As part of its EUR45.6 million investment in its 2013 and 2014 expansion plans, German packaging solutions provider Klöckner Pentaplast Group has added on new production capacity in the UK, Argentina and Brazil. Klöckner Pentaplast (KP) says it is the only rigid film solutions producer with manufacturing sites located on four continents – Asia, Europe, North America, and South America.

KP has added to its UK and European production capacity for polyester films. Primarily used for food and consumer packaging applications, the new capacity is located at the company’s Newport/Crumlin facility. The EUR6 million investment expands capacity by 8,000 tonnes.

It has also invested in 1,200 tonnes of additional coating and laminating capacity suitable for the production of Pentapharm alfoil PVdC-coated and Pentapharm ACLAR laminated packaging films to service the Latin American pharmaceutical industry. PVC calendering capacity has been increased by 12,000 tonnes to service the pharmaceutical, food, print, card, and general-purpose thermoforming markets.

In addition, matte calendering capacity will follow in November 2014. The company is investing a total of EUR11.6 million and adding on 26 employees. The new capacity further complements the group’s existing film production capacity at two facilities in Latin America, Villa del Totoral, Argentina, and Cotia, Brazil.

“Klöckner Pentaplast’s 2013 and 2014 expansion plans demonstrate our commitment to supporting our customers around the world with consistent, high-quality film and superior service and technical support,” comments Christian Holtmann, CEO.

Klöckner Pentaplast Group is a global leader in providing packaging, printing, and speciality solutions serving the pharmaceutical, medical device, food, beverage, and card markets among others. It has a broad portfolio of rigid plastic films.

Founded in 1965, Klöckner Pentaplast has grown from its initial facility in Montabaur, Germany, to current operations in 12 countries with 18 production sites. The company has sales of over EUR1 billion and employs more than 3,000 people committed to serving customers worldwide. It is wholly owned by an investor group led by SVP Global.