Sappi will introduce a new barrier coating technology for functional paper packaging at its speciality mill in Alfeld, Germany, thereby strengthening its position as the leading global provider of sustainable paper packaging solutions.
The demand for paper and paperboard packaging continues to rise dramatically as consumers become increasingly mindful of the impact their buying choices have on the environment. The call for innovative, truly sustainable solutions has never been louder. Sappi is striving to support its customers to go beyond traditional film and foil-based material solutions, growing its products ranges to meet the demands of our ever-changing world. Working directly with brand owners Sappi seeks to create future-oriented circular solutions in line with growing collective global responsibilities.
Sappi’s acquisition of Rockwell Solutions has deepened the company’s barrier paper manufacturing knowledge. Adding barrier coater capacity at Alfeld Mill further enables Sappi to offer customers even more competitive and attractive paper packaging solutions.
Explaining the decision, Sappi Europe CEO Berry Wiersum stated that «expanding the use of an innovative technology for the barrier coating feature of our papers underpins Sappi’s drive to maintain our leading position in the field of functional papers, as well the commitment we have with our customers in developing innovative future focused packaging solutions which contribute towards a sustainable future».
Commissioning of the products manufactured with the new technology is expected as from mid-2022.
Sappi Maastricht sells south-western part of its industrial estate
Sappi Maastricht and the Belvédère Wijkontwikkelingsmaatschappij (Neighborhood Development Company, WOM) of the Municipality of Maastricht have signed an agreement that will finalize the sale of the south-western part of the Maastricht paper mill site to the WOM. Due to the worldwide trend for digitization within communications, the market for graphic paper is shrinking. In order to survive in this shrinking market and to guarantee continuity and employment, Sappi Maastricht started three years ago with the transition into luxury packaging board. This activity mainly takes place on the north side of the company site. The southwestern part is therefore less intensively used and was eligible for sale to the WOM.
Sappi will relocate its activities currently taking place on the sold land to the remaining Sappi site and will also undertake new construction. They estimate that they will take approximately two years to apply for the necessary permits, the internal relocations and preparations for the delivery of the sold sites and buildings.