Stora Enso has decided to invest in centralising and modernising the wood handling capacity at its Imatra mills in Finland. The investment of EUR 80 million will enhance Stora Enso’s production capabilities for premium packaging board. The investment supports the Group’s strategy of sustainable profitable growth through packaging in strong customer segments. The investment is planned to start in Q1 2021 and to be completed in Q3 2022. The Imatra mills produce premium packaging boards for food, beverage and luxury packaging. The purpose of the investment is to modernise the wood handling process in Imatra and centralise it in one of the existing wood yards. The project includes the installation of a new, third debarking line, improvements to chip handling systems, and modifications to the existing wood yard infrastructure. The centralised and modernised wood handling capacity will improve the stability and efficiency of the process. In addition, the new, more efficient debarking line will reduce water consumption of the process and lower the environmental impact.

Global Packaging Solutions has announced an expansion of its operations in Albemarle, NC, creating 10 new jobs and investing $4.8 million in real and business personal property. This expansion is made possible through the Rural Infrastructure Authority’s Building Reuse Grant, totaling $80,000. The Office of Governor Cooper officially announced the funding of Global Packaging Solutions’ Building Reuse Application on December 5. Global Packaging Solutions is a premier manufacturer specializing in flexible packaging and pouch production. The expansion involves establishing four new production lines and acquiring advanced machinery, effectively tripling its operational capacity within five years, according to President Jim Anderson.

Sonoco Products Company announced the close of its acquisition of Eviosys, Europe’s leading food cans, ends and closures manufacturer, from KPS Capital Partners, LP. The transaction advances Sonoco’s portfolio transformation strategy to simplify and realign its portfolio and position the Company for long-term growth and value creation. Sonoco announced its intent to acquire Eviosys on June 24, 2024. Following the integration process, Eviosys will transition to the Sonoco brand over the coming months and will operate under Sonoco’s Consumer Packaging segment.