AI-Powered Packaging Innovation Takes Centre Stage at Metsä Board’s New Milan Design Studio
Metsä Board has expanded its innovation footprint in Europe with the launch of a new packaging design centre in Milan, aimed at helping brands accelerate the development of sustainable and high-performance packaging solutions. The facility was officially inaugurated on July 2 and is positioned in one of Europe’s key hubs for design, food, pharmaceutical and beauty industries.
The new studio is designed to bring customers into the packaging development process from the earliest stages, enabling closer collaboration and faster product innovation. By integrating artificial intelligence, advanced simulation technologies and material expertise, Metsä Board aims to reduce development timelines while improving packaging performance and sustainability.
AI-Driven Design to Speed Up Product Development
A major highlight of the Milan centre is its use of AI-assisted design tools that allow packaging concepts to be digitally modelled, tested and refined before physical production begins. This approach enables companies to evaluate multiple packaging options faster, reduce development risks and make informed decisions earlier in the process.
Rather than treating packaging design, material selection and performance testing as separate stages, the new system optimises all three simultaneously. This helps improve material efficiency while maintaining product protection, functionality and compliance with industry standards.
According to Ilkka Harju, Head of Packaging Services at Metsä Board, the company’s new collaborative approach allows customers to co-develop packaging solutions from the beginning, significantly shortening the journey from concept to market launch.
Supporting Food, Pharma and Beauty Brands
The Milan facility is expected to play a key role in serving industries where packaging is critical for both product protection and brand value. Food, pharmaceutical and beauty companies face growing demands related to sustainability, regulatory compliance and consumer expectations, making integrated packaging development increasingly important.
By combining digital technologies with practical testing capabilities, Metsä Board aims to help brands respond more effectively to changing market requirements and environmental regulations.
Strengthening a Global Innovation Network
The Milan studio joins Metsä Board’s existing Packaging Design and R&D Centre in Äänekoski, Finland, and its packaging design studio in Norwalk, USA. The new investment strengthens the company’s ability to work closely with European customers while supporting global brands throughout the packaging innovation process.
The move reflects a wider industry trend where AI, digitalisation and sustainable material development are reshaping the future of packaging design and manufacturing.
News courtesy : Metsä Board
