India’s Food and Beverage Packaging Revolution: A USD 86 Billion Forecast by 2029
(Mumbai India, Nov 16, 2023) Imagine a future where India’s food and beverage packaging industry, currently valued at USD 32 billion in 2022, surges forward at a remarkable annual growth rate of 14.8 percent. By 2029, it is poised to stand tall at an impressive USD 86 billion. This visionary journey is powered by the forces of urbanization, expanding disposable incomes, and a shifting landscape of consumer preferences. The All India Food Processors Association has provided insights into this dynamic transformation, and in this article we’re about to embark on an insightful exploration of this captivating evolution.
To read complete report Go To: https://theconiferous.com/blog/indias-food-and-beverage-packaging-revolution-a-usd-86-billion-forecast-by-2029/ (Source: The Coniferous Blog)
Pic: Image for representational purposes only
2023 insights on major grades of the pulp and paper industry: Containerboard // P&W Paper // Tissue & Towel // Market Pulp
(Charlotte, N.C, USA, Nov 16, 2023) The 2023 global economy has been a nuanced interplay of global events and policy changes that have left many uncertain about its future trajectory. These developments have had far-reaching effects on various industries, including the pulp and paper industry, impacting factors such as prices and demand patterns.
As we approach the new year, let’s look back and review how different pulp and paper grades fared during the year.
Excerpts:
Containerboard
Containerboard, the dominant major grade in the industry, continued to maintain its stronghold, accounting for roughly 39% of annual capacity production. Since 2020, it has witnessed a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.67%. This was driven by a surge in demand that swept the sector in 2020 and 2021. ….
Printing and Writing Paper
Accounting for 13% of global pulp and paper capacity, printing and writing paper has experienced a negative CAGR of -1.68% since 2020. Despite a short-term bump in capacity production in 2022 due to a slight economic recovery and easing of COVID restrictions, printing and writing paper have been a declining grade for as far back as 2013. …..
Tissue and Towel
Despite accounting for only about 9% of global pulp and paper capacity, the tissue and towel sector is currently one of the fastest growing in the industry. Since 2020, it has experienced an impressive compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.25%. ....
Market Pulp
Market pulp is the second largest major grade in the pulp and paper industry, making up about 16% of global capacity. Since 2020, it has experienced a CAGR of 1.87% and is the only major grade where Latin America takes the lead in production instead of the Asia Pacific region. …
To read complete report Go To: https://www.resourcewise.com/forest-products-blog/2023-insights-on-major-grades-of-the-pulp-and-paper-industry (Source: Resourcewise.com)
Pic: Image for representational purposes only
Paper Plays a Critical Role in the Digital Era
(Washington DC, Nov 2023) Given the ubiquitous nature of digital devices and digital service promotion, some businesses may be tempted to transition to paperless record keeping systems based on preconceived notions that going digital is somehow more sustainable. That assumption could not be further from the truth.
Paper continues to play a significant role in the digital era, especially when it comes to sustainability, accessibility, and security for businesses.
Businesses must recognize the enduring value and broad benefits of paper documents. Even with advancements in electronic files, paper remains a critical component for organizations of all types.
First, let's address the sustainability of paper. Trees are one of our most abundant renewable resources in America, and a healthy paper industry is critical to maintaining healthy forests.
More than a billion trees are planted in the U.S. each year, and almost all the wood used to produce paper products is sourced from private, sustainably managed forests. Sustainable practices are the root of the paper industry, and we continue to advance sustainability through investment and innovation.
Since 2011, members of the American Forest and Paper Association have reduced greenhouse gas emissions by more than 24% from the 2005 baseline, and our goal is to reduce these emissions by 50% by 2030.
Better yet, paper is one of the United States' most recycled materials. Nearly 68% of paper was recycled in 2022. Those recycled fibers go on to become something new, like printing and writing papers, demonstrating our industry's inherent circularity.
Underpinning this circular economy is a robust and accessible recycling system used by millions of Americans. Our industry plays a key role too, with nearly $7 billion in investments, completed or announced (2019-2025), that will use more than 9 million tons of recycled fiber.
However, this success could be disrupted by mandates, like recycled content minimums or extended producer responsibility (EPR) policies, that could upend the dynamics of our circular value chain, and the voluntary industry investments powering paper's achievements.
In addition to being produced from a renewable, highly recycled resource, paper offers many advantages over digital documents.
Paper does not depend on additional technology for access and use, and physical documents provide a tangible record. Digital storage also carries with it vulnerabilities, including cybersecurity attacks and data breaches.
Paper also plays an essential role in helping bridge the digital divide for the Americans who don't use or have access to broadband internet and would otherwise be excluded under "digital-only" policies.
Thankfully, businesses looking to reduce their environmental impact don't have to choose between paper or digital. Companies can rest assured that paper is a sustainable, highly recyclable product, and provides a valuable document solution for today and into the future. (source: Press release)
Pic: Image for representational purposes only
Voith and Asia Symbol Start-up Boxboard Machine at Rugao Mill in Shanghai, China
(Heidenheim, Germany, Nov 20, 2023) Voith announced the successful start-up of Asia Symbol's BM 13 at Rugao, located 180 km north of Shanghai, China. The state-of-the-art machine is 8.16 meters wide with a design speed of 1,400 m/min and an annual capacity of around one million tons.
BM 13 mainly produces high-quality white folding boxboard in the basis weight range of 170 to 400 gsm.
"Thanks to Voith's full-line package, the Rugao BM 13 achieves excellent results in terms of product quality, production efficiency, and operating and maintenance costs, which further strengthens our competitive advantage in the market," said Eric Xu, General Manager Rugao BM 13 of Asia Symbol.
The full-line solution supplied by Voith for the Rugao BM 13 includes a wide portfolio of state-of-the-art solutions, from BlueLine stock preparation and intelligent XcelLine paper machine to two VariFlex Performance winders with a fully automated Flying Splice reel change.
In addition to the resource-saving Triple NipcoFlex press, an energy-efficient EcoHood dryer hood, ropeless transfer in the dryer section and contactless qDry Pro drying with the HelioX infrared emitters are installed.
Voith also supplied a comprehensive wear parts package and a wide range of automation solutions, including the OnControl MCS, DCS, Drive Control, OnQuality MD/CD Control and the OnCare Health condition monitoring system.
Asia Symbol is a leading producer of pulp and paper under the RGE Group. Its main products are BHKP, NBKP, DP, liquid packaging board, high grade ivory board and uncoated wood-free printing and office paper.
Voith Paper, part of the Voith Group, is the full-line supplier to the paper industry, providing a wide range of technologies, services, components and products, and offers paper manufacturers solutions from a single source. (SOURCE: Voith)
Image: BM 13
External Link: Amazon India may roll out recyclable paper packaging
(New Delhi, 13 Nov 2023) Amazon has been working to eliminate plastic packaging and has already implemented paper packaging solutions at its fulfilment centre in the US. India's growing e-commerce market makes it an important market for Amazon. The company is now looking at bringing several global innovations to India for manufacturing sturdy recyclable paper packaging as the e-commerce company works to reduce the use of plastic across its deliveries.
To read complete report Go To: https://www.livemint.com/companies/news/amazon-india-may-roll-out-recyclable-paper-packaging-11699466054393.html (Source: The Mint)
Pic: Image for representational purposes only
Japan: Packaging materials Industry trends and prospects
(Tokyo, June 2023) Both shipment value and shipment quantity increased: According to the announcement (some estimates) by the Japan Packaging Technology Association, the shipping value of packaging and containers in 2021 will be 5,649.6 billion yen (2.2% increase from the previous year), and the shipment volume will be 19.2 million tons (3.8% increase from the previous year). Both numbers started to increase.
In recent years, as environmental awareness has increased, lighter containers and simpler packaging have become commonplace. The development of products that utilize recyclable materials and high-performance products that are characterized by high safety and convenience is progressing.
