Sappi will introduce new barrier coating technology at its speciality mill in Alfeld, Germany, strengthening its position as a leading global provider of sustainable paper packaging solutions through its functional paper packaging range.
Sappi's functional paper range for flexible packaging features integrated barrier functionality – against oxygen, water vapour, grease, aroma and mineral oil – and "excellent" heat-sealing properties, meeting growing market demand for alternatives to foils and plastic.

Explaining the decision, Berry Wiersum, CEO Sappi Europe said: “Expanding the use of our proprietary barrier coating technology underpins Sappi’s drive to maintain our leading position in barrier coated paper as well the commitment we have with our customers in developing innovative, future-focused packaging solutions which contribute towards a sustainable future.

Adding barrier coater capacity at Alfeld Mill further upscales the company's capabilities, enabling Sappi to bring a combination of paper, dispersion and coating technology to more customers.

According to Sappi, the demand for paper and paperboard packaging continues to rise dramatically as consumers become increasingly mindful of the impact their buying choices have on the environment. The call for innovative, truly sustainable solutions has never been louder, the company says.

Chris Reynolds, Sappi’s sales manager based in its Sydney office said, “This announcement will encourage the Australian and New Zealand brand owners and packaging manufacturers that I already work with. They are excited by our existing range and for them to know that Sappi is investing to ensure there will be increased capacity is great news.“

Reynolds said Sappi expects to begin commissioning the new products as from mid-2022.