Coca-Cola bottler Sibeg Srl has commissioned its first complete aseptic PET line from Sidel at its Catania site. The installation of the Aseptic Combi Predis with EvoFilm stretch technology will enable the company to bottle sensitive beverages internally in future and at the same time achieve key sustainability goals.
Sibeg, the official Coca-Cola bottler for Sicily, employs around 400 people and operates eight production lines. With the new plant, the company aims to expand the production of energy drinks and tea, shorten transport routes and improve its carbon footprint. According to its own information, Sibeg is aiming for zero emissions in Scope 1 and 2 by 2030 and climate neutrality by 2032.
Sustainable filling technology for sensitive beverages
In addition to the Aseptic Combi Predis, the complete aseptic system also includes Sidel's EvoFilm Stretch and PalKombi systems. The process sterilises preforms dry with hydrogen peroxide mist, thus reducing water and chemical consumption. Sibeg also produces entirely with recycled PET, thereby contributing to the circular economy.
With EvoFilm Stretch, Sidel is replacing the conventional shrink process with an energy-efficient stretch wrapping technology that, according to the manufacturer, uses up to 90 per cent less energy and 60 per cent less plastic. The system is complemented by the Evo-ON Flex software, which digitally supports format changes and reduces downtimes.
Luca Busi, CEO of Sibeg, explained: „The project reflects our strategic efforts to expand our product portfolio, meet customer expectations more flexibly and at the same time reduce the environmental pollution caused by lorry transport.“
Complete solution from a single source
Sibeg chose Sidel as its end-to-end partner because of its experience in aseptic packaging. Together with Tetra Pak, the entire process chain from beverage preparation to packaging was realised. The new line processes up to 18,000 bottles per hour and, according to Sidel, fulfils the Coca-Cola Company's quality standards.
Source: Sidel
