Pakistan Food Journal, November - December 2023

November - December 2023

Calendar of Events Gulfood Manufacturing 2023 Date: 7 to 9, November 2023.

Venue: Dubai World Trade Centre.

GULFOOD 2024 Dates: 19 to 23 February 2024 Venue: Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai

Dates: 19 to 21 November 2023 Venue: Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

ANUGA Select Brazil Date: 09 to 11 April 2024 Venue: Av. Olavo Fontoura, 1.209 – Jardim São Bento, São Paulo, Brazil

ISM Cologne -2024 Dates: 28 to 31 January 2024 Venue: Koelnmesse GmbH, Cologne, Germany

3P Plas Print Pack Pakistan Date: 5 to 7 September 2024.

Venue: Expo Centre Lahore.

Fruit Logistica 2024 Date: 07 to 09 February 2024

IFTECH Pakistan 2024

Venue: Berlin, Germany.

Date: 5 to 7 September 2024.

Venue: Expo Centre Karachi.

Date: 13 to 16 February 2024 Venue: Exhibition Centre Nuremberg, Germany.

Asia Fruit Logistica 2024 Date: 4 to 6 September 2024.

Venue: AsiaWorld Expo, Hong Kong

International Green Week Date: 19 to 28, January 2024.

Dates: 13 to 15 June 2024.

Venue: Berlin, Germany.

Venue: Shanghai New International Expo Center

Contents

Editor’s Note

Pakistan Food Journal, November - December 2023

Dear readers, In our November December 2023 edition the editorial board of Pakistan Food Journal is focusing on the current exhibitions related to the food industry that are holding worldwide in the coming months. Among them, Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) has announced leading global trade fair, Gulfood Manufacturing, that will take place in November 07-09, 2023.

Showcasing new global products, solutions and technologies across the food and beverage value chain. Gulfood Manufacturing 2023 will be the definitive destination leading the future of food production from new ingredients and advanced technologies to integrated supply chain solutions and breakthrough developments driving the industry forward.

Food Briefs National and International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 News and Views . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Around the World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Corporate News Nestlé launches tasty andnutritious alternatives towhite fish . . . . . . . . . .18 India takes the stage at theInternational Plant-Based FoodsSummit in Brussels. 19 Tate & Lyle Earns Prime ESGCorporate Rating from ISS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Customer conference highlightedtrends and potentials for thereturnables market .21 Kerry opens manufacturingfacility in Tanzania . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 To Meet the Needs of Africa’s Food and Beverage Manufacturers

This year marked a significant milestone as we celebrated 20 years of 3P Plas Print Pack Pakistan, I express my gratitude for the unwavering support of our valued exhibitors and partners in making this event a tremendous success.

Orkla completes US$1.4B saleof minority stake in Food andIngredients unit

63,470 trade visitors and buyers from over 140 countries as well as 2,610 exhibitors from 92 countries – this year, the leading trade fair for the global fruit trade was more international than ever and gathered the sector’s key players.

Taking as its slogan ’All in One’, FRUIT LOGISTICA celebrated its thirtieth anniversary and from 8 to 10 February showcased the entire value chain of the fresh produce sector. In 27 halls the focus was on the latest trends and innovations in the global fresh fruit trade.

Tate & Lyle announces majorinvestment programme in itsfacility in

Amina Baqai Editor in Chief

to Rhône . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

Exclusive Articles The MULTIVAC Group has won an awardfor Best Managed Company 2023 . .24 Slovakia to producedietary fibres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 New modification for MULTIVACchamber belt machines . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 AUTEFA Solutions: Featuringnew glass bottle slide gatesfor a constant flow of bottles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 Sidel launches the fastestblower for large PET containerswith EvoBLOW XL . .30 Solugen and ADM AnnounceStrategic Partnership to MeetIncreasing Demand forSustainable Products with NewBiomanufacturing Facility in theU.S. Midwest . . .32

3P PLAS PRINT PACK PAKISTAN 20th International 3P Plas Print Pack Pakistan received overwhelming response, generated tremendous business and broke all previous visitorship records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

FRUIT LOGISTICA 2023 FRUIT LOGISTICA 2023comes to a successfulconclusion . . . . . . . . . . . .40

GULFOOD MANUFACTURING 2022 Editor-in-Chief Amina Baqai Managing Editor / Publisher Sohail Aziz Senior Editor / Publisher Nadeem Mazhar

Hony. Editor Dr. Noor Ahmad Memon Shahzad Umer Sama Marketing Executive and Layout & Design Mazhar Ali

Biggest-ever Gulfood Manufacturing 2023 to take global food production in a smarter, more sustainable directionr . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48 Baker Perkins Engaging with the future of engineering . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51 Gea Supervisory Board Appoints Bernd Brinker as Interim CFO . . . . . . .52 Krones records strong growth infirst three quarters of 2023 andsignificantly improves profitability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54 Sidel expands overwrappingportfolio with EvoFilm®Stretch – top-tiersustainable technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 Exhibitors at Gulfood Manufacturing 2023 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58

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Food Briefs National

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Pakistan, the world’s fifth most populous country, has been ranked 99th out of 129 nations in a Global Hunger Index (GHI) report. Analysts say accessibility and affordability, coupled with political and economic crisis, are behind Pakistan’s ranking.

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Pakistan’s SAU and FAO have agreed to join hands to promote shared progress and advancement in agricultural endeavors across the Sindh and Balochistan regions of Pakistan, so that the farming community of backward areas can improve their life style through sustainable agriculture, while this collaborative effort is aimed at strengthening research, development, and capacity-building programs within the Sindh region.

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Pakistan has been facing its worst economic crisis in decades with skyhigh inflation and foreign exchange reserves barely enough to cover one month of controlled imports which analysts say could have spiraled into a debt default in the absence of the IMF deal.

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Pakistan’s Punjab Seed Council (PSC) approved eight new seeds of different crops for general cultivation including six new varieties of cotton and two varieties vegetables meeting the prescribed SOPs.

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Pakistan PM's Kissan Package and State Bank of Pakistan’s efforts helped the financial institutions disbursed all-time high Rs 1.776 trillion under agriculture financing during the last fiscal year (FY23). The disbursement of Rs 1.776 trillion in FY23 is also 25 percent higher than agricultural financing of Rs 1.419 trillion disbursed in FY22.

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Pakistan’s HBL Zarai Services will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary meant to increase capacity in the country’s vastly underserved agricultural sector. The initiative aims to offer farmers a variety of facilities and services, including storage space, farming equipment, crop production inputs, including seed and fertilizer, and agronomic advice.

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(FAO), under the USAID-funded project "Livelihood and Food Security Improvement Activity" (LFSA), conducted a Baseline Validation Workshop today to validate the findings for the project's targeted areas. The validation workshops are integral parts of the Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) framework of FAO as they provide practical opportunities for project teams to review, discuss and validate findings with key stakeholders of the important studies and use the evidence created for setting benchmarks, adaptation and continuous improvement. 

In Pakistan, The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

Pakistan’s leading agriculture innovation and technology company Syngenta that provides crop protection, seeds, biological and digital services to millions of Pakistani farmers – has kicked-off its annual Tree Plantation Drive namely ‘Plant a Tree’ across its offices, warehouses, formulation plant and distribution network to commemorate the national independence day of Pakistan.

Food Briefs International 

Global rice markets could come under further strain as the world’s leading rice producer China grapples with heavy rain and flood risks.

“Heavy rain in China’s grainproducing north-eastern region that will reduce yields is likely to put upward pressure on already high global rice prices,” Fitch Ratings said in a recent report.

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Wendy’s to develop 200 restaurants in Australia A new master franchise agreement for Australia has been announced by The Wendy’s Company and Flynn Restaurant Group, with the aim to open 200 restaurants in Australia by 2034.

Flynn Restaurant Group is the largest restaurant franchise operator in the world and will serve as the exclusive master franchisee in Australia. It also operates restaurants for Applebee’s, Taco Bell, Panera, Arby’s and Pizza Hut throughout the US.

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Burger King has scrapped tomatoes from its wraps and burgers in many Indian outlets after prices more than quadrupled, the latest symptom of surging food inflation that is hitting consumers hard across the world's most populous nation. "Even tomatoes need a vacation ... we are unable to add tomatoes to our food," read notices pasted at two Burger King India outlets. The chain has cited quality issues in explaining the shortfall.

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India in talks with Russia to import wheat, aims to reduce food inflation with an aim to increase supplies and reduce food inflation ahead of state and national elections next year, India is in talks with Russia to import wheat at a discount to surging global prices, according to a report published by the news agency Reuters.

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Ministers criticized for scrapping new food waste laws for England the government has been criticized

for binning food waste legislation that campaigners say could have reduced food prices and helped tackle the climate crisis. The policy would have made food waste reporting mandatory for large and medium-sized businesses in England. According to research by the environmental campaign group Feedback, if it led to just a 1% reduction in food waste, food businesses would save an estimated total of at least £24.4m a year. 

Argentina eatery scraps Holocaustthemed dishes from menu the Honky Donky fast food eatery in Rafaela, Argentina, has scrapped its ‘Ana Frank burger’ and ‘Hitler fries’ after backlash from the local Jewish community. The Comunidad Judía de Rafaela condemned the restaurant over the dishes, issuing a statement on its Facebook page stressing the organization’s “repulsion and indignation.

News & Views

SAU, FAO agree to join hands to enhance agri output SAU and FAO have agreed to join hands to promote shared progress and advancement in agricultural endeavors across the Sindh and Balochistan regions of Pakistan, so that the farming community of backward areas can improve their life style through sustainable agriculture, while this collaborative effort is aimed at strengthening research, development, and capacity-building programs within the Sindh region.

A delegation comprising faculty members and directors, led by Dr. Fateh Marri, the Vice Chancellor of SAU Tandojam, visited the UNFAO office, where they engaged with James Okhton, Head of UNFAO Sindh office.

During the visit, Prof. Dr. Fateh Marri commended the UNFAO for its support to Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam.

He outlined SAU’s achievements and emphasized the institution’s research priority areas, designed to address challenges posed by Climate Change and Food Security. Dr. Marri underlined that both organizations share the core values of ensuring seed security and building resilient agriculture at the national level.

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James provided an overview of UNFAO’s programs and projects initiated in Sindh, and He stressed the significance of expert and technical support from SAU in Agriculture and Livestock for the benefit of small-scale farmers in Sindh. He also suggested that SAU students should conduct research on emerging issues related to climate change and food security. added.

Inflation touches 29.8% in Pakistan amid rise in Food, Energy prices A series of sharp rises in energy and food prices in Pakistan, pushed its weekly inflation up by 1.30 per cent and annualized inflation up to 29.83 per cent, Pakistan's Geo News reported citing The News.

According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), the increase in the sensitive price indicator (SPI) was attributed to an increase in the prices of tomatoes (16.85 per cent), LPG (9.82 per cent), petrol (7.86 per cent) and diesel (7.82 per cent), chili powder (7.58 per cent), garlic (5.71 per cent), onion (5.50 per cent), powdered milk (5.17 per cent), eggs (3.86 per cent) and broken basmati rice (2.06 per cent).

On the other hand, a major decrease was observed in the prices of mustard oil (1.63 per cent), chicken (1.40 per cent), vegetable ghee 1kg (0.51 per cent), vegetable ghee 2.5kg (0.36 per cent), pulse gram (0.22 per cent), wheat flour (0.20 per cent) and pulse moong (0.03 per cent).

For the week under review, SPI was recorded at 271.56 points against 268.08 points registered last week and 209.17 points recorded during the week ending August 8, 2022. PBS compiles SPI by collecting prices of 51 essential items from 50 markets in 17 cities of the country.

During the week, out of 51 items, prices of 23 (45.10%) items increased, 7 (13.72%) items decreased and prices of 21 (41.18%) items remained unchanged, Geo News reported.

Notably, different weights are assigned to various commodities in the SPI basket.

Commodities with the highest weights for the lowest quintile include milk (17.5449 per cent), electricity (8.3627 per cent), wheat flour (6.1372 per cent), sugar (5.1148 per cent), firewood (5.0183 per cent), long cloth (4.2221 per cent), and vegetable ghee (3.2833 per cent).

News & Views

Out of these commodities, the price of milk, sugar, and firewood went up; wheat flour and vegetable ghee decreased; whereas prices of long cloth, and electricity remained unchanged, Geo News reported.

Sakina, a homemaker from North Nazimabad said that she does not know how to cater to the food needs of her children, particularly meat.

"Chicken is PKR 600/kg at my local shop, beef is more than Rs1,100 and mutton — I have not even bothered checking its price," she lamented, adding that just 250 grams of tomatoes cost 50 PKR, which means straight up PKR 200/kg.

"With growing kids, running the kitchen in a single and meagre salary has become close to impossible," Geo News quoted the homemaker.

Weeks before, IMF approved a USD 3 billion bailout to support Pakistan in avoiding a default on its debt repayments.

The year-on-year (YoY) trend depicts an increase of 29.83 per cent, on account of rising prices of wheat flour (131.40%), cigarettes (109.57 per cent), gas charges for Q1 (108.38 per cent), tea (97.71 per cent), broken basmati rice (82.86 per cent), rice irri-6/9 (73.73 per cent), tomatoes (67.54 per cent), chilli powder (66.74 per cent), sugar (64.12 per cent), chicken (60.51 per cent), gents sponge chappal (58.05 per cent), gur (57.75 per cent), and potatoes (55.75 per cent), according to Geo News.

With sky-high inflation and foreign exchange reserves barely enough to cover one month of controlled imports, Pakistan has been facing its worst economic crisis in decades, which analysts say could have spiraled into a debt default in the absence of the IMF deal.

Commodities that registered a YoY decline in prices included onions (37.10 per cent), electricity for Q1 (18.06 per cent), pulse masoor (15.07 per cent), and vegetable ghee 1 kg (1.13 per cent).

A working woman, wishing to remain anonymous, said that her father had taken a bank loan.

"Since the interest rates have been increased by the central bank, paying the instalment takes up a major chunk of our combined income," she said, sharing that for a day this week her family had no wheat flour at home to make roti.

"We used to be a regular middle-class family, but I feel we are now poor," she said.

Notably, Pakistan is battling a huge economic crisis, with staggering inflation and depleting Forex reserves.

November - December 2023

PSC approves eight new seeds of different crops The Punjab Seed Council (PSC) approved eight new seeds of different crops for general cultivation including six new varieties of cotton and two varieties vegetables meeting the prescribed SOPs. The approval was accorded at the 57th meeting of the Punjab Seed Council held with the provincial Minister for Agriculture S M Tanveer in the chair.

In the meeting, MD Punjab Seed Corporation Shan-ul-Haq presented 16 new types of seeds of various agricultural commodities of public and private sector for approval of general cultivation. The minister Punjab did not approve eight varieties due to not receiving DNA fingerprint report or other unavoidable reasons.

Speaking on this occasion, the minister said that agriculture was an important sector of the national economy. All possible measures were being taken for agricultural development. DNA fingerprint reporting varieties had been approved for

achieving agricultural production targets, which would not only enable the acquisition of pure seed but also royalties to registered breeders from the federal government.

S M Tanvir congratulated the agricultural scientists for the development and discovery of new varieties and directed to further improve the research trials and for the future approval of varieties of agricultural commodities in the Punjab Seed Council. He said that the variety registration and DNA fingerprinting was mandatory for approval.

The minister further said that the basis of agriculture was seed. The present government was paying special attention to the production of quality seed so that we could increase our per acre agricultural production with world-class seed, which would also increase domestic exports.

While giving instructions to maintain the quality while discovering new types of agricultural commodities, he said, that instead of discovering more types, such types should be discovered which could give better results in the field.

He urged the agricultural scientists to discover varieties that could be profitable for five years or more in the field while keeping production costs low. New varieties of resistant crops were being developed to minimize disease attack on crops and increase agricultural production per acre.

