Following its $250 million investment in 2016-2017 in Trois-Rivières to convert a newsprint machine for the production of 100% recycled lightweight and high-strength linerboard, the Kruger Packaging Group has injected new funds into its LaSalle and Place Turcot facilities for various modernization projects to be completed this year at a total cost of nearly $20 million.
The LaSalle Packaging plant recently dedicated a new state-of-the-art converting line after investing almost $10 million. The integrated, high-speed production line, which prints, folds and glues, produces 24,000 boxes per hour, or 400 per minute. The European-made, fully automated machine also features a twin-head strapping machine. The new line, which operates 24/7, accounts for more than one-third of the plant’s production capacity and gives it the new momentum needed to meet growing demand in the eco-friendly packaging sector.
Other investment projects at LaSalle include modernizing the corrugator, a project of almost $3 million that will be completed this year, as well as replacing a palletizer and various improvements aimed at increasing the plant’s performance and energy efficiency.
The containerboard mill at Place Turcot has received new investments since 2016 to boost productivity and product quality while driving greater energy efficiency. By the end of 2018, the mill will have completed modernization projects totaling some $9 million. It expects to reduce its GHG emissions by 15% and cut its water use as a result of these technological improvements.
