The plastic packaging industry in the Nordics focuses on providing innovative solutions for various sectors, including food and e-commerce. Companies range from large multinationals to emerging startups, specializing in sustainable materials and efficient manufacturing processes. With increasing consumer demand for waste reduction, the industry is pivoting towards eco-friendly packaging alternatives. Notably, the rise of regulations against single-use plastics is pushing many firms to invest in recyclable and compostable materials. This transition not only addresses environmental concerns but also opens new market opportunities, reflecting a commitment to sustainability while meeting consumer expectations and enhancing brand value.


The investors in this list are a mix of corporate giants and private equity firms originating predominantly from Sweden and Finland. Ranging in size from small boutiques to large organizations, they have a significant presence in the plastic packaging sector. Since their inception from the early 1900s, these investors have actively pursued growth in this space, as demonstrated by their investments in companies like Huhtamaki and EQT Group. In 2024, they collectively engaged in numerous deals, showcasing their commitment to evolving market needs and sustainability efforts.


Top 17 Plastic Packaging Investors in the Nordics


1. Almi

  • Website: almi.se
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 7
  • LinkedIn: almi-ab

Almi AB is a financial services company based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1994. It specializes in providing loans, risk capital, and business development support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Sweden. Almi aims to enhance the growth and competitiveness of these businesses through tailored financial solutions and guidance. In recent years, Almi has been involved in several transactions that are relevant to the plastic packaging industry. For example, they participated in a funding round for GAIA BioMaterials, which focuses on sustainable materials, and invested in Biofiber Tech Sweden, a company that develops bio-based alternatives to traditional plastics. Their investments in startups like Hoting Innovations and Saveggy also indicate a broader interest in innovative solutions that could impact the packaging sector, particularly in terms of sustainability and environmental responsibility.


2. EQT Group

  • Website: eqtgroup.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 30
  • LinkedIn: eqt-partners

EQT Group is a prominent investment firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, specializing in private equity, infrastructure, real estate, growth equity, and venture capital. Founded in 1994, EQT serves institutional investors by providing expertise in managing diverse investment portfolios across multiple sectors and geographies. Notably, EQT has made significant strides in the plastic packaging industry, highlighted by their acquisition of Færch Plast A/S in 2014, a leading company in rigid plastic packaging for ready meals and protein food trays. This strategic move underscores EQT's commitment to the plastic packaging sector. Additionally, EQT's acquisition of Duni AB, a company involved in packaging solutions, further emphasizes their engagement in this industry. These transactions reflect EQT's active role in the plastic packaging market, making them a relevant investor in this category.


3. Indutrade Life Science

  • Website: indutrade.se
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1978
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 14
  • LinkedIn: indutrade-life-science

Indutrade Life Science is a corporate investor based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1978. The company is part of a larger industrial group that focuses on developing and acquiring companies with high technical expertise across various sectors, including technology and industrial products. Indutrade emphasizes long-term relationships with its customers and operates through a decentralized structure, allowing its subsidiaries to maintain independence while benefiting from the group's resources. Notably, Indutrade has made significant acquisitions in the plastic packaging sector, including Verbeeck Packaging NV in 2014 and PRP-Plastic Oy, Modul Plastic Oy in 2006. These transactions highlight Indutrade's commitment to expanding its portfolio in the plastic packaging industry, making it a relevant player in this market.


4. Katapult

  • Website: katapult.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Oslo, Oslo, Norway
  • Founded year: 2017
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 8
  • LinkedIn: katapult-accelerator

Katapult is an impact investment firm based in Oslo, Norway, founded in 2017. They focus on tech startups that address global challenges, particularly in sectors like climate-tech and ocean-tech. Katapult provides investment, accelerator programs, and mentorship to early-stage companies. Notably, they have invested in Better Packaging Co., which raised $5 million in a Series A funding round to expand its sustainable packaging solutions globally. Additionally, they participated in a seed funding round for The Better Packaging, further emphasizing their interest in the plastic packaging sector. Their investments reflect a commitment to supporting innovative solutions that tackle plastic waste and promote sustainability in packaging.


