Smurfit Westrock announces €600 million investment ahead of Choose France summit

Packaging giant demonstrates long-term commitment to French industry

Smurfit Westrock, a global leader in sustainable paper-based packaging, today announced plans to invest approximately €600 million across its operations in France, reinforcing its long-term commitment to French manufacturing, innovation, and sustainability ahead of the Choose France initiative.

Smurfit Westrock’s investment will take place over the next three to five years and will support the modernisation and decarbonisation of its operations; enhancing manufacturing efficiency, customer innovation, and sustainable packaging capabilities.

Established in France for over 40 years, Smurfit Westrock employs approximately 6,000 people at 50 sites across the country, underscoring France’s strategic importance to the Company’s European operations and its attractiveness as a destination for industrial investment.

Saverio Mayer, CEO Europe, MEA and APAC at Smurfit Westrock said: “With this continuous programme of investment in France, our commitment to innovation, quality, and decarbonisation efforts is clear.

“France continues to provide a strong environment for this to take place; through long-term industrial investment, supported by skilled talent, innovation, and a clear commitment to sustainability.”

This next phase of investment builds on a solid foundation: the Company has already spent more than €500 million in France over the past five years to modernise operations, improve service, and expand capabilities. Today, Smurfit Westrock operates four net zero plants in France and an almost fully decarbonised paper mill, underscoring its leadership in sustainable packaging production.

Andrew Coffey, CEO at Smurfit Westrock France added: “It only makes sense that sites creating sustainable packaging are sustainable in their own right. Achieving net zero at these plants was a significant milestone, and one which has given us an excellent platform to go even further.

“That’s why strategic investments in key sites are important to continue this momentum. These include a €40 million expansion and modernisation of our Épernay facility, €20 million to continue progress at our advanced corrugated facility in Vernon, and over €100 million to support multiple projects at our Facture paper mill, including the installation of an evaporation plant. These investments will further elevate our capabilities and reduce our environmental impact.”

Smurfit Westrock also hosted open days at a number of sites in France on 29 and 30 May, welcoming local communities, customers, and stakeholders to showcase innovation in sustainable packaging manufacturing.