Smurfit WestRock’s factory in Rabat secures global AA+ packaging certification after surprise audit
Smurfit WestRock Morocco has announced that its Rabat factory has received certification for compliance with the global standard for packaging materials issued by BRCGS, achieving the highest rating possible, which is AA+.
This accolade holds special significance as it came following a surprise audit, enhancing the factory’s credibility and elevating its status on both national and international levels. Notably, the factory has only been operational for two years, a remarkably short period to reach such a high level of performance.
This achievement reflects the company’s strict commitment to global quality standards, as confirmed by the comprehensive audit conducted on August 27, 2025, which verified that all production stages—from paper corrugation and flexographic printing to cutting, folding, and gluing—are in line with international packaging safety standards. The audit results showed no disqualifying remarks, reinforcing the factory’s position as a model establishment in the industry.
This certification recognizes Smurfit WestRock Morocco’s standing as a leading player in sustainable packaging, with the factory designed according to the latest industrial systems. It is the only production site in the kingdom partially powered by solar energy, equipped with 1,500 photovoltaic panels that provide approximately 1.3 GWh of clean energy annually, thereby avoiding the emission of 900 tons of carbon dioxide. Additionally, the factory features an advanced water treatment system that reduces consumption by 50%, as well as gas-powered equipment with 18% greater energy efficiency than traditional systems.
The prestigious BRCGS certification adds to a series of accreditations the company has previously obtained, such as FSC®, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001, solidifying the factory’s place among the top sites in the group on an international scale. This outstanding performance is attributed to strong governance, high technical capabilities, and a corporate culture focused on quality and innovation.
The factory operates on a circular production model by recycling waste generated from the production of corrugated cardboard, further underscoring its commitment to sustainability. It also houses the Experience Centre, the first of its kind in Africa, which plays a crucial role in developing smart packaging solutions based on data analysis, virtual modeling, and augmented reality technologies, along with specialized tools to measure the environmental and operational impacts of solutions provided to customers.
Commenting on this achievement, Monir Nasri, CEO of the company, stated, “This certification represents a well-deserved recognition of two years of continuous effort and absolute dedication from our teams… It embodies our industrial vision based on quality, safety, sustainability, and innovation to serve national export chains and food industries.”
Having been operational in Morocco for over twenty years, the company continues to strengthen its presence within the national economic fabric with a fully Moroccan team comprising over 200 direct employees and 400 indirect ones, maintaining a retention rate exceeding 95% within a comprehensive skills development policy.
This AA+ classification reflects the growing trust Smurfit WestRock Morocco has earned among industrial players, distributors, and exporters, establishing it as a reference provider of packaging solutions compliant with the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and environmental responsibility.
