Dutch Plastics Recycler Unveils France's Largest rPET Plant

Aloxe has invested $28.3 million (approx) to relocate its recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) production facilities to Messein, France, with the aim of increasing its capacity to 50,000 tonnes per year. Established in the Netherlands in 2020, Aloxe, a specialist in recycled PET, recently inaugurated a state-of-the-art rPET plastic manufacturing plant in Messein, Meurthe-et-Moselle, France.

The Dutch mechanical recycler had been operating an rPET facility with a capacity of 12,500 tonnes per year in Vézelise, situated 15 kilometers away from Messein, since 2021. In a strategic move, the production lines from Vézelise will be relocated to the new Messein site in December, resulting in a substantial capacity expansion to 50,000 tonnes per year. Developed on former brownfield land, the Messein site now stands as France's largest rPET plant, as per Aloxe's claim. The facility is already equipped with two operational Erema Vacunite machines.

Aloxe is not limited to its French operations; the company operates two rPET manufacturing facilities in Poland, located in Gdynia and Wabrzezno, and another in Italy in Presenzano. By the year 2024, the company anticipates achieving an impressive manufacturing capacity of 120,000 tonnes across these three European locations.

Specializing in the production of food-grade rPET pellets utilized in beverage bottles, trays, and food containers, Aloxe offers a diverse range of colors, including light blue, clear, and green. Furthermore, the company manufactures pellets for filament and fibers catering to the synthetic textiles industry, available in black and light colors.

Aloxe, at present, sustains a workforce of 180 individuals and boasts an annual turnover of $39.6 million (approx). The company has received support from Ara Partners, a private equity firm with a focus on investments in industrial decarbonization.

The investment of $28.3 million (approx) in the expansion and relocation of Aloxe's rPET production facilities underscores the company's commitment to sustainable practices within the plastics recycling sector. By significantly boosting its capacity and establishing a cutting-edge facility in Messein, Aloxe positions itself at the forefront of the European rPET manufacturing landscape.

The relocation of production lines from Vézelise to Messein not only streamlines operations but also maximizes efficiency in response to the growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions. Aloxe's strategic vision involves contributing to a circular economy by transforming post-consumer PET waste into high-quality recycled materials for various applications.

Aloxe's ambitious plans for the future, including the projected manufacturing capacity of 120,000 tonnes by 2024, demonstrate a proactive stance in addressing the challenges posed by plastic waste and environmental sustainability. The company's multifaceted approach, encompassing diverse product offerings and geographical expansion, positions it as a key player in the global push towards more sustainable and eco-friendly manufacturing practices.