At the Progroup site in Eisenhüttenstadt (PPO1), an innovative heat storage system is currently being constructed as part of the “Modular Heat Storage Systems for Industrial Use (MoWiE)” research project that is supported by Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE). It is designed to store surplus heat from the power plant and make it reusable when required. With this pilot project, Progroup is teaming up with strong research partners (German Aerospace Center and SIK Peitz GmbH) to develop a solution that has the potential to have an impact well beyond the company itself.

“The European paper industry has a bright future because it already sets the benchmark for the efficient use of resources and the circular economy.”

Personal encounters and a real bond: Since 2015, the Heindl founding family has been visiting a Progroup site to chat to the employees during the annual family days. 2026 saw the family travel to Ellesmere Port (UK). These visits enhance face-to-face dialogue and highlight the values that really ­define Progroup as a family company: closeness, responsibility and a strong sense of togetherness.

Artificial intelligence and data-based production control are increasingly becoming established in paper and corrugated board plants. Modern systems detect any quality deviations in real time, schedule maintenance and help make more efficient use of resources. Companies around the world are investing in smart factories to increase their productivity and sustainability in equal measure. This is a trend that is set to keep accelerating.

Progroup and Zeus Packaging are entering into a long-term partnership in Ellesmere Port. This means the site will once again be used as an integrated packaging park in the future. The cooperation combines the production of corrugated sheetboard directly with its further processing. This will ­deliver short distances, greater efficiency and boost competitiveness. With Zeus Packaging, Progroup is gaining a strong partner to support further growth in the British market and is once again demonstrating its commitment to successful, long-term partnerships in the packaging industry.

Paper rather than plastic: More and more international brands are introducing paper-based packaging solutions. This trend is being driven by new material developments, greater acceptance among consumers and the development of recyclable fibre packaging. According to a survey, for example, 72% of people in the UK prefer packaging made of cardboard or paper compared to plastic.

Source: Reuters