Mondi has officially inaugurated a new paper machine at its Štětí mill in the Czech Republic, completing a major expansion of its kraft paper and paper-based packaging capacity.
The plant went into operation in December 2024 and is intended to meet the growing demand for paper-based solutions, which is characterised by booming e-commerce and increasing sustainability requirements. According to the company, the machine produces around 210,000 tonnes of kraft paper per year in various grammages for applications in construction, industry and online retail.
The new paper machine is part of a €400 million investment by Mondi to strengthen security of supply for customers while supporting the transition to renewable and recyclable packaging. The machine will also enable the optimisation of the entire kraft paper portfolio, including functional barrier papers. The company emphasises that the technical expansion will serve the long-term goal of providing solutions that are „sustainable from the ground up“.
Insights into the project process and market trends
The inauguration ceremony was characterised by partnership and exchange along the value chain, as they say. More than 130 customers and partners followed the presentations and the demonstration of the machine. Andrew King, CEO of the Mondi Group, said on stage: „This is more than a paper machine, it is a symbol of what we can achieve when innovation, sustainability and teamwork come together. It enables us to continue to provide our customers with excellent service and the high-quality packaging materials they need to achieve their sustainability goals.“
Miroslav Zitka, Managing Director Mondi Štětí, and Vladimir Krajci, Project Manager Mondi Kraft Paper, explained the course of the project from planning to commissioning. According to the company, deadlines and budget were met, which was achieved through close cooperation, high safety standards and consistent project management. In addition, a panel of customers, machine manufacturers and industry experts discussed current market developments, sustainability requirements and the importance of joint solutions for a functioning circular economy.
Finally, the participants were given an insight into the new production facility and took the opportunity to exchange ideas. For Mondi, the event marks a further step in the expansion of its European paper and packaging activities.
Source: Mondi
