Global packaging solutions provider SIG had recently laid the foundation of its first aseptic carton plant in India. The company has planned an investment of approximately INR 880 crores in phases for the facility that is under construction in Ahmedabad, Gujarat as part of its efforts to expand its presence in the country. This will be the company’s 10th aseptic carton plant. The company has planned to invest the money in a phased manner during the period from 2023-2025. The company aims to attain a production capacity of up to 4 billion packs per annum. Subsequent investments are expected to increase capacity up to 10 billion packs per annum.
Read: August 2023 Issue of Food Infotech Magazine.
SIG is investing approximately 100 million euros (INR 880 crores), which will consist of state-of-the-art production technology for printing and finishing aseptic carton packs. All the packages will be made adhering to stringent environmental, quality and safety standards to meet the diverse needs of food and beverage producers and consumers.
Samuel Sigrist, CEO of SIG, stated – “The Indian market is undergoing a transformation, leading to an increase in demand for sustainable aseptic packaging solutions. With our aseptic carton plant in India, we will be even closer to our customers and serve them in the best possible way. We are drawing from the insights and experience we have gained over the past 5 years of our presence in India. The new plant is a testimony of our unwavering commitment to our customers and believe in the prosperous future of India’s food and beverage industry. It is our next big milestone in delivering innovative, high-quality and sustainable packaging solutions for this diverse country full of opportunities.”
Land and buildings for the new facility will be financed through a long-term lease with a Net Present Value (NPV) of approximately INR 263 crores. Meanwhile, commercial production is expected to begin by the end of 2024. The first phase of the construction is projected to generate nearly 300 jobs.
Vandana Tandan, Head of Markets India and Bangladesh at SIG, stated – “India’s exponential growth positions it as one of the most prominent markets for us especially with the tremendous potential we see in the dairy and juice segments. We have accordingly decided to set up our 10th aseptic carton plant globally in India in the western city of Ahmedabad. With this new state-of-the-art facility, we will cater to the demands of our customers even more promptly and efficiently. The facility will be fully functional by 2025 and will create 300 jobs in the region. It aligns with the country’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.”
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization Corporate Statistical Database (FAOSTAT), India is the world’s top milk producer. During the period 2021-22, India accounted for 24% of global milk production. Simultaneously, the country is also recognized as being one of the largest juice producers worldwide. The company’s new aseptic carton plant in Ahmedabad aims to cater to its growing dairy and non-carbonated soft drink filler base in the country.