Market trends in 2022: “Packaging paper, glass containers, and plastic containers are on a recovery trend with increases for the second consecutive year”
According to the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry's "Production Statistics Survey," the total production volume of the four main types of packaging materials from January to October 2022 was 2,593,075 tons, an increase of 2.2% compared to the same period last year. Sales of plastic containers increased by 2.9% due to the development of recycling technology and promotion of the use of recycled resin, packaging paper increased by 3.2%, and glass containers increased by 2.1%, all increasing for the second consecutive year and recovering. showed a trend. On the other hand, sales of beverage cans decreased by 1.4% year on year, the third consecutive year of decline.
Market outlook in 2023: “The future of demand is uncertain. Accelerating new product development due to increased demand for environmentally friendly products”
Although demand is expected to recover as the social situation of the coronavirus pandemic returns and economic activity normalizes, the future of demand remains uncertain due to continuing concerns about soaring raw material prices and the impact of the weak yen.
On the other hand, demand for eco-friendly products is expected to increase due to rising environmental awareness. Through the development of environmentally friendly products such as recycled resin and alternative materials, each company will accelerate the movement toward realizing a recycling-oriented, sustainable society. (Source: press release)
Pic: Image for representational purposes only
External Link: Rising trends in Japanese packaging industry
(London, Nov 2023) Japan's packaging industry is soaring to new heights, driven by innovation and a commitment to eco-friendly solutions.
In recent years, Japan has witnessed a notable shift in packaging trends, driven by a heightened awareness of environmental concerns. A core focus has been on reducing the weight of containers and simplifying packaging materials.
To read full article Go To: https://www.packaging-gateway.com/features/rising-trends-in-japanese-packaging-industry/?cf-view (source: Packaging Gateway.com)
Pic: Image for representational purposes only
(New Delhi, 20 November 2023) Paperex 2023 – India’s largest and premier paper industry exhibition – is just a few weeks away.
Vital Paper welcomes the paper industry at @ Stand S54 Hall No 15, Dec 06 -09 2023.
Seshasayee Paper and Boards Limited (SPB), an Integrated Pulp, Paper and Paper board Mill, and the flagship company belonging to Writing and Printing paper manufacturing in India, has accorded in-principle approval for securing Environmental Clearances for project Mill Development Plan – IV (MDP – IV) in Company’s manufacturing facility in Erode.
In Its filing to Stock Exchange, the management of Seshasayee Paper said that Company has approved Mill Development Plan – IV to augment Paper Capacity from 1,65,000 tonnes p.a. to 2,31,000 tonnes p.a. and Pulp Capacity (Wood and Bagasse) from 1,80,000 tonnes p.a. to 2,52,000 tonnes p.a.
To read complete report Go To: https://thepulpandpapertimes.com/news/india/seshasayee-paper-and-boards-approves-mill-development-plan--iv-865 (Source: External)
The announced investments are for the manufacturing of calcium carbonate in 7 locations in Asia Pacific for long-term partners in the paper and board industry.
Executing agreements finalized beginning in 2022, Omya will invest in 7 onsite plants for ground and precipitated calcium carbonate at paper and paperboard mill locations in China and Indonesia. The new plants in China include 3 ground calcium carbonate (GCC) plants in Guangxi, Guangdong, and Shandong, 2 precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC) plants in Shandong, and 1 more PCC plant in Fujian. The new plant in Indonesia will be for GCC in Sumatra.
These new manufacturing locations will be able to produce a broad product portfolio including filler grade PCC & GCC, coating grade GCC, and high-end GCC for clay replacement.
In total, the new plants will offer about 1 million dry metric tonnes per year of capacity, including 740,000 tonnes of GCC capacity and 260,000 tonnes of PCC capacity. All 7 plants are currently under construction and will be commissioned in 2023 and 2024.
Peter Tynell, Vice President Paper & Board said, “We are very honoured to have been selected as a long-term partner by our customers and very excited to build and operate these new plants.”
GCC and PCC are essential raw materials for paper manufacturing, which can improve key paper properties such as opacity, whiteness, smoothness, gloss, printability, and reduce total production costs. These new Omya investments were secured through a competitive bid process where our customers assessed items such as product quality, innovation, total production cost, project execution capability, and technical service to select the best partner for their onsite operations. (Source: press release / Image courtesy Omya)
To further strengthen Holmen’s market-leading position in book paper and increase production of Holmen’s new packaging product, INNR, the company is investing SEK 450 million in rebuilding a paper machine at Braviken Paper Mill.
Access to fossil-free electricity and local wood means that both Holmen’s paper mills are in a strong position that enables continued development of existing products. This will also create opportunities to grow in new segments in the packaging area.
“In 2022, we launched a new corrugated board product, Holmen INNR, which has been well received by the market. Holmen’s paper products have a low climate footprint and are lighter than traditional alternatives, making them resource efficient without compromising on strength, quality or overall feel,” says Lars Lundin, Senior Vice President Paper.
Rebuilding PM52 at Braviken Paper Mill will broaden the product range for book paper while enabling Holmen to efficiently increase the production of fluting for use in the centre layer of corrugated boxes. The rebuild is planned for autumn 2024 with an estimated cost of SEK 450 million.
“After this investment, we will be able to produce a fluting product that meets the quality requirements for demanding applications with less material consumption than established products. We will also be able to offer higher grammages of our book paper from Braviken Paper Mill,” says Tommy Wiksand, Vice President Business Development Paper. (Source: press release / Image courtesy Holmen)
Caption: Holmen’s Braviken paper mill
Suzano, the world’s largest hardwood pulp producer, announced its financial statements for the first quarter of 2023 (1Q23).
- Net revenues of R$11.3 billion, a 16% increase on 1Q22
- Adjusted EBITDA of R$6.2 billion, a 20% increase on 1Q22
- Operating cash generation of R$4.7 billion, a 21% increase on 1Q22
- Pulp sales totalled 2.5 million tons, a 3% increase on 1Q22
- Paper sales totaled 280 thousand tons, a 10% decrease on 1Q22
- Cash production cost (excluding downtimes) increased by 8% during the quarter to R$937 per ton
- Net income of R$5.2 billion
The start of the 2023 period has seen pulp prices significantly decline, reflecting the expectation of new market supply. Within this challenging context, Suzano was able to deliver solid results, demonstrating the company’s ability to navigate on a more acid market scenario.
The quarterly results contributed to a flat net debt balance, even during company’s largest investment cycle to date. Between January and March, Suzano invested R$3.7 billion, R$1.9 billion of which has been allocated to the construction of a pulp mill in the municipality of Ribas do Rio Pardo, Mato Grosso do Sul state. Between 2019 and 2022, the total capital expenditure in new projects, maintenance, modernization and others reached R$32.7 billion.
At the same time, Suzano’s net debt to adjusted EBITDA leverage in US dollars fell from 2.0x at the end of 2022 to 1.9x at the end of 1Q23. Net debt totaled US$10.9 billion at the end of March.
CEO Comments
Walter Schalka, CEO of Suzano, said, “Throughout 2022, Suzano took advantage of a strong cash generation as a result of a high pulp environment to advance its strategic agenda while also preparing for a price correction cycle such as the one that we have seen at the start of this year. Due to our financial discipline and structural competitiveness, we remain well-placed to continue ahead with our planned investments, which will be the largest in our history.”
Suzano has also launched its 2022 Sustainability Report and its Sustainability Center, a hub of resources dedicated exclusively to the company’s sustainability aspects.
Suzano’s complete first quarter 2023 financial report can be found on the company’s website: www.suzano.com.br (Source: press release / image courtesy Suzano)
Tamil Nadu Newsprint & Papers Ltd, India (TNPL) through a public tender has appointed BTG, a wholly owned subsidiary of Voith, as a consulting partner to assist with the Industry 4.0 roadmap development for their Units 1 & 2. This roadmap project will provide a set of methodical and scientific steps as part of a larger theme of sustainable continuous improvement thanks to digitalization.
