Mail Solutions Group ups paper straw capacity

The paper straw production lines are being installed this month
The paper straw production lines are being installed this month

Mail Solutions Group is set to take on four new specialist paper straw production lines to cater for the surge in demand for eco-friendly paper straws at its Intrinsic Paper Straws business.

The Jinshen Machinery kit is additional to the company’s existing portfolio and will be installed by the end of this month at the Intrinsic Paper Straws site in Telford, Shropshire.

The business will also install a new straw wrapping machine and a paper slitting machine to support the capacity expansion.

It said the total “six-figure investment” will significantly uplift output, productivity and flexibility for Intrinsic Paper Straws, enabling the business to maintain its growth strategy and ensuring that capacity is available to service new and existing clients wanting high quality straws.

Group sales director Karl Lee said: “The new investment is another significant and important milestone for the business, as it continues to grow its product portfolio, client base and operational capabilities.

“Despite the impact Covid-19 has had on many businesses, especially those in the Horeca [hospitality] sector, we are pleased with the progress we have made, winning some significant work across the UK and Europe.

“In addition, with the plastic ban coming into effect last October, it has influenced both individuals and businesses to seek viable alternatives to plastic straws.

“As a result, many have turned to us for help with their straw requirements, as they want a proven product that is sustainable, environmentally friendly, made from food safe materials and performs across a variety of beverages.”

Intrinsic Paper Straws has also launched an exclusive range of paper straws specifically designed for retail and wholesale.

The Signature Range features the most popular paper straws products in demand by pubs, cafes, restaurants, hospitality, hotels and households, which come packaged in high quality boxes suitable for retail and wholesale display.

The business said it expects these products to be on shelves across various supply channels “very soon”.

Mail Solutions Group’s main print, mailing and envelopes operation Mail Solutions operates flexo, litho and digital machinery. The group, whose main Telford facility has 8,547sqm space, recorded a turnover of £30m in 2020.