DUBLIN, Ireland (News release) -- Smurfit Kappa's Dublin Plant is celebrating the 50-year anniversary of opening its doors. The flagship Irish plant was designed by company founder Jefferson Smurfit and opened in October 1967.

The site was the first purpose-built corrugated plant for Smurfit Kappa and quickly became packaging partner for companies across many sectors including food, drink, pharmaceutical, medical and FMCG.

Over the years, the capabilities of the plant have evolved from manufacturing boxes to providing a suite of packaging solutions including the ShelfSmart shelf-ready packaging service. There have also been many physical changes to the plant including multi-million euro investment in machinery and technology and creation of the Irish Experience Centre.

The plant has been a key employer for the area with many families having two and sometimes even three generations working there.

Smurfit Kappa Ireland CEO John O'Loughlin said: "We are proud that Smurfit Kappa Dublin has reached this milestone. There is a lot of history in the plant and strong relationships have been built up with our customers over several decades.

"Under Conor Timmons' leadership the excellent team in Dublin is well positioned to continue the growth and success of the plant. We are continuing to invest in and develop the Dublin plant."

The plant, which is in Walkinstown, is one of 11 Smurfit Kappa locations in Ireland and 370 worldwide.