In the meeting, the minister directed to form a committee which will test the new varieties of cotton according to the 7

News & Views

set international standards and it will have representatives from Aptma, Director General (Research and Extension) and private sector experts. He also directed that any future crop variety will submit its fingerprint report within 90 days.

The meeting was attended among others by MD Punjab Seed Corporation Shan-ul-Haq, Director General Agriculture (Extension) Dr Anjum Ali, Chief Scientist Ayub Agricultural Research Institute, Faisalabad Dr Akhtar, Vice Chancellor University of Agriculture Faisalabad Dr Iqrar Ahmed Khan along with members of Punjab Seed Council and public and private sector breeders.

Agri financing hits record Rs1.78trn in FY23 With a 25 percent impressive growth, the financial institutions disbursed all-time high Rs 1.776 trillion under agriculture financing during the last fiscal year (FY23) amid State Bank of Pakistan’s efforts and PM's Kissan Package.

Overall, the financial institutions have achieved 98 percent of the agriculture credit target of Rs 1.819 trillion set by State Bank for the last fiscal year. The outstanding portfolio of agriculture credit also registered a growth of 10 percent and reached Rs 760 billion at the end of June 2023 compared to Rs 691 billion at the end June 2022. The disbursement of Rs 1.776 trillion in FY23 is also 25 percent higher than agricultural financing of Rs 1.419 trillion disbursed in FY22.

According to SBP, the unprecedented performance in FY23 is owed to the collective efforts of the financial institutions and various initiatives taken in the backdrop of several challenges including the devastating floods of 2022, rising input costs and monetary tightening in recent years.

Among the various initiatives, SBP’s Champion Bank Model and Agriculture Credit Scoring Model played a key role in supporting financial institutions in extending agriculture financing, particularly in the underserved areas where significant growth was registered in FY23.

In addition, the strategic guidance of Agricultural Credit Advisory Committee 8

(ACAC) coupled with rigorous monitoring of financing by SBP provided further support in accelerating agriculture finance.

The last ACAC meeting, held in December 2022, brought industry’s focus to the potential of Islamic banking for meeting the needs of the farming community. As a result, Islamic agriculture financing also grew significantly during the year.

SBP efforts were further bolstered by the Prime Minister’s Kissan Package, which provided stimulus to revive the flow of agriculture financing especially in the flood affected areas. Under the Kissan Package, various measures were implemented to strengthen the agriculture sector in flood-affected regions, which included waiver of markup on outstanding small loans, interest-free loans for small and marginalized farmers, and risk coverage for banks.

A subsidized scheme for purchase of farm machinery was introduced to promote mechanization and ensure national food security. Moreover, agro-based SMEs were included in SBP’s Refinance Facility for Modernization of SMEs and Prime Minister's Youth Business and Agriculture Loan Scheme, which provided affordable loans to the agriculture sector.

The SBP has also released the annual ranking of banks under the Agriculture Credit Scoring Model to bring transparency and competition among the various agriculture credit providers. SBP’s

scoring model gauges the agriculture credit performance of banks against a multi-dimensional criterion with particular focus on regional and sectorial performance. Introduced in FY22, the model facilitated the banks to focus on areas where improvement is required to achieve their targets, particularly on improving qualitative aspects.

What will HBL’s new agri focused subsidiary do?

HBL Zarai Services will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary meant to increase capacity in the country’s vastly underserved agricultural sector.

A week after announcing their intentions to create a special subsidiary company focused on the agricultural sector, HBL’s Board of Directors has formally announced the incorporation of “HBL Zarai Services” in a notice sent to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX).

Agri lending in Pakistan The launch of the subsidiary would mark an important milestone for the country’s agricultural sector which has remained largely unserved by the formal banking sector. Agricultural financing in Pakistan has long been considered highrisk and has mostly been a collateral base.

However, farmers with smaller land holdings have not been able to access formal banking channels because they do not have much to put up as collateral, and

News & Views

also because bank repayment timelines are rarely catered to crop cycles.

As a result, lending to farmers remains low. In 2022 for example, according to a PWC study, allocation of loans to priority segments, namely Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) and Agriculture, has been relatively low, accounting for less than 8% of the total loans. Specifically, SME loans constitute 4.2% of the portfolio, while Agriculture loans account for 3.6%. Moreover, these penetration levels have been witnessing a decline over the past several years. This declining trend highlights the need for attention and support to bolster lending in these crucial sectors to foster their growth and development.

What will HBL Zarai do?

During an event hosted by HBL last week for the launch of their 2022 Impact and Sustainability report, the bank’s CEO and President Muhammad Aurangzeb said the bank received permission from the SBP two weeks ago to establish a special subsidiary called “Zarai” (agriculture), which will help small and medium-sized farmers improve their agricultural output.

For a long time, the biggest problem had been that banks have not understood agriculture, crop cycles, and the needs of farmers. A subsidiary only focused on agriculture should help this process along and shed light on a vastly untapped response to a question posed by Profit, Mr Aurangzeb agreed that there was a need for better understanding.

November - December 2023

“We are going into this with a lot of clarity and detail about why we’re doing HBL Zarai. And we wall appreciate if other institutions also go towards this direction,” he said.

finance will be managed on the HBL balance sheet, according to the bank’s CEO.

The timing

The initiative aims to offer farmers a variety of facilities and services, including storage space, farming equipment, crop production inputs, including seed and fertilizer, and agronomic advice, according to HBL president.

The decision comes at a time when a realization is starting to take hold in Pakistan that many unbanked sectors require attention. Last year the agriculture sector saw a 27.5% growth in agri loans, after the agriculture lending financial institutions disbursed Rs 1.222 trillion on account of agricultural financing during the first nine months (July-March) of this fiscal year. As explained by Mr Aurangzeb, the bank’s top priority is agricultural financing, which is why the portfolio in 2022 hit an all-time high of Rs50.6 billion.

The subsidiary, however, will not stop HBL from lending to the agriculture sector. Instead, HBL Zarai will supply the non-financial services, while the farm

HBL has contributed over Rs4 billion – spread over a decade – to the social uplift of Pakistan. In 2022 alone, the bank contributed over Rs580 million.

“As you’ve said, even HBL has been missing a trick up until this point. Why weren’t we in dairy and livestock farming? And by the way the repayment capacity is okay. There isn’t a higher risk of default or anything. It is about understanding better,” he added.

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New & Views

FAO Organizes a Baseline Validation Workshop under the LFSA Project The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), under the USAID-funded project "Livelihood and Food Security Improvement Activity" (LFSA), conducted a Baseline Validation Workshop today to validate the findings for the project's targeted areas. The validation workshops are integral parts of the Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) framework of FAO as they provide practical opportunities for project teams to review, discuss and validate findings with key stakeholders of the important studies and use the evidence created for setting benchmarks, adaptation and continuous improvement.

The Secretary Agriculture, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Mr. Muhammad Javed Marwat was the chief guest of the workshop. Director Generals (DGs) and high-level government officials from the line departments of agriculture research, extension, livestock and dairy development, and on-farm water management attended the event. Representatives and staff from USAID Pakistan, UNWOMEN, FAO, and farmers’ representative from Khyber and Mohmand districts were also part of the event.

Under the said project, FAO in collaboration with the Government of KP, civil society organizations, the private sector, and all relevant stakeholders, will support 150,000 rural household including those consisting of women farmers, over a period of four years.

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At the workshop, the Resilience Index Measurement and Analysis (RIMA) was discussed and validated during different sessions on socio-economic characteristics, food security, agriculture assets, farming system, marketing enterprises, and value addition analyses. Additionally, the MEAL framework, baseline study objectives, methodology, and sampling techniques were also explained.

Secretary Agriculture Khyber Pakhtunkhwa highlighted the importance of the baseline data validation for project implementation through the experts from allied specialized domains. He emphasized that FAO has not only assisted the agriculture department in introducing, implementing, and promoting the climate-smart and innovative agricultural interventions but aided the Provincial Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in drafting the first ever Agriculture Policy for KP, Agriculture Action Plans, KP Food Security and Nutrition Policy, and Baseline

for the KP Fishery Sector. The project closely aligns with KP government priorities to improve lives of the farming communities, he added.

Mr. Stephen Berlinguette, the USAID Pakistan Deputy Director on CSG while addressing the audience said that the US Government and Pakistan had worked together for almost 75 years on issues of bilateral interest including energy, economic growth, peace-building, health and education; and the work of USAID Pakistan had directly supported the country’s development aspirations, as outlined in the Pakistan Vision 2025 – contributing towards a sustainable, self-reliant and prosperous Pakistan. And through the LFSA project, USAID Pakistan would love to see enhanced productivity of crops and livestock; and making the Merged Districts of KP more prosperous, food secure, and economically vibrant region of the province.

Theme-based working groups were formed during the event, giving participants the opportunity to present their recommendations on the key subjects during various sessions. The final session included the validation of baseline findings from all stakeholders. In the concluding note, Mr. Farrukh Toirov, Provincial Head of FAO KP office, thanked everyone for their inputs, expert opinions, and validation of the baseline findings. The meeting of key stakeholders and beneficiaries within this forum facilitated a dynamic dialogue concerning project activities and projected a course forward for increased impact.

News & Views

Syngenta launches treeplantation drive To commemorate the national independence day of Pakistan, Syngenta Pakistan Limited - a leading agriculture innovation and technology company that provides crop protection, seeds, biological and digital services to millions of Pakistani farmers – has kicked-off its annual Tree Plantation Drive namely ‘Plant a Tree’ across its offices, warehouses, formulation plant and distribution network.

As part of this drive, the main event was held at the Rice Research Institute KSK, Government of the Punjab where the Director General (Field) of Agriculture Department Punjab - Engr. Ahmed Sohail - and Director Rice Research Institute KSK – Syed Sultan Ali – joined as the honorable guests. During this vibrant event, Company’s Pakistan’s employees participated in planting over 1,000 trees of different varieties.

Addressing the distinguished guests on this occasion, the Company’s General Manager - Zeeshan Hasib Baig – shared that Pakistan was already among the most vulnerable countries with regards to the climate change and stressed the importance of trees in mitigating the climate crisis that the country is facing while highlighting the need to focus on conserving our beloved country’s natural resources. The participants appreciated this green initiative.

An agriculture revolution is needed Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir while addressing the inaugural ceremony of the Khanewal Model Agriculture Farm under the Green Initiative stated that “no power in the world can stop us from progressing, and an agriculture revolution will happen in Pakistan anyway.”

This statement was propitiously made on the second day of the three-day United Nations-brokered summit aimed at tackling the “broken” global food system where millions are starving, and the planet suffering wherein it was acknowledged that the food sector involves and is affected by multiple sectors including urbanization, climate change, technology, government policy November - December 2023

as well as the availability of imports to meet domestic supply shortfalls that have been severely compromised with the end of the Ukraine-Russia grain deal with little prospect at this time of a renewal.

Or, in other words, while technology/mechanization is one of the key ingredients for increasing the yield per hectare, the extent of its use has to be carefully balanced with the employment currently being provided by the farm sector that may necessitate a gradual change over to enhancing mechanization to enable the creation of jobs in the economy in other sectors.

Between 1991 and 2021, the share of agriculture in total employment in India dropped by 20 percentage points – yet in Pakistan there has been a decline of 8 percentage points in the comparable period. One reason could well be that India’s industrial sector’s diversity as well as output and employment changed over time, while in Pakistan, the industrial sector remains largely the same, with five major export- oriented sectors, and the country continues to export its surplus instead of producing to export - a long standing Business Recorder recommendation.

Climate change, with Pakistan as one of the most affected countries in the world, is yet another factor that is a major impediment to farm output.

Thus with or without the use of advanced technology, climate change can play a negative role in crop output as it did last summer and with rains this year forecast to be above normal levels there is a fear that output may be compromised yet again – output of essential crops like wheat which, in the event of a shortfall, would require imports that would command a higher price if the Russia-Ukraine

grain deal is not revived, and cotton, a cash crop that is basic input to the textile sector, which is a major industrial sector employer, and which accounted for nearly 60 percent of all the country’s export earnings in 2022-23.

The government policy also plays a key role in farm output; however, by and large this role is directly proportional to the government’s capacity to extend subsidies, and here too the government is severely hamstrung given our almost non-existent fiscal space, which is an outcome of not only low revenue generation capacity but also a tendency to overspend on current expenditure by subsequent administrations, including the incumbent government.

Be that as it may, while one can fully endorse the Chief of Army Staff’s belief that security and the economy go hand in hand, as security without the economy or an economy without security is simply impossible, yet, what has to be acknowledged is that the economy and security must be seen within a macro-picture for greater affectivity, looking at each sector or subsector in isolation will not achieve the desired results.

Pakistan at the present junction needs a macroeconomic framework crafted by economists with the overarching objective of achieving development that spans all income groups and not limited to the elite who may or may not be able to ensure a trickle-down effect – a view that empirical studies reveal is not as automatic as argued by economists of yesteryears.

We fully support the COAS’s resolve to throw away the begging bowl, however, many in the past have had a similar intent but intent without holistic policy measures and their execution is unlikely to succeed.

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Around the World

CHINA Global rice prices could surge higher as flood risks loom over China Global rice markets could come under further strain as the world’s leading rice producer China grapples with heavy rain and flood risks.

“Heavy rain in China’s grain-producing north-eastern region that will reduce yields is likely to put upward pressure on already high global rice prices,” Fitch Ratings said in a recent report.

China is the world’s largest producer of rice, and flood alert levels were raised for three provinces that account for 23% of the country’s rice output: Inner Mongolia, Jilin and Heilongjiang, the report pointed out.

The world’s second largest economy has been inundated by devastating floods in recent weeks. Typhoon Doksuri was one of the worst storms to hit northern China in years, with capital Beijing battered by the heaviest rainfall in 140 years.

Fitch pointed out that many key grain production areas in those three provinces were affected by heavy rains and remnants of Typhoon Doksuri, and they’re set to face “another deluge as Typhoon Khanun moves north.”

The resulting soaked grain fields will reduce crop yields for the year, the Fitch 12

report stated, although the full extent of the damage is not yet clear.

“This will lift China’s domestic grain prices and likely drive higher imports in 2023 to partially offset the potential yield loss,” the credit ratings firm said, adding the country may need to look to import more rice if its own harvests fall short, and that could drive global rice prices even higher.

Global rice prices have surged to their highest in close to 12 years, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization All Rice Price Index.

Other market watchers are estimating higher rice prices ahead after India banned non-basmati white rice exports last month, and Thailand urged farmers to plant less rice in a bid to save water as a result of low rainfall.

India, which accounts for more than 40% of global rice trade, banned exports of non-basmati white rice on July 20, as the government looked to tackle soaring domestic food prices.

AUSTRALIA Wendy’s to develop 200 restaurants in Australia A new master franchise agreement for Australia has been announced by The Wendy’s Company and Flynn Restaurant Group, with the aim to open 200 restaurants in Australia by 2034.

Flynn Restaurant Group is the largest restaurant franchise operator in the world and will serve as the exclusive master franchisee in Australia. It also operates restaurants for Applebee’s, Taco Bell, Panera, Arby’s and Pizza Hut throughout the US. The news comes following an announcement earlier in 2023 that revealed Wendy’s had intentions to enter the Australian market.

Rice prices are hovering at decade highs, with rough rice futures last trading at $15.98 per hundredweight (cwt).

“Wendy’s sees Australia as a high priority, strategic growth market and the collaboration with Flynn Restaurant Group showcases Wendy’s ambition to expand its international footprint using its franchising model,” explained The Wendy’s Company.

In addition to rice, the Fitch report also cited corn and soybean among major crops grown in Inner Mongolia, Jilin and Heilongjiang, which will be impacted by flood risks. China is expected to import more of both grains this year compared to the last.

Back in 2021, Wendy’s has a pop-up event in Sydney, Australia, with the company claiming it had a “positive reaction” from locals. It went on to state that there was “overwhelming interest” from consumers for its chain to set up shop Down Under.

