Paranova Print and Packaging, a provider of various packaging solutions including labels, cartons, and trays for prominent retailers and brands throughout Europe, has announced a significant investment aimed at enhancing its packaging offerings.
A total of £6 million will be directed towards establishing a specialized board production facility in Godmanchester, Cambridgeshire, slated for inauguration this November. This new site will amplify the company’s paperboard production capabilities and fortify its range of fibre-based packaging options.
Set to be the largest of Paranova’s four fibre-based facilities within the UK, the Godmanchester location is expected to address the rising demand for paper-based packaging in sectors like fresh produce, convenience foods, and food-to-go.
Spanning 98,000 square feet, the facility will encompass manufacturing, on-site warehousing, and dedicated office and R&D spaces, thus creating a seamlessly integrated operation. Approximately a third of the total operational space will be allocated for warehousing, allowing Paranova to scale operations and adapt to seasonal fluctuations while positioning itself for future growth.
Developed in collaboration with machine partner Koenig & Bauer, the facility has been meticulously engineered to optimize speed, enhance workflow efficiency, and incorporate sophisticated automation throughout its production areas, supported by advanced print and finishing machinery.
In addition to the initial investment, an extra £14 million will be allocated for supplementary press and finishing equipment, along with an automated logistics system designed to facilitate ongoing operations.
The Godmanchester facility will complement Paranova’s leading flexo and litho manufacturing site in Wisbech, thereby strengthening its production network and capabilities in the paperboard sector. In the past five years, the company has seen robust year-on-year growth in paperboard, and this new facility marks an essential stage in its expansion journey.
“This investment signifies a crucial milestone for Paranova’s growth, reaffirming our longstanding commitment to the future of fibre-based packaging,” stated Jo Ormrod, CEO of Paranova Print and Packaging.
“Godmanchester has been specifically designed to address the growing pace and complexities that our customers are facing, especially in fresh produce, convenience, and food-to-go sectors. By embracing next-generation print and finishing technology, we will cultivate a manufacturing setting that allows for reduced lead times, enhanced flexibility, and quicker delivery to the market.
“With this being our largest fibre-based facility to date, the new location enables us to support additional growth while continuing to assist our customers in transitioning to paper-based packaging solutions.”
The initial machines are anticipated to arrive in early September, with operations expected to commence in early November. Once fully functional, the site will provide employment for around 150 individuals.
This announcement comes on the heels of Paranova’s successful completion of a substantial £5 million upgrade at its St Neots facility focused on fibre-based food-to-go packaging.
