The 50-50 joint venture DNP • SIG Combibloc brings true packaging innovation and value-added filling technology to Japan, with SIG's unique on-the-go combismile carton pack. Co-packer Cosmo Foods will be the first company in Japan to install a state-of-the-art, high-speed combismile filling machine from SIG. This will set the course to bring trendy beverages in modern, convenient and sustainable packaging solutions designed specifically for on-the-go consumption to busy consumers.

With integrated drinksplus technology, Cosmo Foods has the opportunity to develop and fill a broad range of exciting new product concepts with tangible added value, including real pieces of fruit or vegetables, creating exciting prospects to work with many top Japanese food and beverage brands. Demand continues to grow in Japan for healthy, differentiating and high-quality beverages in convenient single-serve packs for on-the-go consumption.

With its curved, modern shape and easy-grip corners, combismile provides mobile consumers with convenient consumption straight from the pack, with a leak-proof and tamper-evident single action closure. combismile is also proven to be one of the most sustainable packaging solutions, created using only paperboard made of pulp from FSC-certified, responsibly managed forests and other controlled sources.

Hideki Kasai, president of Cosmo Foods, said, "The new combismile filling line will be sited at our plant in Komono. Cosmo Foods currently offers co-packing beverages in plastic packaging, but we have decided to add carton packs to our portfolio because of their excellent environmental profile. SIG's filling technology allows us to fill beverages with pieces in carton packs and easily make product and volume changes. With this new system, we will allow brand owners to offer products with high added value."

SIG's combismile filling technology offers outstanding flexibility, high output (24,000 carton pack per hour), and low waste rates. Another reason why Cosmo Foods chose combismile is the assurance of DNP and SIG's technological strength and product development capabilities, enabling them to provide the Japanese beverage market with innovative, value-added products.

By using the capacity for filling products in combismile at Cosmo Foods, food and beverage brands will benefit from the equipment at Cosmo Foods to enjoy short delivery times until the finished product is filled and ready for market. The co-packer route also keeps overhead and market entry costs to a minimum.

Kazuhiro Masukura, general manager of Sales at DNP, said, "Today's announcement marks an exciting milestone in the joint venture between SIG and DNP. Together with Cosmo Foods, we will bring innovative and unique quality beverages to the Japanese market. combismile offers unique high productivity and differentiation advantages that other suppliers in Japan cannot provide. It is the perfect solution to respond to changing regional market needs and provide a competitive edge."

Innovative partnerships leverage the potential of SIG's Product Innovation and Differentiation platform – a drive to deliver innovative product and packaging solutions that enable businesses to satisfy the ever-changing needs of consumers.