BTG’s grounded approach to digitalization encompasses specific Pulp & Paper capability, knowledge and experience which will simplify the adoption process and carve out a customized roadmap for TNPL. The deliverables include providing a prioritized list of Industry 4.0 projects for Unit 1, Unit 2 and Head Office spread over the next few years. The comprehensive roadmap will provide information on the required infrastructure needs, estimated cost and potential benefits. The project will involve the BTG local and global digital teams, working together with TNPL to understand their specific objectives, situation, direction and constraints.
In addition to fulfilling the digitalization goals, the efforts will be focused on making the journey commercially attractive by phasing and combining the foundation building initiatives with projects that deliver economic and environmental benefits as well as product quality improvement.
“TNPL, by partnering with BTG, is hopeful of achieving superior business performance with the required integration of IT-OT platform, in their digital Journey” as per Mr. SVR Krishnan, Executive Director – Operations of TNPL, India.
“BTG is excited to partner with TNPL team in chalking out a profitable and integrated digitalization pathway that provides a mill-wide optimization plan as an ultimate goal. Our in-depth audits across the mill sites will unravel the missing foundation stones of data infrastructure, process measurements, process control capability and unit operations balancing. We look forward to providing TNPL an integrated roadmap that is grounded, profitable and practically executable for sustainable benefits”, says Akhlesh Mathur, Head of Business South Asia & Southeast Asia for BTG group.
Tamil Nadu Newsprint & Papers Ltd is a leading pulp and paper producer in India with two manufacturing plants producing >600,000 Tons per annum of fine paper and packaging paper board grades from agri-residue, wood and recycle papers. TNPL aims to manufacture paper and paperboards of top-notch quality and achieve over 1 million tons per annum by the end of 2030. Besides that, they also focus on becoming the number one choice for their customers and provide their products at the most affordable and competitive prices, meet their financial goals and create a culture of safety and sustainability.
BTG Group is a multinational provider of integrated, highly specialized process solutions for the global pulp and paper industry. BTG is committed to help its customers achieve significant, sustainable gains in business performance. (Source: press release / Image courtesy TNPL)
Caption: TNPL mill, Karur, India
After a strong upturn in 2021, the global market for bulk grades of recovered paper (RCP) cooled off modestly in the first half of 2022 and then collapsed in the second half when the paper packaging sector, the major end-user of bulky RCP grades, slowed significantly for various reasons.
To read the complete report Go To: https://www.fastmarkets.com/insights/global-recovered-paper-market-outlook-2023(Source: FastMarkets.com)
UPM has received the final operating authorization for its new UPM Paso de los Toros pulp mill from the environmental authorities. The start-up of the mill commences immediately, and first customer deliveries are expected to ship in May.
The mill has gone through a comprehensive and thorough permitting process. Uruguayan environmental authority has monitored the construction of the mill on site throughout the project. The operating authorization process has included several inspections by the authorities, as well as third party audits by industry experts. UPM has an extensive environmental monitoring programme covering water and biota, air, soil, noise, and socio-economic aspects.
Through the growth investment, UPM and its subcontractors will create 4,000 new jobs through the value chain, as well as approximately 6,000 induced jobs and a 2% increase in GDP for the Uruguay economy. (Source: press release)
Caption: Paso de los Toros pulp mill (courtesy UPM Uruguay / UPM)
You’ve no doubt seen the impassioned ENGO fundraising claims warning that “billions of trees are cut down each year to make paper products,” and as a result, “deforestation is accelerating at a rapid pace.” Their suggested solution to this “deforestation crisis and its climate impacts” is to eliminate the use of wood fiber to manufacture paper products — 50% by 2030 — and replace it with recycled content or so called “next generation” alternative fibers.
But as President John Adams once said, “Facts are stubborn things; and whatever may be our wishes, our inclinations or the dictates of our passion, they cannot alter the state of facts and evidence.” And the fact is that sustainably produced North American paper products are not a cause of deforestation, no matter what some ENGOs say or how many times they say it.
To read the complete report Go To: https://twosidesna.org/US/facts-are-stubborn-things-the-truth-about-paper-and-deforestation(Source: Two Sides USA)
The Chinese government implemented an import tariff rate on 1020 items of paper and paperboard, on January 1, 2023,
China aims to add value to industrial and supply chains by implementing a 0% tariff for finished paper products, printing, containerboard, and writing paper.
These new tariffs will help the forestry economy in the country and the rest of the world.
To read the complete report Go To: https://theconiferous.com/blog/how-chinas-new-tariff-policy-will-impact-the-global-paper-industry/(Source: The Coniferous Blog)
UPM announced plans to adapt its uncoated publication paper capacity to a long-term profitable customer demand. The capacity reductions are planned to take place in Germany and Austria:
UPM Communication Papers plans to permanently close paper machine 6 at UPM Schongau, Germany, reducing the annual capacity of uncoated publication papers by 165,000 tonnes by the end of Q2 2023.
UPM Communication Papers accelerates the earlier announced stop of production at its Steyrermühl mill by six months. The exit of a total annual capacity of 320,000 tonnes of newsprint will take place already by the end of Q2 2023.
Production on the cost-competitive paper machines 7 and 9 in Schongau as well as on the four other uncoated publication paper machines of UPM in Germany and Finland is planned to continue with a total annual capacity of 1,800,000 tonnes.
The employee consultation process in Schongau is planned to start immediately in line with local legislation. The machine is planned to be closed after the consultation process has been finalized. Would the plan be implemented, the total reduction of personnel at UPM Schongau is estimated at 135.
The COVID-19 years caused demand disruptions in the graphic paper markets, followed by a period of high inflation and unprecedented volatility last year. Now that volatility is subsiding, the graphic paper market is returning to its long-term trend of declining demand which has characterized the industry for over a decade.
“The continued long-term decline in graphic paper demand forces us to continue our efforts to ensure cost competitive production and that our assets are in efficient use in all circumstances,” said Massimo Reynaudo, Executive Vice President, UPM Communication Papers. “We are aware that these are difficult news for our employees who have demonstrated their loyalty and commitment over such a long time. In a declining market, competitiveness in company operations is key to substantiating our long-term commitment to the publication paper market and to remain as a reliable partner to our customers. UPM aims to handle the restructuring measures in a socially responsible manner and will engage now in a fair dialogue with employee representatives.”
At the same time, UPM has decided to stop the newsprint production at its Steyrermühl newsprint mill by the end of Q2 2023. “We thereby accelerate the plans to ensure competitive production at our remaining newsprint paper machines in Europe. This decision will have no impact on the plans for the Steyrermühl site and its employees as communicated on 21 June 2022*,” the company said.
In the case of Steyrermühl, UPM will recognize charges of EUR 10 million as items affecting comparability in its Q1 2023 results.
For the planned closure of Schongau PM 6, UPM will recognize restructuring charges of EUR 26 million as items affecting comparability in its Q1 2023 results.
The planned actions are estimated to result in annual fixed cost savings of EUR 13 million.
UPM delivers renewable and responsible solutions and innovates for a future beyond fossils across six business areas: UPM Biorefining, UPM Energy, UPM Raflatac, UPM Specialty Papers, UPM Communication Papers and UPM Plywood. (Source: UPM)
Caption: UPM Mill Schongau, Germany (courtesy UPM)
The pandemic has demonstrated to all of us the power of digital technologies to help us work, learn and even socialise. Working from home, remote learning and online communities kept our economies moving, delivered knowledge to our children and helped us stay connected with our loved ones despite physical isolation. And perhaps less noticeably, but no less significantly, the pandemic also taught us another valuable lesson: the enduring value of printed books in transmitting knowledge, entertaining us and supporting equality of access to information.
A growing body of research, which came to the fore at the same time as Covid19 was changing the way we work, learn and play, shows us the benefits of print over digital media for certain forms of knowledge acquisition. While further studies will no doubt buttress our knowledge in this area, it is clear already today that we must include printed books as part of a balanced information diet – both in our children’s schools and in our own lifelong
learning efforts.
