Finnish packaging company Metsä Board will commence the installation phase of a major board machine modernisation at its Simpele mill in September 2025.

The move is part of a €60m ($70m) investment programme, which will improve the quality of the company’s folding boxboard grade, MetsäBoard Classic FBB, and also advance the mill's shift towards fossil-free production.

A curtain coating technology will be introduced to the MetsäBoard Classic FBB for improved print surface and superior visual quality.

The technology is expected to deliver more consistent print results and sharper details, which is particularly beneficial for demanding packaging applications.

Simpele mill vice-president Toni Tahvanainen stated: “Preparations have progressed excellently throughout the summer. In the coming weeks, over 35 truckloads of equipment will arrive from our main suppliers, and more than 430 professionals will be working on-site.” 

The investment shutdown, lasting five weeks, will involve comprehensive upgrades including a full modernisation of the coating section, an expansion of the coating kitchen and the installation of a new pallet packaging line.

The enhanced production line is expected to be fully operational in early October.

The Simpele mill operates with 89% of its energy coming from fossil-free sources. With the new upgrades, the mill is projected to increase this percentage to 98% by the end of 2025.

MetsäBoard Classic FBB caters to the high-volume food and healthcare sectors, which require efficient, reliable and consistent packaging solutions.

Metsä Board CEO Esa Kaikkonen stated: “Our goal is to offer brand owners an even more competitive packaging option - both in terms of quality and environmental performance. This is especially critical now, as sustainability targets and regulatory requirements are more stringent than ever.” 

In January 2025, Metsä Board revealed plans to shut down its Tako mill in Tampere and enhance the efficiency of its Kyro mill in Kyröskoski.