Recent months have seen significant changes at Leo Paper that reflect its commitment to embracing digital transformation, fostering innovation, and promoting sustainability.
“One key transformation revolves around our Factory Next initiative, which has led to an upgraded ERP system that better utilizes data and optimizes our processes for improved efficiency and decision-making,” says Henry Woo, general manager of the sales and marketing department. “We also implemented factorywide sensing technology that enables real-time data collection to manage our operations more effectively.”
The above initiative has seen automated guided vehicles (AVGs) integrated into Leo Paper’s production logistics and workflows streamlined to save time and labor. “Digital twin technology further provides us with immediate control of productivity, quality, and energy consumption,” adds Woo. “And this leads to our next initiative, which is all about sustainability. In addition to using renewable energy sources, we are optimizing our energy consumption, minimizing waste, and reducing VOC emissions.”
In a third key initiative, the Leo Paper team collaborates with publishing clients to innovate around their products. Its trademarked value-added solution Magic Paper World (MPW), for instance, is a unique offering that integrates electronic technology with paper. “Each year, we provide clients with two batches of new MPW ideas for their projects,” says Woo, adding that Leo Paper’s dedicated R&D center is not just about enhancing products’ appeal but also adding value through sustainable practices. “This resonates with the younger generation’s preference for environmentally conscious products.”
One recent success from its R&D center is the transition from PET-based glitter to a plant-based substitute. “It effectively reduces our reliance on plastic while offering an eco-friendly alternative,” Woo says. “Our clients also appreciate our commitment in keeping the plant-based glitter price close to the original cost, thus making it easier for them to embrace such an eco-friendly option.”
The R&D center’s innovation has contributed significantly to the success of Leo Touch, the company’s compilation of unique secondary processes. In fact, a special edition was launched last year to celebrate Leo Touch’s 20th anniversary. “It provides not just information about our many secondary processes but also demonstrates how each can be applied to actual products, which our clients appreciate. They are inspired by the many possibilities,” Woo says.
Going greener has always been a major goal at Leo Paper. Last October, its Heshan facility installed nearly 100,000-sq.-m. of solar panels, which now account for 10{4c0343f45a07fa0dc8af450d54eddc29750e2d03fa627e961ccfaa8142e4e5bf} of its total energy consumption. The team also successfully planted over 148,000 trees in the city of Shaoguan, in Guangdong province, contributing to the reestablishment of a diverse and thriving forest ecosystem. “We at Leo Paper are committed to pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation while also contributing to a greener future as responsible citizens,” Woo says.
A version of this article appeared in the 09/09/2024 issue of Publishers Weekly under the headline: Creativity, Innovation, and Sustainability at Leo Paper
