"We are talking about a state-of-the-art, purpose-built facility with the latest automation technology," says Timo Finnström, Executive Vice President, Operations.
The green field plant was completed in less than seven months after the construction work commenced. The main technology used is extrusion technology, and the first commercial products were delivered in July. Experiences of the new facility have so far been very positive.
"Our main markets are in Central Europe. The plant in Wroclaw reduces lead times significantly. Customers can expect to have their deliveries supplied within two weeks", says Leif Frilund, President and CEO.
Wroclaw is an attractive location because of recent investments in road infrastructure in the area. Hosting one of the highest ranked technology universities in Poland, Wroclaw is also ideal for recruiting highly skilled employees. Its central location, in Southern Poland close to growing markets across the German, Czech and Slovakian borders, minimises Walki's carbon footprint as transportation distances are reduced significantly.
Walki has also recently invested in a flexo-printing machine in the Jatne plant for producing ream wrap mainly for the wrapping of A3 and A4 copy paper reams.
"As the requirements on printing quality are increasing we felt that the time was right for modernisation", says Frilund.
The 10-colour printing machine line is completely automated, and uses 100% water-based colours to minimise the environmental impact.
Together with the plant in Kwidzyn near Gdansk, Walki now operates three plants in Poland.
"We have set our eyes firmly on Central Europe. Poland offers an optimal location with the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Germany, Ukraine and the Baltic countries at a close distance. Being close to growing markets is also the environmental-friendly choice", concludes Leif Frilund.
Walki Group is a leading producer of technical laminates and protective packaging materials, specializing in the production of fibre based, intelligent, multilaminate products for markets ranging from energy saving construction facings and construction membranes to barrier packaging applications.