Paper: Brandenburg’s Most Promising Growth Industry
High investments in recent years have led to considerable growth in Brandenburg’s paper industry. Businesses in this economic sector include major paper producers and a number of paper-processing SMEs.
• 26 companies with a turnover of more than €1 billion, up 18.2% from the previous year.
• More than 3,180 employees, 9.1% more than the previous year.
• Three paper producers achieve 57% of the industry’s turnover.
• 80% of the companies have less than 250 employees.
• Four companies have more than 250 employees: UPM Kymmene and Leipa in Schwedt; Hamburger in Spremberg; Herlitz in Falkensee.
• Exports account for some 40% of the turnover.
(2006 data)
Unlike other regions, Brandenburg’s paper industry does not rely on wood: recycled paper is its only raw material. Corrugated cardboard production increases continuously, and today represents almost one fourth of the industry’s turnover.
Brandenburg’s paper industry is mainly concentrated in the towns of Schwedt, Spremberg, Peitz, Eberswalde, Wustermark and Falkensee.