Reflex has just laid the foundation stone for an environmentally-friendly steam power plant within the scope of restructuring measures: and now the company is ready to make substantial investments in its oldest paper machine, PM4. During the course of the comprehensive measures, focus is being placed on energy aspects such as reductions in energy and water consumption. After completion of the investment measures in November 2015, operation of the machine will have a more efficient use of resources. The aim is not only to reduce costs, but also improve the ecological footprint of the company. Completion of the steam power plant commissioned in May is planned for December 2015, and this will then also supply the PM4.

The PM4 measures are regarded by Hariolf Koeder, Managing Director of Reflex GmbH & Co., KG, as an investment in the future: “We are living in turbulent times. In February 2015, our multi-pillar strategy was able to convince our new investors. In April 2015, we took over the production of opaque drawing and artists’ papers from Schoellershammer. In May 2015, we commissioned the new steam power plant. Now we are investing in our PM4, and will in future be setting course for additional markets with our transparent papers”.

The PM4 is the oldest of the three paper machines at the factory. Using a special technical machine design, Reflex is able to generate very high quality transparent papers with recognised unique selling propositions. Therefore, we are able to provide an extended range for these papers comprising of different qualities and grammages from 50 g/m2 to 220 g/m2, mainly in white, but also in a unique collection of colour shades. Countless applications are possible, in particular for the graphical print sector. These include creative brochures, sophisticated calendars, high-quality printed material, envelopes or innovative packaging possibilities.

This diversity of possibilities for use not only plays a decisive role in customer care for the existing customer base, but also in the development of further sales markets. In addition, Reflex achieves a high level of flexibility on PM4 with their new production and service concept. Even bespoke customer requirements can in future be implemented more rapidly.

With the finalisation of the investment measures, Reflex is intending to switch from a three shift operation to four shift operation. This involves the employment of new staff, which is to take place by the middle of 2016. “The search for suitable specialists has begun. In spite of turbulent times in the paper market, Reflex is not only investing in its infrastructure, but is also ensuring that they will have a good team in readiness“, says Hariolf Koeder on the current measures being undertaken by the company.