The firm will install advanced machinery that will increase production capacity by over 20% and add advanced technological capabilities like seven-colour HD Flexo printing and precision die-cutting technology at the site
DS Smith to invest €13m in its site in Ghimbav, Romania. (Credit: DS Smith)
British packaging firm DS Smith has unveiled its plans to invest €13m in its Ghimbav production facility in Romania for new packaging solutions and boost the production capacity.
According to the plans, the funds will be used to install advanced machinery that will increase production capacity by over 20%.
DS Smith will also add advanced technological capabilities like seven-colour HD Flexo printing and precision die-cutting technology at the Ghimbav site.
According to the packaging firm, the investment is expected to increase the plant’s existing capacity by more than 20% and boost productivity. It will also support customers with the ongoing initiative of plastic replacement.
The planned capacity expansion, part of the company’s growth strategy in East Europe, will support the British firm to increase its presence in the Romanian market and strengthen its portfolio.
The related work and technological upgrades are expected to be completed by the end of this year.
DS Smith Packaging Romania managing director Christian Schmidt said: “We are thrilled about the significant investment which is enhancing our machinery capabilities and production capacity.
“It empowers our team to deliver innovative packaging designs, improve quality, and deliver state-of-the-art graphics.”
The packaging major will add a steam optimisation feature to the cardboard production machine to lower the site’s annual carbon emissions by 210 tonnes of CO2 and its gas consumption by 12%.
Additionally, DS Smith will equip the facility with a new LED lighting system to cut carbon emissions by 46% by 2030.
Furthermore, the firm will implement waste management technologies to minimise on-site consumption of electricity by about 10%.
DS Smith Packaging East Europe regional managing director Reinier Schlatmann said: “With 56% of consumers actively seeking reduced plastic usage, we will be able to better support our customers with their sustainability targets and further decarbonise our operations, accelerating circular and sustainable packaging solutions.”
Recently, the company selected Amazon Web Services (AWS) as its preferred cloud provider to accelerate innovation, advance efficiencies, and aid sustainable solutions development.