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  • TNPL begins TM5 tissue machine installation at Unit II mill

    TNPL begins TM5 tissue machine installation at Unit II mill

    The installation of the TM5 at TNPL’s Unit II mill in Mondipatti, Tamil Nadu has officially started.

    This marks an important step in TNPL’s strategic entry into the tissue market. The scope of supply from ANDRITZ includes the complete tissue production line, featuring the high-efficiency PrimeLine™ S 2000 tissue machine with a design speed of 2,000 m/min and a working width of 2.85 m. The line incorporates a PrimePress XT Evo shoe press for excellent bulk and sheet dryness, a 20 ft. steel Yankee, and a steam-heated hood for energy-efficient drying.

    In addition to the machine, ANDRITZ is delivering the stock preparation system, fabrics and rolls, automation and electrification as well as high-efficiency pumps manufactured and tested at the ANDRITZ facility in Chennai. This project builds on a long-term partnership with TNPL and supports their growth ambitions with advanced, resource-efficient technologies for future tissue production.

  • Jani Sales installs sole plate for PM3, advancing tissue expansion

    Jani Sales installs sole plate for PM3, advancing tissue expansion

    Jani Sales Pvt. Ltd. successfully installed the sole plate for Tissue Machine 3 (PM3), a key foundation step as we move closer to commissioning the next phase of expansion.

    With the addition of PM3, our combined tissue production capacity across three machines will reach approximately 82,000 tonnes per annum, reinforcing Jani’s position as a forward-integrated manufacturer and a reliable long-term partner to the tissue industry.

    This expansion reflects our unwavering commitment to scalable growth, operational excellence, and consistent quality. Sustainability and technology remain at the core of everything we do, from efficient resource utilisation and energy-conscious processes to modern machinery and smart automation.

    This milestone would not be possible without the dedication and trust of our employees, project teams, suppliers, partners, and customers. 

  • Lessebo Paper launches Lessebo Covers for book covers where precision meets character

    Lessebo Paper launches Lessebo Covers for book covers where precision meets character

    Lessebo Paper introduces Lessebo Covers, a premium uncoated paper developed specifically for book covers where material choice plays a decisive role in both expression and performance.

    Created to balance technical precision with tactile character, Lessebo Covers is designed to support book designs that need to feel as considered as they look. At the core of Lessebo Covers is a carefully engineered combination of surface strength, controlled stiffness and dimensional stability.

    This ensures reliable performance throughout the entire production process, from printing to finishing, while allowing designers to work confidently with colour, typography and detail. The natural matt surface enhances printability and contributes to a calm, refined visual impression that lets the content take centre stage.

    Available in smooth as well as a range of tactile textures, Lessebo Covers offers creative freedom without compromising consistency or reliability. The paper is available from stock in White, Pitch Black and a curated selection of additional colours, ensuring a reliable and consistent availability. Further colours can be produced on request to meet specific project requirements.

    Produced in Sweden, Lessebo Covers reflects Lessebo Paper’s long-standing commitment to responsible papermaking. With a heritage dating back to 1693, Lessebo Paper continues to combine centuries of craftsmanship with a contemporary approach to sustainability and material innovation.

  • ProPaper Dubai 2026 to Spotlight High- Growth Corrugated, Tissue and Paper Sack Segments

    ProPaper Dubai 2026 to Spotlight High- Growth Corrugated, Tissue and Paper Sack Segments

    The Middle East’s premier paper industry B2B trade show, ProPaper Dubai, this year will present an expanded trade platform with niche focus on paper industry segments that leads growth across the Middle East and Africa (MEA) markets.

    The upcoming edition of the trade exhibition and conference focused on the paper, tissue, packaging and converting industries during October 20 to 22, 2026, will feature three high- potential verticals Pro-Corrugated, Pro-Tissue and Pro-Arab Sacs – in the context of rising demand for sustainable packaging, hygiene products and paper packaging solutions.

