Metsä Tissue optimizes operations with state-of-the-art logistics solutions

THE PARTNERSHIP

Metsä Group’s tissue paper business is one of Europe's leading manufacturers of tissue paper products and one of the world's leading manufacturers of greaseproof paper products. With the motto, “Cleaner every day – one sheet at a time,” Metsä Tissue focuses on providing hygienic, sustainable tissue paper products to customers. 

In collaboration with the Italian multinational E80 Group, Metsä Tissue is investing in a state-of-the-art in-house logistical solutions, fully automated high-bay warehouse with laser-guided vehicles (LGVs). The objective is to enhance production capacity, streamline inventory turnover, reduce errors, and speed up delivery times to customers, all while maintaining the highest standards of safety and sustainability.

As part of its commitment to operational efficiency and sustainability, Metsä Tissue undertook an expansion and modernization project at its mill in Mariestad, Sweden, with groundworks starting in 2023. In partnership with E80 Group, an Italian leader in automated intralogistics solutions, Metsä implemented an advanced logistics system that integrates laser-guided vehicles (LGVs) to streamline operations — from raw materials handling to finished goods storage in the high-bay warehouse. This system aims to improve production capacity, reduce errors, and enhance delivery times while maintaining sustainability and safety.

EFFICIENCY AND SAFETY THROUGH ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY

“We have implemented a state-of-the-art warehouse logistics system that improves flexibility and reduces forklift traffic, ultimately enhancing safety. Proven industrial technology was a key factor in selecting partners for the project, ensuring a high level of reliability and alignment with Metsä’s objectives.” says Esa Paavolainen, Vice President, Projects at Metsä Tissue.

The project is part of Metsä Tissue's Future Mill programme, which seeks to elevate environmental and operational performance in tissue production. E80 Group’s high-density, automated storage and retrieval (AS/RS) warehouse is an important part of this effort. Using stacker cranes and automatic product handling devices, the system offers high performance, reduced maintenance costs, and lower energy consumption.

SAFETY AT THE CORE

E80 Group’s laser-guided vehicles are equipped with safety devices to ensure safe operations for both operators and products, supporting Metsä Tissue’s focus on safety within the mill. Enrico Grassi, President of E80 Group, says: 

“This is one of the most ambitious greenfield projects worldwide. Our common goal with Metsä Tissue is to provide a solution that benefits both the environment and the people, not just the business.”

E80 Group’s SM.I.LE80 software platform plays a key role in managing and optimizing all intralogistics operations, ensuring streamlined and efficient flows. E80’s expertise in automated solutions guarantees seamless integration and traceability across the entire supply chain.

GLOBAL IMPACT OF E80 GROUP SOLUTIONS

With over 450 integrated factories and more than 9,000 laser-guided vehicles globally, E80 Group brings decades of experience in developing smart, interconnected systems for the consumer goods sector. The company’s commitment to customer satisfaction is demonstrated through its extensive global support network, offering 24/7 consulting and after-sales services.

Metsä Tissue’s collaboration with E80 Group marks an important step in achieving world-class environmental and operational performance in tissue production. By leveraging advanced logistics technology, they aim to enhance operational efficiency while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability and safety.

The Future mill in Mariestad is planned to be operational in the second half of 2025.

Watch the 3D animation to discover how the Metsä Factory of the Future will look like.