LEIPA and OutNature Begin Construction of Straw Fiber Plant in Schwedt

LEIPA and OutNature have officially begun construction of a new straw fiber production plant at LEIPA's factory site in Schwedt following the handover of the facility's keys on July 22, 2026.

The project marks a step toward expanding the raw material base for paper production by introducing cereal straw as a renewable fiber source. According to the companies, the initiative is intended to complement existing fiber sources, strengthen resource sovereignty, and support a more sustainable circular economy.

The new facility is scheduled to begin operations in the first quarter of 2027. It will produce approximately 7,000 tonnes of straw fibers annually using a thermomechanical digestion process. The fibers will be combined with recycled fibers to create an alternative to conventional kraftliner grades.

The first commercial product from the project, LEIPA Synergy, is expected to be launched in the second quarter of 2027. The material is intended primarily for use in corrugated cardboard packaging and display applications.

The companies said the investment represents another step toward more resource-efficient and resilient paper production at the Schwedt site. They also acknowledged the contributions of the project partners and stakeholders involved in bringing the initiative to the construction phase.