Diageo Partners with MeadWestvaco For High-Efficiency Packaging

Richmond, Virginia, USA, 18 March 2007 – MeadWestvaco Corporation (NYSE: MWV) has achieved preferred packaging supplier status for the Guinness (Diageo) production facility in Runcorn, United Kingdom, for its new high efficiency packaging line.

For their new packaging line, Guinness Runcorn was looking for full flexibility matched with high efficiency. Their new packaging line needed to meet the rigorous demands of around-the-clock production with frequent changeovers, run both wrap and basket-style cartons in differing configurations, and accommodate bottles in varying diameters and heights. Those requirements could be met with a single advanced technology machinery system, like the BasketWrap® 250 machine already successfully running on Guinness Runcorn's first production line. However, with available floor space, the most cost-effective and efficient answer for Guinness' second production line comprised two packaging systems: MeadWestvaco's BasketWrap 200 and EvoTech® machines.

Capable of reaching speeds of up to 420 packs per minute, MeadWestvaco's versatile EvoTech machine can match the demands of today's high-speed production lines. The EvoTech platform sets the industry standard for high operating efficiency, with typical performance greater than 98%. Additionally, the system's standard servomotor technology delivers consistent and trouble-free changeovers. These were important performance factors for Guinness Runcorn because the newly-installed EvoTech machine will continuously run 2x2 and 2x3 neck-through and over-the-top Cluster-Pak® wrap-style carriers for four different brands: GUINNESS Original, GUINNESS Foreign Extra Stout, GUINNESS Extra Stout, and Kilkenny.

The BasketWrap 200 machine, MeadWestvaco's newest mid-range offering, incorporates high-end proven technology at a lower cost, without sacrificing efficiency and flexibility. The 100% servo-driven BasketWrap 200 system was optimized for Guinness Runcorn to run 2x3 basket-style cartons for their Smithwick's, Kaliber, and GUINNESS Draught in Bottles brands, in three different height and diameter bottles.

To facilitate project management and minimize production disruption during installation and commissioning of the second line, Guinness Runcorn called on MeadWestvaco's full-line engineering capability and expertise. Design and installation of Guinness' new line was a collaborative effort between MeadWestvaco's UK sales and technical team and MeadWestvaco Engineering Europe, one of MeadWestvaco's advanced packaging technology centers. This team worked with subcontractors to install a separate divider unit downstream from the two new MeadWestvaco machines, as well as the conveyors and platforms needed for the new production line.

MeadWestvaco is a global packaging company that delivers high-value packaging solutions and products to the world's most recognized companies in the food and beverage, media and entertainment, personal care, home and garden, cosmetic, and healthcare industries. The company also has market-leading positions in its Consumer & Office Products, Specialty Chemicals, and Specialty Papers businesses. MeadWestvaco, with operations in more than 29 countries, has been selected for the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes, and manages all of its forestlands in accordance with internationally recognized forest certification standards. For more information, visit www.meadwestvaco.com.