OptiGroup appoints new CEO as leadership moves accelerate across packaging and print industries

SWEDEN — OptiGroup has confirmed Niklas Berntsson as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective 9 January 2026.

He succeeds Christoph Sander, who stepped in as interim CEO in March 2025 and now returns to the company’s Board of Directors.

OptiGroup, a major European distribution group with €1.4 billion in net sales and more than 2,300 employees, says the leadership transition marks a key step in strengthening its long-term strategic direction.

Berntsson previously served as President and CEO of Plasman Group from 2018, and before that held senior leadership roles at Kongsberg Automotive, Assa Abloy, and Volvo Cars.

His appointment is expected to bring renewed focus on operational efficiency and market expansion across OptiGroup’s hygiene, medical, facility solutions, and packaging distribution segments.

VPK UK & Ireland strengthens operations with new Banbury plant leadership

In a parallel leadership move within the corrugated packaging sector, VPK Packaging UK & Ireland has named Del Pollard as plant general manager for its Banbury manufacturing site.

Pollard joins from Smurfit Westrock, bringing more than 15 years’ experience in complex manufacturing environments and a proven track record in operational improvement.

Pollard expressed enthusiasm about the new role, “VPK has a strong reputation for quality, investment, and people. My focus will be on supporting our teams, improving operational performance, and maintaining the high standards our customers expect.”

Doug Wyllie, operations director at VPK UK & Ireland, noted that Pollard’s appointment is central to the company’s growth plans, “He brings a strong operational mindset, a passion for continuous improvement, and proven experience in leading teams through change.”

Miraclon expands service leadership in Asia Pacific

Meanwhile, in the print technology and prepress sector, Miraclon has appointed Rajagurulingam Ramalingam as service manager for the Asia Pacific region.

Based in Singapore, Ramalingam will lead the company’s regional service organization, overseeing customer support, technical excellence, field performance, and operational execution.

With more than 20 years’ experience across printing inks and packaging production, Ramalingam is expected to reinforce Miraclon’s regional footprint.

His career blends technical expertise with commercial understanding, skills Miraclon says are critical as customers seek to maximize value from the company’s FLEXCEL Solutions.

Andy Yarrow, regional commercial director for Asia Pacific, said, “Raja brings an exceptional balance of technical depth, customer understanding, and leadership experience.”

Robbert Merkus, global commercial service business director, added, “His appointment strengthens our global service network and supports our commitment to delivering world-class service to customers.”

These appointments across OptiGroup, VPK, and Miraclon reflect continued leadership renewal in the packaging and print industry as companies prioritize operational efficiency, technical capability, and customer-centric service models heading into 2026.

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