GLENROTHES-based Sunhope Packaging Machinery is to expand its operations and enter a new digital printing market.
Part of a global group specialising in innovative packaging solutions, Sunhope established its UK base in Fife in 2023 as part of its expansion from Zhenjiang City in China’s Jiangsu Province.
Since installing its first machine in 2025, the company has evolved beyond machinery demonstration and sales to include the production of customised printed paper bags – creating a new revenue stream and responding to growing demand for flexible, short-run packaging solutions.
Operating within a niche digital printing market for orders of fewer than 50,000 units, the company now provides high-quality, bespoke paper bags to a wide range of customers, including food and drink retailers, takeaway businesses, and gift shops.
As Scotland continues to transition towards a more circular economy and reduce reliance on single-use plastics, demand for sustainable packaging solutions is increasing. Paper-based alternatives are becoming an important option for businesses seeking to meet environmental goals, while branded, customised packaging can also help reinforce these commitments with customers.
This growing demand is already being reflected in customer uptake, with local businesses utilising Sunhope’s digital printing capabilities.
Carri Walker, MD of ESC Packaging Limited, said, “We were delighted to work with Sunhope on digitally printed paper carrier bags. As a long-established UK packaging business, it was a great opportunity to support a fellow Fife manufacturer, and we were very pleased with both the quality and the service. We look forward to building a strong working relationship.”
The company’s products have also been independently tested and approved for safe use in the food industry, providing assurance to food and drink businesses seeking compliant packaging solutions.
Sunhope’s growth has attracted international interest, with visitors from the United States and Argentina attending on-site machinery demonstrations, resulting in confirmed orders.
The firm is also supporting local manufacturers, including the Smith Anderson Group, by supplying paper bag manufacturing machinery and associated systems. Being based in Fife enables the company to provide responsive technical support, on-site assistance and ongoing operational input.
A second machine is planned for installation at the Glenrothes facility later this year to support increased demand.
Fife Council’s economic development team (InvestFife), alongside partners including Business Gateway Fife and Scottish Development International, has supported the company’s growth. This has included identifying suitable premises, providing business advice, net zero grant funding and ongoing relationship management.
Andy Lindsay, MD at Sunhope Packaging and Machinery, said, “The past year has marked a major step forward for our business. Since installing our first paper bag manufacturing machine in Fife, we’ve been able to support international customers through machinery demonstrations while also delivering R&D projects on-site.
“We’ve also expanded into digital printing, including the launch of our AdverPack platform, allowing customers to order customised paper bags. This has created new opportunities and enabled us to respond to increasing demand for tailored, sustainable packaging solutions.
“Establishing our UK base in Fife has been key to this growth, and we’ve benefited from strong local support and a collaborative business environment. We’re now focused on building on this momentum and expanding into new markets.”
Pamela Stevenson, service manager for Fife Council’s economic development team, commented, “Sunhope Packaging and Machinery’s growth highlights how inward investment can translate into long-term business success in Fife. It demonstrates the strength of our offer and the value of partnership working in supporting businesses to establish, grow and innovate right here in Fife.”
