Cologne, March 2026: Atlas Copco developed the dry screw vacuum pump DHS 3000 VSD+ specifically for massive flow industrial applications. As dry technology, it is well suited for paper processing, conveying technologies, pick-and-place applications in the food industry, and as a central vacuum system. Powered by a highly efficient IE4 motor with a patented asymmetrical rotor design, users benefit from energy savings of up to 50 percent compared to competitive products. The low-maintenance, compact vacuum pump has a pleasantly low noise level and also runs vibration-free.

Lower energy consumption and component wear

An integrated, intelligent control system with frequency converter automatically adjusts the speed of the DHS 3000 VSD+ to the requirements, ensuring that the exact vacuum level required is delivered in each process section. This results in significantly lower energy consumption and reduced wear on all moving components. Overall, this also extends the maintenance intervals and service life of the vacuum pump. Companies that value stable performance and high process reliability and also need to reduce their energy costs will find the dry-running pump a robust, clean solution.

No oil emissions or other contamination

A wear-free gearbox ensures optimum power transmission from the motor to the screw. “We have achieved a long service life for the gear wheels by using a cooled oil flow,” explains Carol Pignatelli, Product Manager from Atlas Copco. Because the DHS 3000 VSD+ does not use oil in any other way, there is no risk of oil emissions though carry over. “We have also equipped the DHS VSD+ with an air intake filter to protect operational process from dust and particles,” Carol Pignatelli continues. The oil-free technology and simple, robust design also contribute to low maintenance costs.

Quiet, vibration-free operation

A range of ergonomic advantages and straightforward handling make the DHS 3000 VSD+ extremely user-friendly: under a noise-reducing hood, it runs pleasantly quietly and vibration-free. The easy-to-use Elektronikon® control system gives users a constant overview of the latest status updates on operating and downtimes, error and alarms. “Atlas Copco supplies the DHS VSD+ as a complete plug-and-play unit that can be seamlessly and quickly integrated into any system,” concludes Carol Pignatelli.

Key advantages of the DHS 3000 VSD+ screw vacuum pump at a glance:

- Extremely efficient operation

- Intelligent process management

- Adaptation of flow to real demand – variable speed operation

- Compact footprint ensures quick and easy installation

- Paper filters protect against dust and particles

- Supplied as a complete plug-and-play unit

- Full service with preventive maintenance plan

- Robust construction minimizes maintenance and system downtime.

MONTRÉAL, March 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Saputo Inc. (TSX: SAP) (we, Saputo or the Company) announced today that Linda Mantia has been appointed to its Board of Directors as an independent director.

Ms. Mantia is a corporate director and former senior executive with experience in operations, technology, and enterprise transformation across global organizations. She currently serves on the boards of Maple Leaf Foods and Liberty Mutual Corporation, and previously served on the boards of McKesson Corporation and Dayforce Inc.

From 2016 to 2019, Ms. Mantia was Chief Operating Officer of Manulife Financial Corporation, where she led global operations and oversaw the company’s digital, advanced analytics, and automation initiatives, including artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. Previously, she held senior leadership roles at Royal Bank of Canada, following earlier experience as a consultant with McKinsey & Company.

Ms. Mantia holds a law degree from Queen’s University. She has been recognized twice as one of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women by the Women’s Executive Network.

“Linda brings extensive experience in operations, technology, and enterprise transformation across global organizations, along with considerable governance experience,” said Lino A. Saputo, Executive Chair of the Board. “We are pleased to welcome her to our Board and value the perspective she will bring as Saputo continues to advance its strategic priorities.”

Ms. Mantia will sit on the Company’s Audit Committee.

Herndon, Va; Mar. 24, 2026 – As costs decline and functionality expands, more consumer packaged goods companies and OEMs are expanding usage of artificial intelligence (AI), according to a report released in February 2026 by PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies.

The report, Building an AI Advantage in Packaging Equipment, updates a paper published by PMMI in 2024 and attributes the growth in AI’s role to:

• Lower costs and increased accessibility for companies of all sizes.
• Higher awareness and movement beyond pilot projects.
• Stronger confidence in the technology and willingness to invest.
• Greater acceptance as workers, especially on the frontline, experience tangible benefits.

