DS SMITH revolutionizes packaging personalization with laser cutting technology


DS Smith Packaging France – a subsidiary of the DS Smith Group, a world-leading provider of corrugated packaging – has inaugurated a state-of-the-art laser cutting machine at its Neuville aux Bois (45) site. The company now offers unprecedented customization and design possibilities for consumer packaging.

Cutting-edge technology for ultra-personalization DS Smith is taking a new step in process innovation with the installation of the Highcon ‘Beam 3’ machine – a world first – at its Neuville aux Bois production site. This machine ensures laser cutting instead of mechanical die-cutting. This revolutionary process ensures exceptional precision for highly complex cuts with unprecedentedly fine details. Additionally, thanks to fully digital technology, DS Smith is able to offer unit-level customization. With this new technology, DS Smith expands its ability to offer high value-added packaging solutions, opening up new creative perspectives for designers and brands.

An innovative response to the needs of short lead times and small series The Highcon Beam 3 is particularly suited to small series and/or short lead times for two reasons:

  • Thanks to the absence of traditional cutting tools. There are no longer any waiting times for designing, building, and shipping tooling. Also, machine setup times are significantly reduced.
  • Thanks to the possibility of creating amalgams (multiple cutting shapes on the same sheet).

It is particularly aimed at customers with multiple references in small quantities and seeking customization or decoration solutions through cutting.

An innovation adapted to all sectors and all consumer products This innovation meets growing demands in a wide range of sectors: consumer goods, industry, fine food, wines and spirits, perfumes and cosmetics. The range of products that can be produced extends from boxes to cases, as well as boxes, sleeves, cushions and Advent calendars. The machine is suitable for solid board up to lightweight corrugated board, from ‘micro-flute (E)’ to ‘nano-flute (N)’; i.e. from 0.5 to 2 mm thick. Versatile, it allows for full cuts, half-cuts and pre-cuts.

Armand Chaigne, Managing Director – Consumer France and Spain, DS Smith Packaging France, said: “DS Smith is delighted to start a new partnership with Highcon. Innovation is in DS Smith’s DNA. The implementation of the Beam 3 laser cutting machine in one of the French sites is exciting. Through this project, DS Smith strengthens its positioning based on ‘value creation’ for its customers, innovation, and sustainable development.” This advancement illustrates the company’s ongoing commitment to innovating for its customers, meeting the evolving market needs for personalization, flexibility, and sustainability.