SIG Combibloc comments on Asian expansion

SIG Combibloc has completed the business year 2005 with a turnover of $1.36 billion. Worldwide sales of aseptic carton packs showed double-digit growth amounting to almost 12%. The company recorded greatest market successes primarily in China, South East Asia, Eastern Europe, the Middle East and South America, but was nevertheless forced to accept a drop in sales in the key market Germany.

China: New plant triggers growth surge

The opening of the new plant in Suzhou at the end of 2004 triggered a growth surge for SIG Combibloc in China. In 2005, aseptic carton sales were more than double the figure recorded in the previous year. In China, both the market for non-carbonated soft drinks (NCSD) and the market for UHT milk products grew in 2005 by about 30-40% respectively. This growth potential is primarily due to the fact that per capita consumption is still very low at present.

South East Asia: Market successes

By 2008, more aseptic beverage cartons will be sold in the South Asian markets (including South Korea and Taiwan) than in Germany, which to date has been the strongest market for SIG Combibloc worldwide. The fastest growing markets—after China—are Vietnam and Indonesia. In 2005, SIG Combibloc estabshed SIG Vietnam and opened an office in Ho Chi Minh City.

SIG Combibloc comments on Asian expansion