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Commenting on the agreement, Abigail Pringle, President, International and Chief Development Officer of The Wendy’s Company, said: “Australia is a strategic market for long-term growth for Wendy’s.

“Flynn Restaurant Group has incredible experience in the restaurant space, and we are thrilled to expand our relationship with them. They have a strong leadership team, great culture, vast industry knowledge, success with our brand in the US, and we are confident that Flynn Restaurant Group is the right partner to unlock growth for Wendy’s in Australia.”

Sharing Flynn Restaurant Group’s stance, Ron Bellamy, Chief Operating Officer of Flynn Restaurant Group explained: “We couldn’t be more excited about expanding our partnership with Wendy’s. It is a tremendous brand with significant untapped potential outside of the US and we think it is an especially great fit for Australia, given the savvy nature of the Australian consumer.

“We look forward to expanding the brand in the market and in the process redefining what Australians should expect from QSR.” Both companies have explained that agreement will drive growth in Australia primarily after 2025, with the ultimate goal to hit 200 restaurants across the country through 2034, through a combination of equity stores and sub-franchise partners.

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In addition to Wendy’s, Flynn’s Restaurant Group operate restaurants for Applebee’s, Taco Bell, Panera, Arby’s and Pizza Hut throughout the US. Through their Wendy’s franchise organization, Wend American, they currently operate nearly 200 Wendy’s restaurants across five states.

INDIA Burger King says tomatoes on 'vacation' as India battles food inflation Burger King has scrapped tomatoes from its wraps and burgers in many Indian outlets after prices more than

quadrupled, the latest symptom of surging food inflation that is hitting consumers hard across the world's most populous nation.

"Even tomatoes need a vacation ... we are unable to add tomatoes to our food," read notices pasted at two Burger King India outlets. The chain has cited quality issues in explaining the shortfall.

The burger chain, one of India's biggest with nearly 400 outlets, joins many McDonald's and Subway stores that have removed tomatoes from menus as India's food inflation this week hit its highest since January 2020.

The U.S. sandwich chain even cancelled the free cheese slices it offered for years.

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Rival Domino's (DPZ.N), meanwhile, has tried bringing down prices to appeal to struggling consumers with a $0.60 pizza - its cheapest in the world.

The tomato supply crisis has coincided with a surge in prices by as much as 450% to record highs as monsoon rains disrupted crop and supply chains although they have since eased.

"Why are there no tomatoes in my burgers?" reads a question on the support page of Burger King India's web site.

The answer states its Indian franchisee follows "very high standards of quality" and tomatoes will be back soon.

"We request your patience and understanding," it says.

Restaurant Brands Asia (RESR.NS), which operates Burger King in India, did not respond to requests for comment.

The pain is spreading with July retail inflation data released this week showing prices of vegetables rose 37% over a year. The cost of staples from onions and peas to garlic and ginger have all risen.

"If the prices remain high, then eventually restaurants will have to take price increases," said Amnish Aggarwal, head of research at India's Prabhudas Lilladher.

"There is no other alternative."

As well as placing pressure on the margins of foreign chains operating in India's nearly $5 billion market for fastfood restaurants, the price shocks pose a challenge for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government ahead of a national election next year.

To manage the supply crisis, India has started tomato imports from Nepal, and has organized vans to distribute the staple at cheaper rates across the nation, with social media posts showing huge queues.

India in talks with Russia to import wheat, aims to reduce food inflation With an aim to increase supplies and reduce food inflation ahead of state and national elections next year, India is in talks with Russia to import wheat at a discount to surging global prices, according to a report published by the news agency Reuters.

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The wheat imports from Russia will allow India to intervene more effectively in the market to drive down wheat prices that stoked inflation to a 15-month high in July.

Speaking to Reuters, sources said, “The government is exploring the possibility of imports through private trade and government-to-government deals. The decision will be made cautiously."

India has not imported wheat through diplomatic deals in years. In 2017, the country imported a significant amount of wheat when private traders shipped in 5.3 million metric tons.

The Indian government's plan to import Russian wheat is one of the supply-side measures being considered to bring down prices of key commodities like fuel, cereals, and pulse along with an extension of rural schemes to ease the impact of inflation on the poor, two of the sources with knowledge of the matter said.

Last month, Sanjeev Chopra, the most senior civil servant at the federal food ministry, said there was no proposal to import wheat from Russia, as per Reuters reports.

It is pertinent to note that India needs only 3 million to 4 million metric tons of wheat to plug the shortfall. However, India might consider importing 8 million to 9 million tons of wheat from Russia to have a far bigger impact on prices, said sources.

Since the beginning of the Ukraine war last year, Russia has become India's

second-biggest seller of goods mainly on account of discounted oil purchases by New Delhi.

"Russia has indicated its willingness to offer a discount on prevailing market prices. There are no restrictions on the export of food commodities from Russia," an official told Reuters.

"India can easily secure a discount of $25 to $40 per ton from Russia. This will ensure that the landed cost of wheat remains significantly below local prices," said a dealer based in Mumbai with a global trade house.

In India, the wholesale wheat prices surged around 10% over two months to a seven-month high in August on limited supplies. Last year, India banned wheat exports due to lower output, and this year's crop is also expected to be at least 10% lower than the government's estimate.

UNITED KINGDOM Ministers criticized for scrapping new food waste laws for England The government has been criticized for binning food waste legislation that campaigners say could have reduced food prices and helped tackle the climate crisis.

The policy would have made food waste reporting mandatory for large and medium-sized businesses in England.

According to research by the environmental campaign group Feedback, if it led to

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just a 1% reduction in food waste, food businesses would save an estimated total of at least £24.4m a year.

Martin Bowman, senior policy and campaigns manager at Feedback, said this was “an immediately achievable goal” that would “more than offset the costs of measurement and reporting, saving millions of pounds, and helping struggling families by lowering food inflation”.

“After a decade of failed voluntary reporting, it is a dereliction of duty for the government to abandon this policy,” he said. Campaigners say that the decision by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) to backtrack on the legislation also risks exacerbating environmental challenges.

Jamie Crummie, a co-founder of Too Good To Go, an app that connects customers to businesses with surplus unsold food, said: “Food waste contributes 10% of all greenhouse gas emissions, surpassing the aviation industry’s impact. As we are witnessing the devastating effect of climate change first-hand across Europe this summer, a decision like this from Defra feels particularly disheartening.”

The government defended scrapping the legislation by claiming that the costs for businesses to regulate food waste reporting could drive food inflation. A Defra spokesperson said: “A regulatory approach which we estimate to cost businesses around £5.3m is not suitable in the current economic climate, especially when any additional costs may be passed on to consumers.”

Instead, they have suggested expanding the government-funded waste charity Wrap’s specialist taskforce encouraging

businesses to report voluntarily. However, Wrap has said there is a “disappointing” lack of voluntary reporting by businesses, and that “enhanced voluntary reporting” would be more expensive than mandatory food waste reporting.

UK is to achieve sustainable development goal 12.3 to halve food waste by 2030.”

The government’s own impact assessment found that just a 0.25% reduction in food waste would balance out any costs of measuring and reporting it, with food waste measurement costing an estimated £19 for each ton measured, compared with between £1,189 and £3,099 of savings for each ton of food waste reduced.

Phil Carson, the UK policy lead at the Nature Friendly Farming Network, a group that promotes sustainable agriculture, said: “The opaque nature of current food waste reporting means that farmers often bear the costs of our wasteful and inefficient food system. Mandatory food waste reporting would have played a vital role in supporting farmers to monitor and manage food waste and identify solutions to reduce it which would ultimately benefit profit margins.”

Last summer, the government launched a consultation regarding the proposed law, in which 99% of respondents expressed support for the law, including 79% of retailers and 73% of hospitality services.

Among those expressing disappointment with the scrapping of the law are the retailers Tesco, Waitrose and Ocado.

Tesco has said: “Publishing food waste data is vital and must be mandatory if the

Two-thirds of farmers who responded to the consultation also backed the introduction of mandatory food waste reporting.

The Defra spokesperson said: “We remain committed to tackling food waste and our response to our recent consultation outlines that enhancing the voluntary approach to food waste reporting is the

ITALY Fruit is disappearing from Italian orchards due to extreme weather, farmers warn Six out of 10 pears have disappeared from Italian orchards this summer, a farmers’ association warns. Extreme weather is decimating crops in Italy, farmers warn.

Farmers association Coldiretti says six out of 10 pears have disappeared from Italian orchards. They put this down to floods, hail, record-high temperatures and non-native insect attacks. With Italy’s pear yields down by 63 per cent compared to last year, overall supply in

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Europe has plummeted by 13 per cent.

Pears in France have also been hit, with harvests down 23 per cent.

Harvests of grapes, watermelons, apricots, tomatoes and aubergines in Italy have likewise suffered losses due to the climate.

What other products have been impacted by Italy’s weather extremes?

Italy’s fruit farmers aren’t the only ones affected by the country’s ‘whiplash weather’.

Wheat and milk production are down by 10 per cent and wine grape production by 14 per cent compared with 2022, according to Coldiretti analysis.

Honey production has plummeted by a massive 70 per cent, as bees are too “exhausted” by the heat to pollinate plants, the association says. Farmers are leveraging technology such as drones and satellites to save water and counter the

effects of climate change, it adds. Italy has faced an unpredictable summer It’s been a tough year for Italy on the climate front. In May, Emilia-Romagna - an important fruit farming region - was struck by devastating floods that killed 15 people.

After two years of drought, the downpours did little to alleviate the situation due to dry, impermeable ground.

Last month, the country edged close to its highest ever temperature record as heatwaves swept across the Mediterranean and sparked deadly wildfires - including in Sicily. Lombardy, in northern Italy, was meanwhile pummelled by tennis ball-sized hailstones.

The extremes have been exacerbated by human-caused climate change, which scientists say is making such events more frequent and extreme, and the El Niño weather pattern.

Supply issues could lead to shortages and price hikes in Europe Earlier this year, UK shoppers faced bare fruit and vegetable shelves and inflated prices after unusual weather disrupted harvests in Spain and Morocco.

Increased energy costs and Brexit bureaucracy contributed to the shortages.

In July, nearly half of the European Union was exposed to warning levels of drought, stoking further fears for food production and prices.

Fruit and veg - particularly tomatoes and related products like pizzas and ketchup - have been particularly affected in Europe. Cereal crops such as wheat and barley have also been badly impacted by a year of floods, drought and heat, leading to knock on effects for livestock feed and farming.

SOUTH KOREA Swopping apples for mangoes: South Korea eyes more tropical fruits due to climate change Seasonal fruits in South Korea could become vastly different in the following decades, as warmer temperatures will gradually reduce cultivable areas for popular fruit crops in the country.

Apples, grapes and pears could slowly fade into the background, while tropical fruits such as mangoes and passion fruit take center stage.

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“We may not be able to see the change immediately. But fruit crops that we see at discount stores and traditional markets may change in the future. What we call seasonal fruits here may also change,” said Mr. Han Hyun-hee, a senior researcher at the Research Institute of Climate Change and Agriculture, a unit under the National Institute of Horticultural and Herbal Science.

According to its recent report, apples will be most severely hit by the climate shift. South Korea will lose most cultivable areas for apples by 2070, except some regions in the northernmost province of Gangwon.

“In the past, no one thought of planting apple trees in Gangwon province, but there are already farmers that grow apples in the region,” Mr. Han said.

During the 1980s, most apples were grown in Daegu and its surrounding areas. But now, the biggest apple farms have relocated to regions with higher latitudes, such as Cheongsong, Andong and Yeongju in North Gyeongsang province, and Chungju in North Chungcheong province.

Cultivation areas for Hallabong tangerines, native to Jeju, have moved north and are currently produced in Naju in South Jeolla province, Jeongeup in North Jeolla province and even in Chungju.

Researchers found that when the average temperature rises by 1 deg C, the temperature-suitable locations for existing crops move 81km north in latitude and 154m up in altitude.

Between 2013 and 2022, the average temperature in the country went up by 0.6 deg C to 24.3 deg C, from 23.7 deg C between 1991 and 2000, pushing suitable cultivation areas for existing crops north.

Subtropical regions, which account for some 6 per cent of the country’s total land mass, could increase to account for 55.9 per cent in 2050, the report said.

The areas where seasonal fruits, such as pears, peaches and grapes, are able to grow will shrink as well, the report said.

By 2090, peaches and pears would not be able to grow in most places, except for some areas in Gangwon province. Temperature-suitable regions for farming-quality grapes will dwindle significantly from 2070, it said.

“We are working to develop fruits that are resistant to higher temperatures, but improving traits of fruit crops has its limits,” Mr. Han said. “In the long run, farmers may have to change their crops.”

As the world gets warmer, an increasing number of farmers have shifted to relatively more temperature-resistant tropical fruits.

In Jeju, the southernmost part of the country, farmers have been growing tropical fruits such as passion fruit, dragon fruit and bananas. Other tropical crops, like papayas and tropical cherries, are

being cultivated in South Jeolla and Gyeongsang provinces, according to the report.

“In Korea, tropical fruits still have to be grown in greenhouses, yet many farmers are turning to tropical fruits because the cost needed to maintain the right temperature for cultivating them has got lower due to the increasing temperature here,” Mr. Han said.

The institute’s report said the number of farms growing tropical fruits in South Korea reached 556 in 2021, up 50 per cent from 372 farms in 2017. Land used for tropical fruits also increased to 186.8ha, up 70 per cent from 109.4ha in 2017.

Mango is the most widely cultivated tropical fruit as at 2021, with 76.8ha, followed by passion fruit with 34.6ha and bananas with 21.2ha.

One researcher at an agricultural institute located in Jeju has also witnessed the change in fruit preferences. He had received inquiries recently from a strawberry farmer asking for a soil analysis to see if his land was suitable to grow mangoes.

Any temperature rise is bound to cause significant changes in the agricultural environment, he said.

“If the temperature goes up further, farmers may not even need greenhouses to grow tropical fruits. The institute is aware of the change and trying to improve traits of fruit crops grown in the region, the researcher said.

“Another effect of higher temperatures, especially during the winter, includes increased risks of damages from insects and plant diseases,” the official added.

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Nestlé launches tasty and nutritious alternatives to white fish As people are increasingly looking for fish alternatives, Nestlé has announced the launch of exciting new innovations - a range of plant-based alternatives to white fish.

The products which include alternatives to breaded fish fillets, nuggets, and fingers, stand out for their strong nutrition credentials, as well their great taste and texture that is close to white fish.

They are also certified vegan.

Torsten Pohl, Global Head of R&D for Nestlé's food category, says: "These new fish alternatives are the result of our deep expertise in plant-based proteins and our strong commitment to continue delivering exciting innovations that meet consumers expectations. During consumer testing, our products received high praise for the great taste and texture that is close to white fish. They also come with strong nutritional credentials, making them competitive in the marketplace."

Leveraging its strong plant-based innovation expertise and global reach, 18

Nestlé is launching three different types of fish alternatives across geographies and brands.

In Europe, under the Garden Gourmet brand, Nestlé will launch marine-style crispy fillet and marine-style crispy nuggets. Made with wheat and pea protein, the great-tasting and nutritious products are high in protein and low in saturated fat. They also come with a Nutri-score A in countries that use the Nutri-score front-of-pack labelling system. They will launch both online and in store in countries across Europe, including in Germany, Spain, Italy, Austria, Poland, the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

In Asia, Nestlé has already launched crispy fish-free fingers for both retail and out-of-home under the Harvest Gourmet brand in Malaysia and Singapore. Made from soy and wheat, the fish finger alternatives are a source of protein and fiber and come in a crispy coating that is infused with herbs like oregano and rosemary.

