Monmouth-based Tri-Wall held an open day to celebrate its merge into Tri-Wall Group.

Heads of industry from all over the world and local dignitaries, including Monmouth's mayor and AM, converged on the factory to celebrate the change of hands from DS Smith to Tri-Wall Europe.

The sale is part of a larger intention by Japanese packaging giant Yuji Suzuki, chairman and founder of the Tri-Wall group, to acquire global Tri-Wall franchises. Now, the only franchises they do not own are those in the US and Australia.

The Tri-Wall franchise originated in the States and the franchises for this patented product (a triple layered cardboard with triple A flute combinations, being extremely robust and suitable for heavyweight packaging), were distributed worldwide.

Yuji Suzuki bought the Japan franchise and since then has acquired China, Europe, Russia and the Middle East.

The Monmouth factory turns over an estimated £20 million and supplies custom packaging products throughout Europe.

"The manufacturing sector is our biggest customer with motoring, aerospace and engineering being the largest areas we cater to," said sales manager Phil Rees.

The tough structures created by the specialised equipment are perfectly suited to heavy equipment.

Other household name clients include Stannah Stairlifts, Cadbury's, Siemens and Royal Mail.

Tri-Wall staff underwent cultural exchange lessons to help them prepare for the three-day event, which included an industry awards ceremony. Press from all over the UK arrived to report on the landmark change of ownership.

"Tri-Wall in Monmouth currently employs 132 people and we are looking to double our business in the next two and a half years," said Mr Rees.

Locally, this will have a positive impact on the job market and the economy in general.

Outside the private school sector, Tri-Wall is already the largest employer in the area and a grant from the Welsh Government means that, immediately, two jobs are created and further jobs are expected as the business moves into Turkey, Dubai and India.

"Yuji Suzuki is committed to integration with the local community. In his youth he spent time training in this facility and is very fond of the area," said Mr Rees.

Despite being preoccupied with the handover of business this year, Tri-Wall sponsored the Monmouthshire Show and has also helped Redbrook School raise funds for their school by letting them have a camp out in one of their adjoining fields.

"We are aiming to be more involved in the community in the coming months and are happy to be approached by local charities," said marketing manager Gavin Peters.