5. Huhtamaki

  • Website: huhtamaki.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Espoo, Uusimaa, Finland
  • Founded year: 1920
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • LinkedIn: huhtamaki

Huhtamaki is a leading food packaging manufacturer based in Espoo, Uusimaa, Finland, founded in 1920. The company specializes in sustainable packaging solutions for the food service industry, providing a diverse range of products including disposable tableware, flexible packaging, and molded fiber packaging. Huhtamaki's customer base primarily consists of quick service restaurants and retail operators that require safe and hygienic packaging for food and beverages. Notably, Huhtamaki has made several strategic acquisitions to bolster its position in the plastic packaging sector. In 2011, they acquired Prisma Pack Indústria de Filmes Técnicos e Embalagens Ltda, a Brazilian manufacturer of hygienic films, enhancing their Films segment. In 2021, they acquired Elif, a global sustainable flexible packaging supplier, for €412 million, aiming to expand their product range in emerging markets. Additionally, their acquisition of Jiangsu Hihio-Art Packaging in 2021 for €27 million further solidified their presence in the Asian market. These transactions highlight Huhtamaki's commitment to advancing its capabilities in the plastic packaging industry.


6. BEWI Group

  • Website: bewi.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1980
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: bewisynbra

BEWI Group is a corporate investor based in Solna, Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1980. The company specializes in manufacturing packaging, insulation, and automotive components, with a strong emphasis on providing sustainable solutions to various industries. BEWI Group has been actively involved in the plastic packaging sector, as evidenced by several key acquisitions. For instance, the acquisition of Trondhjems Eskefabrikk in April 2022 and the binding offer to acquire Synbra Holding B.V. in February 2018 highlight their strategy to expand their product portfolio in packaging solutions. Furthermore, their acquisition of Berga Recycling Inc. in June 2022 underscores their commitment to enhancing circular economy initiatives, which is increasingly important in the plastic packaging industry. Overall, BEWI Group's focus on innovative materials and sustainable practices positions them as a relevant investor in the plastic packaging market.


7. Aboa Venture III Ky


Aboa Venture III Ky is a private equity firm based in Turku, Southwest Finland, founded in 1994. The firm specializes in providing equity financing solutions to Finnish small to medium-sized enterprises with revenues between 2-20 million euros. Aboa Venture has participated in various acquisitions and growth investments, focusing on companies that seek capital for expansion and restructuring. Notably, Aboa Venture has invested in companies within the plastic packaging sector, including WM-Plast, which raised funds in 2008, and Coreplast Laitila, which secured financing in 2004. These investments highlight Aboa Venture's engagement in the plastic packaging industry, alongside other sectors such as robotics and technology, as seen in their investment in KINE Robot Solutions.


8. Altor Equity Partners

  • Website: altor.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 2003
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 6
  • LinkedIn: altor

Altor Equity Partners is a private equity investment management firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 2003. The firm specializes in providing consulting services across various sectors, including technology and consumer products. Altor focuses on enhancing operational efficiency and sustainable growth for its partners through tailored investment strategies and digital transformation solutions. Notably, Altor has made significant investments in the plastic packaging industry, including the acquisition of Trioworld, a key player in the plastic packaging market, in April 2018. This acquisition highlights Altor's commitment to the sector and its strategy to invest in companies that can benefit from operational improvements and sustainable practices. Additionally, Altor has been involved in other transactions, such as the acquisition of OptiGroup, which, while not directly in plastic packaging, operates in related sectors, further showcasing their diverse investment portfolio.