Massimo Zucchero, Global Category Lead for plant-based meals, Nestlé says: "People continue to seek out plant-based options for their favorite dishes. These new alternatives to fish are a great addition at mealtimes and can also be shared as an appetizer or small meal. They are tasty, nutritious and can also help to reduce overfishing and protect the biodiversity of our oceans."

The new launches complement Nestlé's Garden Gourmet Vuna, an alternative to tuna fish that has been available in Europe since 2020, as well as Nestlé's wide-ranging plant-based portfolio.

Moreover, Nestlé is actively exploring cutting-edge technologies for animal-free products such as precision fermentation and cultured meat to further expand its offerings.

Nestlé remains committed to help people achieve balanced and sustainable diets. Recently the company announced a sales target for more nutritious foods, including efforts to innovate more products made with plant-based ingredients.

Corporate News

Tate & Lyle Earns Prime ESG Corporate Rating from ISS Tate & Lyle PLC (Tate & Lyle), a world leader in ingredient solutions for healthier food and beverages, is pleased to announce that Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS) has upgraded its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) rating1 for Tate & Lyle to ‘Prime’, putting the Company in the top decile of the Food Products sector.

"Tate & Lyle is a purpose-led company with a strong desire to make a positive impact on society” said Nick Hampton, Chief Executive Officer. “We are proud that our ESG performance and high level of transparency have earned us ISS’s Prime rating, underscoring our commitment to acting as a responsible business in everything we do."

ISS is one of the world’s leading rating agencies for corporate governance and sustainable investments. ISS ESG Corporate Ratings score companies based on an analysis of more than 100 sectorspecific ESG factors. ‘Prime’ status is awarded to companies with an ESG per-

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formance above the sector-specific Prime threshold, which means that they fulfil ambitious absolute performance requirements. According to ISS, the Prime rating classification qualifies Tate & Lyle for responsible investment.

Tate & Lyle’s ESG programme includes establishing science-based targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sustainable agriculture programmes for corn and stevia, and a commitment to achieve

net zero by 2050. It also comprises policies for employees on areas such as equal parental leave and clear targets to measure progress on equity, diversity and inclusion, including achieving gender equality in its top 500 leadership and management roles by 2025. Tate & Lyle is committed to contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and is a signatory of the UN Global Compact.

Corporate News

Customer conference highlighted trends and potentials for the returnables market In mid-October, more than 50 customers from the German-speaking regions accepted the invitation of Krones Lifecycle Service to participate in a customer conference in Neutraubling focusing on the market for products in returnable containers. The attendees particularly appreciated the details given on upcoming legal changes in reuse quotas and on possible energy savings.

Mario Hacke of the Darguner Brewery in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania emphasised the day’s importance as a wellspring of valuable information. “We came here to get objective pointers: What direction will trends be taking? Do the organisers and other participants share our observations? Which solutions will prevail in the end? And that was precisely what today’s event focused on. It provided us with all the facts confirming that we’re on the right track.”

Quite specific details on the subject of how to save and recover energy in the bottle washer, for example, were also very interesting. We picked up some new, very good facts in this regard,” to quote Mario Hacke. That is because Krones Lifecycle Service used the customer conference to inform participants about various retrofits available for existing lines and, in particular, presented bottlewasher upgrades that are instrumental in achieving substantial energy savings.

This day fully met expectations, it’s really fantastic: The subjects covered today hit the nail right on the head!

The Krones Academy in Neutraubling provided a perfect setting for this day while also giving participants a direct opportunity to look at its training programme and options. The event’s ambience and the brief guided tour through

the training centre impressed even those customers already familiar with the courses offered by the Academy. To quote Mario Hacke: “I actually sent quite a few of my staff to attend training courses at the Academy. Now I’m finally here to see it all for myself – It’s striking, really great.

And the Academy’s course programme remains very important to us.”

The LCS Customer Conference thus created added value in many respects, providing a platform for mutual feedback among producers facing similar challenges, specific presentations mapping out Krones’ solutions, and insights that customers shared in their presentations.

All of this combined to create the reassuring feeling that, backed by such a relationship of mutual supportiveness, the sector is best equipped to also keep up with legal changes and fresh challenges in future.

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Corporate News

Kerry opens manufacturing facility in Tanzania To Meet the Needs of Africa’s Food and Beverage Manufacturers

Kerry opens manufacturing facility in Tanzania

Kerry, a world leading provider of taste and nutrition solutions, has officially opened a new manufacturing facility in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania to support local food and beverage manufacturers.

The facility expands Kerry’s capacity in East Africa and is its first manufacturing facility in Tanzania. Kerry’s Global CEO Edmond Scanlon showed his commitment to Africa and customers in Tanzania as the guest of honour at the opening ceremony, which was attended by key customers and senior Kerry executives.

Commenting on the opening, Edmond Scanlon said: ‘‘Kerry believes in Africa and this new facility builds on our commitment to support the food processing industry locally and unlock the huge potential in the region. This move is another step towards realising our vision of creating a world of sustainable nutri22

tion. Our wide portfolio of taste and nutrition technologies, coupled with our global expertise and local production, will enable us to give local customers access to high quality ingredients with authentic taste produced in Africa, and will help us respond faster to the needs of our customers across the continent.’’

Jad Neaime, General Manager, Kerry Greater Africa, said: “In East Africa, Kerry has the first mover advantage in local food ingredients manufacturing. As the third largest economy in East Africa and the ninth in Africa, Tanzania is a fastgrowing economy with a thriving food processing industry. Producing in Tanzania brings to life our localisation vision — nurturing local partnerships, empowering local talent, and developing local sourcing to enable sustainable growth in East Africa.”

About Kerry Kerry is a world leading taste and nutrition partner for the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical markets. We innovate with our customers to create great tasting products, with improved nutrition and functionality, while ensuring better impact for the planet. Our leading consumer insights, global RD&A team of 1,100+ food scientists and extensive global footprint enable us to solve our customers complex challenges with differentiated solutions. At Kerry, we are driven to be our customers’ most valued partner, creating a world of sustainable nutrition, and will reach over 2 billion consumers with sustainable nutrition solutions by 2030.

Corporate News

Orkla completes US$1.4B sale of minority stake in Food and Ingredients unit to Rhône NORWAY – Norwegian group Orkla has completed the sale of a minority stake in its food and ingredients unit, Orkla Food Ingredients (OFI), to the global private-equity firm Rhône for an enterprise value of Nkr15.5 billion (US$1.4 billion).

As a result of this transaction, Rhône now holds a 40% ownership stake in OFI. OFI, which was established by Orkla in 1999, encompasses a broad range of categories, including bakery, pastry, and ice-cream ingredients, as well as plantbased dairy alternatives for consumers.

The business operates in 23 countries and employs over 4,000 people. It is organized into three clusters: ingredients, sweet ingredients, and plant-based, accounting for 63%, 21%, and 17% of OFI’s operating revenue, respectively.

“By the closing of the transaction, OFI will replace existing financing from Orkla with an Nkr6.4 billion (US$576 million) committed bank facility (not to be fully drawn at closing) with no recourse to Orkla ASA, containing net debt to EBITDA and interest cover covenants,” Orkla confirmed.

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The transaction also includes an option for Rhône to acquire an additional 9% of OFI equity at the same price per share as the initial transaction.

Both Orkla and Rhône will have representatives on OFI’s board of directors, with the board to be led by Orkla executive vice president Øyvind Torpp. Johan Clarin will continue as CEO and manage OFI. “The partnership search for OFI attracted strong interest. I am proud that we are joining forces with a best-in-class organization in Rhône,” Orkla’s group president and CEO, Nils Selte, said.

“The Rhône team’s partnership commitment and strategic attributes stood out. This is a landmark deal for Orkla that puts OFI in a position to continue its organic and structural growth journey.”

Orkla’s divestment of the minority stake in OFI aligns with its strategic shift, following the company’s decision to spin off its businesses into 12 individual units last year, which has opened opportunities for mergers and acquisitions within the Nordic food group.

The transaction is expected to be completed by the end of the first quarter of 2024, pending approval from relevant authorities and customary closing conditions.

Orkla also reported its third-quarter results on October 26, which revealed that operating revenues increased by 14% to Nkr16.8 billion (US$1.512 billion), with adjusted EBIT rising by 16% to Nkr1.8 billion (US$162 million).

Eight of the 12 portfolio companies reported underlying profit growth, including OFI. However, OFI’s volumes declined by 1.1% in the third quarter, primarily in the bakery and ice cream segments.

In addition to this announcement, Orkla also revealed that the CEO of Orkla Foods Europe, Paul Jordahl, will step down from his role at the beginning of November.

Atle Vidar Nagel Johansen will temporarily take up the position. Nagel Johansen has been a member of Orkla ASA’s management team since 2012 and currently holds the position of EVP and investment executive. 23

The MULTIVAC Group has won an award for Best Managed Company 2023 The MULTIVAC Group is a winner of the Best Managed Companies Award for 2023. Supported by the Federal Association for German Industry (BDI), the award is given by Deloitte Private and the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung to medium-sized companies in Germany, which are outstandingly well managed. Christian Traumann, Group President of the MULTIVAC Group, received the award yesterday in Düsseldorf.

Medium-sized companies are central to the German economy. The Best Managed Companies Award pays tribute to those family companies and mediumsized enterprises, which are based in Germany and are outstandingly well managed - and it is intended to act as a spur and an example for other companies to shape their own future with the same strategic vision, strength of innovation, sustainable culture and good management practice. During the application process the participating companies were judged for excellence in the following four core areas: Strategy, Productivity & Innovation, Culture & Commitment, as well as Finances & Governance. The pre24

condition for the award is a high level of performance in all four areas. The prize winners were then selected by a jury, consisting of well-known representatives from commerce, science and the media.

“The features of a Best Managed Company, such as the MULTIVAC Group, are a forward-looking strategy, a high level of productivity, a distinctive culture of innovation, and a company management that is focused on values,” explains Dr Christine Wolter, Partner and Head of Deloitte Private. “Thanks to the combination of their appeal as an employer and established commercial success, these Best Managed Companies have an important "beacon" function in their particular region.”

“We are highly delighted with the new Award, which recognizes our company strategy and the efforts of all our staff members,” says Christian Traumann, Group President of the MULTIVAC Group. “Success is not a one-way street, but rather it is based on responsible and trusting dialogue and cooperation with staff members, customers and suppliers.

We are constantly striving to adapt our range of products and services to the changing requirements of our customers

and the market. A significant factor in this success is certainly our wide product range.”

Another reason for the success of the company is its international focus. More than 80 subsidiaries throughout the world are a testament to the company's closeness to its customers. “We are very conscious of the fact, that the world in which we live is facing great challenges. This is why as a leading company we want to make a major contribution in our sector, as well as living our common values and leading the way in the conflicting priorities, which sometimes arise between the demands of the market and the responsibilities of companies for the environment and society,” says Christian Traumann in summary.

The Best Managed Companies program is a competition, as well as being a seal of approval for successful mediumsized companies. The vision is to build up a national and global structure of outstandingly well managed medium-sized companies. The seal of approval for outstanding medium-sized companies is currently awarded in more than 45 countries.

Exclusive on TATE & LYLE

Tate & Lyle announces major investment programme in its facility in Slovakia to produce dietary fibres Tate & Lyle PLC (Tate & Lyle), a world leader in ingredient solutions for healthier food and beverages, announces a major investment programme in its corn wet mill in Boleráz, Slovakia, to establish new capacity for its leading non-GMO PROMITOR® Soluble Fibres.

The production of fibres during the first phase of the programme will start in mid-2024, representing a Euros25 million investment. This programme is expected to significantly increase Tate & Lyle’s fibre capacity to serve both its European and global customer base. Developed with Tate & Lyle’s proprietary fibre production know-how and using the latest technology to drive operational efficiencies, this state-of-the art facility in Boleráz, will give Tate & Lyle the ability to expand existing PROMITOR® product lines, and add new ones, over time.

November - December 2023

This major investment programme will help Tate & Lyle to meet growing consumer demand for fibre as a tool for supporting gut health and immunity. Tate & Lyle’s proprietary research shows that over half (54%)1 of global consumers plan to consume more fibre. Customer demand for sugar reduction solutions, where fibre can play an important role, also remains high, with sugar and calorie reduction claims being included frequently in new fibre fortified product launches.2 Abigail Storms, Tate & Lyle’s SVP Fibre and Sweetener Platform, said: “Tate & Lyle is the only dietary fibre producer with production in three continents.3 With the addition of this state-of-the-art production facility to our fibre network, we will offer customers even greater security of supply, with efficiency benefits intended to support accessible nutrition

so that more consumers can access the many benefits of fibre.”

Dr. Kavita Karnik, Tate & Lyle’s Global Head of Nutrition, Regulatory and Scientific Affairs, added: “We know that reaching the daily fibre recommendation is challenging, and for most people it is difficult to do so without exceeding their recommended calorie intake. This is where reformulation of the everyday products like breakfast cereals, yoghurt, and bakery products, can be really effective in improving nutritional intake. Our PROMITOR® Soluble Fibres have been shown to support gut health, promote calcium absorption and helping to maintain a healthy blood glucose response.

Emerging science shows it may provide even wider benefits, including brain and metabolic health.”

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Exclusive on MULTIVAC

New modification for MULTIVAC chamber belt machines Faster, easier and more secure: When it comes to the automated and highly efficient packaging of very flat or light products in film pouches, MULTIVAC has modified its B 625 chamber belt machine in such a way, that a sealing height of 0 mm is now possible on this proven model, which is designed to pack large batches of product.

Whether it is smoked salmon, whole fish or fillets, sliced cheese or ham, beef carpaccio or steaks, the B 625 chamber belt machine from MULTIVAC now allows you to pack a wide range of flat products even more quickly, easily and securely than before. Thanks to the two sealing bars, which are integrated seamlessly into the base plate in the sealing area of the machine, it is now possible to achieve a sealing height of 0 mm.

More secure The new model version stands for even greater security and speed in the packaging process, since the pouch necks 26

lie completely flat during evacuation and sealing, and this means that, compared to the standard sealing height of at least 25 mm, the pouch necks are no longer bent.

The transport of the product and the infeed into the chamber are also significantly more reliable, since interference areas have been eliminated, and friction

points on the infeed plate reduced to a minimum. Another benefit in terms of pack security is the temperature-controlled impulse sealing (TI), which ensures that a constantly high level of seal quality at lower energy requirement is achieved even in non-stop mode.

Exclusive on MULTIVAC

Faster

takes place manually, the use of just one person for loading creates a significant

In order to gain even greater effi-

increase in efficiency.

ciency, MULTIVAC has decoupled the automatic infeed conveyor from the

Easier

packaging process. This enables the chamber belt machine to be loaded auto-

The B 625 is designed in the MULTI-

matically, so that an even higher through-

VAC Hygienic Design™ and therefore

put can be achieved with fewer

meets the highest hygiene standards. The

personnel. And even where the loading

chamber lid, which can be swung manu-

ally and adjusted in any position, makes ergonomic access to the inside of the chamber very easy, as well as facilitating maintenance of the chamber belt machine and saving time on cleaning.

This is reflected in reduced downtime for necessary service work. In addition to this, the robust and durable construction of the packaging machine is a further guarantee of high performance and efficiency.

Other benefits And last but not least, the other features of the compact B 625 are a high degree of product flexibility and a small footprint. A wide range of pouch materials and designs can be run easily and above all very reliably. Depending on the particular requirement, it is possible to individually select different types of vacuum pumps for equipping the machine. If a shrink tank or tunnel together with a drying tunnel are added, this high-output model can be easily expanded into a very efficient shrink packaging line.  November - December 2023

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AUTEFA Solutions: Featuring new glass bottle slide gates for a constant flow of bottles From Pallet to Conveyor The journey through the filling line usually begins at the depalletizer or glass pusher. Glass pusher output must be exactly matched to filler output to constantly supply the entire filling line with fresh glass bottles. The new glass depalletizer Certant R from Autefa Solutions is used to sweep off product layer by layer.

