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Innovating to serve our customers and their customers

WestRock innovating to serve customers' needs WestRock innovating to serve customers' needs

Partnering for Breakthrough Ideas 


WestRock provides innovative packaging solutions that help our customers achieve their sustainability goals and win in the market. We combine deep expertise with an entrepreneurial mindset marked by fresh thinking and an appetite for risk. We’re embedding innovation throughout our enterprise, from our leadership agenda to funding for breakthrough initiatives, as we strive to be our customers’ preferred partner for all packaging-related challenges.  
Download the 2022 Report
Our Commitment to Innovation

By 2025, 100% of WestRock's products will be recyclable, compostable or reusable, driving the transition to a more circular economy through cutting edge innovation.

Our Progress

In 2022, 97.8% of our products are recyclable, reusable and/or compostable.

Cornerstones of Innovation

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Materials science
materials science

Materials Science

Materials Science

Our material scientists are innovating across our substrates, including the additives, adhesives and coatings integral to effective packaging.

Innovative packaging design
packaging design innovation

Packaging Design

Packaging Design

Our designers are expanding the look, feel and performance of packaging as we pilot new solutions with our customers.

Digitization of Packaging
digitization of packaging

Digitization of Packaging

Digitization of Packaging

Our digital technologists create connected solutions including smart packaging, serialization and track and trace technology.

Machinery and Automation
machinery automation

Machinery & Automation

Machinery & Automation

Our machinery and automation team is breaking new ground in automation design and the engineering of machinery.

The Impact of Innovation

Our commitment to innovation and sustainability produces groundbreaking solutions that make real impacts, reduce emissions and create a more circular economy.

Customer Sustainability Partnerships

As a leading provider of fiber-based packaging, we’re uniquely positioned to help our customers make progress toward their packaging-related sustainability goals while winning in the marketplace. Our partnerships replace plastic with fiber-based packaging solutions, drive more efficient use of materials through automation and design, help reduce the carbon footprint of customers’ packaging and increase the recyclability of common packaging formats.


Swiss Chalet product boxes

Swiss Chalet: More Sustainable Takeout Containers

Goal: Replace rigid plastic takeout containers with a fiber-based solution.
Innovation: New renewable option using uncoated paperboard and EnShield® Natural Kraft (ENK).
Results: Design was awarded the PAC Global Award for Sustainable Design during the Inclusive Opportunities & Universal Design Summit in February 2022.

Niagara Orchard product boxes

Niagara Orchard and Vineyard Corp.: Recyclable Containers for Grapes and Plums

Goal: Eliminate use of plastic clamshell containers in packaging grapes and plums.
Innovation: WestRock’s EverGrow® Collection, including baskets, carriers, punnets and tills made with responsibly sourced wood fiber.
Results: A recyclable packaging solution with the strength, durability and dependability to ensure consumers receive a fresh-looking product.