Stora Enso opens a new corrugated packaging production factory at De Lier, the Netherlands. The site is part of the recently acquired De Jong Packaging Group, now Business Unit Western Europe in the Packaging Solutions division. The major expansion has been designed with a strong focus on sustainable operations.

The expansion adds a new, second factory to the De Lier site and equipping the facility with two new corrugators to augment the existing two. As a result of the expansion, the site is now the largest and most modern corrugated packaging facility in Europe. The De Lier site’s products currently include boxes and trays for fresh produce, horticultural and industrial applications, e-commerce and transport.

The newly opened factory at De Lier utilises a variety of sustainable solutions, such as 3.8 MWp of solar panels installed on the roof, which will provide electricity to an equivalent of 1,000 households. The residual heat generated by the corrugators will be used to heat the site’s office buildings, further reducing their carbon footprint.

“This expansion allows us to grow our market share in renewable and circular packaging solutions while serving our customers from a highly favourable location in Western Europe. We are thrilled to reinforce our position as a strong regional player in Europe’s corrugated packaging market,” says David Ekberg, executive vice president, Packaging Solutions division, Stora Enso.

Enabling customers to meet their sustainability targets

The new state-of-the-art factory at De Lier boasts a fully automated paper reel warehouse, two corrugators and conversion machines utilising a multi-level conveyor, along with an advanced waste management system. Moreover, it features an improved internal transport system that facilitates safer movement through the production process while reducing the need for forklift trucks.

“Expanding the facility with a new factory significantly optimises the flexibility and efficiency of our processes, making it possible for us to better support our customers in achieving their sustainability targets. By reducing our carbon footprint and incorporating renewable energy, we are taking major steps towards more sustainable operations, while also improving our manufacturing processes and workplace safety,” says Ad Smit, senior vice president, BU Western Europe, Packaging Solutions division.

The De Lier site develops and sells premium fiber-based packaging products and services and employs approximately 500 people. The new factory is now in the commissioning phase, with the first orders already delivered.

Stora Enso’s high-end eco-friendly packaging products are used by leading brands across multiple market segments, including retail, e-commerce, and industrial sectors. The portfolio includes converting corrugated board and carton board, and other new materials such as formed fiber. Division also provides design and sustainability services for our customers, as we support a shift towards renewable solutions.