Smurfit Kappa, the paper producing and recycling company, has announced plans to develop its Townsend Hook plant in Kent.
The investment will facilitate the installation and commissioning of a purpose built, five-metre, lightweight recycled container board machine to secure paper supply for all the company’s operations in UK and Ireland. The machinery, sourced from Cartiera di Cardidavid, the Italian paper mill and paper converter, is scheduled to be operational by 2014.
The new equipment will increase the company’s capacity for recycled paper by eight per cent, taking the annual tonnage from 240,000 to 260,000. The new facilities, together with those in Birmingham, will mean Smurfit Kappa is able to increase its portfolio of corrugated paper it offers and enhance its ability to deliver closed-loop recycling to its customers.
Chris Allen, CEO of Smurfit Kappa Paper UK, said: “The design of the new machine features state-of-the-art technology that will produce a superior lightweight paper.”
He added: “This investment in the current financial climate shows Smurfit Kappa’s commitment to the UK, Ireland and Pan-European customers of our Corrugated and Paper divisions.”
Smurfit Kappa has been operating at Townsend Hook for over 150 years and currently produces 4.7 million tonnes of paper per annum. Clive Bowers, CEO, Smurfit Kappa Corrugated UK, added: “At a time of considerable change in the UK and European packaging markets, it is vitally important for our customers that continuity, innovation and quality of supply is maintained at all times. This major investment in our infrastructure underlines our desire to provide our customers with unparalleled advantage over their competitors, ensuring that Smurfit Kappa is always seen as leading our industry, with bold and decisive business policies for the long-term.”
The company has also announced the appointment of Peter Seggie as its External Affairs Manager. Seggie moves from his position as General Secretary at The Recycling Association.
Speaking about the appointment Simon Weston, Managing Director of Smurfit Kappa Recycling, said: “We are delighted that Peter has chosen to join us. There are many issues bearing down on the recovered fibre market and his knowledge and experience is critical to our intention to provide thought leadership to the industry.”
In his new position Seggie will be working alongside stakeholders and external bodies such as the Confederation of European Paper Industries. Seggie’s work will be at both a national and international level, and will see him attempt to maximise the benefits of paper recycling for the company.
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