At the depalletizing position, the top layer is gripped and pushed onto a height compensation plate. This lowers to the correct conveyor height and the product is pushed onto the discharge conveyor.

Subsequently, packaging materials such as intermediate layers and lids are placed on stacks provided for this purpose.

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AUTEFAonSolutions Exclusive MULTIVAC

The glass pusher Certant R can be adapted for all bottle types. To ensure proper transfer, the product must stand stable on its own. If this requirement is met, it is almost irrelevant whether the bottles themselves are round, oval, angular or asymmetrically shaped. Bottles, cans, and beverage cartons can be pushed off equally safely.

Added flexibility is built into this system, for example by pushing off from carton trays. For this task, where most manufacturers switch to a lifter with a tube gripper, Autefa Solutions relies on opening the cartons in the push-off direction. On the opposite side, the carton is fixed with grippers to prevent the layer from twisting during push-off. This function can be added on a modular basis according to customer requirements Systems from Autefa Solutions are customized for breweries as well as for other beverage producers such as NOLO operations and wineries. The basic machine remains the same, but the specific needs of each client are considered.

As a rule, wineries have more product and format changes per volume. The company's depalletizers are designed for

a capacity range between 6,000 - 40,000 bottles per hour. For special lines, such as trays with film, the system is also viable for lower output ranges.

Handling broken glass is an important factor in many bottling operations. The Certant R new glass sluice gate has been extended to include the anti-bottle breakage module. The patented anti-breakage module significantly reduces glass breakage. For this purpose, bottles are secured during every lifting and pushing move-

ment and remain fixed during transfer until the push-off head is oriented above the bottle neck. The risk of bottles falling before or during the push-off process is thus demonstrably reduced.

Whether modernisation, line expansion or adaptation to new bottle formats, the Certant R new glass pusher optimises production goals, yet stays flexible. To be able to process new bottle formats from the pallet to the conveyor with glass bottle depalletizers from Autefa Solutions, the basic design can easily be adapted or modified. For larger adjustments, such as additional depalletizing and unpacking of crates, the changeover head must be readapted.

Reference customers from the beverage industry have achieved satisfactory ROI within two years. This is achieved through savings on maintenance contracts, fewer repairs, and reduced downtime.

The company has been developing and supplying turnkey automation systems and customised machines for more than 60 years. The company specialises in automated systems that cover the entire material flow from production machines to the storage of goods in intermediate warehouses. The focus is on innovative, highly customisable solutions. The company plans, designs, and installs complex systems and provides intralogistics solutions for the plastic container, food and dairy, beverage and non-food industries Further information: www.autefa.com

November - December 2023

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Sidel launches the fastest blower for large PET containers with EvoBLOW XL Sidel is demonstrating its blowing expertise by launching the ultra-fast EvoBLOW XL for large PET containers. The new machine extends Sidel’s blowing capabilities for sizes up to 10L PET bottles and is suitable for water, edible oil and food markets.

Leveraging over 40 years of packaging and blowing expertise, Sidel has extended its blowing range with the new EvoBLOW XL machine for large containers. With 75% of parts in common with the existing EvoBLOW range, the solution builds on Sidel’s proven performance and has been designed for multiple markets.

Future developments are also taking place to extend the technology to address hotfill products.

With ever-changing consumer demands, the packaging industry requires solutions that can handle larger formats while being user-friendly and ergonomic.

Sidel offers more flexibility for the packaging industry by launching its new blowing machine to produce larger bottles with the highest level of production efficiency. EvoBLOW XL provides packaging quality, safety and sustainability benefits that can also be emphasised with its connectivity to the Evo-ON software suite, 30

which supports customers to optimise

ance for a wide range of bottle formats

production lines.

for up to 8L to 10L. It features flexible

High productivity and flexible production

oven configurations with a wide choice of bottleneck dimensions which demon-

Available as a stand-alone or inte-

strates its flexibility to handle many types

grated combi solution, EvoBLOW XL is a

of large bottles. The EvoBLOW XL com-

versatile machine that can provide a high

plements Sidel’s existing complete line

level of quality and extended perform-

capabilities for large containers.

ExclusiveonInterview Exclusive MULTIVAC

EvoBLOW XL also achieves high production efficiency with the highest market blowing outputs, up to 18,000 bottles per hour (bph) and 98% proven Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE). The new machine has been designed to offer a high level of flexibility for customers and offers several attractive features for efficient changeovers, ensuring a userfriendly process. Equipped with an

ergonomic embedded mould handling tool, heavy mould positioning is simplified and ensures safety. Additionally, the mobile mould storage unit provides fast and safe access to moulds close to the machine. EvoBLOW XL can also be integrated easily with other Sidel solutions such as its latest ultrarapid changeover system Bottle Switch.

A cost-efficient and sustainable solution As the demand for rPET continues to rise, EvoBLOW XL has been developed to manage the challenges associated with rPET grades and possesses proven process capabilities from virgin PET to up to 100% rPET. Additionally, EvoBLOW XL offers lightweighting opportunities for customers which can provide significant savings on PET costs and minimise CO2 emissions. This includes the possibility to switch from HDPE to PET large bottles to further reduce the carbon footprint.

Further sustainability benefits are also achieved through the new design of blowing circuits and valves which help reduce energy consumption. While being a sustainable solution, EvoBLOW XL also helps to be cost-effective, maintaining impressive levels of efficiency with the highest market outputs.

Best-in-class packaging quality Sidel’s EvoBLOW XL ensures the ideal blowing process to secure an attractive bottle design with high-performance and user-friendly solutions. The machine uses an optimised process and blowing curve with its new powerful blowing circuit and valves to deliver perfect material distribution at the fastest speed with 1,500 bph per mould while securing low blowing pressure and the highest bottle quality. November - December 2023

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Solugen and ADM Announce Strategic Partnership to Meet Increasing Demand for Sustainable Products with New Biomanufacturing Facility in the U.S. Midwest Solugen to build groundbreaking production facility adjacent to ADM’s Marshall, Minnesota, corn complex.

ADM to provide dextrose as feedstock for production of innovative plant-based organic acids for use in wide variety of consumer and industrial products.

Potential for companies to collaborate on broader commercialization opportunities spanning fast-growing HOUSTON & CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)- Solugen, a rapidly scaling climate technology company that is reimagining the chemistry of everyday life, and ADM (NYSE:ADM), a global leader in sustainable solutions, today announced a strategic partnership to scale a range of innovative, plant-based specialty chemi32

cals and bio-based building block molecules in a new manufacturing facility in Marshall, Minnesota.

Under the terms of the agreement, Solugen will build a new 500,000-squarefoot biomanufacturing facility adjacent to ADM’s existing corn complex in Marshall.

The facility will utilize ADM-provided dextrose to scale its current line of lowercarbon organic acids and develop new, innovative molecules to replace existing fossil fuel-based materials. The companies also plan to collaborate on commercialization opportunities of these biomaterials for a range of applications including energy, water treatment, agriculture, construction materials, cleaning, personal care, and more.

“The strategic partnership with ADM will allow Solugen to bring our chemienzymatic process to a commercial scale and meet existing customer demand for our high-performance, cost-competitive, sustainable products,” said Gaurab Chakrabarti, Co-Founder and CEO of Solugen. “As one of the few scaled-up and de-risked biomanufacturing assets in the country, Solugen’s Bioforge platform is helping bolster domestic capabilities and supply chains that are critical in ensuring the U.S. reaches its ambitious climate targets.”

Leveraging a first-of-its-kind combination of computationally engineered enzymes and metal catalysts, Solugen’s Bioforge converts plant-derived sub-

Exclusive ADM Exclusive on MULTIVAC

stances into essential materials that have traditionally been made from fossil fuels.

The high efficiency and scalability of Solugen’s process can offer a significant reduction in carbon footprint compared with conventional ingredients.

“Sustainability is one of the enduring global trends powering ADM’s growth and underpinning the strategic evolution of our Carbohydrate Solutions business,” said Chris Cuddy, president of ADM’s Carbohydrate Solutions business. “ADM is one of the largest dextrose producers in the world, and this strategic partnership will allow us to further diversify our product stream as we continue to support plant-based solutions spanning sustainable packaging, pharma, plant health, construction, fermentation, and home and personal care.”

Solugen plans to begin offsite construction this year and on-site construction in early 2024. The initial phase, which is scheduled to start up in the first half of 2025, is expected to create at least 40 permanent jobs and another 100 temporary construction jobs during commissioning.

“The initial phase of the project will significantly increase Solugen’s manufacturing capacity, which is critical for commercializing our existing line of molecules and kicks off plans for a multi-phase large-scale U.S. Bioforge buildout,” said Sean Hunt, Co-Founder and CTO of

November - December 2023

Solugen. “The increase in capacity will also free up our Houston operation for research and development efforts into additional molecules and market applications.”

With a robust and cost-competitive supply of corn, alongside advanced cornto-dextrose conversion technology, Marshall is the ideal location to support the scale of Solugen’s products. The city boasts a vibrant community, a pool of skilled workforce, and a proactive approach from local and regional governments, all eager to welcome innovative, high-tech industries.

"As a community with a strong foundation of agriculture and innovation, we look forward to welcoming Solugen to Marshall. This industry-leading facility will serve as a powerful economic driver for the city, creating new jobs and diversifying our industry,” said City of Marshall Mayor Bob Byrnes. "We are thankful for ADM’s longstanding commitment and impact to Marshall, which has paved the way for this remarkable partnership and continues to further economic growth to our region."

About ADM ADM unlocks the power of nature to enrich the quality of life. We’re a premier global human and animal nutrition company, delivering solutions today with an eye to the future. We’re blazing new trails

in health and well-being as our scientists develop groundbreaking products to support healthier living. We’re a cutting-edge innovator leading the way to a new future of plant-based consumer and industrial solutions to replace petroleumbased products. We’re an unmatched agricultural supply chain manager and processor, providing food security by connecting local needs with global capabilities. And we’re a leader in sustainability, scaling across entire value chains to help decarbonize our industry and safeguard our planet. From the seed of the idea to the outcome of the solution, we give customers an edge in solving the nutritional and sustainability challenges of today and tomorrow. Learn more at www.adm.com.

About Solugen Solugen is a groundbreaking technology company on a bold mission to decarbonize the physical world. At the heart of our innovation is the world’s first sustainable molecule factory—the Bioforge. This unique manufacturing platform uses a chemienzymatic process to convert plantderived substances into essential materials that have historically been made from fossil fuels—all with no or low emissions and waste. A highly scalable and localized alternative to conventional approaches, the Bioforge enables us to produce a range of high-performance, cost-competitive, and sustainable solutions to meet the diverse needs of our customers.

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Fruit Logistica

20th International 3P Plas Print Pack Pakistan received overwhelming response, generated tremendous business and broke all previous visitorship records 20th International 3P Plas Print Pack Pakistan - Country’s Pioneer and Biggest Exhibition for Plastic, Printing and Packaging industry organized by Fakt Exhibitions (Pvt.) Ltd. opened its doors from 12th – 14th October 2023 at Karachi Expo Centre.

The exhibition was inaugurated by Respected Mr. Kamran Khan Tessori – Governor Sindh, along with Mr. Saleem Khan Tanoli – CEO Fakt Exhibitions in the presence of Eng. Sami Abdullah Salim Al Khanjari – Consul General of The Sultanate of Oman, Dr. June Kuncoro Hadiningrat – Consul General of The Republic of Indonesia, Mr. Hassan Nourian – Consul General of the Islamic Republic of Iran and other renowned industry names.

On the occasion Governor Sindh stated that “Fakt Exhibitions has taken a wonderful initiative by organizing 3P Plas Print Pack Pakistan Exhibition, which will 34

provide a rewarding opportunity for Plastic, Printing and Packaging industry to demonstrate state-of-the-art machinery and technology. He further added that exhibitions like 3P Plas Print Pack Pakistan have played a pivotal role in strengthening the industries, providing business, employment opportunities and uplifting the economy of Pakistan.”

The exhibition showcased remarkable technological advancements, from ecofriendly material to smart packaging solutions, visitors had the opportunity to witness the future of packaging.

Innovations in packaging technology were not only efficient but also aligned with sustainability goals, which was a recurring theme throughout the event.

One of the most significant milestones of 3P Plas Print Pack Pakistan Exhibition was the celebration of its 20th year of execution. This remarkable achievement demonstrated the longevity

and enduring success of the exhibition in serving the industry. Over the past two decades, the exhibition has been a catalyst for innovation making it a cornerstone event.

The mega exhibition received an overwhelming response, more than 250 exhibiting companies from 15 countries including Austria, China, Germany, Iran, Italy, Malaysia, Pakistan, Singapore, Switzerland, UAE etc.

3P Plas Print Pack Pakistan Exhibition provided the exhibitors of all three interrelated industries an opportunity to directly offer their technological solutions to quality buyers and decision makers in an exceeding competitive business environment. The event had record breaking visitorship as more than 14,000 trade visitors from all over Pakistan and neighboring countries showed-up at the exhibition.

3P Plas Print Pack Pakistan

Mr. Saleem Khan Tanoli 3P Plas Print Pack Exhibition Message This year marked a significant milestone as we celebrated 20 years of 3P Plas Print Pack Pakistan, I express my gratitude for the unwavering support of our valued exhibitors and partners in making this event a tremendous success.

Looking back at the last two decades of 3P Plas Print Pack Pakistan, it was delightful to witness an ever-growing, unprecedented level of engagement, enthusiasm, and innovation from all our exhibitors.

One of the most promising aspects of this year's expo was the overwhelming interest expressed by our exhibitors for the next edition, their continued willing-

ness to exhibit at 3P Plas Print Pack Pakistan is a testament to the value this platform provides for business growth and networking opportunities.

Rest assured, 3P Plas Print Pack Pakistan will continue to grow and evolve, becoming bigger and better with each passing year. We are committed to making it the most sought-after platform for industry professionals in the Plastic, Printing and Packaging industry.

I look forward to welcoming you all next year at 3P Plas Print Pack Pakistan Exhibition which will take place from 5th to 7th September 2024 at Expo Centre, Lahore.

Exhibitors at 3P Plas Print Pack Pakistan 2023

Trade Polymerz (Pvt.) Limited Trade Polymerz (Pvt.) Limited is a leading indenting and trading house that deals in all kind of chemical, petrochemical, woven bags, and polymer processing machinery sectors.

The company is managed by the young dynamic professionals with the zeal and commitment who strive to keep both customers and world-wide suppliers November - December 2023

satisfied. With the pragmatic approach to marketing and planning new horizons, our team works with motivation from inception throughout the lifetime of your project.

K-Group of Companies K-Group is the premier provider of high-performance and reliable packaging machinery in Pakistan. For over two decades, we've been delivering innova-

tive solutions to meet the unique needs of our customers, earning a reputation for excellence in sales and support along the way.

Founded in 1997, K-Group was established with a mission to deliver topquality packaging machinery to the Pakistani market from all over the world.

Since then, we've sold numerous projects to a diverse range of clients, from small businesses to large corporations.

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3P Plas Print Pack Pakistan

Bulleh Shah Packaging (Pvt.) Limited Bulleh Shah Packaging (Pvt.) Limited, a Packages Group Company, aims to provide responsible packaging solutions for brands in Pakistan. BSP is leading the market of corrugated packaging together with being the largest Renewable Packaging facility and the only Liquid Packaging Board providing facility throughout the nation. Bulleh Shah Packaging works with all kinds of industries; ranging from Textiles, Dairy, Snacks, Electronics and many more. Today, 80% of our portfolio includes some of the top local and international brands operating in Pakistan. Our team of over 1100 employees is spread between offices in Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad and Kasur.

