Paranova’s US$26.6M  fibre-based packaging expansion adds Godmanchester Plant

UK – Paranova Print and Packaging has announced a £20 million (US$26.6 million) investment over five years to expand its fibre-based packaging business, including a new board plant in Godmanchester, Cambridgeshire, scheduled to begin operating in November.

The 98,000ft² facility, which will be Paranova’s fourth fibre-based operation in the UK and its largest in this segment, will add capacity for paper-based packaging used in fresh produce, convenience and food-to-go markets. 

The site is being developed with machine partner Koenig & Bauer and has been planned around speed, workflow efficiency and automation, with a new print and finishing equipment set-up. 

Approximately one-third of the operational area is being allocated to warehousing to handle seasonal demand and allow room for later expansion.

Koenig & Bauer Press and Automation Drive Shorter Lead Times and Flexibility

A Koenig & Bauer press is the main item in the investment, expected to support shorter production runs, quicker turnaround, reduced stockholding and a stronger response to more complex customer requirements. 

The new operation is intended to help customers manage shorter lead times, changing forecasts and the move towards paperisation. 

The site is also set to add to Paranova’s capacity in carton and sleeve products, complementing its existing fibre-based operations across the UK. When fully operational, the site is expected to support 150 jobs, creating significant employment opportunities in the region.

Future Investment and Growth Strategy

The total programme includes additional phases featuring further press and finishing machinery alongside a fully automated logistics system to support the expanded capacity.

Paranova Print and Packaging CEO Jo Ormrod stated that the investment marks another major milestone in the company’s growth and underlines its long-term commitment to the future of fibre-based packaging. 

She added that by investing in next-generation print and finishing technology, the company is creating a manufacturing environment that supports shorter lead times, greater flexibility and faster speed to market. 

The programme positions Paranova to meet growing demand for sustainable fibre-based packaging solutions across fresh produce, convenience and food-to-go sectors while enhancing its competitive position in the UK packaging market. 

The Godmanchester plant represents a strategic investment in UK manufacturing capacity at a time when brands are increasingly seeking domestic suppliers to reduce supply chain complexity and carbon footprint.

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