Detpak, a leading provider of sustainable packaging solutions for the foodservice industry, is a key division of The Detmold Group, a privately owned, Australian family enterprise with extensive global reach. Lindy Hughson visited its Adelaide facility to see this paper and board packaging leader in action.
Founded in 1948 by Colin Detmold and now led by executive chairman Rodney Detmold alongside his three daughters Zoe, Pippa and Sascha, who was appointed CEO in 2023, the company has maintained a steadfast dedication to its values and legacy, with no intentions of selling or diluting its core identity. Instead, the Detmold Group has consistently expanded its footprint and diversified its operations to meet evolving market demands while upholding its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.
Diverse Product Lines
The group operates multiple brands, each focused on distinct markets. This includes Detpak for food service, grocery and FMCG customers, PaperPak for the retail industry, Detmold Medical for personal protective equipment and other healthcare products and Detmold Specialty Packaging for the gifting industry. The company also owns short-run printing facilities, notably Cup and Carry, which customises printed cups and bags, allowing the group to cater to smaller-scale, specialised orders in addition to its high-volume production.
In addition, there has also been recent investment in a short-run printing business in Europe to bolster its flexibility and capacity to deliver rapid, high-quality printing solutions. This along with other investments underscores an adaptability and responsiveness to niche market demands in an era where personalisation and customisation are increasingly valued.
Expanding Horizons
Mark Rohrlach, regional manager Detpak Industrial – Australasia and South Asia, treats PKN to a presentation on the company’s global footprint and activities. From him I learn that the Detmold Group’s extensive global network, across which it employs over 3000 people, spans Australia & New Zealand, Asia, North & South America, the Middle East and Europe, with manufacturing facilities in seven countries and over 20 sales offices. Asia, particularly, has been a cornerstone of its operations, anchored by Detpak’s long-term partnerships with prominent brands such as McDonald’s and Starbucks. North America, a newer focus, has witnessed rapid expansion, with new hires and ambitious growth plans. The company’s sales reach is complemented by strategic partnerships with global brands, including McDonalds, KFC, Hungry Jack’s, and retail giants such as Coles and Woolworths in Australia, for which Detpak produces paper carry bags. Indeed, a list of the group’s key partnerships reads like a who’s who of the food and fashion industry, from owner operators to global brands.
Supporting Detpak’s diverse product portfolio is the group’s manufacturing arm producing over 22,000 different food and retail packaging product lines across multiple categories, including bags, cups, cartons, napkins, trays, wraps, paper rewind and pallet liners.
“These partnerships not only reflect Detpak's commitment to quality but also highlight our agility in responding to customer needs – a trait that has proven invaluable in times of disruption, such as during the Covid-19 pandemic,” Rohrlach adds. This was borne out by the swift establishment of the Detmold Medical division in 2020, complete with dedicated mask manufacturing plant in Adelaide, following the Australian Government’s call at the time for localised supply of critical personalised protective equipment. In addition, the Detpak team stepped in to cover other packaging suppliers who could not meet their supply requirements in a range of industries, showcasing the reach and strength of its global manufacturing and supply network.
Rohrlach adds, “Having multiple manufacturing locations is a distinct advantage; it mitigates the risk of single-source supply when faced with uncertain market conditions. And, our ability to leverage our global network to support flexible raw material supply adds to this competitive advantage.”
Sustainability a Core Pillar
A cornerstone of the group’s philosophy is its commitment to sustainability and long-term value. “Unlike competitors that engage in spot buying, Detpak prioritises long-standing partnerships with suppliers who share our values around quality and environmental stewardship,” Rohrlach says.
Continue reading this article on page 14 of the November-December 2024 issue of PKN Packaging News.
