MWV closes packaging plant to enhance efficiency

The fate of the visual and paperboard cosmetics packaging factory was sealed by the need to make efficiency enhancing cuts. Operational losses​ Earlier in the month MWV reported a loss from continuing operations of $23m for the first quarter, representing only a slight improvement on its $27m loss for the same period last year. Repeated failure to deliver profit from operations despite strong sales growth prompted the company to look carefully at its turnover and outgoings. The cosmetics packaging plant in Warrington was then chosen for closure after MWV identified personal care packaging in the US as a poorly performing area with "an unfavorable product mix". "The decision to close our Warrington facility is based on careful analysis of our operations and the need to create a more efficient operation that will strengthen our presence in the personal and beauty care packaging market,"​ said Mark S. Cross, senior vice president of MWV Packaging. It is expected that production at the Warrington factory will be finally wound up by the end of the summer. MWV said its ability to supply its beauty customers will not be affected by the closure as production will be transferred to other MWV facilities as required. Despite closing the Warrington factory, MWV is continuing to pursue growth through cosmetics packaging. New packaging launch​ Driving for growth through innovation, its Spanish business MWV Calmar launched a resin injected pump for luxury fragrances this week. The new Clikit IP is a resin injected version of its Melodie Clikit pump that is already well established on the market. MWV said because the capsule and actuator sheath are resin injected, brand owners can creatively customize the pump with original decorative effects and colors.