Latest laminating technology now in operation at STI Group

Last year’s €8 million investment in high-performance lamination has seen STI Group strengthen its ability to produce efficient, CO2-saving, resource-optimised premium packaging. The machine, installed at its Lauterbach site, went into operation in early 2025.

‘This new laminating technology is already outperforming our expectations. As another key milestone in our Pioneers in Packaging strategy, it enables us to specifically target increased sustainability and cost efficiency for our packaging solutions,’ explains Jakob Rinninger, CEO of STI Group. The state-of-the-art machine produces the highest quality corrugated board using significantly less energy. It can process lightweight papers without compromising the finished corrugate board flatness, thanks to its innovative glue application system. Created by Quantum Corrugated (part of Fosber Group) and Stock Maschinenbau, the custom-built laminating system is the only one of its kind in the world. STI Group customers can now benefit from packaging solutions using B, E, F and G flutes made from lower grammage paper/cardboard qualities, a more sustainable alternative to conventional material.

Finer flutes replacing solid board

Following the introduction of the European Green Deal and the Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), STI Group has been focused on optimising packaging specifications and delivering material-saving configurations that keep brands compliant. The company’s Circular Innovation team, which brings sustainable innovations to market maturity, has been exploring the feasibility of replacing solid board packaging with lightweight finely fluted materials. Being able to reduce packaging weight, CO2 emissions and cost while maintaining or improving stability is now a reality.

Packaging focus

STI Group continues to invest in strengthening its packaging business and developing the technologies in use at its production sites. The machine portfolio in Kecskemét, Hungary, was expanded in 2024 with a new Heidelberg printing press, while capacity at its folding carton plant in Rumburk, Czech Republic, was significantly increased with a second machine. ‘By consolidating our strategic focus on packaging and continuing to expand our capacities and efficiency, we are helping our customers to maintain their competitive edge,’ says Jakob Rinninger.