METAL TO THE CORE Global tube and core solutions provider Sonoco Alcore has a dedicated metal division that delivers a broad range of innovative products and services. Emma-Jane Batey spoke to commercial segment leader Jordi Casas and technology leader Marko Ilomaki to learn more.
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stablished in 1899, global consumer packaging, industrial products, protective packaging and supply chain services giant Sonoco today employs over 21,000 people, has annual sales of $5 billion and over 330 operations in 34 countries. Well-known for serving some of the world’s leading brands in over 85 countries, Sonoco is listed on the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index. Sonoco Alcore is Sonoco’s tube and core solutions division, with its focus on delivering products and solutions to customers in the paper, film, man-made fibre yarn, metal and construction industries. Packaging Europe spoke to decision makers in the metal segment of Sonoco Alcore, who are dedicated to the metal capabilities of the division. Commercial segment leader Jordi Casas introduced the interview by giving us an overview of the division and how it fits into the global Sonoco family. Mr Casas said, “Sonoco is well-known globally for being an innovator and a technical leader, so we are no exception to that. Where I feel Sonoco really excels is in taking a different approach, focusing on
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different segments in order to actively serve customers in best ways and offering not just packaging but total Supply Chain Solutions. So for us here at Sonoco Alcore’s metal division, this means that we can be fresh-thinking and innovative while still having the multi-national strength of the Sonoco family behind us. It’s a great position to be in and one that benefits both us as a company and our customers.”
Hello Metallan The Sonoco Alcore metal division – called Metallan – is a rather lately formed segment, even though many of the team have worked for the company for many years. With a smart marriage of long-established Sonoco employees and highly driven new employees, the division manages to be the most forward-thinking yet proven. Mr Casas explained, “We identified lots of opportunities for a dedicated metal team within Sonoco Alcore and realised that we could better serve our customers’ needs and find them the best possible solution. With