Aseptic beverage carton manufacturer SIG Combibloc (D- 52441 Linnich; www.combibloc.com) has entered a strategic partnership with Frimesa, a major food supplier in Brazil trading as a cooperative in the meat and milk market. The South American market for aseptic beverage cartons is dynamic. Around 7 bn litres are packaged this way, and the number continues to rise, said the company.

With around 80%, Brazil has the largest share of the South American aseptic beverage packaging market. According to SIG, the world market for aseptic beverage cartons is growing at an annual rate of around 3%-4% on average, while in Brazil it is increasing at a rate of up to 7% annually. The machinery producer is focusing on the region as part of its global expansion strategy. SIG has provided the filling machines and aseptic cartons for Frimesa´s sweetened condensed milk packaging line in Marechal Cândido Rondon and expects to expand production at the facility.