A global product line manager at an industrial technology and automation company predicts a future with even greater benefits: “In the next five years, the trajectory will move from isolated optimization to coordinated orchestration. Plant-wide systems that dynamically balance throughput, quality, cost, and energy consumption across every production stage will mature from specialized installations to standard capability.”
Based on interviews with AI vendors, packaging machinery manufacturers, and consumer packaged goods companies, the latest report discusses technical innovations, driving forces, barriers to adoption, and examples of successful real-world implementations.
“Manufacturers across the packaging value chain are recognizing that AI can help address some of their most pressing challenges, from workforce knowledge gaps to operational efficiency. What we’re seeing now is a shift from isolated pilots toward broader adoption, where AI supports smarter, more connected production environments,” says Jorge Izquierdo, vice president, market development at PMMI.
As use of AI expands, the most common applications fall into five categories, with knowledge transfer and machine vision currently experiencing the highest momentum, followed by predictive maintenance, regulation and compliance, and data transparency.
Despite growing usage, obstacles remain to implementing AI. Primary concerns include data hallucinations and accountability for AI-generated errors. This has increased interest, especially from smaller firms, in software-as-a-service models that shift risk to providers. In addition, although progress has been made in strengthening security, cybersecurity remains a major issue. Other barriers include internal attitudes, ROI, latency challenges, existing data infrastructure, job security, and gaps in operational readiness.
The report outlines five steps needed to achieve a successful AI strategy:

• Identify business or product challenges.
• Consult AI experts and identify a suitable approach.
• Assess system readiness.
• Manage change and drive adoption.
• Foster collaboration across stakeholders.

Izquierdo adds: “Artificial intelligence is becoming a practical tool for improving packaging operations, and PACK EXPO International offers a unique opportunity for companies to see these innovations in action and explore how they can be applied on the plant floor.”
The AI landscape is advancing at an unprecedented pace, with transformative developments occurring within remarkably short cycles. See the latest innovations in AI at PACK EXPO International 2026 (Oct. 18–21; McCormick Place, Chicago) and experience the largest and most comprehensive packaging and processing event in North America. Explore 2,600 exhibitors and discover machinery, materials, and technology solutions for 40+ industries — all in one place. With 48,000 attendees, targeted pavilions, and curated planning tools, it’s easier than ever to find what your operation needs, uncover emerging trends, and make valuable connections. Held only once every two years, PACK EXPO International is a can’t-miss opportunity for packaging and processing professionals. To learn more and register, visit packexpointernational.com today. Registration for the show is $30 until Sept. 25, after which it increases to $130.

Regina, Saskatchewan, March 24, 2026 – The average value of Canadian farmland continued its steady climb in 2025, increasing by 9.3 per cent, according to the latest . The Prairie provinces drove much of the year’s average increase, while the Maritimes followed with continued growth. In contrast, Ontario and Quebec’s increase in average values eased from the stronger gains recorded in previous years.

Manitoba recorded the largest average farmland value increase at 12.2 per cent, followed by Alberta at 11.4 per cent and Saskatchewan at 9.4 per cent. In Atlantic Canada, New Brunswick showed a 9.1 per cent gain and Prince Edward Island rose by 8.5 per cent, while Nova Scotia recorded a more modest 1.6 per cent increase. Farmland values in Quebec increased by 4.8 per cent, reflecting steady demand across a diverse agricultural base, while Ontario saw a slower pace of growth at 2.2 per cent following several years of stronger gains. Four provinces reported higher growth rates in 2025 than 2024: Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island.

British Columbia recorded a decline in the average value of 1.7 per cent, yet the province has the highest farmland values on average. There were insufficient publicly reported sales in Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nunavut and Yukon to fully assess changes in farmland values in those regions.

Over the past year the Canadian farmland market remained resilient, defying expectations as producers continued to expand their land base and make strategic acquisitions, supporting values across cultivated, irrigated, and pastureland nationwide.

“Demand for farmland remained robust, supported by long-term confidence in Canadian agriculture, lower borrowing costs, strong livestock prices and the limited supply of land available for sale,” said J.P. Gervais, ag production executive vice-president at FCC. “The ongoing uncertainties related to trade and tariffs, high input costs and low commodity prices did not deter buyers’ interest in farmland. These factors combined with varying local market conditions will influence future trends in farmland affordability.”

While more than 30 years of increasing farmland values is good news for current owners, it can present a significant challenge to those who want to enter the agriculture sector. FCC offers products such as the Transition Loan to support young farmers and others looking to join a thriving industry.

By sharing agriculture economic knowledge and forecasts, FCC provides solid insights and expertise to help those in the business of agriculture achieve their goals. For more information and insights, visit .