DS Smith, a global leader in sustainable fiber-based packaging solutions, has unveiled plans for a EUR 34.4 million strategic investment to expand its operations in Hungary. Supported by the Hungarian Investment Promotion Agency, this initiative will enhance the company’s facilities in Füzesabony, Nagykáta, and Győr, with project completion expected by April 2026.
Driving Growth in Eastern Europe
This investment is a key component of DS Smith Packaging’s growth strategy in Eastern Europe. The company aims to bolster its manufacturing capacity, drive sustainable packaging solutions, and provide enhanced value to its customers and partners.
Reinier Schlatmann, Managing Director of DS Smith Packaging East Europe, stated, “With nearly 30 years of market presence, our EUR 34.4 million investment in Hungary marks a pivotal step in strengthening our footprint in Eastern Europe. This initiative will advance our commitment to sustainable packaging solutions while creating local job opportunities, fostering innovation, and supporting community sustainability initiatives. We are proud to contribute to long-term growth and environmental responsibility in the country.”
Key Highlights of the Investment
The expansion is expected to boost manufacturing capacity by over 40%, introduce advanced technologies, and set new quality benchmarks to meet evolving customer needs. The initiative also supports DS Smith’s sustainability goals by focusing on circular packaging solutions and reducing plastic use.
Site-Specific Investments
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Füzesabony
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A state-of-the-art brownfield facility will focus on automation and operational efficiency.
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Advanced technology will enable the production of sustainable packaging solutions aligned with DS Smith’s circular economy goals.
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Completion is scheduled for the end of 2024.
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Győr
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New converting equipment will be installed to expand capacity, improve efficiency, and enhance product quality.
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This site will play a critical role in DS Smith’s efforts to replace plastic with sustainable alternatives.
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The next phase of investment begins in 2025.
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Nagykáta
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The corrugator will be modernized to improve board quality and meet customer expectations.
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Upgrades will focus on energy efficiency, aligning with the company’s sustainability objectives.
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Investment at this site will commence in 2025.
Promoting Sustainability Through Education
As part of its commitment to sustainability, DS Smith is establishing three eco-classrooms in Hungary to promote environmental education. The latest classroom in Füzesabony was designed by architecture students and offers a flexible, hands-on learning space to foster ecological awareness among children.
These eco-classrooms build on the success of earlier projects in Budapest and Nagykáta, which involved over 100 volunteers. By engaging the community, DS Smith emphasizes the importance of cultivating sustainability awareness in young learners.
Looking Ahead
DS Smith’s investment in Hungary underscores its dedication to innovation, sustainability, and regional economic growth. By enhancing its facilities and focusing on education and community engagement, the company is well-positioned to support its long-term vision of driving a circular economy while meeting the growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions.
