SIG Combibloc Obeikan (SIG CBOB), a leading supplier of carton packaging and filling machines for food and beverages, has identified a major shift in what end-consumers expect in today’s heightened eco-aware society when it comes to food and drink packaging.

The company along with regional food packaging experts are preparing to reveal new technology-based solutions created in response to shifting consumer demands at the upcoming Gulfood Manufacturing next week.

The company will use its participation in Gulfood Manufacturing, running from November 6-8, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, in Dubai, UAE, to unpack the perfect package by combining state of the art technology, connectivity and smart solutions for their clients and ultimately, the consumer.  

Visitors to the stand will be able to see their differentiated product designs, smart filling plants and digitally interactive packs.

Martin Schmedes, marketing and strategy director Middle East and Africa (MEA) for SIG CBOB, believes reacting to consumer trends in the right way as well as working with customers to develop smart solutions for product delivery are key steps on the path to the ‘perfect package’.

He said: “Our dedication to understanding customers’ needs goes beyond products and technology. We solve customers’ problems and offer new possibilities through an intelligent, holistic overview of their business needs.”

Using Industrial Internet of Thing (IIoT) technologies, the German-Saudi Arabian joint venture aims to digitally transform factories, enabling higher level of production efficiency and quality.

“Process optimisation and efficiency are key in today’s competitive business interface,” said Schmedes. “Challenges such as speed to the market, health and safety, sustainability and differentiation on the shelf all play a massive part in decision making, and everyone wants to figure out the best ways to reduce time and money spent.”

In addition to optimising factory operations, SIG CBOB believes providing results driven solutions, such as the introduction of a digitally connected packs will benefit the customer and consumer, allowing products to be easily traced back to their source.

Interactive layers can also be added to packs to incorporate digital promotions, giving consumers greater product awareness and encouraging new purchases.

According to SIG CBOB, keeping on top of and reacting to changing consumer trends is imperative if companies are to remain relevant in the current market. The balance of purchasing power is shifting from millennials to Generation Z and with that comes a host of new consumer demands and expectations.

Schmedes added: “Millennials and Gen-Z are far more discerning and conscious about the environment and the content of products they consume. Fair trade, recycled, sustainable and GMO free are no longer buzz words but are fast becoming a prerequisite for consumers.”

“R&D departments need to be dedicated to expanding their portfolios of packaging systems to reflect these demands. Innovations must underline a commitment to deliver responsible products without compromising on the need for unique design and convenience,” he concluded. – TradeArabia News Service