Kamil Packaging (Pvt) Ltd Kamil Packaging (Pvt) Ltd aims to become the best choice for its valuable customers. The company’s prime objective is to deliver the finest quality product and ensure 100% customer satisfaction. The customers are the most valuable asset of Kamil Packaging (Pvt) Ltd, and their satisfaction is the No.1 priority. With the support from customers, the company will keep on investing in research and development to enhance the quality and capability. The motto: “Success is from the customers.”

Roshan Packages Limited At Roshan Packages Limited, we go beyond being packaging manufacturers.

With our state-of-the-art international standard labs in both corrugation and flexible packaging, we have the expertise

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to tailor-make cost-effective, sustainable, and innovative solutions for our customers. Our dedicated teams in these labs work closely with clients to develop customized packaging solutions that meet their unique requirements.

Our product range includes a wide variety of packaging solutions such as plain and printed transit cartons, complex printed die-cut works, corrugated cartons, box cartons, stock boxes, custom boxes, die-cuts, pads, corners, and partition sheets. These solutions are suitable for various industries including FMCG, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, electronics, textile, cargo & logistics, candy, fruit & vegetable, oil & ghee, and dairy packaging.

Saigal Packages Industries (Pvt.) Ltd. Saigal Packages Industries (Pvt.) Ltd. is one of the leading manufacturing company in all over Pakistan which can provide flexible packaging solutions to serve industrial growing demand with latest

technology machinery and expert man powers.

Saigal Packages Industries have broad and hi-tech machinery and equipment for flexible packaging, blown line, flexographic and masterbatches machine as well as finishing and converting equipment.

Consistent coordination with respect to planning, development, and production is instrumental in achieving the quality product. Based on our comprehensive competence in the field of extrusion, printing multi-color masterbatches, we don’t see ourselves as a supplier of highquality packaging material but also as a packaging solution provider for food and non-food grade products.

Master Plastic Pack Limited Master Printing & Packaging is a rapidly growing, progressive company with a long history of success working with various industries to cater their packaging requirements. Master Printing & Packaging was incorporated in 2018 with the prime objective of providing supreme quality Rotogravure Flexible Printing & Packaging, Rotogravure HD D-Box Printing & Packaging, Rotogravure Metallic Cosmetic Printing & Packaging, Rotogravure Pharmaceutical Printing & Packaging and Rotogravure Roll to Roll Label Printing & Packaging products to all sectors of economy especially cosmetic and food industry and has emerged as one of the leading companies in the Packaging Field of Pakistan. We are catering the demands of several industries including Snacks, Beverages, confectionary, tiles, ballpoint pen etc

3P Plas Print Pack Pakistan

Fazleesons (Pvt.) Ltd. Fazleesons is a renowned printing, packaging and converting industry in Pakistan functioning for the last 62 years.

It was started as a traditional printer & binder. Today, we offer to our valued customers a wide range of High Quality Packaging material printed by Offset, Flexo and Gravure. We have our own digital pre-press and printing units to produce quality sales promotion materials.

The group’s expansion has been marked by its keeping pace with the latest technology employed abroad, making it a pioneering innovator whom other followed.

In the 80’s, for instance, the Fazlee Group had the guts and the foresight to introduce Flexo Printing thus creating a market for it in Pakistan, paving the way for others to follow in their footsteps. We have achieved a landslide success in the field of printing, packaging and converting particularly for multinationals and pharmaceuticals companies besides banks, commercial organization, government and semi-government departments and autonomous bodies.

Super Pack Industries Super Pack Industries is widely acknowledged as a highly competitive fine quality flexible packaging printer for mono and multi-layer Labels, Wrappers, Bags and Sachets etc. with timely deliveries and excellent all-round services shortly after its inception.

Films in Pakistan. With Allah’s grace, today we provide high quality flexible packaging solutions to multifarious businesses in an economical, efficient & sustainable way. Our product range includes PVC Packing Quality Film, PVC Label Quality Film, Co-Ex PE Shrinkable Film, PVC & PET-G Printed Labels & Sleeves, Tamper Evident Neckseals and Laminated Reels, Bags & Pouches.

Transworld believes in educating customers to achieve an incredibly high level of satisfaction by giving them complete technical support. Our R & D Department is very up to date and is occupied in finding optimal solutions to cater to customers’ needs.

Transworld Multipurpose Industries (Pvt.) Limited

We have a well-equipped laboratory and a complete quality control system for quality assurance.

Transworld Multipurpose Industries (Pvt.) Limited was established in 1987 as the leading developer of PVC Shrinkable

Transworld has a diverse customer portfolio catering to the needs of different industries such as Food & Beverage, Juice & Dairy, Mineral Water, Pharmaceutical,

Oil & Ghee, Battery, Stationery, Mobile Phones, Paints, Automobile Parts etc. for many years. Our customers include renowned names such as Coca Cola, Nestle, Engro Foods, Pepsi and many others

Pakpet (Pvt.) Ltd. The Foundation of Pakpet was laid 5 decades ago and the journey begin with a small workshop the same has been due to the progressive and innovative vision of the Founder owner being transformed the workshop into one of the leading plastic container manufacturer industries for 31 years. The attribute that sets it apart from other manufacturers is its lowest rates with amazing quality. The companies now need a trusted supplier who doesn’t delay the supplies as the final product delivery depends on the bottles. Pak pet has gone the extra mile to ensure that their clients don’t suffer from late deliveries, Pak pet is now considered a trusted supplier by many well-known brands in Pakistan.

Printech Packages (Pvt) Ltd Printech Packages, PTP, is a complete printing and packaging solution company.

We believe in providing high quality packaging products to aid and enhance the efficiency and profitability of the product of our clientele.

With a plant covering an area of over 100,000 sq ft, PTP is a hub of modern technology and one of the most efficient work forces in the market.

We at Printech believe in providing a one window solution to our clients.

November - December 2023

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3P Plas Print Pack Pakistan

Hence our machine line extends from Rotogravure, Flexo, Offset, Extrusion and Corrugation, allowing PTP to provide solution to our customers who range from Food & Beverages, Cosmetics, Textile, Retail and Bulk consumers. The customized corporate, printing & packaging solutions help our business partners all over the country in streamlining the flow of goods, product fortification and innovative and extraordinary packaging presentation.

PTP's focus and endeavor has today made us one of the most preferred vendors of FMCG and MNC companies all over Pakistan.

Speciality Printers (Pvt.) Ltd. Macpac Films Ltd In a market characterized by heavy competition, packaging plays a crucial role in the success of a product.

Identifying the right packaging material, attractive graphic designing, and selecting appropriate printing methods lead to a successful package.

We at speciality have been doing this for decades. Our proposals are defined by an integral vision of the product and its distribution cycle.

Our department translates marketing into an eye-catching graphic image. Our state-of-the-art film making equipment, multicolor printing, lamination, bag making, coating, and converting equipment permits the realization of desired packaging materials.

We have a well-qualified & highly trained sales team. It is at your service in selecting and using the right packaging material.

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Macpac Films Ltd is the pioneer of BOPP (biaxially-oriented polypropylene) & CPP ( Cast polypropylene) films in the local manufacturing arena, offering its customers with the highest quality products. For more than two decades, the Company has stood for quality in sealable, plain and value-added films. Our success is driven by our people and their commitment to get results the right way – by operating responsibly, executing with excellence, applying innovative technologies and capturing new opportunities for profitable growth. Today, our long-term relationships, embedded with trust and harmony, turn to us for their packaging solutions.

DIC Color & Comfort Established in 1908 as a manufacturer of printing inks, DIC has built on its core

organic pigments and synthetic resins technologies to develop an extensive range of materials and products and transform itself into a global powerhouse.

Today, DIC provides not only printing inks and colorants but also a variety of other products and services that deliver “color” and “comfort,” enriching and adding vibrancy to people’s lives. The global DIC Group employs a broad spectrum of highly skilled individuals who are committed to working together while at the same time respecting diversity to create an ever-more-vivid tapestry of value.

Unique Sales Corporation Unique Sales Corporation established in 1980 is one of the earliest suppliers of various materials to the printing, packaging and food industry in Pakistan. We represent many foreign principals and a wide portfolio of products and services.

This includes raw materials, machineries and components. We have the experience, knowledge, and expertise to supply quality products at the best price. Our product portfolio includes Packaging Films, Lamination Adhesives, Slitters, Laminators, Vacuum Metallizers, Part washing machines, Solvent distillation units, Ink Dispensing systems, ESA systems for printing machines, Cast Film Machinery, Sleeves / Rollers for Flexo printing, Gravure printing and laminator, Flexo machines, Corona treating units, Bag making machines, Packaging Machinery for Confectionery, Anti-Static Equipments and other industrial goods.

FRUIT LOGISTICA 2023

FRUIT LOGISTICA 2023 comes to a successful conclusion 63,470 trade visitors and buyers from over 140 countries as well as 2,610 exhibitors from 92 countries – this year, the leading trade fair for the global fruit trade was more international than ever and gathered the sector’s key players.

Taking as its slogan ’All in One’, FRUIT LOGISTICA celebrated its thirtieth anniversary and from 8 to 10 February showcased the entire value chain of the fresh produce sector. In 27 halls the focus was on the latest trends and innovations in the global fresh fruit trade.

Kai Mangelberger, project manager for FRUIT LOGISTICA: “We are very satisfied. Exhibitor and visitor numbers are nearing pre-pandemic levels again. Over 40 national representations occupied displays larger than before the pandemic, including that of Spain. Particularly in economically challenging times, with the industry facing high energy prices, supply chain issues and inflation worldwide, it shows us we need face-to-face meetings.

FRUIT LOGISTICA brings the sector together and facilitates dialogue, establishing contacts and finding out about market innovations.“

Successful business deals at FRUIT LOGISTICA The participants in this year’s FRUIT LOGISTICA were more than satisfied too.

According to the preliminary findings of an exhibitor and trade visitor survey, over 40

40 per cent of exhibitors polled had already concluded business deals during the event. Moreover, nine out of ten respondents expected follow-up business to be ‘satisfactory’ to ‘very good’.

Accordingly, the overall view of exhibitors was very positive: around 90 per cent would recommend FRUIT LOGISTICA to others in their business circle, and the same percentage planned to take part in FRUIT LOGISTICA 2024.

Among trade visitors business activity was high too. Over 80 per cent were able to secure new business leads, while about one in three were already able to conclude business during the fair. All in all, the view among trade visitors was positive. 9 out of 10 respondents said their overall impression was good, would recommend the event to colleagues or business partners and would travel to Berlin

again for FRUIT LOGISTICA 2024 This year, FRUIT LOGISTICA again positioned itself as an international meeting place for the industry – four out of five trade visitors came from abroad.

FRUIT LOGISTICA made a good impression with its wide-ranging programme which over 90 per cent of respondents rated ’good’ or ’very good’.

Exhibitors’ comments on FRUIT LOGISTICA 2023: 1. René Clerc, Sr. customer success manager, One Third “This is our first time as exhibitors at FRUIT LOGISTICA after previously visiting several times. Business-wise it was our most successful fair to date. Our products are on the market now and we want to expand. For us as a hi-tech startup the

FRUIT LOGISTICA 2023

Smart Agri Hall is ideal. Anyone looking for new market-changing technology comes here.”

2. Elad Mardix, CEO, Clarifruit “We had about 50 per cent more visitors than last year. That was fantastic.

What is special at FRUIT LOGISTICA is that many visitors are C-level executives.

That way, we get to meet various representatives of the same customer which speeds up business.”

3. Michelle Haynes, Tomra Food, vice president, Head of Marketing and Communications “We are delighted to be here.

Attendance at the fair was incredible and we had lots of visitors on the stand, even more than last year. We had great support from the organisers, and our new stand location at the fair was really good for us.“ 4. Fabrice Blanc, general manager MAF Agrobotic & Director MAF Roda RSA “The fair was a big success for us. We exhibited our most important robotic equipment and received enthusiastic feedback from visitors. So the fair went really well for us and we were able to get lots of new projects going.”

5. Muriël Halling, event manager, Holland Fresh Group “FRUIT LOGISTICA 2023 meant more visitors, better quality and higher volume. We were able to do lots of busi-

November - December 2023

ness and secure new leads. The trade fair is very important for our producers who receive orders directly. In some cases we do follow-up business. The fact that customers are from so many different countries is a big bonus.”

6. Lisa Kadagies, marketing manager, Lehmann Natur “At FRUIT LOGISTICA we experienced a positive mood all round. Our business focus is overseas, as we buy organic products from all over the world.

The trade fair gives us the opportunity to communicate with all nationalities. At the same time one sensed an anxiety that for the first time organic products are in decline. Particularly in these times it is important to meet face-to-face and at fairs.”

7. Thomas Weber, CEO, Amade Fruits “We are very satisfied because of the positive meetings with customers and hope that they will result in good business. In order to sell a large harvest we have to gain new markets. The fair offers us good opportunities there. Meeting with all our industry colleagues also helps us to properly assess the market, which is very important for precise planning in the fresh produce sector.”

8. Dr. Christian Weseloh, CEO, Bundesvereinigung der Erzeugerorganisationen Obst und Gemüse (BVEO) “We are delighted to be here again.

As the largest stand among German producers we are occupying 1,400 square metres with 45 companies. They are able

41

FRUIT LOGISTICA 2023

to display both their regular and new products here – outstanding.”

9. Manuel Jorques Cañes, director, Sales and Materials, Marketing, Martinavarro “We are ten companies on the stand and had lots of customers here, from northern Europe to South Africa and South America as well. The whole world

comes together at FRUIT LOGISTICA, which is why it is such an important event for us.“ 10. Bianca Bonifacio, Internationalization & Exhibitions Manager, C.S.O. Italy “FRUIT LOGISTICA is an event not to be missed. Online meetings are no substitute for the personal touch required for doing business. Establishing a personal rapport with customers is very important. That can only take place with a handshake – or over an espresso.“ 11. Sebastiano Fortunato, President, Consorzio di Pomodoro di Pachino IGP “The trade fair is a very important event for our company because we can meet our customers here and have an opportunity to acquire new ones. In Italy we are already represented in many supermarkets. Our goal here is to gain more international customers.”

42

12. Zoran Stojic, export manager, Rinieri “The world in Berlin – that means FRUIT LOGISTICA for us. We had visitors from India, Azerbaijan, Australia and China. This our fifth time here at the fair.

We manufacture special equipment for ecologically cultivating vineyards and fruit plantations. Interest in these cultivation methods is growing and we noticed that here.”

13. Anton Kruger, CEO, Fresh Produce Exporters Forum (fpéf) “Personal contact is very important in our trade. We represent 95 per cent of exporters from South Africa. Our members strengthen relations with existing customers and engage in new business.

Every year we release our Fresh Export Directory at FRUIT LOGISTICA. This year, in a symbolic act, we were able to hand over the first issue to the German minister of agriculture.

14. Tabea Ballester, event coordinator, SanLucar “It was always full on our stand and we had meetings almost at all hours. That was great. We are very satisfied. We need trade fairs such as FRUIT LOGISTICA, particularly in challenging times such as these, in order to strengthen customer ties.“

FRUIT LOGISTICA 2023

15. Beatrice Schneider, Marketing, Frutania “This is our third year with a stand at FRUIT LOGISTICA and every time we have expanded. We are very satisfied because we sense we are catering for our customers and are making our concept work exactly the way we want. Everyone is happy to be meeting face-to-face again. Visitors are very open-minded and grateful for every personal encounter that could not take place during the pandemic.“ 16. Emel Karagöz, sales manager, MEK Fruit “FRUIT LOGISTICA is the most important trade fair of the year for us.

Business is good, so that we want to be back with our own stand next year.“ 17. Miguel Rodriguez Moreno, senior manager, Cargo Products, Qatar Airways Cargo “This year’s Fruit Logistica was a big success for us at Qatar Airways Cargo.

