Coveris, CEO Jakob Mosser, explained what his company is doing:
What measures have you had to implement to ensure production is not affected?
As a major European manufacturer this has affected us differently throughout our domestic regions. Coveris is important part of FMCG, healthcare and medical supply chains and our priority has been to maintain operations, whilst taking additional steps to safeguard our sites, employees and products. In many cases, we have largely gone beyond each domestic government’s guidance for maximum mitigation against the risks of coronavirus to our people, products and plants.
With direct food contact, medical and healthcare materials and packaging manufactured at our plants, Coveris already implements stringent hygiene rules and regulations. However, we are taking additional steps to deep clean our sites, site access has gradually reduced to now a minimum and distancing rules have been introduced to reduce the risk of transmission in the workplace. We are also contingency planning for different scenarios in an attempt to maintain maximal output from our sites.
Have you seen an increase in orders from suppliers/supermarkets rushing to replace the products whipped of the shelves in panic buys?
Given the increased volume demands for FMCG packaged products as a consequence of consumers stock buying goods, this has impacted on our business. As a supplier of flexible films, labels and cartonboard, all frequently used materials in packaging by retailers and brands, we are working hard to keep the supply chain moving and products ultimately on shelves.
The demand for goods highlights the essential role that packaging plays within the protection, safety, shelf life and distribution of products within the supply-chain.
Have you received much in the way of advice, outside of the general public information given out by the government, about how to keep business going?
Whilst some industry bodies have shared guidance, the government in Coveris’ different locations has responsibly been our primary source of information. In many cases, the strict processes and procedures we have implemented are beyond domestic government guidance, taking additional steps to protect our workforce and our operations at this important time.
Have you been informed of any supply chain issues, specifically solvents?
Overall the supply of raw materials has so far been unaffected. The only challenge is the availability of ethanol as it is also part of disinfectants.