9. Accent Equity


Accent Equity is a private equity firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1994. The firm specializes in investments in private Nordic companies, focusing on enhancing the value of its portfolio through strategic management and investment. Accent Equity has been involved in several notable transactions, including the acquisition of Eurowrap Group, which specializes in packaging solutions, and San Sac Group, known for its waste management and packaging products. In 2024, they acquired a majority stake in Plockmatic Group, further diversifying their portfolio. Their clientele spans various sectors, benefiting from Accent Equity's expertise in investment management, particularly in industries related to packaging and sustainability.


10. HEXPOL Compounding

  • Website: hexpol.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Rekekroken, Skåne, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1893
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: hexpol-compounding

HEXPOL Compounding, founded in 1893 and based in Rekekroken, Skåne, Sweden, is a corporate investor specializing in polymer manufacturing, particularly in advanced polymer compounding and engineered products. The company serves a diverse range of industries, including automotive, healthcare, and construction, but has also made significant strides in the plastic packaging sector. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Star Thermoplastic Alloys & Rubbers for $26.5 million, which allows HEXPOL to enter the American thermoplastic elastomer market, and the acquisition of almaak international GmbH for approximately 70 million EUR, focusing on advanced recycled engineered compounds. These strategic moves align with HEXPOL's growth strategy in thermoplastic compounding and enhance their market position in Europe, making them a relevant player in the plastic packaging industry.


11. Elanders

  • Website: elanders.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Gothenburg, Västra Götaland, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1908
  • Headcount: 5001-10000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: elanders

Elanders is a corporate investor based in Gothenburg, Västra Götaland, Sweden, with a history dating back to 1908. The company specializes in logistics and printing, offering integrated solutions within supply chain management across various industries, including Automotive, Electronics, and Health Care. Elanders has made significant strides in the packaging sector through strategic acquisitions. Notably, they acquired Schmid Druck + Medien in December 2015, a company known for its advanced packaging and unique print solutions, which aligns with their strategy to expand in niche packaging products. Additionally, their acquisition of Spreckley in September 2017, a leading automatic stringing facility in Europe, further enhances their capabilities in the premium packaging market. These transactions highlight Elanders' commitment to expanding its footprint in the packaging industry, making them a relevant player in the plastic packaging sector.


12. Nordic Capital

  • Website: nordiccapital.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1989
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 10
  • LinkedIn: nordic-capital

Nordic Capital is a private equity firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1989. The firm specializes in investments across various sectors, including healthcare and technology, and is known for partnering with management teams to drive growth and operational improvements in its portfolio companies. Nordic Capital has a strong focus on creating long-term value and sustainability in its investments. Among their notable transactions, they acquired Plastal, a company involved in the plastic manufacturing sector, which highlights their engagement in the plastic packaging industry. Additionally, they have made significant investments in other sectors, such as the acquisition of Leaf, a leading European confectionery company, and Thule Group AB, showcasing their diverse investment strategy. Their clients primarily consist of institutional investors seeking sustainable investment opportunities.


13. Metsä Spring

  • Website: metsaspring.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Espoo, Uusimaa, Finland
  • Founded year: 2018
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: metsaspring

Metsä Spring is the innovation company of Metsä Group, a forest industry company based in Espoo, Uusimaa, Finland, founded in 2018. The firm specializes in producing renewable wood products, including pulp, paperboard, and tissue papers, serving various sectors such as packaging and construction. Metsä Spring emphasizes sustainability and efficient resource use in its operations. Notably, they have been involved in several transactions relevant to the packaging industry, including a €3 million investment in Fiberwood, a startup focused on scaling up production capabilities for sustainable materials, which could potentially be used in packaging applications. Additionally, their earlier investments in companies like Muoto and ExpandFibre reflect their interest in innovative solutions that may intersect with packaging technologies.


