The floods that struck Rio Grande do Sul in April and May of 2024 left lasting impacts across the state. More than 470 municipalities were affected, infrastructure was severely damaged, and communities and businesses were forced to confront an unprecedented recovery effort. In Esteio, industries were submerged, parks flooded, and productive areas devastated. The Porto Alegre metropolitan region faced one of the most challenging moments in its history. Greif’s Esteio facility was directly hit by the flooding, bringing operations to a complete halt.
Two years later, recovery efforts are well underway. It is within this renewed landscape that Greif reopens its industrial plant in Esteio in 2026, not simply as a company that has recovered, but as a symbol of resilience, reinvention, and progress. For Ricardo Goldenberg, Greif Steel Business Leader for Latin America, the reopening of the Esteio plant marks a meaningful step forward following the challenges faced in the region.
From Destruction to Modernization
What could have been a straightforward rebuild became an opportunity to rethink the operation entirely. Following the floods, Greif chose to invest in a modernized facility with expanded production capacity and advanced technologies.This transformation was explored in greater detail in a magazine article by Paint & Pintura Magazine that examines how the Esteio rebuild went far beyond restoration.
The plant’s layout was completely redesigned to improve operational flow, incorporating LED lighting throughout and more durable, efficient industrial flooring.
The production line now features state-of-the-art equipment—among the most advanced in the world—and is fully aligned with Industry 4.0 principles. Real-time monitoring, continuous process optimization, and waste reduction are now integral to daily operations. The increase in production capacity positions the plant to meet the growing demand in the industrial packaging market.
Energy efficiency was also a key consideration, ensuring high performance while maintaining a strong commitment to environmental responsibility.
Commitment to Customers and the Region
Rebuilding in Esteio was a deliberate decision that goes beyond operational continuity. It reflects Greif’s confidence in the economic recovery of Rio Grande do Sul. One of the company’s core principles is building prosperous communities, demonstrated through its commitment to employees and the preservation of local jobs. The reopened plant strengthens long-standing local partnerships and reinforces Greif’s presence in the Porto Alegre metropolitan region.
As Luiz Oliveira, Greif Commercial Leader, emphasizes: “We’re back. We believe in the recovery of Rio Grande do Sul, and we are ready to serve our customers.”
This statement captures Greif’s outlook for the future, not just rebuilding, but growing alongside the region.
A New Chapter Begins
The reopening of Greif’s Esteio plant marks the start of a new phase. With greater production capacity, more efficient processes, and upgraded technology, the facility is well positioned to respond to market needs with increased agility and flexibility.
For customers, this means faster deliveries, consistent quality ensured by automated controls, and the ability to support larger volumes and customized requirements.
A new chapter begins in Esteio, one that reflects Greif’s determination to evolve, innovate, and prepare for the future.