Genera starts up ANDRITZ pulping and stock preparation systems for sustainable packaging production

Metsä Board, the leading European producer of premium fresh fibre paperboards and part of Metsä Group, has successfully started to deploy Dassault Systèmes’ 3DEXPERIENCE platform in development and testing of packaging solutions at its Excellence Centre. With packaging simulation Metsä Board can notably speed up packaging development and reduce carbon footprint of packaging. Simulation enables 85% faster development compared to the traditional way of making multiple tests with physical prototypes. Simulation technologies help manage the development of the entire product life cycle, from material selection to delivery. The new technology helps Metsä Board recommend optimal packaging materials as well as packaging structures to its customers.

WestRock Company, a global manufacturer of differentiated paper and packaging solutions, broke ground yesterday on a 285,000 square foot expansion at its consumer packaging facility in Claremont. The $47 million investment was bolstered by a performance-based grant from the One North Carolina Fund and is expected to create 50 new jobs by the end of next year. During yesterday’s groundbreaking ceremony, WestRock project manager and Catawba County native Jason Smitherman remarked, “WestRock has operated on these grounds for 25 years, and this investment ensures we will be here for many more to come. This project would not have been possible without the commitment to and belief in WestRock by the City of Claremont, Catawba County, and the state of North Carolina.” The expanded facility and its employees will support WestRock’s production of sustainable, fiber-based packaging for some of the world’s leading food, food service and beverage brands.

Novolex, an industry leader in packaging choice, innovation, and sustainability, announced it has acquired the business of Flexo Converters USA, Inc. and certain of its affiliates. The intention to acquire was originally announced May 17. Flexo is a manufacturer of stock, custom and recycled paper bags, and sacks. A family-owned business, Flexo was founded in 1994. It is headquartered and has a manufacturing facility in Meriden, CT and an additional plant in Monroe, GA. Flexo products will be sold under the Novolex Duro Bag® brand. The addition of Flexo products to the Novolex portfolio will enable Duro to support customer demand through Flexo’s production capacity. Novolex has seen a significant increase in demand for paper bags and sacks as consumer purchasing patterns have shifted.