14. Ub Figg

  • Website: ubfigg.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland
  • Founded year: 2021
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 4
  • LinkedIn: ub-figg

UB Forest Industry Green Growth Fund (UB FIGG) is a private equity fund based in Helsinki, Finland, founded in 2021. The fund specializes in investing in sustainable and resource-efficient forest and bio-based industries, targeting professional investors in Europe. UB FIGG aims to create positive environmental impacts while providing financial returns through its investments. Notably, they have invested in Paptic, a Finnish packaging company that raised €23 million in a Series A funding round to expand its sustainable packaging solutions. They also participated in a venture round for Paptic, raising nearly $4.9 million. Additionally, UB FIGG has invested in Notpla, which raised over $26 million in Series A funding for its biodegradable packaging solutions. Their acquisition of FiberLean Technologies further indicates their commitment to innovative materials in the packaging space.


15. Lifeline Ventures


Lifeline Ventures is a Helsinki-based venture capital firm founded in 2009, specializing in early-stage investments in startups across various sectors. The firm focuses on providing financial backing and advisory services to resilient founders, helping them grow and scale their businesses. Notably, Lifeline Ventures has participated in significant funding rounds for companies like Sulapac, which raised €15 million in 2019 to enhance its sustainable material production for packaging. They also invested in Sulapac's earlier seed round in 2017. Additionally, Lifeline Ventures has shown interest in other innovative startups, such as Origin by Ocean and Droppe, indicating a diverse investment portfolio while maintaining a commitment to supporting sustainable and impactful ventures.


16. Stora Enso

  • Website: storaenso.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland
  • Founded year: 1998
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: stora-enso

Stora Enso Oyj is a leading company in the forest industry, specializing in renewable materials and products. Founded in 1998 and based in Helsinki, Finland, the company offers a wide range of solutions including packaging, biomaterials, and wooden construction to various sectors such as food, consumer goods, and construction. Stora Enso focuses on sustainability and innovation, helping its customers transition to eco-friendly alternatives. Notably, Stora Enso has made significant strides in the plastic packaging context, acquiring De Jong Packaging Group, the largest independent corrugated company in the Benelux, for approximately €1.02 billion. This acquisition aims to enhance their market share in renewable packaging solutions. Furthermore, Stora Enso participated in a funding round for PulPac, which raised €31 million to replace 1 million tons of single-use plastics by 2025, showcasing their commitment to sustainable packaging solutions.


17. Sca

  • Website: sca.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Sundsvall, Västernorrland, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1929
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: sca-ecosystem

Svenska Cellulosa Aktiebolaget SCA is a forest products company based in Sundsvall, Sweden, founded in 1929. The company specializes in manufacturing pulp, packaging paper, sawn timber, and pellets, serving various sectors including packaging, construction, and energy. Notably, SCA has made strategic acquisitions to enhance its position in the packaging market, including the acquisition of Southeastern Packaging in 2003 for approximately USD 8.6 million, which was aimed at creating synergies with SCA's existing protective packaging operations. Additionally, SCA acquired Alloyd in 2003, further expanding its packaging capabilities. These transactions highlight SCA's active role in the plastic packaging industry, making it a relevant investor in this sector.



Plastic Packaging Insights: Key Investors in the Nordics


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
AlmiStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden201-50019947
EQT GroupStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden1001-5000199430
Indutrade Life ScienceStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden1001-5000197814
KatapultOslo, Oslo, Norway11-5020178
HuhtamakiEspoo, Uusimaa, Finland10001+19200
BEWI GroupSolna, Stockholm, Sweden1001-500019801
Aboa Venture III KyTurku, Southwest Finland, Finland1-1019940
Altor Equity PartnersStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden51-20020036
Accent EquityStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden11-5019944
HEXPOL CompoundingRekekroken, Skåne, Sweden1001-500018931
ElandersGothenburg, Västra Götaland, Sweden5001-1000019082
Nordic CapitalStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden201-500198910
Metsä SpringEspoo, Uusimaa, Finland11-5020181
Ub FiggHelsinki, Uusimaa, Finland11-5020214
Lifeline VenturesHelsinki, Uusimaa, Finland1-10200914
Stora EnsoHelsinki, Uusimaa, Finland10001+19982
ScaSundsvall, Västernorrland, Sweden1001-500019290


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