News

23. May 2011

Weidenhammer expands market position in 2010

With group sales reaching 215 mio. Euro in 2010 (2009: 192 mio. Euro), the Weidenhammer Packaging Group (WPG), Hockenheim, Germany, achieved strong sales growth and clearly surpassed company targets. The group's cash flow for the same period increased by one percentage point to 14%. In the current fiscal year, WPG is planning to increase sales - although sharply rising raw material costs will prevent the company from reaching the same earnings level achieved in 2010. The WPG is aiming for total turnover of 223 mio. Euro in 2011. While raw material cost increases are likely be absorbed by the company's core business in composite cans, the thriving business in durable labelled plastic packaging is expected to increase by 30%.

WPG achieved sales growth for the 15th consecutive year in 2010 with a significant increase in turnover that clearly exceeded management targets. "We are pleased with our financial results - especially in light of the global economic crisis that clearly had an impact on our company in 2009", said CEO Ralf Weidenhammer. "We are planning to invest in the expansion of our production facilities again 2011. A total of 24 mio. Euro is already earmarked." With sales reaching 127 mio. Euro in 2010, Germany remains the most important market for WPG, followed by France, the Netherlands and Belgium.

Cardboard and plastic divisions both contributed to the company's outstanding financial performance in 2010. The group's core business in composite cans and drums accounted for the largest share of revenues. A significant amount of turnover came from Weidenhammer Plastic Packaging (WPP). Founded in 2005 the group's plastics division reported growth for the third consecutive year. "Our plastic packaging business has evolved to become a mainstay in the company", Weidenhammer explained. "We hope to soon see WPP account for around 15% of total group sales. This figure reached nearly 10% last year".

Peel-off Top for composite cans

The successful launch of new packaging solutions is an important aspect of the company's core business in composite cans. These innovations range from a Peel-off Top for composite cans, to the uniquely-shaped composite OvalCan. While this solution attracts attention and creates new marketing options with its striking shape, the specially-designed Weidenhammer Peel-off Top opens the door to brand new markets. This solution is available with a ring pull or flat tab and, in terms of handling and appearance, is similar to the closures on metal cans commonly seen in the supermarket. The Peel-off Top solution also ensures outstanding oxygen impermeability. Powdered milk and other highly sensitive products can now be packed in airtight composite cans.

With 12 production sites and nearly 1000 employees, the Weidenhammer Packaging Group is a supplier of composite cans, composite drums and plastic containers. Founded in Hockenheim, Germany in 1955, the family-owned enterprise has evolved over the last 50 years to become a market and technology leader in its segment.