Sonoco Announces Price Increase for Paperboard Tubes and Cores

Packaging leader Smurfit Kappa has launched a unique range of circular packaging solutions for the rapidly growing online health and beauty market. The customisable eHealth & Beauty portfolio includes sustainable, paper-based packaging solutions ideal for shipping vulnerable products, such as fragrances, cosmetics, and skin and hair care products, as well as tamper proof packaging designed for vitamins, supplements and sports nutrition. As demand in the health and beauty eCommerce market expands, so do consumer expectations for higher quality and sustainable packaging, in addition to delivery protection. Recent research carried out by Smurfit Kappa shows consumers are continuing to push for higher standards in delivery. The research found: *80% expect their parcel to arrive in perfect condition *59% prefer parcels that are easy to open *74% say that easy return is important for their convenience *69% prefer paper-based packaging for sustainability reasons

DS Smith, a world leader in sustainable packaging solutions, has unveiled a £48 million investment in a new fibre preparation line (F-line) at their Kemsley paper mill. Forming part of DS Smith’s organic investment program, this multi-year investment will deliver attractive returns through improved efficiency and reduced costs. Kemsley is the largest mill for recycled papers in the UK, and the second largest in Europe. It produces 830,000T of paper every year, all made from 100% recycled fibre. The new line will supply recycled fibre to PM3, which is a highly versatile paper machine, that is capable of producing white top test liner, plasterboard liner and other corrugated case materials (CCM) grades. A state-of-the-art drum pulping and screening system that more efficiently separates contaminants from fibre such as plastics, barriers and coatings will also be installed as part of this initiative.

Menasha Packaging Company announces it has signed an agreement to acquire the assets of Color-Box, a business unit of Georgia-Pacific, LLC. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. The acquisition is expected to close in early summer 2022. Like Menasha Packaging, Color-Box is a corrugated packaging manufacturer specializing in high-graphic boxes. Founded in 2000, Color-Box employs 550 and operates plants in Richmond, Indiana; Pelahatchie, Mississippi; and Madera, California. "Menasha Packaging and Color-Box are a great fit, and we are excited about the opportunities ahead," said Mike Riegsecker, President, Menasha Packaging Company. "Color-Box will expand our geographic footprint and provide additional graphics, design, and structural packaging options for our customers. Color-Box's business culture also strongly aligns with Menasha Packaging's, with a priority on safety and employee wellbeing, excellence in serving customers, and a focus on innovative solutions."