schaefer of Tavens Packaging and Display talk with Rich Croce, President and CEO of Viking Packaging. Rich shares his journey from growing up in a family business to navigating the challenges of college and ultimately returning to lead the company. He discusses the evolution of Viking Packaging, the importance of customer service, and the lessons learned from both successes and failures in his career. The conversation highlights the significance of legacy, leadership, and the impact of personal experiences on professional growth.

About Rich

Richard Croce is the President and CEO of Viking Industries, Inc., a manufacturer of corrugated packaging as well as George H. Swatek Inc., a distributor of packaging products. Rich is proud to be the 5th generation Croce to be leading a packaging company and the 3rd at Viking. He has been published in the industry publication Box Score, as well as featured in Hudson Valley MFG Magazine for his knowledge and expertise.

Rich attended Union College in Schenectady, NY. and obtained his bachelor’s degree from Marist College in Poughkeepsie, NY.

Rich has donated his time to work with the Council of Industry of South Eastern New York, serving as a board member and board president, to help area manufacturing companies improve their businesses. Rich is on the steering committee for Hudson Valley Pathways Academy which is a local P-Tech school which provides high school and associates degreed programs for local youth. Rich has served with the Boy Scouts as a Den Leader and as a coach for many youth teams in Saugerties, NY.

Connect

• LinkedIn
• YouTube
• Instagram
• Facebook
• www.vikingpackaging.com

Resources

• AICC Packaging University
• CEO Advisory Groups

New episodes drop the first Monday of every month. Remember to rate, review, and subscribe!

This podcast is brought to you by AICC, The Independent Packaging Association. Learn more at www.AICCbox.org. When you invest and engage, AICC delivers success.

Breaking Down Boxes is sponsored by Ox Box, offering strength you can depend on.

Welcome to Breaking Down Boxes. We have compelling conversations with entrepreneurs in the packaging space.

In this episode we dive into the fascinating origin stories of industry leaders who have shaped the packaging world. Join us as we revisit the early days and pivotal moments that set the stage for success for our distinguished guests: Greg Tucker, President and CEO of Bay Cities; Charlie Hodges, who retired as President and CEO of Hood Container in late 2024; Jerry Frisch, President of Wasatch Container; and John Bird, Chairman and CEO of JB Machinery.

Each guest shares the unexpected twists and turns that paved their way into the packaging industry, providing invaluable insights and inspiration to both newcomers and veterans in the field.

New episodes drop the first Monday of every month. Remember to rate, review, and subscribe!

This podcast is brought to you by AICC, The Independent Packaging Association. Learn more at www.AICCbox.org. When you invest and engage, AICC delivers success.

Breaking Down Boxes is sponsored by Ox Box, offering strength you can depend on.