In an effort aimed at meeting rising demand for industrial packaging solutions in France’s Rhône Valley and southern regions and to be closer to its customers, Mauser Group (Brühl / Germany; www.mausergroup.com) is currently installing three new intermediate bulk container (IBC) lines as well as a new reconditioning unit at its site in St. Priest / France. The lines, which the group will operate together with its National Container Group (NCG, www.nationalcontainer.com) subsidiary, are due to start up in January 2017. By H2 next year, the company plans to add another production line for plastic drums, capable of holding up to 220 l. Financial details were not disclosed.

The site in St. Priest has been producing steel drums since 1968. It is one of four locations operated by Mauser in France. The group’s facility in Esches specialises in plastic packaging and composite IBCs, while its plant in Creil produces mostly large steel drums. The third plant is located in Saint Amand les Eaux, and run by group subsidiary NCG. The latter facility specialises in sustainability-oriented services, rounding off the company’s portfolio in the country.

The expansion in France follows Mauser's acquisitions in the UK this year, including the July purchase of long-term partner Daniels Healthcare Group (Kidlington / UK; www.daniels.co.uk) – see Plasteurope.com of 13.07.2016.