DS Smith upgrades Mehun-CIM plant with a 4,000-sheet CUIR MRV flatbed die-cutter

Expanding capabilities for high-end packaging and POS displays

DS Smith has officially integrated a new CUIR MRV flatbed die-cutter at its Mehun-CIM facility in Mehun-sur-Yèvre, France. Inaugurated in late October 2026, the equipment expands the plant's production bandwidth for the luxury, perfumery, cosmetics, and point-of-sale (POS) display markets. The investment reinforces the site's historical focus on high-precision converting, a specialization it has cultivated since its founding in 1971.

The technical specifications of the new line significantly broaden the structural possibilities for the French facility. The CUIR MRV can process up to 4,000 sheets per hour, handling corrugated board thicknesses ranging from 0.9 to 7 mm. It accommodates large formats up to 1,300 × 1,680 mm, providing the necessary scale for complex POS structures and premium packaging designs.

Technical flexibility and future-proofing

Currently equipped with two color units, the machine is engineered with modularity in mind. It is prepared to accommodate a third printing unit designed for reverse-side printing (inside/outside capability in a single pass). This feature is increasingly demanded by brands looking to enhance the unboxing experience in e-commerce and premium retail without compromising production speed.

• Throughput: Up to 4,000 sheets per hour.
• Material range: 0.9 mm to 7 mm thickness.
• Maximum format: 1,300 × 1,680 mm.
• Printing: 2 colors, upgradable to 3 (reverse printing).

The integration of the CUIR MRV—a technology manufactured in France—allows the Mehun-CIM plant to increase its operational flexibility and reduce setup times for diverse production runs. This operational upgrade arrives at a pivotal moment for DS Smith, as the broader market watches International Paper's strategic moves regarding the potential spin-off of its EMEA packaging division. Despite corporate-level shifts, the investment in the Cher department underscores a continued focus on localized, high-value converting capabilities to meet the exacting standards of luxury and cosmetic brands.