Major Investment in Gravure Cylinder Production

The Austrian packaging specialist GPI Graz is starting the new year with a strong signal. With an investment program of around six million euros, the international group is reaffirming its commitment to the Graz production site in Austria and laying the foundation for further growth.

The mood within the company is correspondingly positive. Florian Bany, who took over management in mid-2025, and Production Manager Alexander Erjavec are clearly pleased to report on such a comprehensive expansion for the first time. The investment package will be implemented gradually in 2026 and focuses on both increasing capacity and modernizing technology. At the center are new systems for gravure cylinder production, which will raise annual output from 12,000 to 16,000 cylinders. The program is complemented by investments in digitalization, higher machine availability, and further development of infrastructure.

Global Markets, Strong Roots in Graz

GPI Graz specializes in the development and production of high-quality consumer goods packaging, particularly folding cartons for internationally recognized brands in the tobacco, textile, and food industries. With around 370 employees at the Graz site and an export share of approximately 95 percent, the company generated revenue of around 84 million euros in 2024. Products from Graz are almost exclusively destined for international markets, primarily within the European Union.

Cost Pressures Remain a Constant Challenge

This investment decision was by no means a given. Like other manufacturers, GPI Graz faces significant pressures. High energy prices, rising labor costs, and increasing cost pressures shape everyday operations. Not all cost developments can be passed on to customers, which in recent years has made efficiency measures necessary. Against this backdrop, the company emphasizes that the new investment sends a clear signal, safeguarding both competitiveness and the Graz site, including its jobs.

Tailored High-Tech Systems for the Graz Site

Production Manager Alexander Erjavec expresses particular excitement about the new systems. Two fully automated lines, each around 60 meters long, are scheduled to begin operation in mid-2026. These are among the most technologically advanced systems within the global group. Within Graphic Packaging International’s worldwide network—headquartered in Atlanta, USA, with over 100 sites and approximately 23,000 employees—Graz occupies a key role, supported by the workforce’s expertise and experience.

From Initial Design to Series Production

GPI Graz covers nearly the entire value chain at the site. This exceptional depth of production is one of the company’s key differentiators. In particular, in-house gravure cylinder manufacturing gives the company flexibility and speed. Customers can develop their ideas directly in Graz, from initial samples to full-scale production. Annually, around 21,000 tons of cardboard and approximately 1,100 tons of inks and coatings are processed.

The service portfolio includes industrial gravure printing for packaging as well as classic folding carton production in offset printing, with in-house die-cutting and gluing. Various finishing techniques and a dedicated design team further expand the offerings. The close integration of the production areas enables tailored solutions for demanding international clients.

GPI Graz: Over 150 Years of Industrial History

GPI Graz traces its roots back to 1868, when the company was founded as a lithographic art printing workshop. From the 1930s onward, the focus shifted to packaging printing. Through several ownership changes, the company developed into a major player in the folding carton industry. Since summer 2022, the Graz site has been part of Graphic Packaging International.