The company offers a portfolio of functional packaging papers. The papers are an alternative to non-recyclable multilayer materials and plastic packaging. By ensuring product safety and compliance with packaging regulations, Sappi supports its partners and at the same time promotes the circular economy. With the investment in a new barrier coating line at the Alfeld site, the next generation of functional papers from Sappi Europe is ideally positioned.

As one of the world's leading providers of paper-based packaging solutions and a pioneer of innovation, paper manufacturer Sappi Europe continues to pioneer the way to greater sustainability in flexible packaging. For over a decade, Sappi has been at the forefront of the functional paper market, developing compelling alternatives to conventional multilayer and plastic packaging.

With its extensive range of barrier papers, the company aims to replace non-recyclable materials such as paper-film laminates and extrusion-coated papers and offers flexible, innovative solutions for a wide range of packaging needs.

Sappi’s papers feature integrated barriers – depending on the application, with high, medium or low-barrier properties – against oxygen, water vapor, grease, aroma, mineral oil and with added heat-sealability. This ensures that the quality of food and non-food products is preserved – whether they are packed in sachets, flow-wraps, pillow bags, doypacks or stand-up pouches. As the world pursues its search for sustainable packaging alternatives, Sappi remains dedicated to developing solutions that not only meet but exceed the evolving demands of both the market and the environment. “Our functional papers, including the Guard, AvantGuard, and Seal product families, reflect more than a decade of expertise in barrier technology,” confirms René Köhler, Director Paper & Packaging Solutions at Sappi Europe. “The recent addition of products such as Guard OHS, Guard ICC, Guard Twist and Seal Light illustrates our ongoing commitment to lead by innovation.”

“Sappi’s commitment to innovation and sustainability is embodied by our continuous investment in technology and product development,” adds René Köhler. “Our recent multi-million euro investment in a new barrier coating machine in Alfeld, Germany, not only boosts our production capacities, it also enhances our ability to introduce groundbreaking products to the market and expand our portfolio of next-generation functional papers.” The Alfeld mill now produces various barrier paper products, ranging from 44 to 120 g/m², available in different finishes such as Natural, Silk, and Gloss of the printing side. This includes Sappi’s low, medium and high barrier and heat sealable papers. Many other products in different phases of development are in the process.