UK Paper Industry Showcases Innovation and Economic Impact at Parliamentary Event

On November 18, the Confederation of Paper Industries (CPI) hosted an Industry Showcase at the UK Parliament, sponsored by MP Frank McNally. The event brought together paper sector representatives and over 20 MPs, Lords, and political stakeholders to discuss opportunities, challenges, and innovations shaping the UK’s packaging industry. Highlighting its role in supporting manufacturing, advancing sustainable packaging, and strengthening regional economies, the event emphasized the importance of lowering industry energy costs and fostering sector collaboration to realize a circular economy for paper and board.

CPI members including SAICA, Cepac, DS Smith, Shotton Mill, Smurfit Westrock, Durham Box, and Essity UK demonstrated industry advances and regional economic contributions. CPI CEO Alex Veitch stressed the need for a recycling-focused business model addressing renewability, carbon impact, and system efficiency amid rising costs. MP Frank McNally noted the paper industry’s £15 billion contribution and 115,000 jobs across the UK, underscoring the event’s success in engaging policymakers and industry stakeholders for future growth.