No less importantly, printed books play a powerful role in fighting digital exclusion. In recent years European societies have come to appreciate how print can level the playing field for those who are less online, for a wide variety of reasons including age and income. Physical bookshops and libraries are important centres of culture in local communities around the world, offering intellectual stimulation and opportunities for local residents to come together and engage in the life of the mind.
Finally, printed books play an important role in the economy, in particular the circular economy: in Europe they are produced from sustainable resources and are fully recyclable. The book value chain provides employment to people of all skill levels across our continent.
To read or download complete report Go To:
https://www.cepi.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2023-03-Books-Driver-of-Knowledge.pdf (Source: CEPI press release)
Orient Paper & Industries (OPIL) is planning to hike its production capacity by modernising its manufacturing facility at Amlai, Madhya Pradesh.
The company in a regulatory filing at exchanges has said, “The Board of Directors of the Company at its meeting held today, inter alia, approved the capital expenditure of Rs. 475 crores for modernisation of its manufacturing facility at Amlai, Madhya Pradesh. The project will improve operating capacity of the paper mill to 400 tonnes per day and is likely to be completed in 24 months.” (Source: Industry reports, India)
Caption: Amlai Paper Mill (Image courtesy Orient Paper)
Holmen Iggesund, a premium paperboard company for purposeful solutions, and Yangi®, the pioneers of dry forming technology, have entered into a long-term agreement to explore opportunities with a new type of sustainable packaging material. Under the agreement, the two companies will engage in close collaboration alongside brands, to further explore the opportunities of biobased and renewable packaging for the cosmetic and beauty industry.
To provide the market with high-quality, sustainable packaging to customers is an ongoing journey. What works today will not necessarily be enough to sustain the world tomorrow. Switching from fossil-based to renewable materials is essential going forward. And choosing the right materials for packaging is an effective way to reduce climate impact – something that is crucial for both brands and consumers.
Holmen Iggesund and Yangi® are looking beyond the horizon and joining forces to explore sustainable packaging solutions. The collaboration’s focus will be on replacing rigid plastics with alternative renewable materials for beauty and cosmetics packaging such as refills, inserts, testers, and other types of applications within the segment.
Holmen Iggesund commits to supplying fibre-based material to guarantee premium quality.
“There’s a real sense of urgency to make packaging ever more sustainable and purposeful, and at Holmen Iggesund we see the benefits of working with others to solve challenges faster,” says Hein van den Reek, Director Future Packaging Holmen Iggesund. “The collaboration is aimed at helping beauty and cosmetics brands deliver what their customers are demanding – sustainable packaging. Holmen Iggesund is always interested in the latest ideas and potential new opportunities for purposeful packaging solutions, such as our Conic concept, launched in 2021”, he concludes.
Yangi® will make available its revolutionary dry forming technology and commit additional R&D resources to further develop current and future solutions for packaging producers and brands.
“Delivering sustainable solutions that eliminate fossil fuels and reduce the carbon footprint of a brand’s packaging can make or break brand loyalty,” says Anna Altner, Founder, Yangi®. “Our dry forming technology offers a unique possibility to move into more resource- and cost-efficient renewable and recyclable packaging. The collaboration enables a stronger offer connecting the packaging value chain from raw material to final packaging”, she finishes.
The collaboration was initiated and will be facilitated by FutureLab & Partners, a tech accelerator company that enables the shift from non-renewable materials to renewable ones through collaborative development projects with cosmetics and beauty brands. (Source: press release / Image courtesy Iggesund)
Stora Enso has completed the divestment of its Maxau paper production site in Germany, and all related assets to Schwarz Produktion, part of Schwarz Group. The divestment announced on 13 September 2022 was completed today after regulatory approvals. The enterprise value of the transaction is approximately EUR 210 million.
The transaction will reduce Stora Enso’s annual SC (supercalendered) paper capacity by 530,000 tonnes. Based on the 2022 figures, the divestment is expected to reduce Stora Enso’s annual sales by approximately EUR 385 million. Subject to closing date adjustments, Stora Enso will book a one-time disposal gain of approximately EUR 55 million in its IFRS operating profit in the first quarter of 2023, considered as an item affecting comparability.
This transaction is part of the earlier announced plan to divest four of Stora Enso’s five paper production sites. The plan was concluded earlier this year when Stora Enso signed an agreement to divest its paper production site in Hylte and discontinued the Anjala site divestment process. The divestment of the Nymölla paper site in Sweden was completed on 2 January with ownership transferred to Sylvamo. In line with its strategy, Stora Enso’s focus is on long-term growth potential for its renewable products in packaging, building solutions and biomaterials innovations.
Schwarz Produktion is the umbrella brand for the production companies of Schwarz Group. In total, more than 4,500 employees in the Schwarz Produktion companies produce high-quality food as well as sustainable packaging and materials for the retail companies Lidl and Kaufland. In addition to mineral water and soft drinks, the Schwarz Produktion companies also produce chocolate, dried fruit, baked goods, coffee and ice cream. (Source: Press release)
(Image courtesy Stora Enso)
Tetra Pak has commenced ground-breaking research towards advancing fibre-based sustainable food packaging, in collaboration with MAX IV – the most modern synchrotron [1] radiation laboratory in the world. The research aims to uncover fresh insights into the nanostructure of fibre materials, with the first application to optimise the composition of materials used for paper straws.
This is the very first industrial research and development experiment at ForMAX, a brand new research station dedicated to studying materials from the forest, located at the MAX IV Laboratory in Lund, Sweden.
As the global demand for safe, nutritious food intensifies, and the scarcity of raw materials increases, the need to develop more sustainable packaging solutions that use less of these scarce resources has become urgent. New materials based on paper will bring novel opportunities, but they need to remain food safe, recyclable, be more durable against liquids and humidity, while meeting the increased sustainability demands.
Eva Gustavsson, Vice President Materials & Package, Tetra Pak, says: “A fundamental understanding of the structure and properties of materials is crucial as we work towards developing the package of the future. Our ambition is to provide the world’s most sustainable food package, and experiments at ForMAX will clearly support us in this mission.
“The package of the future needs to be fully recyclable and have a low environmental impact. Using renewable materials and increasing the use of fibre-based material within packages will be vital. With this research, Tetra Pak is helping to uncover fresh insights into plant-based materials as a basis for future innovations.”
Kim Nygård, Manager, ForMAX beamline, MAX IV says: “The experiment conducted at ForMAX is a milestone for both academia and industry. The research station is the first of its kind and will facilitate both fundamental and applied industrial research on how new, sustainable materials can be used going forward. We are proud to support Tetra Pak in its development of sustainable packaging materials for the future.”
Eskil Andreasson, Technology Specialist, Virtual Modelling, Tetra Pak, says: “Our first experiment, which starts with paper straws, provides additional analysis capabilities into how paper straw material responds to changes in the environment in real-time, as well as how the straw interacts with different types of liquids under stringent conditions. These new insights and knowledge will be applied to developing the paper straws of the future in our virtual modelling tools, helping us to improve their functionality.” (Source: press release)
Image courtesy Tetra Pak
The Coniferous Blog and Fisher International blogs discuss the outlook for the world’s fourth largest paper producer. To read the full report Go To the following two sites:
https://theconiferous.com/blog/what-does-2023-have-in-store-for-indias-pulp-and-paper-industry
and
https://www.fisheri.com/blog/what-does-2023-have-in-store-for-indias-pulp-and-paper-industry
(Source: The Coniferous Blog & Fisher International) (Image courtesy Source: FisherSolve)
The Chinese paper manufacturer’s Suzhou plant will be equipped with the widest and most technologically advanced E-WIND® P100H paper rewinders ever built by A.Celli.
