DUBLIN (News release) -- Smurfit Kappa, one of the leading providers of paper-based packaging solutions in the world, has announced an investment of over USD33 million in Brazil to expand the capacity of its plant in Fortaleza to meet the growing demand for innovative and sustainable packaging.

The expansion, which includes the installation of a new corrugator, will significantly extend the plant's Shelf Ready Packaging capability for FMCG customers in a range of sectors including fresh fruit, home appliances and pharmaceuticals.

Several high-end printers will also be installed to provide the high level of precision and quality that is required for eCommerce packaging. In addition, a new innovation centre will foster even more customer collaboration and enhance the development of impactful, sustainable and market-leading packaging solutions.

"Today's announcement will ensure Smurfit Kappa can support our customers to gain even more share in their markets. The combination of an innovation centre and state-of-the-art technology will provide greater opportunities to collaborate with customers to deliver innovative, inspiring and sustainable solutions," commented Manuel Alcalá, CEO of Smurfit Kappa Brazil.

"Almost 30% of the total Brazilian population resides in the Northeast region, and Fortaleza offers the perfect platform to strengthen our presence in this attractive and fast-growing part of the country," said Laurent Sellier, CEO of Smurfit Kappa the Americas.

"Brazil is an essential market for Smurfit Kappa and we are excited to dedicate significant resources of the company's global investment plan to expand our presence in the Northeast. It is clear testament to Smurfit Kappa's commitment to this market."