Metsä Group has decided to invest in the further development and commercialisation of Muoto® moulded fibre packaging. The investment represents the next phase in Muoto’s development, progressing from pilot and demo plant operations towards scalable production and continuous market availability.
The recently announced €25 million investment includes the addition of a new production line and related technologies at the existing demo plant in Äänekoski, Finland, with operations planned to begin in 2028. The production line will be delivered by Valmet, the existing key technology partner. The new line will increase production capacity remarkably – the nominal capacity of the production line will be more than 100 million products per year. The investment will be made in Äänekoski instead of Rauma, as previously planned, based on the infrastructure of the mill site, the existing production line and the costs of the investment.
Towards commercial operation
Metsä Spring, Metsä Group’s innovation company, has led the development of Muoto products and continues to drive its transition towards commercial operations. The investment enables further validation of both the technology and the business model in close collaboration with customers and key partners.
Muoto is now entering a new phase. We are expanding our capabilities, deepening customer collaborations, and building the foundations for future growth.
“Over the coming years, packaging markets will continue to evolve, driven by both customer expectations and regulation such as the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR),” says Antti Valtonen, VP of the Muoto project.
“At the same time, demand is growing for packaging solutions that combine performance, circularity, and scalability. Muoto is now entering a new phase. We are expanding our capabilities, deepening customer collaborations, and building the foundations for future growth. For companies exploring new fibre-based packaging solutions, now is a good time to get on board,” Valtonen concludes.