    “The increasing demand for paper products in these sectors is driven by e-commerce growth, rising awareness on health and environment as well as from regulatory shifts away from plastic. Paper-based packaging and hygiene products are at the heart of sustainability,” said Jeen Joshua, Managing Director, Verifair Events, organisers of ProPaper Dubai. He said focusing on Pro-Corrugated, Pro-Tissue and Arab Sacs, will help ProPaper Dubai align this leading business only event with sunrise segments that are now driving demand and investment across MEA.

    ‘Pro-Corrugated Dubai’ will highlight growth on the back of e-commerce boom and rise in food manufacturing in the backdrop of MEA paper packaging market estimated to have touched USD 30.5 billion in 2025, and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.1% through 2033. Demand in this segment is anticipated to accelerate, particularly in the backdrop of Saudi Arabia, the second-largest consumer in the region after Turkey, investing nearly USD 70 billion in food manufacturing. In the case of the UAE, which continues to lead in per- capita consumption, the e-commerce packaging market presented a robust picture estimated at over USD 8.5 billion in 2025.

    Driven by rising hygiene awareness and urbanisation., the ‘Pro-Tissue Dubai’ segment will spotlight opportunities in the wake of anticipated sustained growth across the MEA tissue paper market at a projected CAGR of 5.02%, reaching over USD 3.2 billion by 2033, while the GCC market is expected to touch USD 1.8 billion by 2034.

    ‘Arab Sacs’ event will address accelerating demand for paper sacks fuelled by large-scale construction activity and plastic-reduction regulations. The MEA paper bag and sack market was valued at USD 478.5 million in 2025, and is projected to grow at 8.16 per cent in GCC, anticipated to touch USD 700 million by the end of the decade.

    ProPaper Dubai 2026 covers the entire paper industry value chain and typically attracts over 6,000 industry professionals and 200+ exhibitors, alongside the top-notch Conferences and the ProPaper Dubai Awards recognising innovation and sustainability.

  • ELGi enters vacuum tech with new pump assembly line in Coimbatore

    ELGi enters vacuum tech with new pump assembly line in Coimbatore

    Elgi Equipments Limited, one of the world’s leading air compressor manufacturers, announced the inauguration of its vacuum pump assembly line at its headquarters in Coimbatore.

    The new facility marks a significant milestone in ELGi’s strategic expansion into the vacuum solutions space, strengthening its commitment to manufacturing excellence, quality leadership, and global competitiveness.

    The assembly line builds on ELGi’s multi-year technology licensing agreement with D.V.P. Vacuum Technology S.p.A., Italy, under which ELGi manufactures, assembles, tests, and markets D.V.P.’s proprietary vacuum products in India. With vacuum being a natural adjacency to compressed air, this initiative reinforces ELGi’s vision to create a strong, future-ready portfolio of industrial air and vacuum solutions.

    A proud recipient of the prestigious Deming Prize for Total Quality Management (TQM), ELGi has designed the new vacuum pump assembly line in line with its robust TQM philosophy. The facility enables end-to-end control over quality and reliability, allowing ELGi to offer customers globally competitive products backed by a two-year warranty.

    Commenting on the inauguration, Dr. Jairam Varadaraj, Managing Director, Elgi Equipments, said: “The inauguration of our vacuum pump assembly line is a significant step in ELGi’s journey to build globally competitive industrial solutions from India. Vacuum technology is a natural extension of our compressed air business, and this facility reflects our commitment to applying Deming-recognised Total Quality Management practices across every new product line we introduce. By combining proven European technology with ELGi’s manufacturing discipline, service reach, and quality culture, we are well positioned to deliver highly reliable vacuum solutions to customers in India and, over time, across global markets.”

    Anvar Jay Varadaraj, Chief Operating Officer, Elgi Equipments, added: “The global vacuum pump market continues to grow steadily, driven by rising demand across manufacturing, packaging, pharmaceuticals, electronics, and process industries. With this new assembly line, ELGi strengthens its position as a trusted global manufacturer, reaffirming our commitment to innovation, quality, and sustainable growth, while creating long-term value for our customers, partners, and stakeholders.”

