Stora Enso and Pulpex Partner to Produce Fiber-Based Bottles on Industrial Scale

Using Stora Enso's formed fiber material, Pulpex will produce paper bottles for an array of global brands across a variety of market applications.

May 12, 2021 - Stora Enso and Pulpex are collaborating on the development of industrial scale production of eco-friendly paper bottles and containers made from wood fiber pulp. These renewable products will offer an alternative to PET plastics and glass. The exclusive partnership leverages Stora Enso's formed fiber technologies and ability to convert end-products at an industrial scale.

A formed fiber product is manufactured by pressing various wood-based pulps into a three-dimensional shape in a moulding machine, Stora Enso noted.

The focus of the partnership is on the development of a high-speed production line, which the companies expect to be operational in 2022.

Pulpex is a sustainable packaging technology company established by Diageo (makers of Johnnie Walker, Smirnoff and Guinness) and Pilot Lite (a venture management company).

"We see great potential in combining development skills of Pulpex with our industrial capabilities," said Sohrab Kazemahvazi, SVP Formed Fiber at Stora Enso. "This cooperation marks an important step in bringing to market a truly sustainable alternative to plastic bottles and containers, while offering end-user qualities that match those of traditional packaging in the beverage market."

Using Stora Enso's formed fiber material, Pulpex will produce paper bottles for an array of global brands across a variety of market applications, from homecare and personal care products to alcohol- and non-alcohol beverages and liquid foods. All of Stora Enso's wood fiber pulp comes from sustainable, verified sources. The customizable Pulpex bottle allows for embossing, labelling and coloured pigments to fit brand needs and easily integrates into any packaging manufacturer's existing filling infrastructure.

"We are delighted to have Stora Enso involved with Pulpex and are looking forward to the tangible benefits of such a formidable collaboration that will undoubtedly help us over the coming months as we seek to make our new, high-speed production lines available to all our partners," said Scott Winston, Director, Pulpex Limited.

According to Stora Enso, the global beverage packaging market is worth an estimated $117 billion and is forecast to grow by 4.5% and reach $170 billion by 2027. Globally, plastic packaging is currently growing at 5% CAGR and represents about 40% of global beverage packaging. Across the EU and US today, only around 30-40% of all plastic bottles are collected for recycling. However, for paper and cardboard recycling, the average is nearer 80%, just ahead of glass and aluminium (75-80%).

Part of the bioeconomy, Stora Enso is a leading global provider of renewable solutions in packaging, biomaterials, wooden constructions and paper. To learn more, visit: www.storaenso.com.

SOURCE: Stora Enso