Amcor expands flexible packaging operations in North America for protein sector

USA – Amcor plc announced a major expansion of its flexible packaging production in North America, targeting increased capacity for the protein market. 

The company plans to add printing, lamination, and converting lines at its facility in Columbus, Ohio, to meet rising demand from meat, poultry, and seafood processors. 

This move comes as food industry clients seek efficient, high-barrier packaging solutions to extend shelf life and reduce waste.

The expansion involves an investment of approximately US$50 million, with new equipment set to come online by mid-2026. 

Amcor’s flexible packaging division, which already serves major brands in the region, will gain 20% more output for specialized films and pouches designed for fresh proteins. 

These materials incorporate recyclable mono-materials where possible, aiding compliance with evolving regulations on single-use plastics.

“North America’s protein sector is experiencing steady growth, driven by consumer preferences for convenient, ready-to-eat options,” said Ronald Lewis, Amcor’s president of the Americas. 

He added that the upgrades would enable faster turnaround times for custom orders, helping customers cut down on excess inventory.

This development follows Amcor’s recent US$30 million upgrade at its Fletcher, North Carolina plant, which enhanced lamination capabilities for beverage and snack packaging. 

Together, these projects represent Amcor’s push to localize production amid supply chain disruptions. 

The Columbus site, operational since 2018, now employs over 300 workers and focuses on extrusion and slitting technologies tailored to food safety standards.

In related news from the Middle East and Africa region, Huhtamaki opened a new flexible packaging plant in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, last month, investing US$25 million to produce sustainable films for dairy and protein products. 

The facility uses 50% recycled content in its outputs, supporting local food exporters.

 “This plant will supply over 100 million units annually, reducing import reliance,” noted Jari Antero, Huhtamaki’s regional director, in a recent update.

Amcor’s initiative arrives at a time when the global flexible packaging market for proteins is projected to reach US$45 billion by 2028, fueled by e-commerce and meal kit services. 

The company reported a 5% rise in North American sales for flexible formats in its latest fiscal quarter, attributing gains to partnerships with retailers like Walmart and Kroger.

The expansion is a response to tighter FDA guidelines on packaging migration limits. 

Amcor has committed to phasing out 100% of its virgin plastic use in select lines by 2030, with the new Columbus lines featuring energy-efficient dryers that lower operational emissions by 15%.

The project creates 50 new jobs in printing and quality control roles.

 Amcor expects the enhanced setup to process up to 200 tons of material daily, streamlining logistics for Midwest suppliers. 

Subscribe to our email newsletters that provide busy executives like you with the latest news insights and trends from Africa and the World. SUBSCRIBE HERE