Shanying Paper decided to rely once again on A.Celli solutions and know-how to equip five of their PM (71-75) in the Suzhou subsidiary with six E-WIND® P100H paper rewinders.
An order that represent a milestone, since it includes the widest paper rewinders ever built by A.Celli, designed to process jumbo rolls of fluting paper with a width of 8770 mm at a design speed of 2600 mpm.
Furthermore, the P100H paper rewinders will be enhanced by numerous optionals, also making them among the most technologically advanced machines ever manufactured by A.Celli. Among these optionals we can find the automatic end tail gluing system, parking stations for the master rolls and shuttles for their transfer, under-machine pulpers and the possibility to interface the machines with the customer’s MES system for data and parameters interchange.
The delivery of the paper rewinders will take place in 2024, from April to October.
Shanying Paper (Suzhou) is an established subsidiary of Shanying Paper, a company founded in 1957 and part of Shanying International Holding. The company has several productions that use domestic and foreign recycled fibers to manufacture packaging paper and newspaper, including high-strength fluting paper and white coated white top testliner. (Source: press release) Image courtesy A. Celli
M.A.H.Y Khoory Group announced in Feb this year that it plans to invest about AED One Billion for the expansion towards one of their Paper Mill -- Al Dhafra Paper Manufacturing Company.
The new expansion to have an additional 500,000 metric tons of recycled kraft papers. Post expansion will help them to achieve about 900,000 metric tons annually, enabling Al Dhafra Paper Manufacturing to be a leading kraft paper manufacturers in the region.
The project cost will be about AED One Billion which was announced at Paper One Show, held in Sharjah between 21-23 Feb ‘2023.
About M.A.H.Y Group
The M.A.H.Y. Khoory Group is among the most trusted and recognized names in the United Arab Emirates. A leader in the regional market, we at the M.A.H.Y. Khoory Group are a diverse group of companies and business units that bring world-class technological products and services to our clients.
Al Dhafra Paper Manufacturing – Since 2017, Al Dhafra Paper Manufacturing has been converting wastepaper into recycled Testliner and Fluting Medium to cater to the packaging industry in the UAE and internationally. We produce 650 tonnes of recycled paper daily. Our mill is fully accredited to the highest standards of environmental and technical safety and is regularly updated to stay on par with the cutting edge of technology.
Union Paper Mills – Since 1988, Union Paper Mills has been converting wastepaper into recycled Testliner and Fluting Medium to cater to the packaging industry in the UAE and internationally. We produce 500 tonnes of recycled paper daily, and we’re already gearing to push that to a capacity of 650 tonnes daily. Our mill is fully accredited to the highest standards of environmental and technical safety and is regularly updated to stay on par with the cutting edge of technology.
National Paper Industries – It is a leading corrugated carton manufacturer in the UAE with a solid reputation for being an innovative and reliable service provider. With our state-of-the-art machinery, an area of 180,000 square feet and a team of 125 skilled personnel, we can provide you with the best quality products and excellent customer service. (Source: press release) Image courtesy M.A.H.Y. Khoory Group
The new paper machine has an annual production capacity of 70,000 tons and is designed for the manufacture of sanitary paper products from both fresh fibers and 100 percent recycled fibers. With its high energy efficiency, the new paper machine from the manufacturer Valmet makes a significant contribution to reducing CO2 emissions and water consumption. This saves resources and optimizes cost structures. The paper machine is technically state-of-the-art and designed to produce the highest quality in terms of softness, strength and absorbency. The investment project also includes new buildings to house the stock preparation plants and the new paper machine. Several processing projects were carried out in parallel, including a new line for lotioned and perfumed toilet paper.
Martin Krengel, CEO of the WEPA Group: “With the largest single investment in the history of the WEPA Group, we are reaffirming our claim to technology and market leadership in sustainable hygiene paper.”
Great Britain is an important growth market for WEPA. Martin Krengel: “It is important for us to promote market orientation and to produce for our British customers in our own country. Investing in Bridgend is an investment in the future and in long-term customer partnerships. It strengthens our position in the UK market as a manufacturer with the highest standards of sustainability and product quality, and we have created over 50 new jobs as part of the project.” The workforce at WEPA’s Welsh site now consists of 325 people.
The Bridgend site has been part of the WEPA Group since 2013 - initially as a joint venture before being fully taken over in 2018. With this investment, the WEPA Group strengthens its competitiveness as one of the three largest European manufacturers in the tissue paper market. With a total of 22 paper machines, the group has a production capacity of around 850,000 tons per year. (Source: press release)
The sales process supports Stora Enso’s strategy to focus on long-term profitable growth within the areas of renewable packaging, building solutions and biomaterials innovations. Stora Enso’s strategic ambition is to build on its leading position in the fiber-based packaging market. The divestment of the Beihai operations would allow Stora Enso to accelerate its strategy by focusing on cost-efficient sites serving the growing global packaging market, such as the recently announced investment in Oulu, Finland and the pending acquisition of De Jong Packaging Group. The aim is to find a sustainable alternative for the future of the operations in Beihai and for the people working there.
The divestment of the board mill and forestry operations would be conducted separately or as a combined unit. Stora Enso has not committed to a timeline for the conclusion of the process. The divestment plan has no immediate effect on Stora Enso’s financials or on the Beihai site’s production. The site continues to serve its customers.
Stora Enso’s Beihai production site started operations in 2016. It has a modern mechanical pulp mill and a premium consumer board line serving the Chinese market. The annual production capacity is 250,000 tonnes of mechanical pulp and 550,000 tonnes of consumer board.
Stora Enso also operates 70,000 hectares of land in the Guangxi region for eucalyptus plantations, established in 2003, for fiber supply.
The combined operations employ approximately 1,000 people including the forest operations. Stora Enso owns approximately 80% of the production site and forest operations, and its local partners and International Finance Corporation (IFC) own the remaining share. Stora Enso will work together with all stakeholders to complete the divestment process.
Stora Enso has retained J.P. Morgan S.E to act as its financial advisor in the sales process. (Source: Stora Enso press release)
It features Toscotec’s best-in-class drying configuration including an upgraded design shoe press TT NextPress, a third-generation design TT SYD Steel Yankee Dryer and high-efficiency TT Hood. The supply comprises key stock preparation and fiber recovery equipment, Toscotec’s patented TT SAF® DD (Short Approach Flow System with Double Dilution) for superior energy efficiency, and two OPTIMA 2200 slitter rewinders. The service package includes erection supervision, commissioning, training programs, YES-CONNECT-VISION Augmented Reality on remote assistance system, and start-up support.
Shri G. N. Agarwal, Managing Director of Gayatrishakti Paper & Board, says, “We selected Toscotec because we wanted to invest in state-of-the-art tissue making technology. We value their solid experience in guiding and sharing their expertise with newcomers in tissue. Gayatrishakti is a well-established board manufacturer in India and based on our strong background in Paper and Board, we understand the importance of choosing the right partner for this new market entry.”
Marco Dalle Piagge, Sales Director of Toscotec, says, “Toscotec is committed to providing Gayatrishakti with first class support to ensure their successful penetration of the Indian tissue market. Thanks to Voith’s global presence, they can also benefit from local services offered by Voith Paper India. With this new project, Toscotec strengthens its presence in Southeast Asia where we received two new orders of complete tissue lines in 2022.”
About Gayatrishakti Tissue Pvt Ltd
Gayatrishakti Tissue is a subsidiary of Gayatrishakti Paper & Board Ltd (GSPBL). GSPBL is a leading a manufacturer of a range of premium grades of duplex packaging boards and kraft paper. Established in 1996, it has a head office in Mumbai and three manufacturing facilities with a combined installed capacity of 300,000 mta in Vapi & Sarigam GIDC, Gujarat state, India. (Source: Toscotec press release)
Caption: AHEAD Line (courtesy Toscotec)
The price increase is unavoidable to offset the inflationary cost increases in labour, manufacturing and logistics.
