Corrugated Paper Packaging: The Modern Production Process at the Heart of Sustainable Industrial Development

·         1 billion. € turnover | >3,000 employees | Coverage of almost the entire domestic market

·         Investments of more than €200 million. in modern production lines

·         Full automation and real-time digital quality control

·         Reduction of raw material consumption by 6% through lightweighting techniques

·         88% average recycled content and integration of design for recycling principles

Athens, February 17, 2026 

Hellenic Paper Packaging Producers (HPPA) presented the modern production process of corrugated paper packaging and its role in sustainable industrial development, in the context of an educational briefing and a visit by journalists to one of the most modern production units in Greece and Europe.

The Greek corrugated paper packaging industry, with a turnover of approximately €1 billion. and more than 3,000 employees, is a modern and dynamic manufacturing sector with a strong production base. Covering almost all domestic demand, it supports critical sectors of the economy — from the food industry and processing to trade and exports — while its operation relies on a high degree of technology, automation and quality control systems that ensure durability, safety and efficiency at every stage of the production process.

During the presentation, the evolution of the production process itself was highlighted, which has been substantially transformed through technological upgrades and design optimization. Modern corrugated board production relies on high-precision automated lines, real-time digital quality control systems, and comprehensive raw material management systems. The incorporation of lightweighting techniques allows for the reduction of material consumption without loss of mechanical strength, while the design of the products follows the principles of design for recycling.

Through these technological advancements, a reduction in weight per square meter by 6 percentage points has been achieved, through optimization of cardboard composition, more precise control of fibers and redesign of corrugated structures, maintaining the required levels of strength and quality. This means less raw material consumption for the same level of efficiency, lower transport volumes and reduced emissions during transit. At the same time, the use of automated production lines and digital monitoring systems allows for precise regulation of energy consumption, minimization of production waste and continuous real-time quality control. The more efficient use of resources and the digitalization of the process enhance the competitiveness of the sector, reducing production costs and at the same time reducing the environmental footprint of industrial activity.

At the same time, all stages of production were presented, from the shaping of the cardboard and the creation of the corrugated sheet to the final conversion and printing, highlighting in practice how technology and mechanical precision are integrated into each phase of the process. Production operates in an integrated system where quality, safety and efficiency are key axes.

Corrugated paper packaging is one of the most circular industrial products, as it is 100% recyclable and biodegradable and is produced on average from 88% recycled fibers. Cardboard fiber can be recycled more than 25 times, creating a closed value loop in which used paper is reintroduced as a raw material in the industrial process.

As the President of HPPA, Mr. Vassilis Exarchos, characteristically stated: "The evolution of the production process proves that the industry can combine technological progress and environmental responsibility. Corrugated paper packaging is a critical link in the supply chain and a key factor in strengthening the competitiveness of the Greek economy."

About HPPA

HPPA represents more than 80% of the Greek corrugated and paper packaging industry, covering most of the domestic production. Its members are active in the entire range of the production chain, from the processing of raw materials to the final processing, contributing decisively to the country's industrial activity.

In the last three years, the sector has made investments exceeding €200 million. in paper mills and modern production and processing lines, strengthening its technological base. Through equipment upgrades and design optimization, a reduction in weight per square meter by 6 percentage points was achieved, with significant environmental and economic benefits.

Contact details for more information:

Maritina Mantzavinatou, General Secretary of HPPA, secretary.general@hppa.gr, +30 6948225555

Perception Communication Consulting, Andreas Droukopoulos adr@perception.com.gr  +30 694 6400067