The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry
In a move to bolster its operations in Central and Eastern Europe, DS Smith has announced an investment exceeding €25 million aimed at enhancing its production capabilities in Poland.
This strategic initiative underscores the company's commitment to transitioning towards sustainable, fibre-based packaging solutions amid growing demand from food and beverage manufacturers for environmentally friendly options.
The bulk of the investment – €22 million – will be directed toward upgrading the existing packaging facility in Kielce. This facility will be outfitted with advanced machinery, including the installation of a Bobst Masterline 2.1 die-cutter, which is expected to improve automation and precision within the Flexography department.
Additionally, DS Smith is set to launch a new production line for its DS Smith Easy Bowl solution in the Bełchatów facility, aimed specifically at fresh food packaging. This move reflects the company’s responsiveness to the evolving needs of producers, particularly in the context of rising consumer expectations for sustainable packaging.
Further investments at the Sosnowiec facility will focus on the production of sustainable, fibre-based paper bags tailored for the ecommerce sector, addressing the growing market for online food and beverage sales.
These expansions are anticipated to boost DS Smith’s annual packaging production capacity in Poland by approximately 25 million square meters, alongside an increase of 7.5 million square meters for glued boxes.
Reinier Schlatmann, regional managing director of DS Smith’s packaging division in Eastern Europe, said: “By enhancing our production capabilities, we are able to provide our customers – leading fast-moving consumer goods brands, major retailers and industrial companies – with increased options for recyclable and circular solutions”. This aligns with the broader industry trend towards sustainability, as manufacturers strive to meet consumer demand for environmentally responsible products.
The investment also aligns with DS Smith's sustainability strategy, which recently achieved a notable milestone by replacing over 1 billion pieces of plastic in collaboration with its customers, ahead of a target set for 2025.
The company’s focus on plastic elimination and CO2 reduction remains central to its operational strategy, reflecting a growing recognition within the food and beverage manufacturing sector of the need for sustainable practices.