    Built for quality, reliability, and customer confidence, the new vacuum pump assembly line incorporates best-in-class manufacturing practices, including automated, sensor-driven assembly processes, comprehensive end-of-line testing, and ergonomically designed 360-degree swivel assembly benches. Together, these capabilities ensure consistently high build quality, operational reliability, and superior product performance.

    In addition, by assembling vacuum pumps in India, ELGi significantly strengthens its customer support ecosystem through faster response times enabled by local assembly and parts availability, extensive pan-India service coverage backed by trained and qualified service engineers, and high-quality aftermarket support, ensuring greater uptime and long-term peace of mind for customers across industries.

  • Wet strength paper demand rises with shift to sustainable packaging

    Wet strength paper demand rises with shift to sustainable packaging

    The rise in the use of wet strength paper in food packaging and consumer goods packaging is further fueling industry expansion.

    As environmental concerns around single-use plastics increase, the demand for eco-friendly alternatives like wet strength paper is also on the rise. The development of sustainable wet strength agents, which offer improved biodegradability and environmental performance, is helping meet the rising consumer demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions.

    These innovations are expected to accelerate the adoption of wet strength paper across industries. Key players such as Mondi Group, WestRock, Stora Enso, Canadian Kraft Paper (CKP), and Evergreen Packaging are investing in research and development to improve the performance, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness of wet strength paper.

    The growing focus on sustainable packaging solutions and the increasing shift toward paper-based packaging for food and beverage products are expected to further contribute to industry growth. As regulatory pressures around packaging materials tighten globally, the wet strength paper Market is expected to witness consistent growth through 2035.

  • Two Sides North America continues sustainability messaging legacy

    Two Sides North America continues sustainability messaging legacy

    Building on the success and impactful research of the Paper and Packaging Board (P+PB), Two Sides North America (TSNA) will step up to take the lead in promoting positive and environmentally-focused messaging for the sector.

    TSNA and the Love Paper Campaign will continue championing the story of sustainability, innovation, and the essential role of paper products and packaging materials. 

    “As stewards of sustainability messaging for the industry, Two Sides North America is proud to carry forward the foundational work done by the Paper + Packaging Board,” said Jules Van Sant, Executive Director of Two Sides North America. “We are committed to leveraging their extensive research and data to inform consumers and stakeholders about the renewable, recyclable, and essential qualities of paper.” 

    “The Paper + Packaging Board consumer sustainability program was recently discontinued, passing its sustainability mantle to Two Sides North America,” states Mary Anne Hansan, President of the Paper + Packaging Board. “Consumers looking for credible data and information can rely on Two Sides North America to fill that void, incorporating the impactful and award-winning work done by The Paper + Packaging Board How Life Unfolds® consumer sustainability campaign.” 

    The transition coincides with TSNA’s renewed efforts to connect with consumers through initiatives such as the Love Paper Campaign, a globally recognized platform that educates the public about the sustainable attributes of paper and paper-based products. The campaign spotlights the benefits of paper’s renewability and recyclability, while debunking environmental misconceptions and fostering informed consumer choices. 

    “We’re thrilled to bring the Love Paper Campaign to the forefront, using it as a powerful tool to reach consumers directly,” said Van Sant. “Paired with the in-depth data and research developed by the P+PB, we are uniquely positioned to continue driving awareness about the environmentally intelligent choices within our industry.” 

    Two Sides North America is funded by industry members who believe in our mission & work to help tell a greater sustainability story. The organization is dedicated to showcasing the paper and packaging industry’s leadership in sustainable forest management, innovation in reducing environmental footprints, and the unique environmental qualities of paper. This includes creating educational materials, campaigns, and industry-wide collaborations to ensure the compelling story of paper and packaging resonates with manufacturers, brands, and consumers alike. 

