The ALPLA Group, one of the leading companies in the manufacture and reuse of plastic packaging, can look back on the successful financial year 2022 in spite of the crisis. Sales of 5.1 billion Euros exceeded the previous year’s figure by 27.5%. In addition to the company’s growth strategy, the record turnover reflects the significantly higher energy, materials, staff, and transport costs. In 2023, the packaging and recycling specialist will focus on expanding its injection-molding capacities, investing in recycling, expanding its Pharma division, and researching alternative materials.
ALPLA continued its international growth trajectory in 2022, expanding production capacities, increasing staff numbers, and posting sales growth of 27.5%. The international specialist for packaging solutions and recycling achieved a positive annual result despite massive increases in energy prices and a shortage of raw materials. Newly opened sites, acquisitions, and expansions resulted in more than 1,000 additional employees. The number of plants increased from 177 to 190.
“The packaging industry will be dealing with high costs, changes in demand, and changing consumer behavior for a long time to come. We use efficiency, innovation, and recycling expertise to realize safe, affordable, and sustainable plastic solutions in times of crisis too,” emphasizes ALPLA CEO Philipp Lehner. In addition to targeted acquisitions, the key factors contributing to the success were close and long-standing partnerships, regional solid roots, and the expedited expansion of recycling capacities.
Growth markets and recycling
The long-term aim is for the company to grow by 4-5% annually. In addition to capacity expansions in its core business, ALPLA is also planning strategic investments in injection molding, increased involvement in the pharmaceutical sector, and expanding the global circular economy. At the same time, there will be research into alternative, bio-based and biodegradable materials. “We are striving for long-term sustainable growth, strengthening our global presence, promoting recyclable products, minimizing the use of resources and energy consumption, and expanding our portfolio,” announces Lehner.
The focus is primarily on the growth markets of Africa, the Middle East, Asia and North America. In the area of recycling, ALPLA has been investing more than 50 million euros annually in capacity expansions and technology development since 2021. For recyclable and affordable packaging, closed loops and sufficient materials are needed. ALPLA is planning to double the annual production of recycled materials at its own plants by 2026 and is supporting the development and optimization of local collection systems around the world.
Around 23,300 ALPLA employees worldwide produce custom-made packaging systems, bottles, caps and molded parts at 190 sites in 46 countries. The packaging is used in a wide range of areas, including for food and drinks, cosmetics and care products, household cleaning products, detergents and cleaning agents, pharmaceutical products, engine oils and lubricants.
ALPLA operates recycling plants for PET and HDPE in Austria, Germany, Poland, Mexico, Italy, Spain, Romania and Thailand. Other projects are being realized elsewhere around the world.