‘The market conditions aligned’ – Multi Packaging MD on Tunisia expansion

Multi Packaging Limited, a part of M. Demajo Group, has announced its expansion into Tunisia, where it is currently preparing a 3,000-square-metre converting facility.

The company provides a wide range of packaging solutions, including corrugated cardboard sheets, regular slotted carton boxes, catering boxes, and industrial packaging, serving local manufacturers, caterers, transport companies and food suppliers.

Speaking to MaltaCEOs.mt, Multi Packaging’s Managing Director Brian Muscat, explains the thinking behind the decision, noting that Tunisia “offers a clear competitive edge.”

“Our decision to expand into Tunisia is a strategic move to scale Multi Packaging beyond the constraints of Malta’s limited domestic market,” he says.

Tunisia is geographically well-positioned, cost-effective, and home to an emerging industrial base that is increasingly underserved when it comes to high-quality packaging solutions, he says.

The expansion is based on a clear market gap, according to Mr Muscat. Multi Packaging identified that many businesses across the region are seeking packaging that meets international standards but lack reliable local suppliers.

The company’s new Tunisian facility will bridge that gap by converting corrugated sheets produced in Malta into premium packaging, delivered closer to clients for improved lead times and reduced costs.

“It’s a lean, scalable model designed for fast, sustainable growth,” he says.

Timing is everything

Asked why now, Mr Muscat is clear: the moment is simply right.

“Market conditions are aligning in our favour. Regional demand is rising, particularly from export-driven businesses that are investing in quality and brand presentation. At the same time, global trends are pushing for more localised, agile supply chains,” he shares.

Mr Muscat mentions how this is the ideal opportunity for the company to step in and position Multi Packaging as a leader in high-end corrugated packaging.

Operationally, the company is well-positioned to act, according to Mr Muscat, with its Malta operations remaining solid, serving as a production hub for sheet supply. Starting with a converting operation in Tunisia offers an efficient way to test and scale the model, without overextending capacity.

“We’re not just chasing growth. We’re building a presence where we see long-term strategic value and a clear return on investment,” he says.

The next step

Despite the geographic expansion, Malta remains central to the company’s future.

“We’re also investing significantly in our Malta facility. Key initiatives include expanding storage capacity and automating critical production and logistics processes. These upgrades will unlock greater efficiencies, reduce costs, and increase our responsiveness to market demands,” Mr Muscat says.

Sustainability and innovation are also high on the agenda, with Multi Packaging actively implementing waste reduction strategies, optimising material usage, and exploring renewable energy options across both Malta and Tunisia.

“After all the world must change to this direction,” he concludes.

Additional reporting by Robert Fenech