Finnish packaging specialist Wipak Group (Nastola; www.wipak.com) in November started operations at its first plant in Asia Pacific, located in Changshu / China. The 5,000 m² facility will focus on producing, printing and laminating composite films for the food and healthcare markets, and will cater to rising regional demand for top-quality packaging. With an eye towards the future, Wipak said the plant can be extended to up to 21,000 m². Investment costs were not disclosed, nor did the company say how many employees work at the new facility.

Certified according to ISO 14644-1 and classified as clean room class 8, the facility engages in production, printing and slitting. It also serves as a service provider for customers in China and elsewhere in Asia. Commenting on the opening, Wipak managing director Jari Tevajärvi said, “This first unit that we are opening today in China, and also in the Asia Pacific region, offers the potential for Wipak’s further growth.”