Factory visit in Neuss: Mayor inspects carton packaging production
In the heart of Neuss, Germany, the MM Group's industrial facility, a historical landmark since 1911, continues to evolve. Originally a civilian industrial plant, it is now part of Rheinmetall's broader industrial assets [1].
As of 2025, the plant is undergoing a significant transformation, transitioning from the production of civilian goods to manufacturing mechanical components for ammunition and defense products [1]. This strategic pivot is aligned with Rheinmetall's strategy to enhance German defense manufacturing, including the acquisition of complementary plants [1].
The Neuss plant, owned by the MM Group, is a significant industrial employer in Neuss, with approximately 350 employees. It produces packaging cartons and high-quality recycled paper coating [1]. The plant processes around 410,000 tons of recycled material annually, making it a significant contributor to the company's climate-friendly transformation [1].
The plant's commissioning is a testament to this commitment, as it houses Europe's first fully automated combined heat and power plant, commissioned in partnership with E.ON [1]. This innovation significantly increases energy efficiency, saving around 22,000 tons of CO2 per year [1].
Mayor Breuer, accompanied by Johanna Gatzke, head of the municipal economic development department, recently visited the Neuss plant. The exchange focused on current challenges for the industry, such as energy supply, bureaucratic framework conditions, and the tense market situation [1]. Mayor Breuer emphasised that MM demonstrates how economic success and ecological responsibility can go hand in hand [1].
The packaging market is regionally oriented, with many customers located near the plant. Short supply chains enabled by the plant's local customer base strengthen regional value creation and secure jobs [1]. The production process is facilitated by a 5.20-meter-wide paper machine, producing white-coated recycled Liners and recycled cardboard for offset and flexographic printing [1].
This transition towards defense manufacturing, coupled with a commitment to sustainability, positions the Neuss plant as a significant industrial employer in Neuss with evolving strategic importance due to defense sector demands [1]. Such investments, as highlighted by Mayor Breuer, strengthen the industrial location of Neuss and contribute to the success of the energy transition in Neuss [1].
- In the future, the Neuss plant, already a significant contributor to the company's climate-friendly transformation, is eyeing an expansion into renewable-energy sector, aiming to diversify its energy production and further decrease CO2 emissions.
- To finance this renewable-energy transition, the MM Group is in talks with various financial institutions, including development banks and private equity firms, to secure funding for the installation of solar panels and wind turbines on the plant's premises.
- As part of its defense manufacturing strategies, the Neuss plant plans to incorporate cleaner, more efficient manufacturing practices in its ammunition and defense product production lines, reducing the carbon footprint of these industries within the broader manufacturing industry.
