DS Smith unwraps its China packaging plans
With an eye on efficiency and sustainability, the company says it plans to connect Chinese suppliers across the country with the global partners on its books.
“We will be a one-stop packaging shop for global customers with Chinese operations who need high-quality, multi-material packaging, world class expert service and innovative design to ensure their products are optimally protected at every stage of the global supply cycle,” said Andreas Guip, Managing Director of DS Smith China.
Growth up ahead
Beauty and personal care packaging in China is tipped to see a steady increase at a CAGR of 5% over the coming years, according to the latest data from market research firm Euromonitor International, suggesting it's a savvy time for DS Smith to be setting up shop.
In terms of prevalent market trends, rigid plastic is the biggest packaging type in the country, making up 41% of the market and outpacing the rest in terms of growth, thanks to it being “light, handy, yet solid”, according to the firm.
Shanghai: packaging hub
DS Smith China will base its operations in Shanghai, which it states will position it at the heart of global production.
It “is a reflection of the organisation’s supply cycle thinking; begin with packaging design and compliance expertise on the ground where many of the world’s products are made,” the company explained.
“Shanghai is the commercial and financial heart of mainland China where an impressive 39.3% of the region’s GDP comes from high end manufacturing,” Oliver Cottard, the company’s head of industries, said. “Helping our customers in this important area is a logical step for DS Smith.”
Eye on performance
Performance is the dominant buzzword for DS Smith, with providing top quality packaging solutions the key focus for the company’s venture in China
“We will find, select, audit and qualify external packaging manufacturing partners and our in-house quality auditors will ensure that every pack meets stringent performance metrics,” Cottard explained.
