Norwegian packaging company Elopak has named Håkon Volldal as its new president.
Volldal is expected to step into the new role no later than the beginning of January 2027, according to Elopak’s board of directors.
He currently serves as president and chief executive of hydrogen technology firm Nel.
Previously, Volldal held the title of chief executive at Norwegian tech firm Q-Free and several senior leadership roles at Tomra, including executive vice-president and head of Tomra Collection Solutions.
The board recognised his ‘extensive leadership experience’ honed at companies with a ‘clear growth agenda advancing innovation and sustainability based on systemic, societal market shifts’.
“His track record in scaling engineering‑led businesses, driving operational improvement and leading transformation makes him well-qualified to lead Elopak through its next phase of growth, innovation, and sustainability supporting the company’s strategy,” said Dag Mejdell, chair of the board.
‘Clear vision’
Volldal expressed his delight at joining Elopak, a company he described as having “strong purpose, a proud heritage, and a clear vision for the future”.
“Throughout its history, Elopak has demonstrated how innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand to deliver value for customers, shareholders, and society,” the incoming president said.
“I look forward to listening, learning, and working closely with colleagues, customers, and partners around the world. My top priorities will be to accelerate the implementation of Elopak’s ‘Repackaging tomorrow’ strategy and continue to drive positive change in the packaging industry.”
According to Elopak, Bent Kilsund Axelsen will continue to lead the company as interim chief executive until Volldal assumes the role.
Thereafter, Axelsen and interim chief finance officer Ola Buarøy will return to their respective roles as chief finance officer and director of finance and tax.
Carbon footprint of cartons
The news comes as Elopak revealed it has begun sourcing low-carbon aluminium produced with renewable electricity for its European carton production.
The low-carbon aluminium is now used in the company’s standard ambient cartons manufactured at plants in the Netherlands, Denmark and Ukraine.
This has resulted in an immediate 8 per cent reduction in the carbon footprint of Elopak’s standard aluminium ambient cartons, Elopak claimed.
It added the carbon footprint of a standard aseptic Pure-Pak carton has been reduced from 53g to 49g of carbon dioxide per carton, based on cradle-to-gate calculations.
“By sourcing aluminium produced with renewable electricity, we are taking another concrete step in reducing the climate impact of our packaging materials,” said Emilie Olderskog, Elopak’s global head of sustainability.
“The introduction of low-carbon aluminium delivers an immediate and measurable reduction in the footprint of our standard ambient cartons, while allowing us to retain the functional properties that are critical for food protection and shelf-life.”
