We are pleased to announce another multi-million investment in our manufacturing site in Prachinburi, Thailand. This investment will double our company’s wet molded fiber (WMF) production capacity to 250 million fiber trays and bowls per year.
Hoogstraten, Belgium, 25 July 2024—deSter is pleased to announce a substantial investment in new production technologies, further enhancing its production capabilities in Asia.
As part of our ongoing investment program in manufacturing capabilities worldwide, and in line with our ESG initiative, deSter’s site in Prachinburi will receive a multi-million investment in production equipment for Wet Molded Fiber (WMF) products. This investment will double deSter’s production capacity for WMF to 250 million fiber trays and bowls per year.
In 2022, deSter initiated a pilot program for WMF production in Prachinburi. To meet the growing demand for fiber-based products from the travel and food service segments, deSter will expand its in-house production capacity.
This investment will cover the installation of new forming lines, expanding the existing pulping capacity and selecting additional equipment next to a facility adjustment. For the production of WMF, deSter is able to convert multiple types of pulp, both bagasse (sugar cane pulp), wood fiber pulp (both bleached and unbleached) and rice straw. Depending on the material mix, the products could be used for cold use, microwaveable, or ovenable applications.
Wet-molded fiber products are instrumental in reducing single-use plastics in the onboard and food service markets and have become a core component of the deSter product range. All deSter products are PFAS-free.
Stef Van de Perre, President and Managing Director of deSter, said: “This significant investment in expanding our wet molded production capacity represents another milestone for our company. This strategic move is not just about increasing our production capabilities; it is a forward-thinking step that aligns with our commitment to sustainability and innovation. This investment underscores our dedication to reducing environmental impact, promoting sustainable practices, and ensuring long-term value for our stakeholders. Together, we are building a more resilient and responsible future for our company and our community.”
More information on deSter’s ESG initiative can be found in our sustainability report 2023.
Media inquiries
deSter communications dester.communications@gategroup.com
About deSter : deSter, a gategroup member, is a leading provider of innovative and sustainable food packaging and serviceware concepts to the aviation, hospitality, and foodservice industries.
The company combines 75 years of manufacturing expertise with the latest production technology and material developments. deSter has production units in Hoogstraten (BE), Barcelona (ES), Lima (US), and Prachinburi (TH), in addition to global sales offices. www.dester.com