This initiative is part of DS Smith Packaging's growth strategy in Eastern Europe, aimed at driving sustainable packaging solutions and delivering value to customers and partners.
"With nearly thirty years of market presence, our €34.4 million investment in Hungary marks a pivotal step in strengthening our footprint in Eastern Europe, enhancing our manufacturing capacity and advancing our commitment to sustainable packaging solutions," said Reinier Schlatmann, Managing Director of DS Smith Packaging East Europe. "By creating local job opportunities, driving innovation, and supporting community sustainability initiatives, we are reinforcing our role as a leader in the circular economy. We are also proud to support long-term growth and environmental responsibility in the country."
The expansion is expected to boost manufacturing capacity by more than 40%, introduce advanced capabilities, and set new quality benchmarks to meet the highest customer standards. Additionally, it aims to contribute to local economic growth, create new jobs, and support DS Smith's sustainability goals through innovative circular packaging solutions and plastic alternatives.
Highlights of the Investment Across Hungarian Sites
- Füzesabony
A brownfield investment in Füzesabony will establish a state-of-the-art facility focused on automation and operational efficiency. The facility will produce sustainable packaging solutions in line with DS Smith's circular economy goals, utilizing advanced technology to minimize environmental impact. Completion is scheduled for the end of 2024. - Győr
The Győr site will see the installation of new converting equipment to expand capacity, improve efficiency, and enhance product quality. As a key contributor to DS Smith's strategic focus on plastic replacement, the site's product range will play a critical role in meeting sustainability targets. The next investment phase will begin in 2025. - Nagykáta
In Nagykáta, the focus will be on modernizing the corrugator to improve board quality and meet customer expectations. Upgrades will also enhance the plant's energy efficiency, aligning with DS Smith's sustainability objectives. This investment will commence in 2025.
Promoting Sustainability Education Through Eco-Classrooms
The investment also includes the establishment of three eco-classrooms in Hungary to enhance environmental education. The most recent classroom in Füzesabony was designed by architecture students and serves as a flexible space for hands-on learning to foster ecological awareness among children.
These eco-classrooms build on the success of the first two in Budapest and Nagykáta, each of which involved more than 100 volunteers. These initiatives emphasize the importance of community engagement in cultivating sustainability awareness in young learners.
