45 years of RRK Wellpappenfabrik in Bottrop - programmed for growth and success
News General news
Once again, RRK Wellpappenfabrik GmbH & Co.KG in Bottrop is taking clear stock on the occasion of its company anniversary: In the past five years, the Panther Group company, founded in 1976, has been able to record unbridled growth in every respect. The continuous investments in state-of-the-art plant and building technology as well as logistics, which have amounted to more than € 20 million since 2016, have certainly played their part in this. In addition, the consistent strengthening of the current 240 employees contributes to this. Thanks to extensive training and development programs, they have been able to further improve their qualifications. The further increase in the number of trainees (a total of 25, now accounting for 11% of the entire team) helps to ensure that the company will continue to be highly qualified and competent at all times to meet increasing customer requirements in the future.
In total, volume growth of 30% has been achieved over the last five years. The further modernization and expansion of the site in Bottrop already became apparent on the occasion of the 40th anniversary in 2016. In the meantime, further state-of-the-art, new machinery and equipment have contributed to the performance strength of RRK Wellpappenfabrik, and forward-looking construction projects have been realized.
A brief summary shows that the modernizations were also carried out specifically with a view to future viability and in line with environmental protection and resource conservation, i.e. with the Panther Group's sustainability strategy Panther pro nature:
The completely new residual material recycling system, a new process water treatment plant, and an additional dust removal system for better air conditions in production were direct environmentally improving investments.
A new ink mixing system, a residual ink storage lift, a humidification system for the corrugator to improve quality, and a basic safety concept with monitored access points were also part of the investment program.
The expansion of processing capacity with a new miniline, robotic palletizing for the existing midline and two new rotary die cutters represent further milestones in recent years.
The modernization of the corrugator, most recently with a new modular facer in 2020, was a highlight, complemented by various peripheral investments, such as in starch preparation.
As a long-established company, RRK Wellpappenfabrik is one of the largest employers in Bottrop. The employees appreciate the commitment of the company - also beyond the company boundaries - not only by a high identification with the company, but also by their willingness to participate actively in the qualification measures. The continuous further qualification of employees and trainees through internal training courses, seminars up to master training and studies are important pillars of success for RRK Wellpappenfabrik. Thus, the Panther philosophy, which is valid for the entire group of companies, is implemented in an exemplary manner.
The extensive expansion measures are always planned and implemented with the aim of optimizing effectiveness throughout the plant. Productivity and quality are maintained at the highest possible level, while at the same time taking into account the increasing requirements for sustainable, environmentally friendly operation of the corrugated board plant.
The service concept is the guiding principle here. The 45th year of RRK Corrugated Board Mill's existence coincides with an unknown time of the Corona pandemic. Nevertheless, the company is happy about this anniversary with the certainty to achieve further growth, to be a reliable employer as well as a strong partner for customers, suppliers and business partners.
