Metsä Group Launches Pre-Commercial Sales of Wood-Based Muoto Packaging
Metsä Group's innovation company, Metsä Spring, has officially entered the pre-commercial phase for its revolutionary wood-based packaging solution, Muoto. Designed to meet the needs of various industries, Muoto packaging can be used in applications ranging from food takeaway containers to industrial packing. However, during this initial phase, product availability will be limited by volume and type.
The development of Muoto began in 2020 through a collaboration with Valmet. Starting with laboratory experiments, the project quickly progressed to the construction of a pilot-scale machine. In May 2022, Metsä Group took a major step forward by launching a demo plant in Äänekoski, Finland. Now, with pre-commercial sales underway, the company is gathering customer feedback to fine-tune the product ahead of potential full-scale production.
As part of this effort, Metsä Group continues to develop its production line in Äänekoski and has already initiated the pre-engineering phase for a possible first commercial factory in Rauma, Finland. A final decision on whether to proceed with the Rauma facility is expected by 2025, depending on the results of the ongoing tests and market response.
“We are very pleased with the initial outcomes of Muoto,” says Jarkko Tuominen, Vice President of Projects at Metsä Spring. “It’s rare in wood-based product development to have something ready after just a few years. Muoto’s durability and safety make it suitable for a wide range of uses, from food containers to serving dishes. By working with pilot customers during this pre-commercial phase, we aim to gather valuable insights that will help us refine the product based on real-world needs.”
As Metsä Group moves toward full commercialization, Muoto could become a key player in the sustainable packaging market, offering a robust, eco-friendly alternative for industries worldwide.
