Stora Enso introduces innovative printable folding boxboard for food packaging

FINLAND – Stora Enso has introduced Performa Nova, a next-generation folding boxboard (FBB) designed to meet the growing demand for renewable and recyclable food packaging solutions.

Engineered for dry, chilled, and frozen food as well as chocolate and confectionery packaging, the new board combines high yield with exceptional performance, marking a significant expansion of Stora Enso’s core packaging material portfolio.

The launch follows the successful start-up of the company’s state-of-the-art consumer board production line in Oulu, Finland.

Performa Nova is produced using Stora Enso’s proprietary FiberLight Tec technology, which enables the production of strong yet lightweight board.

This approach enhances material efficiency, allowing more packaging units to be produced using less raw material—without compromising strength, durability, or visual appeal.

“At the core of Performa Nova is a breakthrough in how we approach strength and sustainability,” said Tuomas Puonti, Vice President of Product Development at Stora Enso Packaging Materials.

“With FiberLight Tec, we’ve created a product that supports both sustainability and operational efficiency while meeting the demanding requirements of food-safe packaging.”

Performa Nova offers excellent stiffness, box compression strength, and a smooth surface for premium printing results.

Available in grammages ranging from 200 to 315 g/m², it is suitable for a wide range of applications and can be combined with barrier coatings for enhanced food protection. The board is now available for commercial orders.

This launch underscores Stora Enso’s commitment to renewable packaging innovation, supporting brand owners and converters in their transition to circular solutions.

Performa Nova adds to the company’s comprehensive portfolio of cartonboard products, enhancing flexibility in supply and material choice.

Meanwhile, Stora Enso reported a strong financial performance in the first quarter of fiscal year 2025. Sales rose 9.1% year-on-year to €2.36 billion (US$2.68 billion), driven by higher prices and increased delivery volumes.

Adjusted EBIT climbed to €175 million (US$199.44 million), up 17.7% from Q1 FY24, while the EBIT margin improved to 7.4%.

Operating profit increased 21.7% to €171 million (US$194.88 million), and pretax profit jumped 40.8% to €132 million (US$150.43 million).

Net profit surged 40% to €107 million (US$121.94 million), with basic earnings per share rising 43.5% to €0.14.

The performance highlights Stora Enso’s continued momentum, backed by innovation, efficiency gains, and a strong commitment to sustainability.

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