The Innovation and Reliability Centre (IRC) at SIG Combibloc Obeikan (SIG CBOB), one of the world’s leading suppliers of carton packaging and filling machines for food and beverage, was officially opened in Dubai Silicon Oasis by Abdallah Obeikan, CEO of Obeikan Investment Group and Rolf Stangl, CEO of SIG. In a center is a new creative space that will mark a revolution in the way food and beverage products are packaged and delivered to customers.

The IRC has been created for SIG CBOB customers to adapt to the shift in the F&B production and consumption market, and the rapidly changing behavior and expectations of consumers by delivering solutions which combine state of the art technology, connectivity and smart packs.

Customers visiting the IRC will be able to see the latest innovations in sustainable aseptic packaging such as a carton pack that can be heated and carried on the go, a carton pack that acts like a bottle, and the world’s first aseptic pack 100 percent linked to plant-based renewable material.

The opening of the IRC coincides with SIG CBOB’s participation in Gulfood Manufacturing, running until 8 November at the Dubai World Trade Centre, where visitors are able to see their differentiated product designs, smart filling plants and digitally interactive packs.

Abdelghany Eladib, chief operating officer at SIG CBOB said: “Our understanding of our customers’ needs goes beyond products and technology. We solve customer problems and offer new possibilities through an intelligent, holistic overview of their business needs.”

 Martin Schmedes, marketing & strategy director MEA for SIG CBOB added: “The creation of the IRC is in direct response to a range of key production demands, such as the leverage of connectivity between information technology and shop floor operations, the adaptation of production processes for each product, quickly and efficiently, and the optimisation of overall equipment effectiveness and the reduction of operational costs.

“Today’s consumer operates in an on-demand culture and a heightened digitalised world.  They are more enlightened and demanding than ever before when it comes to digital engagement and the traceability of the products they buy.  Not to mention, they are increasingly buying goods online. We are helping our customers adapt to these changes and make a valuable difference to their consumers.”