Smurfit Westrock has announced plans to invest approximately €600 million across its French operations over the next three to five years, reinforcing its long-term commitment to the country. The company aims to accelerate the modernisation of its facilities, strengthen innovation capabilities and continue the decarbonisation of its operations.
Established in France for more than 40 years, the fibre-based packaging producer employs approximately 6,000 people across 50 sites. The new investment programme builds on more than €500 million already invested over the past five years to improve industrial performance, modernise operations and expand production capacity.
“With this continuous programme of investment in France, our commitment to innovation, quality and decarbonisation is clear,” said Saverio Mayer, CEO Europe, MEA and APAC at Smurfit Westrock. He noted that France continues to provide a favourable environment for industrial investment through its skilled workforce, innovation ecosystem and commitment to sustainability.
The company highlighted its environmental progress, including four net-zero plants in France and an almost fully decarbonised paper mill. These achievements underscore the strategic importance of France within Smurfit Westrock’s European operations and support the company’s broader sustainable growth ambitions.
Among the projects announced are a €40 million expansion and modernisation of the company’s Épernay facility, an additional €20 million investment in its corrugated packaging operation in Vernon, and more than €100 million for multiple projects at the Facture paper mill. The planned investments include the installation of an evaporation plant and are intended to improve operational efficiency while reducing environmental impact.
Smurfit Westrock also hosted open days at several French sites on May 29 and 30, welcoming local communities, customers and other stakeholders to learn more about the company’s sustainable packaging innovations.
Smurfit Westrock is one of the world’s leading fibre-based packaging companies. Operating in more than 40 countries, the company designs and manufactures packaging solutions serving a wide range of industrial and consumer markets.
