GERMANY (News release) -- Packaging and speciality paper manufacturer Sappi Europe has invested a double-digit million euro sum in a new plant to produce innovative high-barrier papers - including an all-new type of barrier coating machine. Recently put into operation at the company's Alfeld site in Germany, the in-house solution will produce high-barrier papers for recyclable packaging for food and non-food applications.

Sappi draws on far-reaching expertise in paper-coating technology. For more than 10 years, the company has been producing a wide range of packaging papers that feature integrated barriers against oxygen, grease, water vapour, mineral oil and aromas, at the same time as providing excellent protection for packaged products. At a time when the packaging industry faces steadily increasing demand - from consumers, the retail sector and legislators - to offer sustainable materials and processes, Sappi's long-standing commitment to paper-based, recyclable flexible packaging solutions meets this megatrend for more sustainable packaging solutions.

Building on its position in barrier papers, Sappi has now invested a double-digit million euro sum in an all-new type of barrier coating machine, recently put into operation at the company's Alfeld site in Germany.

Marco Eikelenboom, CEO of Sappi Europe, explained how the Alfeld investment underscores Sappi's strategy to establish itself as a market leader in flexible packaging: "We offer brand owners and converters fibre-based, recyclable packaging solutions that enable them to achieve their sustainability goals and contribute to the circular economy."