SIG Combibloc, Neuhausen am Rheinfall, Switzerland, said it will construct a new plant in Queretaro, Mexico, to serve North American markets. The plant will further expand SIG’s global production network and will enable the company to build on its strong track record of growth in North America.

Through its existing sales and service presence, SIG said it has been able to forge strong relationships with major dairies in Mexico — a large and growing milk market. In the United States, SIG said it has a well-established co-manufacturing customer base and is ideally placed to serve innovative and expanding new categories.

SIG said it will invest approximately 40 million euros in the new plant over the 2021-2023 period. The investment will cover state-of-the art production capacity for the printing, cutting and finishing of carton packs.

The plant is expected to open in the first quarter of 2023 and will create approximately 200 jobs. It will have a highly flexible layout with a focus on ergonomics and the environment. The land and buildings will be financed through a long-term lease with a net present value of approximately 20 million euros, SIG said.

“We are very excited to announce this project, which will enable us to serve our North American customers faster and more efficiently,” said Ricardo Rodriguez, president and general manager, Americas. “Delivery lead times will be reduced, and we will be able to respond rapidly to changes in demand. Our new plant will further drive growth in the region while demonstrating our commitment to the highest environmental standards.”