REI Group is entering the paper packaging manufacturing sector with a new automated plant in Romania, which to begin operations in 2027

Romania-based REI Group, known for its work in consulting and securing European funding, has begun construction on its first manufacturing facility. The new factory will be located in the industrial park of the city of Călan, Hunedoara County, and will produce paper bags and kraft paper packaging for retail and various industrial sectors. The investment exceeds 2.5 million euros, with 61.98% of the cost covered by grant funding under regional development and just transition programs, BalkanEngineer.com learned from the Romanian publication Ziarul Financiar.

The project is being implemented through REI International Consulting and involves the construction of production, warehouse, and administrative facilities with a total area of over 1,000 m². These will be located on a plot of more than 17,000 m² in the Kalan Industrial Park. The facility will feature a high degree of automation, with the investment including technological equipment for the production of paper packaging, as well as the necessary warehousing and support facilities. Construction has already begun, and the factory is scheduled for completion in the first half of 2027.

Part of the project is the construction of its own 74-kW photovoltaic system, consisting of 148 500-W panels and a 60-kW inverter. Plans also include outdoor lighting powered by standalone solar panels, air-to-air heat pump HVAC systems, and a compactor for production waste.

The new facility’s output will be directed primarily toward e-commerce, the food and beverage industry, and large retail chains. The company also plans to supply manufacturers and retailers of cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, clothing, and footwear. According to data presented at the project’s announcement, annual production of paper bags and sacks in Romania totals 22,809 metric tons, while imports amount to 23,514 metric tons. REI Grup views the new factory as an opportunity to offer a local alternative to some imported packaging and to expand sales in foreign markets.

The investment is expected to create at least 15 jobs. For REI Grup, the project marks its first foray into the manufacturing sector after more than 15 years of activity in consulting on investment projects and European funding. The company plans to combine its own production with its experience in investment management; however, the specific annual production capacity of the future factory has not yet been announced.

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