Scaling Up Sustainable Food-to-Go Packaging
Paranova Print and Packaging has officially unveiled its newly upgraded manufacturing base in St Neots, Cambridgeshire, marking a significant milestone in the company’s growth strategy. The project, which involved a £5 million ($6.7 million) investment, has transformed the site into what is now considered the largest fibre-based food-to-go packaging facility in Europe.
Expanding Capacity and Capability
The extensive redevelopment project covered the company’s dual production operation in the town, successfully adding 2,000 square meters of manufacturing space. This expansion has effectively tripled the site’s previous production capacity, allowing Paranova to strengthen its position in the competitive food packaging market.
Key upgrades to the facility include:
- New Technology: Installation of a custom-built Bobst press specifically designed for lined board food-to-go products.
- Diversified Production: The new equipment enables the production of a wide range of formats, including sandwich skillets, wrap boxes, trays, and cartons.
- Increased Output: The company currently produces over 700 million recyclable food-to-go packs annually across its three board manufacturing sites.
Commitment to Innovation and Sustainability
As the industry faces increasing pressure to adopt environmentally friendly practices, Paranova is prioritizing sustainable solutions. The company is currently finalizing the next iteration of its RecyclaLite product. This initiative is designed to assist customers in reducing their Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) exposure while transitioning toward fibre-based packaging with a lower environmental footprint.
“This investment marks a defining moment for Paranova and reinforces our ambition to lead the future of sustainable food-to-go packaging,” said Jo Ormrod, CEO of Paranova Print and Packaging.
According to Ormrod, the St Neots site has been reimagined as a hub for innovation and quality. By scaling its fibre-based solutions, the company aims to help its clients navigate evolving environmental legislation and meet the growing consumer demand for sustainable packaging alternatives.
