Coveris strengthens sustainability with Winsford facility expansion 

UK – Packaging manufacturer Coveris has expanded its polyethylene extrusion facility in Winsford, Cheshire, UK, enhancing its capacity to produce sustainable and recyclable films.   

The facility, a UK center of excellence for high-performance technical barrier and stretch films, received significant upgrades aligned with Coveris’ ‘No Waste’ strategy. 

This includes the installation of a cutting-edge nine-layer blown extrusion line for technical ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) barrier films, a new cast stretch extrusion line, and a 5,000-pallet warehouse expansion.   

The nine-layer blown extrusion line positions Coveris as the UK’s largest producer of polyethylene EVOH barrier films. 

These recyclable films are tailored to extend the shelf life of perishable food items such as meat, fish, and dairy products. 

The investment also boosts the production of innovative film ranges like MonoFlex and PolyFlex while supporting the company’s entry into the thermoforming and vacuum skin packaging (VSP) markets. 

The new cast extrusion line complements the site’s existing blown stretch and pre-stretch capabilities. Set to commence production next month, it will produce stretch films optimized for machinery applications in industries handling heavy goods. 

The films, designed with sustainability in mind, will meet UK Plastic Packaging Tax standards by incorporating at least 30% recycled content. 

The warehouse expansion, expected to be fully operational by Q1 2025, will significantly increase storage capacity, streamlining operations and supporting growing production demands. 

Sujoy Bose, Managing Director of Coveris Winsford, commented, “These exciting developments are part of our ongoing commitment to driving innovation in sustainable films. 

“We focus on producing packaging with recycled content, enhancing recyclability, minimizing material usage through downgauging, and ensuring optimal shelf-life with EVOH barrier technology.   

“We are proud to lead environmental initiatives through investments in industry-leading capabilities, our Film Science Lab, and a strong sustainability culture. These enhancements are integral to Coveris’ No Waste strategy, supporting a more sustainable future for the packaging industry.”

Earlier this year, Coveris announced plans to expand into VSP film manufacturing. A dedicated hall and state-of-the-art VSP conversion equipment have been added, leveraging the Winsford site’s expertise in nine-layer EVOH barrier films.   

This investment cements Coveris’ role as a pioneer in sustainable packaging, delivering innovative solutions to meet evolving industry demands.  

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