Saica Flex, the flexible packaging division of Saica Group,  officially launched its brand-new machinery and facilities during a special event at the Saica Flex site in Wigan on 19 March. The £6 million investment, completed with cutting-edge technology aims to elevate Saica Flex’s operations and support the group’s rapid growth, marking a pivotal milestone in the divisions journey towards enhanced production and sustainability.

The investment is designed to strengthen Saica Flex’s position in the competitive flexible packaging market by integrating the new equipment to drive innovation and productivity. This includes a state-of-the-art printing press and new conversion equipment, such as specialised perforation units, an advanced hole-punching system, and a high-speed slitting machine.

Beyond technological advancement, this investment will also have a lasting impact on the Wigan community. Saica Flex aims to create up to 20 new local jobs, with 11 recruits already on board, driving continued economic growth and valuable employment opportunities.

The launch brought together key representatives from Saica Group, Wigan Council and the UK government, including John Edwards, UK Government Director for Department for Investment, Councillor Nazia Rehman, Portfolio Holder for Finance, Resources and Transformation from Wigan Council and Debbie Parkinson, Mayor of Wigan. Laura Garcia Alfaya, Consul General for the Spanish Consulate in Manchester, also attended, along with Maria Acastenco, Business Development Manager at MIDAS (Investment in Manchester) and the Saica Flex Steering Committee.

“This investment shows unprecedented progress for Saica Flex”, said Susana Alejandro Balet, President & CEO of Saica Group. “It not only strengthens our manufacturing capabilities but also solidifies our commitment to the Wigan community. We are excited to create new jobs and contribute to local economic growth. With our advanced machinery, we are prepared to meet the growing demands of our customers while continuing to lead the way in sustainability and innovation”

The event celebrated more than new technology, highlighting Saica Flex’s ongoing commitment to growth, local business support, and the development of sustainable high-quality packaging solutions.

Councillor David Molyneux MBE, Leader of Wigan Council, said: “Saica Group’s continued investment in Wigan demonstrates their confidence and commitment in our ambitious growth plans and strategic vision for the borough. Last week, NorthFold was officially launched at MIPIM, which encapsulates some of this vision, highlighting the most exciting investment opportunities in Greater Manchester.”

Joe Manning, Managing Director of MIDAS, said: “Saica Flex's significant investment in Wigan delivers a fantastic boost for our local economy, creating valuable employment opportunities while strengthening Greater Manchester's advanced manufacturing capabilities.

“This investment demonstrates how our city-region continues to attract cutting-edge technology and innovation through our infrastructure and exceptional talent pipeline. The opportunities available in Greater Manchester for business growth benefit both our community and the wider sector, reinforcing Wigan's vital role in our industrial landscape.”