Thalia, a book retailer in the Germany, Austria, and Switzerland region, has selected Ranpak’s technology to improve its fulfilment capabilities and commitment to sustainability.
The alliance also allows Ranpak to expand its international presence.
In the first phase of this collaboration, Ranpak will install 12 automated packaging systems at Thalia’s fulfilment and production centre, scheduled to open in 2026.
The solutions comprise three Cut’It! EVO systems, three Form’It! systems, and six Flap’it! systems.
The Flap’it! system is designed to optimise the packing process for small, flat items, whereas the Form’it! system is an automated box-forming system engineered to enhance the initial stage of the packaging process by erecting corrugated boxes.
Cut’it! EVO, meanwhile, is an automated right-sizing system designed to optimise the height of shipping boxes after items have been picked and packed. This solution minimises empty space and waste, and automatically closes and seals the boxes.
This installation marks the initial phase of a broader strategy, with Thalia exploring the addition of further Ranpak systems as it expands its operations.
Ranpak’s automated solutions are anticipated to integrate smoothly into Thalia’s fulfilment environments.
Ranpak chair and CEO Omar Asali said: “At Ranpak, we are committed to helping companies transition to smarter, more sustainable packaging processes.
“Our partnership with Thalia represents a shared vision for automation that not only delivers operational excellence but also reduces environmental impact.
“We are proud to support Thalia’s fulfilment network with our innovative, paper-based automation solutions.”
The integration will improve packaging processes across Thalia’s e-commerce platform and its network of more than 500 physical stores.
Element Logic will manage the deployment of Ranpak’s solutions, utilising its expertise in optimising warehouse operations with new technologies.
Thalia supply chain and logistics managing director Marco Rebohm said: “Partnering with Ranpak for our new omnichannel hub, which will be an outstanding fulfilment and production facility, marks a key milestone in our mission to make book distribution smarter, greener, and more efficient.
“These new systems will enhance our fulfilment capabilities, support our sustainability goals, and position us for scalable growth. This is just the beginning of a powerful transformation and exciting partnership ahead.”
In March this year, Ranpak posted a net revenue of $105m for the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2024, a 16% increase compared to $90.4m in Q4 2023.