Lecta sales teams are at our customers’ disposal to provide specific information on the price increase application. (Source: press release)
By increasing the share of UKP in the pulp portfolio, Stora Enso continues on its strategic path to develop more specialised Nordic pulp grades while optimising its share in standard market pulp. The long-term trends point towards consumer preference for less bleached or brown fiber-based renewable packaging products. Following the investment, the Enocell site will be able to flexibly produce UKP and Nordic Bleached Softwood Kraft (NBSK) pulp.
Due to the reduced use of bleaching chemicals, the carbon footprint per tonne of produced UKP will be more than 20% lower than the equivalent amount of bleached pulp produced at the Enocell site. The investment is expected to be completed during the last quarter of 2024.
The investment in fluff pulp production improvement at the Skutskär site strengthens Stora Enso’s position as the leading fluff pulp producer in Europe. Due to the upgrades made with the investment, the Group can meet customer demand for specific roll sizes, improve work safety, and grow fluff pulp production at the Skutskär site. The investment is expected to be completed during the second quarter of 2024.
“Through optimising our pulp portfolio, we advance the more specialised pulp offering, while also improving production and sustainability performance. This will allow us to meet the rapidly growing demand for using unbleached and less bleached pulp in packaging and hygiene applications,” says Johanna Hagelberg, Executive Vice President, Biomaterials division at Stora Enso.
Both investments fall within the Group’s capital expenditure guidance.
Both investments fall within the Group’s capital expenditure guidance.
Stora Enso’s Enocell site’s annual capacity is 630,000 tonnes of softwood and hardwood pulp. The site employs approximately 280 people. Stora Enso’s Skutskär site’s annual capacity is 545,000 tonnes of fluff, softwood and hardwood pulps. The site employs approximately 420 people. (Source: press release)
The increase is necessitated by the rapid decline in the exchange rate in addition to rising costs for various materials and energy globally since the previous price hike in July 2022. In particular, tight wood fiber supply and record high pulp prices due to the international situation have made business conditions much more challenging.
Although the Company have already secured the resources needed to ensure a sustainable supply, it is becoming extremely difficult to absorb these costs through its independent efforts alone. Consequently, it has recently concluded that it has no alternative but to revise its prices. (Source: press release)
“In an environment where resources, and therefore costs, need to be saved without reducing quality, decisions shouldn’t be based on slow results and limited information,” says Alexander Grüner, Global Marketing and Business Development Manager for emtec Electronic.
The German manufacturer of measuring and testing devices for the pulp, paper, and board industry will be on location to showcase instruments for the processing of paper and board. These include:
The innovative ACA Ash Content Analyzer, which quickly and non-destructively measures the total mineral filler content and the percentage of the individual mineral fillers in paper and board. This allows mill technicians to pinpoint the specific components present and adapt the conversion process accordingly.
Compared with the traditional combustion method, which takes three to seven hours to provide generalized results, depending on the operator, the application of the ACA device saves enormously on time and energy costs by delivering highly precise information within seconds, regardless of the operator.
Furthermore, to produce quality cardboard and container board, mill technicians need to have detailed information about the converting-relevant properties surface sizing/hydrophobia and surface porosity/pore structure beforehand. This data helps predict how well glue, coating or ink adheres to the paper surface and the way each liquid reacts with the board. emtec has two digital solutions at hand:
The EST emtec Surface & Sizing Tester, an easily portable device that measures the two converting-relevant parameters, surface sizing and surface porosity, that cannot be measured with standard test methods.
The PDA Penetration Dynamics Analyzer, which is similar to the EST device, but as a modular system, it offers the option of making measurements with highly viscous process liquids. (Source: press release)
For further details please Go To: (Source: Media reports)
Representation Image (courtesy APP Sinar Mas)
-
Growth Momentum Forecast to Continue:
Speaking at the 16th PaperTech 2022 held recently in New Delhi, Mr AS Mehta, President, IPMA, said that the “Paper Industry in India is exhibiting “one of the fastest growths being witnessed anywhere in the world” and is most likely to continue this trajectory in the years to come as Indian economy is better placed to weather the storm caused by global upheavals.”
As per Mr Mehta, domestic demand has made a recovery post-Covid and has largely returned to (and in some segments) overtaken pre-pandemic levels. IPMA forecasts a 6-8% growth per annum. Cost effective raw material procurement remains a major issue for the Indian paper industry.
About IPMA
As a national industry body, Indian Paper Manufacturers Association (IPMA) represents the resurgent and organised face of the paper industry in India. (Source: IPMA & industry reports)
Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
A new company created by Suzano will hold the assets, as well as manufacture and distribute the tissue products.
As part of the deal, the other global brands currently used by KC Brasil will be licensed to the Company for a specific term.
The main asset included in the deal includes a tissue production plant, located in the municipality of Mogi das Cruzes, in the State of São Paulo, with an annual production capacity of approximately 130 thousand tons.
Suzano said the acquisition is aligned with its long-term strategy to “advance in the links of the value chain”, as is widely public knowledge, representing geographic complementarity and synergy gains with its current consumer goods business (tissue).
New Tissue Mill Planned
At the end of June this year, Suzano announced plans to build a tissue mill with converting operations in the municipality of Aracruz, state of Espírito Santo, Brazil. The new plant will have the capacity to produce sixty thousand (60,000) tons per year of tissue, which would then be converted into tissue and towel products.
Based in São Paulo, Brazil, Suzano (B3: SUZB3 | NYSE: SUZ) is one of the world’s largest integrated pulp and paper producers. With ten mills and the joint operation Veracel, the company has an annual installed capacity of 10.9 million tons of market pulp and 1.4 million tons of paper. Its product portfolio includes coated and uncoated printing and writing paper, paperboard, tissue, market pulp and fluff pulp. To learn more, visit: www.suzano.com.br. (SOURCE: Suzano S.A. / Image courtesy Kimberly Clarke)
Since the invention of the movable mass printing press by German goldsmith Johannes Gutenberg in 1436, the world has seen a relentless and exponential growth in knowledge, literacy, scientific exploration, and countless benefits to human society. Overnight, reading and writing went from the exclusive domain of monks and the elite, to opening up a new world of enlightenment for all.
Millions of books have been published since Gutenberg’s printing press, and today printers are ubiquitous in homes and offices around the world. But paper consumption has changed over the years, as consumers have turned to digital and electronic means to consume news or communicate with others.
With this change has come the belief that the paper industry contributes to deforestation and increased carbon emissions, along with mounting calls for business and society to go paperless.
From the promotion of e-book readers to “go green” messages at the bottom of emails urging recipients not to print, the average consumer may be excused for taking these notions on board. However, there is no evidence to support this premise.”
Forests Replenished
In fact, not only do forestry and forest products (like wood and paper) continue to play a crucial role in modern society, but they are also a crucial part of the economy and natural eco-systems, creating millions of jobs while capturing carbon and cleaning our air.
Also, using pulp, paper, paper packaging and tissue from sustainably managed plantations does not cause deforestation. Species of trees are sustainably grown, harvested, and replenished, capturing and storing carbon from the atmosphere while they are growing and once converted into paper or wooden products.
Only 10% of farmed trees are harvested annually and these are fully replenished with new trees being planted within the same year. This leaves 90% to continue sequestering carbon from the air, and the increasingly efficient paper recycling system means the carbon is locked up for longer.
The industry also creates direct and indirect jobs for thousands of people in South Africa’s rural areas and cities, from the forest to the factory.”
Trees Capture Carbon
In South Africa, wood for paper is sourced from 850 million trees planted over 676 000 hectares. These forests are managed carefully by teams of professional foresters, environmentalists, researchers, engineers, and a host of other people.
Mostly the industry captures more carbon than it emits, supporting a circular economy that benefits businesses, society, and the environment. In Europe, for example, the paper, pulp, and print sector are one of the lowest industrial emitters of greenhouse gases, accounting for just 0.8% of all emissions.
