THE NETHERLANDS (News release) -- Smurfit Kappa continues to extend its paper portfolio production capabilities by investing in its flagship paper mill in the Netherlands.

The Roermond Paper Mill has made a series of upgrades to its Paper Machine 1 (PM1) during the last two years including rebuilding the winder, the press section, the drying section and the film press.

The final enhancement, which was completed earlier this year, was to install a state-of-the-art shoe blade gap former, a rebuild of the approach flow system and an extension of the machine hall.

On completion of the last phase, the 5-metre wide PM1 can now produce 85-135gsm recycled fluting and testliner at a rate of 1200 metres per minute.

Speaking about the investment in the mill, Laurent Sellier, COO of Smurfit Kappa Paper Europe, said: "The investment in the Roermond Paper Mill has significantly strengthened its capabilities as a leading provider of lightweight recycled paper grades.

"There has been a growing demand for paper-based packaging as a sustainable alternative to plastic and it is used widely in both the eCommerce and retail sectors.

"Through our Better Planet Packaging initiative we're looking to extend our range of innovative, sustainable solutions that have a positive impact on the environment."

The Roermond Paper Mill is often held up as a shining example of sustainability. An integrated steam re-use system, which optimises energy usage throughout the mill, is one of the latest sustainability developments implemented.