Huhtamaki has made the decision to consolidate the production footprint of its Flexible Packaging segment in Europe and will be closing its Flexible Packaging production facility in Prague, Czech Republic. All production and supporting activities at the facility will be scaled down during the second half of the year, with the closure of the operations completed by March 31, 2024. Production will gradually be transferred to Huhtamaki’s other manufacturing sites. The decision affects all 198 employees in the site. Huhtamaki will support its employees during this period, including providing information about vacancies in other Huhtamaki units in the Czech Republic and across Europe. Huhtamaki currently has two manufacturing units in Czech Republic. The closure of the Prague site does not affect the Fiber packaging operations in Okrisky which today employs 274 people.

Total Boxboard production in October decreased two percent compared to October 2019. It was down three percent when compared to the same 10 months of 2019. The boxboard operating rate was 93.6 percent, up 0.8 points from October 2019 and down 0.6 points year-to-date. Solid Bleached Boxboard production in October increased one percent compared to October 2019. It was down six percent when compared to the same 10 months of 2019. Recycled Boxboard production in October decreased five percent compared to October 2019. It was down two percent when compared to the same 10 months of 2019. Unbleached Kraft & Gypsum production in October decreased three percent compared to October 2019. It was down one percent when compared to the same 10 months of 2019.

Pregis® expands its EasyPack® on-demand paper systems portfolio with three curbside-recyclable solutions that will be featured at Pack Expo 2024. These additions strengthen the comprehensive Pregis paper systems portfolio, which supports a wide range of in-the-box applications such as block and brace, cushioning, void fill, and wrapping. The company’s continued investment in paper-based solutions reinforces a commitment to sustainability by offering versatile systems designed for a wide range of applications. The on-demand Paper portfolio includes FSC® certified options, ensuring packaging is sourced in a socially and environmentally responsible manner. Each system is engineered to enhance packer productivity with safe, ergonomic designs that require minimal training. EasyPack Quantum Pro Void-Fill System: Launched in early 2024, the Quantum Pro enhances the proven Quantum platform with bladeless auto-tear technology and increased throughput, ideal for high-volume environments. It maintains the trusted performance, safety, reliability, and ease of use that customers expect. EasyPack Bantam Void-Fill System: Engineered for simplicity and efficiency, Bantam optimizes the packaging process with a streamlined design and a precise paper-cutting mechanism. The adjustable head allows quick reorientation and effortless loading, ensuring seamless in-the-box fulfillment. EasyPack GeoTerra Auto Dispenser: Building on the success of the manual GeoTerra dispenser, the new automatic model delivers a faster, more efficient solution tailored for high-volume operations. GeoTerra wrappable paper offers light cushioning and interleaving protection, while its aesthetic design enhances the unboxing experience.