Graphic Packaging Holding Company
03/24/2026 | Press release | Archived content
More Than Packaging: A Story of Care and Connection
More Than Packaging: A Story of Care and Connection
March 24, 2026
More Than Packaging: A Story of Care and Connection
At Graphic Packaging, we believe packaging is more than a container - it's a connection. A recent experience with a longtime DQ® fan is a powerful reminder of how thoughtful packaging can make a meaningful impact.
In Jefferson, Georgia, a local family has been visiting their neighborhood DQ® restaurant for years with their son Isaiah, who has autism and is a devoted fan of the restaurant's French Fries. For Isaiah, enjoying his favorite snack has always been closely tied to the familiar DQ® blue fry carton.
The brand transitioned its French Fry packaging from blue to red, the change - while seamless for most - became a real challenge for Isaiah. Despite the prominent DQ® logo, he was convinced the red cartons were not from DQ® restaurants. His parents had saved a small supply of the original blue cartons for use at home but, over time, those cartons began to wear out.
Concerned they were running out, the family shared their story with David Gillespie, franchise owner of the DQ® restaurant in Jefferson, Georgia. David immediately reached out to us to see if there was any possibility of locating some of the original blue fry cartons.
What followed was a true team effort. Working together, our colleagues tracked down a supply of the original blue fry cartons from Canada. The team didn't just ship them - they personally delivered 1,000 cartons to the family at their local DQ® restaurant, along with Graphic Packaging branded gifts and a DQ® gift card, celebrating Isaiah as the restaurant's #1 French Fry Customer.
For David, the moment underscored the importance of empathy in business. "Sometimes we take for granted that what seems like a small change to us can have life-altering effects on someone else," he shared.
Stories like Isaiah's remind us why details matter. Packaging has the power to comfort, to connect, and to show care - and we're proud to be part of moments that make a world of difference.
Main image: Isaiah poses with (left to right) Jordan Whitman, director of operations for the DQ® franchise owners; David Gillespie, DQ® franchise owner; Pete Terrio, Graphic Packaging senior sales manager; Emily Hund, Graphic Packaging sales representative; and Ashley Gillespie, DQ® franchise owner.
DQ® trademarks owned by Am. D.Q. Corp. and used with permission.
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Graphic Packaging Holding Company published this content on March 24, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on March 27, 2026 at 21:07 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]