    With the support of P+PB’s legacy of research and insights, Two Sides North America is excited to lead the industry forward, ensuring the sustainability story of paper and packaging reaches communities across North America and beyond. P+PB and How Life Unfolds websites now redirect to Two Sides North America. The Paper + Packaging Board Transitions Support to TSNA 

  • Pack.Nxt 2025 Concludes with Actionable Conversations Shaping the Future of Packaging

    Pack.Nxt 2025 Concludes with Actionable Conversations Shaping the Future of Packaging

    The 3rd Edition of Pack.Nxt successfully concluded on 16 December 2025 at The Lalit, Mumbai, bringing together senior packaging leaders, brand owners, converters, policymakers, consultants, and technology enablers for a full day of honest conversations, practical insights, and real-world learnings.

    With sustainability, smart technologies, the circular economy, and regulatory readiness at the heart of discussions, Pack.Nxt once again proved why it has become a must-attend platform for India’s packaging ecosystem.

    From early-morning networking to packed conference halls and an energetic exhibition floor, the atmosphere reflected one clear sentiment: packaging is no longer just about protection and aesthetics. It is about responsibility, intelligence, and collaboration, and increasingly, about business resilience and consumer trust.

    Opening Conversations

    The day began with a powerful opening panel on Packaging at the Crossroads: Smart, Digital & Sustainable as One, moderated by Yogesh Sharma from KPMG India. Industry leaders from Flipkart, Diageo India, Shree Renuka Sugars, and the Packaging Industry Association of India discussed how digitalisation, sustainability goals, and operational efficiency must move forward together rather than in silos.

    Panelists emphasised that smart packaging and sustainability cannot be treated as parallel agendas. They highlighted how data-driven decision-making, design-for-recyclability, and digital tools are becoming essential to meet evolving consumer expectations while staying compliant and cost-conscious. The discussion reinforced a key takeaway echoed throughout the day: future-ready packaging must be both intelligent and responsible by design.

    From Circular Economy Theory to Ground Reality

    One of the most engaging sessions of the morning focused on From Theory to Practice: Circular Economy in Packaging. Moderated by Rajesh Kumar Gera, the panel featured voices from Ribotl, Cipla Health, and the Indian Centre for Plastics in the Environment.

    The conversation moved beyond buzzwords and explored what circularity actually looks like on the ground. Speakers discussed real challenges around material choices, recyclability infrastructure, procurement constraints, and scale. A key insight shared was that India’s strength lies in frugal innovation, where circular solutions must make commercial sense to succeed. Panelists underlined that circular economy outcomes are achievable only when brand owners, converters, recyclers, and policymakers work in sync rather than in isolation.

    Smart Packaging, New Materials and Data-Driven Design

    Post-break, the agenda shifted into deep dives on smart packaging technologies, new material innovations, and AI-led packaging design. Panels explored how packaging is evolving from being purely functional to becoming interactive, connected, and information-rich.

    Speakers highlighted how packaging is increasingly being viewed as valuable “real estate”- a touchpoint that can communicate authenticity, enable traceability, and engage consumers beyond the shelf. From QR-enabled interactions to smarter supply chain visibility, the discussions reflected how technology is reshaping packaging’s role across the value chain.

    Discussions on biopolymers, compostables, and recyclable laminates reflected the industry’s growing maturity in material choices. Speakers from leading FMCG and healthcare companies shared real deployment experiences, emphasising that material innovation must align with existing recycling ecosystems rather than remain limited to pilots.

    In a moment that stood out for its simplicity and impact, Mr. Gera invited the entire audience to take a pledge that they would not waste and would not allow others around them to waste. The gesture struck a chord across the room, reminding delegates that sustainability is driven not only by technology and policy, but also by everyday choices and collective accountability.

    The session on AI, IoT & Data-Driven Packaging Design drew strong interest, highlighting how data, automation, and predictive tools are already influencing packaging performance, artwork management, quality control, and operational efficiency at scale.

