PACKAGING firm Smurfit has opened a new UK design centre in East Lancashire.

The centre, at the firm's Nelson plant, includes a state-of-the-art design studio where new designs and projects for Smurfit throughout the UK will be developed.

The centre will also feature a permanent display of the firm's products which range from cartons, tubes and point-of-sale material.

"It gives designers from all divisions a place where they can regularly meet to develop and discuss creative ideas for projects," said financial director Tony Ritchie. We has some of the best designers in the packaging industry and this new facility can only serve to boost an already very successful team."

Nelson plant director Mike Drummond also believed the new centre was a boost for East Lancashire.

"We are very proud to be housing this facility. It is a fantastic addition to the design facilities already at Smurfit's disposal."

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