Also, the industry’s raw material is renewable, natural, and sustainable, with paper being easily collected and recycled. So, the valuable fibres can be used again and again.”
Digital and the Future of Paper
The role of paper and printing, even with the growing uptake of screens, is just as important as ever, if not more so.
Digital media comes with its own set of issues. Often ignored are the energy and financial costs of running and powering devices, infrastructure, and online systems - more than half the world still uses fossil fuels to generate electricity. And unlike paper, there is no carbon sequestration that takes place naturally.
Furthermore, after an initial spike in the uptake of book readers and tablets in the classroom, parents and educators are becoming increasingly aware of the crucial role of paper and print in education.
As useful as they are, screens cannot replicate the powerful tactile and occupational development that takes place when growing children use pen and paper to read and write, not to mention the addictive nature of digital devices.
While digital clearly makes sense in a host of applications, such as the delivery of statements via email, word processing and scanning, paper is just as much a part of the digital journey.
You still need printed paper to display bar codes, QR codes and other media that makes use of emerging technologies, like augmented reality. 3D printers are not only using plastics, or resins, but recycled paper as well, creating a variety of objects in a more sustainable way.
Some may say that print is dead. We believe it is not dead, just different, and paper in its myriad of formats to support print, is here to stay.”
The Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa (PAMSA) promotes the renewability and recyclability of paper products that we use every day. PAMSA represents 90% of South African pulp and paper manufacturers and also manages RecyclePaperZA, the paper recycling association of South Africa, which represents processors of recycled paper fibre. PAMSA provides a platform to the sector on pre-competitive issues such as research, energy, water and environmental matters as well as education, training and development. To learn more, visit: www.thepaperstory.co.za. (SOURCE: Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa press release / Image: courtesy PAMSA)
Laboratory studies showed excellent potential for defibrated material, which enhances the perception of softness to touch and comfort during product use. The solution also brings competitive advantages for distribution logistics, packaging optimization and lower energy consumption during production.
Alexandre Nicolini, Klabin’s Pulp Business Officer, explained that the company has been investing constantly in research and innovation to expand wood’s potential applications and consequently the solutions offered to the market.
“The production of softwood pulp, which comes from pine, is one of Klabin’s greatest competitive advantages. Developing solutions based on a mix of fibers is on our roadmap, especially because it enables us to leverage the use of each fiber to deliver products optimized to clients’ needs and that combine traditional operational performance with superior application properties,” Nicolini explained.
According to Klabin, PineFluff eXcel is the result of approximately five years of work at the its Technology Center located in Telêmaco Borba, Paraná, with support from the commercial, R&D, industrial and technical support teams. The company already was analyzing, in accordance with its project pipeline, the production of a mix of fibers in a single product and identified in the market demand for alternatives complementing 100% softwood pulp that deliver good application performance.
The product is available in the domestic and international markets.
Note: PineFluff eXcel, which is being produced by the Puma Unit in Ortigueira, Paraná, Brazil, was designed to be delivered to clients in the form of single-ply reels, which can be used in the production of different absorbent products. To optimize production, Klabin invested in a project to integrate its softwood and hardwood pulp production lines, which should be concluded in the first quarter of 2023.
Klabin is one of Brazil’s leading producers of pulp, papers and paperboard for packaging, industrial bags and corrugated board packaging. To learn more, visit: www.klabin.com.br. (Source: Klabin / Image courtesy Klabin)
Image Caption: Klabin’s Puma unit in Ortigueira, Paraná, Brazil
The new portfolio includes four treated, coated grades, that provide productive and smooth printing, excellent image production and ease of use for customers. The ColorPRO papers are compatible with all existing HP Inkjet presses, as well as the newest generation that will be unveiled at PRINTING United Expo in Las Vegas, Oct. 19 - 21.
“Digital printing technologies are being increasingly adopted by conventional printing as well as specialist players,” said Ruud van den Berg, SVP Sales, UPM Communication Papers. “UPM Communication Papers is at the frontline of this shift, ready to make a smooth transition for customers embracing digital printing methods.”
From book and magazine publishing to highly targeted direct marketing, innovation in coated high-speed inkjet papers creates opportunities for customers to transition to digital printing without the need for primers, bonding agents, or optimisers. This brings business advantages through time and cost savings, as well as promoting more sustainable printing through lower ink consumption, waste reduction and savings in drying energy.
Three grades have successfully achieved ColorPRO Technology: UPM Star matt JET 45 lbs, UPM Star matt 1.2 JET 54.1 lbs and UPM Finesse matt JET 60.8 lbs. The fourth grade, UPM Finesse gloss JET 77.7 lbs, is expected to be qualified shortly, after final testing at HP’s facilities in San Diego by end of 2022.
UPM Communication Papers is the world’s leading producer of graphic papers, offering an extensive product range for advertising and publishing as well as home and office uses. To learn more, visit: www.upmpaper.com (Source: UPM Communication Papers / Image courtesy UPM)
The investment will help Mondi to meet the growing demand for paper-based flexible packaging, underpinned by growth in eCommerce and sustainable packaging, and will contribute to increasing Mondi’s range of innovative, sustainable packaging and paper solutions.
The new machine will produce around 210,000 tonnes per year of sack kraft paper supporting Mondi’s Paper Bags business thanks to the benefits of a vertically integrated value chain. It will also allow Mondi to optimise production across the remaining kraft paper portfolio.
Mondi is a global leader in packaging and paper, offering innovative and sustainable packaging and paper solutions. The company is fully integrated across the packaging and paper value chain. To learn more, visit: www.mondigroup.com. (Source: Mondi / image courtesy Mondi)
Caption: Mondi’s Steti mill (Czech Republic)
Shipments of unbleached bag & sack were 73,300 short tons for the month of September, down 0.6% year-to-date.
The bleached packaging papers operating rate was 75.4%, down 3.6 points from September 2021 and down 4.4 points year-to-date.
The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) has released its September 2022 Printing-Writing Monthly report. According to the report, total printing-writing paper shipments increased 5% in September compared to September 2021.
U.S. purchases of total printing-writing papers increased 8% in September compared to the same month last year.
Total U.S. printing-writing paper inventory levels decreased 1% in September 2022 when compared to August 2022.
Uncoated free sheet (UFS) paper shipments increased 12% compared to September 2021 while the inventory level decreased 1% compared to August 2022. UFS imports increased 21% while exports decreased 4% in August 2022.
U.S. purchases of coated free sheet (CFS) papers in September increased 6% compared to last September while the inventory level decreased 1% compared to August 2022. CFS imports increased 37% while exports decreased 3% in August 2022.
Coated mechanical (CM) paper shipments decreased 26% compared to September 2021 while the inventory level decreased 6% compared to August 2022. CM imports increased 45% while exports decreased 18% in August 2022.
U.S. purchases of uncoated mechanical (UM) papers in September increased 1% compared to last September while the inventory level decreased 4% compared to August 2022. UM imports increased 4% while exports decreased 8% in August 2022.
The complete report with detailed tables, charts and historical data can be purchased by contacting Kory Bockman at Statistics_Publications@afandpa.org or 202-463-4716. (Source: AF&PA)
The value of the order was not disclosed.M
The new tissue machines will have a design speed of 2,100 m/min and a working width of 5.68 meters. They are equipped with fully cantilevered shoe presses for gentle dewatering and easy maintenance and 18 ft. steel Yankees with steam-heated hoods for energy-efficient drying.
The new tissue mill will be self-sufficient in steam and electricity consumption for the drying process.
ANDRITZ’s scope of supply — on EPC basis including civil construction — includes the stock preparation systems that will process slush pulp from Bracell’s own pulp mill, rewinders and roll handling, as well as roll covers, machine clothing, shoe press belts, and additionally more than 100 units of high-efficiency process pumps.
The new lines will produce household paper, such as toilet paper, napkins, handkerchiefs, towels and facial tissue.
