Lauren La Spina on Rethinking the Independent Packaging Career
- The PackStaff Team

- Jul 28, 2025
- 1 min read
This week on Packaging Speaks we’re joined by Lauren La Spina, Founder of The Packaging Co-op: a first-of-its-kind network of independent packaging professionals who work together under a shared structure, much like a law firm.
After a career spanning pharma, CPG, and consulting, Lauren recognized a problem: many senior-level packaging professionals wanted to work independently, but didn’t want to be isolated. At the same time, companies were struggling to find agile, experienced support without the overhead of traditional hires.
Her answer? The Packaging Co-op. A community of vetted contractors who collaborate, cross-refer, and share resources to deliver high-level packaging solutions without sacrificing the freedom of independent work.
In this episode, Lauren shares:
Why the traditional employment model doesn’t work for every packaging problem
How The Packaging Co-op came to life, and what makes it work
Advice for engineers thinking about going independent or simply wanting to advance their careers
How companies can better engage senior-level contractors for maximum value
With her unique take on the benefits of a collaborative process, Lauren brings a sense of community to the packaging industry that is sorely needed.
-The PackStaff Team

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