We were able to meet with most of our customers from various regions around the world and for the first time had a stand at the fair which allowed us to be more visible. Being present here is crucial to maintaining communications and relations with our customer base and attracting new and potential customers and business over the months to come. It is an important place for networking and exchanging ideas on projects, partnerships and collaboration. We are always open to discussions about new transport routes, new services, sustainability and how we as an industry can improve the

transportation of perishables by air to

chain of the fruit and vegetable sector,

reduce food waste and make a positive

from producer to the point of sale. At

contribution to global food security.”

FRUIT LOGISTICA 2023 more than 2,600 exhibitors from 92 countries displayed

About FRUIT LOGISTICA FRUIT LOGISTICA is the leading trade

their products, services and technical solutions. Some 63,500 buyers and trade visitors from 140 countries took part in

show for the globalfresh produce business

the event. The next FRUIT LOGISTICA

and and represents the entire value added

will take place from 7 to 9 February 2024 in Berlin.

About Messe Berlin Berlin has been a trade fair destination for 200 years, and has been one of the most important such hubs for many decades. Messe Berlin – the state’s own trade fair company – conceives, markets and organises hundreds of live events every year. It strives to be an outstanding host for visitors at all events, generate optimal business stimuli, and provide fair conditions for everyone. This concept is reflected in the company slogan: Messe Berlin – Hosting the World. November - December 2023

43

Gulfood Gulfood Manufacturing Manufacturing 2016

Biggest-ever Gulfood Manufacturing 2023 to take global food production in a smarter, more sustainable direction Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) has announced that Gulfood Manufacturing, the most influential annual F&B manufacturing event in the world, will take place from 7-9 November 2023. This year’s edition the largest ever - will bring together 2,000+ exhibitors, including the biggest global brands in F&B production, to fill 15 halls. Away from the exhibition floor, over 100 of the F&B industry’s decision-makers and the world’s leading experts will be 48

exploring the very latest trends in the industry, and setting out strategies to capture business opportunities and address the challenges the industry faces.

The industry-leading trade event, approaching its milestone 10th anniversary next year, continues to garner interest from top production players across sectors in processing, packaging, ingredients, supply chain solutions and control & automation, to chart a course towards a

more sustainable, resilient, agile and efficient future.

With COP28 taking place just weeks after the show, Gulfood Manufacturing is set to redouble its long-standing focus on how the F&B manufacturing industry is integrating sustainable practices and processes (such as sustainable packaging), reducing food waste, introducing energyefficient machinery with a smaller carbon footprint, and driving traceable, ethical and transparent food production.

Gulfood Manufacturing

Gulfood Manufacturing 2023 will deep dive into themes examining how AI, robotics and automation are spurring an evolution in efficiency, the digitalisation of the F&B manufacturing sector, stimulating revolutionary innovation, and those raising the benchmark of excellence across the industry.

Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President, Dubai World Trade Centre commented, “Gulfood Manufacturing is the leading industry event in the MENA region, sitting firmly in the top tier of global industry events, and the only annual event of its kind in the world. The event comes at a critical point for the global F&B industry, as it tries to balance rising inflation and input costs, against downward price pressure from retailers and consumers – whilst meeting the imperative to make food production more sustainable. By leveraging innovative technologies and driving efficiencies, the industry can strike this balance and continue to evolve and reach new heights.”

Reflecting Gulfood Manufacturing’s position at the pinnacle of the food production industry, many of the of the world’s top ingredients brands have already confirmed participation for this year’s edition, including Apical (Gulfood Manufacturing 2023 Platinum Sponsor), Cargill, Givaudan, Wilmar, Kerry, Dohler, Orkila, Fanar, Takasago and many more.

Meanwhile from the packaging and pro-

cessing segment, global powerhouses from the likes of Tetra Pak, GEA, Krones, Husky, Sidel, Ishida, TNA, SIG, Rieckermann will also be in attendance.

Niels Hougaard, Managing Director at Tetra Pak Arabia said: "At Tetra Pak, we are committed to revolutionising the packaging industry through our distinctive products. We take pride in offering innovative, eco-friendly solutions that address not only the needs of contemporary consumers but also pave the way for a sustainable future. Our participation in the region's premier food and beverage manufacturing show in Dubai is a testament to our unwavering dedication to the

industry. This platform allows us to present our most recent advancements and innovations. As we continue to grow, our aim remains steadfast: to be the preferred choice for customers seeking sustainable solutions. We are here to protect people, food, and our planet”.

Gulfood Manufacturing 2023 will be a powerful platform to present their products, services, and solutions to prominent buyers from across the globe, with countless opportunities to build new professional relationships, strengthen existing ones, and execute high-value business deals over the three days. This year’s edition will see a bigger presence from European manufacturers from Italy, Germany, Netherlands, and Spain. The show will also see the Chinese Pavilion back in full force, taking up a dedicated bespoke hall.

A focus area of this year’s event will be Dubai’s Green and Sustainable Manufacturing initiative, part of the Dubai Economic Agenda. As the plantbased F&B industry grows and innovates, there is a corresponding need for new plant-based food manufacturing facilities.

The initiative will bring together leading businesses in the plant-based F&B industry with co-manufacturers, equipment, and solution providers to explore challenges and opportunities in effectively scaling up plant-based production and manufacturing in Dubai. The Dubai Economic Agenda, or D33, aims to

November - December 2023

49

Gulfood Manufacturing

double the size of Dubai's economy over the next decade and consolidate its position among the top three global cities, and includes 100 transformational projects, including the Green and Sustainable Manufacturing Initiative.

At the heart of this year’s event once again, the FoodTech Summit will convene the global industry’s most dynamic and engaging experts, decision-makers and thought leaders, to offer fresh new perspectives, insights and inspiring strategies on topics ranging from cost hikes, through to innovation economics, green solutions and smarter manufacturing, to alternative products, functional foods, food safety and much more.

Among the industry leaders due to speak at the Summit are Samuel Sigrist, Group CEO, SIG; Adolfo Orive, President & CEO, Tetra Pak; Alavaro Martinez, CEO - Western Europe, Middle East, Africa & Latin America, GEA; Adam Adamek, Innovation Director, EIT Food; and Olga Bezukladova, Regional Head of Innovation – SAMEA - Taste & Wellbeing, Givaudan.

50

Three other DWTC food and beverage events will be co-located with Gulfood Manufacturing from 7 -9 November 2023. The Speciality Food Festival is the MENA region’s only dedicated gourmet and fine food trade show, offering buyers a platform to network and find the right premium or niche product, and visitors the opportunity to uncover the latest news and emerging trends in the market. ISM Middle East is the region’s largest trade fair for sweets and snacks, connecting visitors with the

most influential brands in the industry and giving them the opportunity to discover the latest products and innovations.

Private Label Licensing ME - MENA’s only event where buyers can source costeffective customisable products, branding and packaging solutions, bringing together food and non-food suppliers, private label & contract manufacturers under one roof. Attendance is free and gives registrants access to the entire ecosystem of four events with a single pass.

Gulfood Manufacturing Corporate News 2023

Baker Perkins Engaging with the future of engineering With a focus on developing our pipeline of future engineering talent, Sarah Worsley, Senior HR Officer, based in our Peterborough UK site, is creatively driving several new initiatives to further attract and secure “best-in-class” potential engineers to start their careers with us as apprentices.

Through highlighting the apprenticeship route into engineering, Sarah is raising awareness amongst young people, as well as with their teachers, parents and carers, that engineering can be an excellent career choice with great opportunities to grow professionally and personally.

Working closely with local partnerships (including Growth Works and the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority), colleges and schools to support our recruitment amongst their young and diverse talent pool, Sarah has introduced a Teacher/Tutor Engineering Experience, initially trialled at our Peterborough site.

available to their students. The idea is simple: as mentors, the teachers can share their learnings with the young people they are responsible for.

A recent group of teachers from local education providers was welcomed to Peterborough and taken on a tour of the factory to give them insight into what it is like to work in an engineering business and the variety of experiences and roles

Another brand-new recruitment initiative Sarah has kick-started with the support of local partnerships is called Engineering Boot Camps. With the support of a training provider, the boot camps are designed to give potential new

Their feedback confirmed Sarah’s opinion that raising educators’ and teachers’ awareness will actively help us engage with the talent we need to sustain our business in the long term.

talent the chance to experience across a few days, what it is like to work in our business and specifically in engineering.

Another initiative that is proving beneficial, at the county level Sarah is also now getting actively involved with the local Employment and Skills board – further raising our profile as a local employer and allowing us to gain exposure into their recruitment campaigns.

Sarah comments on these campaigns, “Our recent experience is that when people get to see what we actually do, it inspires them to consider engineering as a career and to want to come and work at our sites to take advantage of all the training and opportunities we offer. We have been leveraging support and opportunities that organisations like Growth Works and the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority have to offer to ensure we have an engineering skills pipeline for the future.”

We are seeing that our engagement initiatives are working well in terms of the quality of our new recruits, apprentice satisfaction and employee retention.”

The next intake of new apprentices and graduates is starting in September so we look forward to introducing, in the new year, more engineering talent into our business.

November - December 2023

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Gulfood Manufacturing 2023

Gea Supervisory Board Appoints Bernd Brinker as Interim CFO The Supervisory Board of GEA Group Aktiengesellschaft has appointed Bernd Brinker (58) as interim Chief Financial Officer (CFO) with effect from October 16, 2023. For a period of one year, he will succeed Marcus A. Ketter, who passed away suddenly on August 6, 2023.

Industries AG. At each of these compa-

MProfessor Dieter Kempf, Chairman of the GEA Supervisory Board, said: “In Bernd Brinker, we welcome a seasoned, well-rounded financial expert with a strong background in the capital market.

We are certain that, with his established track record, he will be a valuable addition to the Executive Board.”

ing year merged with Swiss-based Kaba

A business graduate hailing from the Emsland region of northern Germany, Bernd Brinker boasts over three decades of financial and capital market experience with global industrial groups. He commenced his career in 1991, working in the finance department of the former VIAG AG. Between 1996 and 2014, he held various management positions, notably in the areas of Treasury, Investor Relations, Portfolio Management and M&A, at SKW Trostberg AG, Degussa AG and Evonik 52

nies, he played a significant role in shaping their development. In 2014, he assumed his first group CFO position at the then family-owned DORMA Holding GmbH & Co. KGaA, which in the followHolding AG to form the publicly traded dormakaba Holding AG. During his tenure as Group CFO at dormakaba, Bernd Brinker oversaw functions including Controlling, Accounting, Treasury, Tax, M&A, Investor Relations, IT and Internal Audit.

GEA CEO Stefan Klebert added: “I am delighted that the Supervisory Board has been able to secure the services of Bernd Brinker at such short notice. Thanks in part to the successful efforts of Marcus A. Ketter, we at GEA have been able to restore the confidence of the capital markets in recent years. With Bernd Brinker’s expertise and capital market experience, we are well equipped as a team to continue along this trajectory.”

About GEA GEA is one of the world's largest suppliers of systems and components to the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries.

The international technology group, founded in 1881, focuses on machinery and plants, as well as advanced process technology, components, and comprehensive services. With more than 18,000 employees working across five divisions and 62 countries, the group generated revenues of more than EUR 5.1 billion in fiscal year 2022. GEA plants, processes, components, and services enhance the efficiency and sustainability of production processes across the globe. They contribute significantly to the reduction of CO2 emissions, plastic usage, and food waste. In doing so, GEA makes a key contribution toward a sustainable future, in line with the company’s purpose: "Engineering for a better world".

GEA is listed in the German MDAX and the STOXX® Europe 600 Index and is also among the companies comprising the DAX 50 ESG and MSCI Global Sustainability and the Dow Jones Sustainability Europe Indices. 

Gulfood Manufacturing 2023

Krones records strong growth in first three quarters of 2023 and significantly improves profitability

After a successful first half of the year, the third quarter of 2023 also went well for Krones. Although the overall economic outlook has clouded over, the company’s international customers in the food and beverage industry continue to show high levels of market activity and willingness to invest. This reflects the fact that demand for packaged beverages is robust to economic cycles and continues to grow at a steady rate.  Demand for Krones’ products and services remains strong. In the third quarter of 2023, order intake improved by 4.3% on the previous quarter to €1,327.7 million.  Order backlog exceeds the €4 billion mark for the first time and, at €4.09 billion, ensures capacity utilisation in plant and project business through to 2025.  Krones’ revenue developed well between January and September, despite the tight supply of electrical components, rising by 14.5% to €3,485.6 million.

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

The company significantly improved profitability in a challenging environment in the first three quarters of 2023. Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) went up by 23.0% to €332.3 million. The EBITDA margin rose to 9.5% (previous year: 8.9%).  Krones confirms its full-year guidance for 2023. The Executive Board expects revenue growth of 11% to 13%. In addition, the company aims to further improve profitability and forecasts an EBITDA margin of 9% to 10% in 2023. For return on capital employed (ROCE), Krones expects an increase to between 15% and 17%.

Order intake picks up in third quarter compared to previous quarter, order backlog exceeds €4 billion mark Third-quarter order intake improved by 4.3% on the previous quarter to €1,327.7 million (Q3 2022: 1,493.3 million). Krones received €4,113.6 million in

Olaf Scholz; Head of Investor Relations

new orders in the first nine months of 2023 (previous year: €4,599.7 million).

The sustained strong demand for Krones products and services is also reflected in the order backlog. Despite higher output, the contract value of orders exceeded the €4 billion mark for the first time in the third quarter of 2023. At the end of September 2023, the order backlog stood at €4,094.4 million, up 18.7% on the

Exclusive on MULTIVAC Gulfood Manufacturing 2023

already very high prior-year figure (€3,449.0 million). This comfortable order backlog ensures production capacity utilisation in plant and project business through to 2025.

Revenue raises by 14.5% in the first nine months of 2023 Production conditions remained challenging in the third quarter due to the tight situation regarding the procurement of electrical components. Thanks to the high flexibility and creativity of its workforce, however, Krones was able to continue its stable growth. Revenue from July to September 2023 was up 10.0% year on year, rising to €1,164.7 million. Over the first three quarters of 2023, revenue thus grew by 14.5%, from €3,043.7 million a year earlier to €3,485.6 million.

Krones significantly improves profitability Despite difficult conditions overall, Krones significantly improved profitability in the third quarter compared to the previous year. As in the first half of the year, this is largely due to the flexibility of the company and the workforce. Rising material and labour costs were also offset by the implemented price increases. EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation) increased by 16.7% to €110.9 million between July and September 2023. The EBITDA margin consequently improved to 9.5% (Q3 2022: 9.0%). Krones’ EBT (earnings before taxes) of €74.3 million in the third quarter was 17.2% higher than in the previous year. Consolidated net income climbed 20.4% to €54.3 million. This results in earnings per share of €1.72 (previous year: €1.43).

In the first nine months of 2023, EBITDA increased by 23.0% year on year, from €270.1 million to €332.3 million.

The EBITDA margin rose from 8.9% to 9.5% in the period from January to September. As a result of higher financial income, EBT improved even more strongly than EBITDA, increasing by 33.3 % to €235.4 million. The EBT margin rose accordingly from 5.8% to 6.8%.

Consolidated net income for the first three quarters of 2023 came to €175.7 million, 36.9% higher than in the previous year (€128.3 million). Earnings per share increased from €4.06 to €5.56.

Ampco Pumps, USA, in the second quar-

Strong improvement in ROCE, free cash flow as expected

credit as of 30 September.

Mainly due to the higher business volume and the associated increase in working capital, Krones’ free cash flow adjusted for M&A activities amounted to −€166.1 million as expected in the first nine months (previous year: +€132.3 million). Krones acquired a 90% stake in

ter. Including the cash outflow for this acquisition, free cash flow in the first nine months was −€280.6 million.

Krones’ ROCE (return on capital employed) improved significantly. Mainly due to the higher earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT), ROCE climbed to 17.0% in the period January to September 2023 (previous year: 12.4%).

