The investment is expected to increase Smurfit Kappa’s production capacity of white top kraftliner from 174,000 tonnes to 220,000 tonnes a year. Credit: Smurfit Kappa Group.

Smurfit Kappa is to invest in its Facture Paper Mill in France in a bid to meet the growing demand for kraftliner grades in Europe.

The move comes shortly after the company completed an upgrade of the mill aiming to strengthen its position in the production of kraftliner containerboard in Europe.

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As part of the upgrade, the company implemented a new pulp washing line and achieved a complete overhaul of the black liquor recovery boiler.

“The Facture site is going through a major upgrade programme, which will significantly increase both the output and quality of the kraftliner we produce.”

Starting next year, Smurfit Kappa plans to undertake improvements to its paper machine No. 5.

The move will allow enhancing the company’s production capacity of white top kraftliner from 174,000t to 220,000t a year.

Smurfit Kappa Paper & Board Europe COO Laurent Sellier said: “The Facture site is going through a major upgrade programme, which will significantly increase both the output and quality of the kraftliner we produce.

“This mill has an ideal location for meeting the demands of customers in Southern Europe so we are committed to implementing ongoing innovations and improvements.”

The company’s paper-based packaging portfolio offers a sustainable alternative to plastic and is used in the e-commerce and retail sectors.

Made from virgin fibres, premium white top kraft paper is suitable for the high-specification digital print used to improve the visibility of brands on the shelf.