PETpla.net Insider 12 / 2018

TRADE SHOW REVIEW PET planet Insider Vol. 19 No. 12/18 www.petpla.net 40 Sidel presents solutions for a fast-changing market environment at CBB – PETplanet in talk with Clive Smith, Executive Vice President of Sales, Sidel “Modularity and service are key“ PETplanet: To what extent does Sidel’s presence here at CBB reflect the requirements of the Chinese bev- erage technology market? Clive Smith: The focus in China is currently on aseptic filling. This is why we are establishing aseptic lines into the Chinese supply chain. Our Aseptic Combi Predis FMa blow fill seal filler is one example. Our patented technol- ogy is 100% safe for the packaging of UHT milk, soymilk, coconut water, or teas in PET bottles. And it is FDA- approved following tests run at a dairy customer in North America last year. The Sidel Aseptic Combi Predis is one of our highlights here, merging dry preform sterilisation with aseptic blowing, filling and sealing functions within a single production enclosure. It differs from traditional aseptic technol- ogy because the package sterilisation takes place at the preform rather than at the bottle phase. PETplanet: When we talk about aseptic - which drinks are currently trending in China? Clive Smith: The water market is on the rise but the liquid dairy market is growing as well – drinkable yogurts for example are very promising. The juice market is also growing but this is not so obvious. And even in traditional beverage segments, such as tea, there is the potential for new crea- tions. A relatively new beverage trend for example is carbonated tea. PETplanet: Aside from aseptic filling, what other trends regarding filling in PET are you observing in China? Clive Smith: Here, premiu- misation is a big trend. It is quite the opposite from the lightweight- ing trend other countries are facing. Premiumisation means a rather thick glass-like appearance whereas thin packaging formats have lost share. As regards pack- aging materials, this results in a switch to PET, often from HDPE, for premium products. In the premium segment, we can win with our StiffPrime packaging solution. Featuring a “champagne base” and the possibility of clos- ing the bottle with a crown cap, this PET bottle design resembles glass containers, thus contributing to brand image, while offering great resistance to high carbonation and pasteurisation. This is why, besides adding value to the product, it is particularly suitable for carbonated soft drinks and beer. by Gabriele Kosmehl Clive Smith, Executive Vice President of Sales, Sidel