SIG will construct its first aseptic carton plant in India, the world’s largest milk market and one of the largest juice-producing countries globally. The plant will be in Ahmedabad, in the state of Gujarat. SIG entered the Indian market in 2018 and has seen a rapid expansion of its business. The plant will supply its growing filler base, which now serves all leading dairy and non-carbonated soft drink players.

The investment will cover state-of-the-art production capacity for the printing and finishing of aseptic carton packs with high environmental standards. Construction will commence in Q1 2023, and commercial production is expected towards the end of 2024. Phase one of construction is expected to create around 300 jobs.

SIG will invest approximately 60 million euros over the period 2023–2025 to reach a production capacity of up to 4 billion packs per annum. Subsequent investments could increase capacity up to 10 billion packs per annum. Land and buildings will be financed through a long-term lease with an NPV of approxi­mately 30 million euros.

Angela Lu, president & general manager - Asia-Pacific South, SIG, said, “India is fast becoming the world’s most populous country and has a very low per capita consumption of entry-level packaged food and beverage goods. Since entering the market five years ago, we have grown exponentially. We are looking forward to further expanding our presence and driving our market share. An established local infrastructure will allow us to fast-track innovations and build strong and long-lasting partner­ships with our customers.”

Vandana Tandan, head - Markets for India and Bangladesh, SIG, said, “We are thrilled to announce that soon we will have locally produced Made in India aseptic carton packs. With this plant, we will be able to further develop the range of products available to Indian consumers. Our long shelf-life pack­aging increases access to vital nutrition and avoid food waste through an array of sizes to suit all consumption occasions at affordable price points.”