Futamura reports ‘very positive’ first year

Innovia Group reached an agreement to sell its cellulose business and assets to Futamura Chemicals last year, and at the time, Mark Robertshaw, Innovia Group chief executive, described the divestment as an ‘important strategic step’. ‘In line with our strategy, we will continue to focus on building our polymer films and banknote business where we see significant growth potential,’ he said.

Futamura Chemicals is a producer of plastic and cellulose films, including the NatureFlex and Cellophane brands. Following the acquisition of Innovia Films’ cellulose business, Futamura has a global footprint with production sites in the UK, US and Japan.

Andy Sweetman, Futamura EMEA sales and marketing manager, said: ‘We have had a very positive first year; this is thanks entirely to our engaged and dedicated workforce and the encouragement of our new parent company, who has proven to be a very supportive guardian for the NatureFlex and Cellophane brands.

‘We have seen significant sales growth of our renewable and compostable NatureFlex films because our converters and brand owners customers are seeing a growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions and are embracing its unique technical and sustainable properties. Our quality and service levels are also at an all-time high.

‘I am very excited to see what the next year brings. Futamura’s commitment to this business is demonstrated by its investment to strengthen our existing capabilities, which will enable us to realize our clear vision to further develop the business for the long-term.’