Start-up is scheduled for 2024. (Source: ANDRITZ / image courtesy Andritz)
Caption: ANDRITZ PrimeLineTM W 2000 tissue machine
Steve Binnie, CEO of Sappi Limited commented: “We are very happy to have reached agreement with AURELIUS to take ownership of the three mills. Although they no longer fit in Sappi’s portfolio, they are strong assets with good people.
“The decision to sell these mills follows a detailed and thorough strategic review by Sappi in line with our group Thrive25 strategic focus. This includes reducing exposure to the graphic paper segment while expanding Sappi’s presence in segments including packaging and speciality papers, pulp and biomaterials. Recent investments across our South African, American and European operating businesses demonstrate this priority.”
Sappi received binding offers from several parties. Following due process, the board of Sappi agreed to proceed with the offer from AURELIUS, a pan-European multi-asset manager group. The sale will be subject to various standard suspensive conditions. The sale is expected to close in the first calendar quarter of 2023 once all these conditions have been fulfilled. A transitional services agreement will also be entered into to ensure a smooth transition of the businesses between the parties.
The enterprise value of the sale amounts to approximately EUR 272 million. The consideration consists of cash proceeds and retained receivables (EUR 212 million) as well as retained liabilities (EUR 60 million). The proceeds will be used to reduce debt further and continue to increase Sappi’s focus on the identified growth segments. The net loss after tax attributable to the net assets of the three mills for the last twelve months ended 31 March 2022 was EUR 6,5 million. Given the current volatile market conditions the EBITDA for the same period for the three mills was EUR 58 million. As a comparison, the EBITDA for the pre-Covid period of twelve months to September 2019 for the three mills was EUR 40 million.
Marco Eikelenboom, CEO of Sappi Europe explained: “Going forward Sappi’s focus in Europe as regards graphic paper will be on the stronger commercial print market. In addition, in the packaging and specialities segment, the European business will predominantly focus on the flexible packaging, functional papers, self-adhesives including glassine, labels as well as dye-sublimation categories.
“We believe this sale will help unlock potential value at each mill which would be best pursued by a new owner. Our strategic focus is on market segments not served by these mills.”
“The market for pulp and paper products is of particular interest to AURELIUS considering our industrial sector expertise. We combine a proven track record in complex carve-outs with a deep understanding of how to identify and unlock value creation potential. Given these key traits, this transaction offers ample opportunity to unleash the full potential of these production sites,” states Dr. Dirk Markus, Founding Partner of AURELIUS.
The mills included in the sale:
Sappi Maastricht Mill produces 260,000 ton per annum (tpa) of coated woodfree paper and paperboard mainly sold to printers and packaging converters globally
Sappi Stockstadt Mill is an integrated pulp and paper mill located in Germany, producing 145,000 tpa of pulp which is used to produce 220,000 tpa of coated and uncoated woodfree paper mainly sold into the European print market.
Sappi Kirkniemi Mill is an integrated pulp and paper mill located in Finland, producing 300,000 tpa of bleached mechanical pulp which is used to produce approximately 750 000 tpa of a variety of coated mechanical paper grades used in the print publication industry globally. (Source: Sappi / image courtesy Sappi)
Image caption: Sappi’s Stockstadt Mill in Germany
The order is included in Valmet’s orders received of the third quarter 2022. Its value will not be disclosed, but such an order is typically worth between EUR 20 and 30 million.
The 7,250 mm wide (wire) BM 23 will produce recycled liner and kraft top testliner with a basis weight range of 140-300 g/m2 at a maximum speed of 1,100 m/min.
Cheng Loong decided to invest in this new recycled containerboard mill to tap into Vietnam’s growing packaging demands.
“The containerboard market is growing globally, driven by e-commerce and new packaging applications. Valmet has developed several innovative solutions to meet market needs,” said Marko Oinonen, Sales Director, Board and Paper Mills, Valmet. “Our technical highlights and the production potential of the containerboard machine were the decisive factors for Cheng Loong.”
Cheng Loong Binh Duong Paper Company is part of Cheng Loong Corporation, which was established in 1959. The company has five paper mills and 19 box plants in Taiwan, China and Vietnam and distributes products worldwide. Its annual production capacity is 2.10 million tonnes of paper products (paper and paperboard) and more than 1.7 billion m2 of paper container boxes.
Valmet is a leading global developer and supplier of process technologies, automation and services for the pulp, paper and energy industries. The company’s technology offering includes pulp mills, tissue, board and paper production lines, as well as power plants for bioenergy production. To learn more, visit: www.valmet.com. (Source: Valmet /image courtesy Valmet)
Caption: Valmet’s OptiWin Drum two-drum base winder
In a statement, Verifair, organizers of the niche expo, Propaper Dubai 2022, which will run during September 20-22 at Festival Arena, Dubai Festival City, said the UAE packaging market is also poised for significant growth in the next five years to an estimated AED 21 billion quoting Mordor Intelligence.
“Propaper 2022 is taking place in a growth context for the paper industry in MEA as well as across Asia-Pacific countries with niche segments like corrugated paper board packaging, tissues etc.… registering exponential growth, particularly in the post-COVID scenario. The demand for corrugated packaging across end-user verticals such as food, medical products, pharmaceutical, and hygiene products, among others, have been on the rise with consumers taking to e-commerce channels with an unprecedented enthusiasm,” said Mr. Jeen Joshua, Director, Verifair, the Organisers of ProPaper Dubai trade fair.
India Participation
Under the auspices of FIEO- Federation of Indian Export Organizations, the apex body for Indian exporters, a large contingent of 54 companies - the largest after the EXPO 2020 Dubai participation, is organizing the India Pavilion featuring multisector products under the banner of Super Sourcing Dubai 2022, looking at increasing export of Indian products to the GCC countries and the MENA in general.
The UAE paperboard market growth
With a high urbanization growth of over 86 per cent and increasing disposable income in the UAE, demand for packaged products continues to rise, in turn paving the way for more paper packaging solutions.
“The windfall growth in the paper packaging demand from the COVID continues to be driven by the health and hygiene conscious consumers, particularly in the food and beverage sector. Paper-based eco-friendly sustainable packaging solutions also continues to gain in this context, Mr. Joshua said, adding that the corrugated board packaging market in the UAE is anticipated to touch nearly US $2 billion by 2025 as per industry reports. The demand for paper packaging solutions have also been supported by the growth of e-commerce in the UAE, and according to Visa, the country’s online spend is the biggest in the MENA region with annual spend by averaging over US$1,648.
Propaper 2022
“Propaper 2022 has been conceived as a comprehensive trade fair for the paper industry players to showcase their products and explore the growth opportunities in this sunshine industry across the MEA and Asia-Pacific region. It is a unique buyer-seller platform which will facilitate partnerships, joint investments, market entry and exploration as well as increased sales forays for the participants,” said Mr. Joshua.
The show will host paper industry companies from across a wide spectrum, including corrugated paper board makers to paper mill machinery manufacturers to tissue and converting machinery, as well as printing and packaging equipment. (Source: press release)
Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
According to Smurfit Kappa, Brazil is the largest corrugated cardboard market in Latin America, with 7.4 bn sq m produced annually. The Southeast region, where PaperBox is located, equates to 46% of this volume.
“We are very proud to expand our footprint in Brazil to meet the growing demand for innovative and sustainable packaging,” said Laurent Sellier, CEO of Smurfit Kappa in the Americas. “This acquisition will broaden and strengthen our presence in the country, improve our production capabilities and enable us to continue to create new opportunities and form new partnerships with customers.”
The transaction, which is subject to the approval of regulatory bodies, is expected to close at the end of October.
Based in Dublin, Ireland, Smurfit Kappa is a leading producer of paper-based packaging with around 45,000 employees across 33 countries. To learn more, visit: www.smurfitkappa.com.
(SOURCE: Smurfit Kappa / image courtesy Smurfit Kappa)
Image caption: PaperBox packaging plant located in Saquarema