    Making Sustainability Affordable and Regulation-Ready

    In the afternoon, the focus turned to one of the most pressing questions for the industry: how to make sustainability affordable, scalable, and practical. Leaders from Wockhardt, Emami, Wipro Consumer Care, Godrej Consumer Products, and Polycab shared candid insights on balancing cost pressures with long-term sustainability commitments.

    Speakers stressed that affordability will be the real accelerator of sustainable packaging adoption in India, and that innovation must deliver both environmental and economic value. Collaboration with suppliers, standardisation, and long-term planning emerged as recurring themes.

    The final knowledge session on Regulatory Readiness brought together regulatory experts and industry veterans from Marico, DFM Foods, Haldiram, Amazon, Institute of Packaging, Mumbai and Food and Drug Administration, Maharashtra, to decode EPR, labelling norms, and compliance expectations. The discussion underlined the importance of proactive regulatory planning, robust documentation, and internal alignment, especially as enforcement and scrutiny continue to increase across categories.

    Pack.Nxt Awards 2025: Celebrating Purpose in Action

    The day concluded with the Pack.Nxt Awards Ceremony, recognising organisations that are not just talking about sustainability, but delivering measurable impact through technology, partnerships, and best practices.

    • Pack.Nxt Most Admired Company for Excellence in Super-Clean rPET Technology, setting new benchmarks for food-grade, bottle-to-bottle circularity in India
      Winner: Al Mehtab Industries
    • Pack.Nxt Most Promising Partnership for delivering sustainable rPET packaging with verified CO₂ reduction across (FMCG and beverage)
      Winner: Mehtab Industries × Dodhia Group
    • PACK.Nxt Most Admired Plastic Free Packaging Company
      Winner: Greendot Biopak Private Limited
    • PACK.Nxt Most Admired Company Driving Circular Economy
      Winner: Saspack Ventures Pvt. Ltd.
    • PACK.Nxt Most Admired Recyclable Packaging Company
      Winner: Thakkar Flexipack Private Limited
    • PACK.Nxt Most Admired Company Driving Best Practice in Sustainability
      Winner: Eternal Limited

    Each award told a story of innovation, credibility, and commitment, reinforcing the idea that sustainable packaging is no longer aspirational. It is achievable, scalable, and business-relevant.

    Looking Ahead

    Pack.Nxt 2025 closed with renewed energy, stronger connections, and a shared belief that the future of packaging lies in thoughtful design, smart technology, regulatory preparedness, and collective action. As packaging continues to evolve at the intersection of sustainability, intelligence, and policy, Pack.Nxt will remain a platform where ideas meet execution. The conversations don’t end here. They begin here.

  • Sanabel Alataa Paper Manufacturing Company success in producing high-quality white printing paper

    Sanabel Alataa Paper Manufacturing Company success in producing high-quality white printing paper

    Sanabel Alataa Paper Manufacturing Company success in producing high-quality white printing paper.

    Sanabel Alataa Paper Manufacturing Company (Sanabel Alataa for Industry LLC) made an announcement on January 3rd, 2026, regarding their success in producing high-quality white printing paper in the 60 to 80 GSM range. The company, part of the Sanabel Group, issued the announcement to celebrate this production milestone with its partners, customers, and followers.

  • Strategic partnership between UPM and Versowood finalized

    Strategic partnership between UPM and Versowood finalized

    The strategic partnership agreement between UPM and Versowood, announced in September 2025, has received the necessary regulatory approvals and the contract has entered into force on December 31, 2025.

    Under the agreement, UPM will receive high-quality pulpwood and sawmill by-products from Versowood, which will strengthen UPM’s wood supply for its pulp mills in the tight Finnish wood market.

    UPM, in turn, will supply logs sourced through its own wood procurement to Versowood’s sawmills. In addition, UPM’s Korkeakoski sawmill has been transferred to Versowood’s ownership and UPM has received a minority shareholding in Versowood.