The company’s net cash, meaning cash and cash equivalents less bank debt, stood at €284.8 million at the end of September 2023. In addition, Krones had around €860 million in unused lines of

Krones confirms full-year guidance for 2023 Demand for the company’s products and services remains strong. At the same time, business conditions remain challenging for Krones due to various unpredictable factors that could affect the company’s business processes and production.

Krones is highly confident of meeting the full-year financial targets for 2023.

The company forecasts revenue growth of 11% to 13% this year. In addition, Krones aims to further improve profitability and plans an EBITDA margin of 9% to 10% for the group in 2023 (2022: 8.9%).

For the third performance target, ROCE (return on capital employed), Krones expects an increase to between 15% and 17% (2022: 14.1%). 

November - December 2023

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Gulfood Manufacturing 2023

Sidel expands overwrapping portfolio with EvoFilm® Stretch – top-tier sustainable technology Sidel’s latest stretch film technology, EvoFilm® Stretch, is designed to offer the beverage, food, home and personal care (FHPC) markets a new sustainable solution for secondary packaging.

As consumer trends, such as sustainability and SKU proliferation, continue to affect distribution and production needs, customers require alternative secondary packaging solutions which can address these demands, in a more cost-effective way.

In response, Sidel offers a new stretch film technology to revolutionise wrapping processes. Complementing its existing packaging portfolio, the new EvoFilm® Stretch achieves 90 percent energy savings and a 50 percent reduction in plastic film[1].

Today, plastic film continues to be an ideal material for secondary packaging due to its best-in-class lightness and density ratio per selling unit.

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Sustainable advantages Removing the need for any heat, the wrapping technology involves prestretching the film and wrapping it

“Compared to traditional solutions, our new stretch wrapping solution is a sustainable choice for customers who are looking for alternative secondary packag-

around the primary packaging. With this

ing. This solution mainly targets multi-

unique advantage, EvoFilm® Stretch

packs and logistics packs, where printed

reduces plastic film consumption while

film is not required, ensuring material

using significantly less energy.

reduction, low ecological impact and

Gulfood Manufacturing 2023

cost-savings,” said Giorgio Rocca, End of Line Product Manager. “With the ability to handle recycled film, EvoFilm® Stretch addresses our customers’ sustainability objectives while being a competitive option.”

Compared to traditional solutions, based on the following assumptions: 1.75 L – 3x2 (figures for 1000 packs)

Meeting customer needs

Shrink Solution

Stretch Solution

Plastic used [Kg]

16.9

8.6

-8.3

-49%

Energy consumption [kWh]

25.1

2.8

-22.3

-89%

Saving

With speeds up to 80 packs per minute, the new solution quickly stretches the film and applies the correct wrapping force to any packaging format. Applicable to all types of containers from 0.1 to 8 litres, in bulk or multipacks, and for a wide range of pack formats, EvoFilm® Stretch is a versatile solution which can meet the demands facing the beverages and FHPC industries.

Maximum flexibility Suitable for all SKUs and primary packaging types, EvoFilm® Stretch is a modular solution that can be sold as a single unit as well as part of a complete line. The technology is user-friendly and achieves a toolless manual format changeover in less than 12 minutes/module.

EvoFilm® Stretch also removes the need for a shrink tunnel and tunnel discharge equipment, creating a smaller, compact operational footprint for customers.

November - December 2023

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Gulfood Manufacturing 2021 2023

Exhibitors at Gulfood Manufacturing 2023 Iftekhar Ahmed & Co IAC is the single largest company working in Pakistan with well integrated supply chain management systems, operating comprehensively as grower, packer, wholesaler, cold storage facility provider, processor and exporter of fresh fruits, vegetables, fruit pulp, clear juice concentrate, fruit drink & fruit nectars.

GEA GEA is one of the world’s largest systems suppliers for the food, beverage and pharmaceutical sectors. Their portfolio includes machinery and plants as well as advanced process technology, components and comprehensive services. Used across diverse industries, they enhance the sustainability and efficiency of production processes globally.

Their business model has evolved significantly since our founding in 1881 as a metals trading company. Today, their five business divisions are supported by more than 18,000 dedicated employees located in 64 countries. GEA customers benefit from our global reach, extensive local presence, and from the depth and breadth of our processing knowledge and portfolio, underpinned by a strong sense of purpose and responsibility.

Krones Krones offers lines for the beverage industry and food producers: process technology, filling technology, packaging machines, all the way through to IT solutions. Every day, millions of glass bottles, cans and PET containers run through a Krones line. As a supplier for complete systems, Krones provides breweries, beverage bottlers and food producers all over the world with 58

Shafi Gluco Chem Shafi Gluco Chem is the world’s leading producer and exporter of sweeteners and proteins. Specializing in Rice and Tapioca ingredients, we believe in creating consistent value for our customers. In line with our organic philosophy, Shafi Gluco Chem has pioneered several innovations, driving the industry trends forward.

We ensure top quality procurement from our organic fields; an additive-free natural production process; and promise a simple and cleaner label while enabling numerous functionalities for all food and drink formulations.

We are deeply committed to safety, quality, integrity, and excellence in everything we do! Since 2003 we have been exporting our wide range of products to more than 90 countries globally. Our customers include a wide array of consumers including bakeries, confectioneries, food and beverage companies, pharmaceuticals, buyers and distributors. Our strong supply chain network assures a prompt response, shortened lead times and dependable product quality when and where you need it. individual machines and with complete production lines.

Krones designs and implements complete lines for beverages and food, which cover each individual production process step – starting from product and container production, filling and packaging all the way up to material flow and container recycling.

transform from site-to-site to an integrated company management. Their integrated solutions are built with safety, reliability and cyber security for your homes, buildings, data centers, infrastructure and industries.

Sidel

Schneider’s purpose is to empower all to make the most of energy and resources, bridging progress and sustainability for all. At Schneider, we call this Life Is On. Their mission is to be your digital partner for Sustainability and Efficiency.

People all over the world consume products packaged by Sidel Group solutions every day. Each of those packaging solutions is developed according to the goal to deliver the highest quality standards to consumers. They are a leading provider of equipment, services and complete solutions for packaging liquids, foods, home and personal care products in PET, can, glass and other materials.

They drive digital transformation by integrating world-leading process and energy technologies to realize the full efficiency and sustainability opportunities for your business. Provide end-point to cloud integration connecting products, controls, software and services. They enable lifecycle solutions from design and build to operate and maintain phases through a digital twin and deliver capabilities to

There are close to 40,000 Sidel Group machines in operation in over 190 countries today. Every one of them is the result of our almost 171 years of proven experience and innovation. They continually focus on providing partners with advanced systems, line engineering and innovation that are designed with one thing in mind: to ensure the customer reach their business goals.

Schneider Electric

Gulfood Manufacturing 2023 2021

TATE & LYLE They make food extraordinary. For 161 years, they’ve been driven by the passion to create food people love.

Because we’re food people. It’s not just what we do. It’s what we love. Their deep technical expertise and passion drive the innovation and creativity that thrive within their business. They are committed to operating responsibly, working with the local communities and protecting the environment for future generations. Their core values of safety, integrity and respect help drive their corporate responsibility program.

BAKER PERKINS Throughout the world, shop and supermarket shelves are stacked with foods made on equipment supplied by Baker Perkins. In the bread, biscuit, confectionery, snack and breakfast cereal sectors, many of the world's leading brands rely on technology supplied by Baker Perkins.

Baker Perkins' equipment and service drive the production and profit at many of the world’s leading food manufacturers. The company's strength lies in its process expertise, engineering excellence and extensive service philosophy, extending from design and manufacture through installation and commissioning to Lifetime Support.

THOMASON Since its establishment in 1977, THOMASON is one of the leading European Industrial companies in manufacturing of all kind of Bottling Lines and its accessories for liquids - creams and powders for the Cosmetics - Pharmaceuticals - Food and Beverage - Dairy - Chemicals and Agrochemicals - Liquid Detergents Edible Oils as well as Lube Oils .

THOMASON is one of the leading companies with clients in all over Arab Countries - Europe – Asia and USA basing the company success of being able to design and manufacture machines according to customer needs and specifiNovember - December 2023

MULTIVAC MULTIVAC is one of the leading suppliers of integrated packaging solutions with a focus on packaging, processing, portioning, labelling and marking as well as inspection and handling.

They build the market position on an innovative and cutting-edge technology and a comprehensive product portfolio, as well as on a long-term expertise and experience. Their customers benefit from the profound knowledge of processes and automation, the same as from the closeness to their business.

cations .The developing and studying of the machines is done by high skilled personnel and are under all European high standard materials according to CE regulations, manufactured for high performance, precision and efficiency.

TECALIT TECALIT Srl is an Italian company which manufactures and supplies machinery for the food industry and is specialized in complete plants for the production of Pasta and Snack pellets. TECALIT Srl designs its own equipment and delivers "Turn-Key" industrial plants. They supply a number of complete State-Of-The-Art production lines. Tecalit provides the Customer a highly specialized technical and technological service during installation and after sales. They transfer knowhow and competent training to Customer's personnel.

Kohlhoff The origin of our company was in 1976. At that time Uwe Kohlhoff founded a specialised company for sheet metal processing. Thanks to its high operational flexibility and the specialisation in the processing of stainless steel, KOHLHOFF was soon able to construct and produce custom-made articles of the most diverse kinds. An up to then very successful development resulted in the foundation of our present company in the early 1990s.

The performance focusses of the KOHLHOFF Hygienetechnik GmbH & Co. KG encompass development, production and sales of own hygiene technology machines, appliances and equipment in

order to comply with the worldwide applicable regulations for personnel and industrial hygiene for food processing companies.

GATRONOVA Gatron (Industries) Ltd. and Novatex Limited belong to a group of companies, G&T – Gani & Tayub. The group is in business since 1948. These seven decades of operational excellence, experience and expertise have all formed a combined strength to empower the group as a leading name in Polyester Filament Yarn, Polyester Chips and PET Resin in Pakistan.

SOCAPS SOCAPS is the worldwide leader in TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE in the Food & Beverage packaging industry, but also present in the Healthcare, Cosmetics, Energy and Aeronautics industries. Since 1984, they are assisting industrial equipment manufacturers all over the world by helping them to design, assemble, install and maintain their equipment worldwide.

They are present all over the world, with local teams in several countries and a large community of technicians ready to travel wherever they are needed.

ARCO plastics ARCO plastics delivers the best return on investment for its customers by producing plastic pallets of almost all sizes with state of the art plastic processing. Our consistent R&D ensures that they are creating the right product for the right place in the right way.

Since 1990, ARCO Plastics has been consistently driving the high-reliability plastic processing industry in Pakistan. The only local industry competing with interna59

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tional brands. Pakistan’s leading solution provider in returnable and reusable plastics packaging products, specializing in the design and implementation of material handling and supply chain solutions while offering a broad product mix from bins, crates, pallets, and much more.

As a leader in material handling and packaging solutions with over 25 years of experience serving companies all over the world, ARCO Plastics is an obvious choice.

Hygienic, sustainable and state-of-the-art, our plastic products are the ideal supplement to your warehouse factory’s distribution and transport operation.

Continental Print & Pack (Pvt) Ltd Since 1996 they have been in the packaging industry. In 2010, established Continental Print & Pack (Pvt) Ltd. It is one of Pakistan’s most modern factories dedicated to R&D and Flexible Packaging products in the PP Woven (Rice, Flour, Sugar), Confectionery, Snacks, Biscuits, Ice Cream, Frozen/Dry Foods, Spices, Edible Oil, Diaper, Pharmaceutical and Fertilizer Industries.

Its fast adaptation to the advancement in Technology, Professional Expertise, Technical know-how and Product Development capabilities makes Continental Print & Pack one of the best packaging manufacturers in the Middle East and South East Asia. Our in-house R&D Lab, Technical Advisors and Quality Control staffs are dedicated to improve our existing technology and expand our product range to meet your packaging challenges.

Their plant expansion in 2014 has tripled production capacity to printing 480,000 Meters per day. Investments in new machines were not neglected in the plant expansion.

New printing line and new very efficient lamination machines were installed, as well as state of the art SAP System to streamline the entire supply chain process from Procurement, Materials Management, Production, Dispatch, Financial and Invoicing. Continental Print & Pack (Pvt) Ltd. is the holder of ISO 9001 and ISO 22000 certificates. They are planning for BRC certification to increase our global foot-print.

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Far Eastern Impex Pvt Ltd Far Eastern Impex Pvt Ltd was first established as a trading concern in 1959 by Mr. Badar G. Poonawala who dealt with the sale of commodities in various consumer markets of South Asia at that time. This vision was further carried forward by Mr. Noordin Poonawala who joined the company in 1963 and brought along distinct ideas whose application elevated the company to new heights.

Fast forward to 1991, the first sales division was setup by Mr. Abeezar Poonawala in Lahore, that later started working as an independent regional office focused on the Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region.

The firm’s technical capabilities grew exponentially when Mr. Aman Poonawala joined in 1995. His expertise in the food sciences injected a new life into the company and provided a technical edge against competitors. Through the joint proficiency of the technical experts and the business acumen of our CEO, they continue to expand into newer markets and in innovative product categories.

For over 6 decades, they have been successfully fulfilling the passion of providing excellence, backed by commitment, led by innovation and trusted by the market.

Far Eastern Impex takes us on a journey that is filled with rich flavors, vivid colors and a world of pleasing platter of tastes.

They cater to a diverse clientele both from the local and the international markets. Not only they firmly believe in progression but strive to strategize ourselves to be at par with any successful global conglomerate.

Matco Foods Limited Matco Foods Limited is a leading Food Processing & Export Company in South-Asia, established in 1964. They provide packed consumer foods products that offer convenience, and supply quality ingredients to the pharmaceutical and confectionery industries. Their products include basmati rice, rice glucose, rice protein, Himalayan pink salt, spices, dessert mixes and more.

As the largest basmati rice exporter from Pakistan, they have over 50 years of experience in the rice industry, and more

than 150 corporate customers, with our flagship brand “Falak” available in more than 65 countries worldwide. Their philosophy is to produce premium quality food products and ingredients that conform to international standards, to be innovative, customer oriented and create strong partnerships with suppliers, to continuously invest in our staff – the biggest assets of the company and to create long term value for all our stakeholders – customers, shareholders, staff, suppliers and the wider community.

Kamil Packaging n 1957, Kamil & Sons was established to fulfill the growing demands of paper and board in the newly born state of Pakistan. In the next few years, the company started to expand the business and production capacity by integrating skilled manpower and machinery. And it emerged as a trusted name in the industry having an extended clientele. After years of delivering quality paper and board products, the founders planned to extend the operation in more sectors. Hence, the vision of Kamil Packaging (Pvt) Ltd was ascertained.

Kamil Packaging is providing the best flexible packaging solutions for a decade.

They have hundreds of satisfied customers who trust in services. It has become possible because of their state-of-the-art packaging plant, strict quality control, and the legacy that they’re continuing. They’re housing 500+ skilled workers and using the most advanced machinery to produce the finest packaging products. They’re continuously researching and developing indigenous packaging solutions for clients.

Hub Salt A salt manufacturing company established in 1986, known for providing premium salt quality of different grades produced and processed in the most advance and latest method. They are labeled as the top most ranking exporter for its systematic and well-planned products that go through uncompromising quality control and assurance. The only Salt company in Pakistan that can offer every grade of salt and every sort of packaging according to customers’

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needs. Hub Salt is a certified company that has acquired different certifications for its unbent standards of providing consistent, high-quality products.

They take pride in having certifications of Kosher, Halal, ISO 14001:2015, ISO 9001:2015 + HACCP, BRC, GMP & GMP+B2 and an SA8000 & SMETA compliant.

Hub Salt produces 500 tonnes Himalayan Pink Salt, per day and is the only salt manufacturing company that runs the most modern plants. Washes the salt in cleaning process and removes the impurities through metal detectors.

Universal packaging Universal packaging is a leading packaging company that provides premium quality packaging solutions for consumers globally. With an assurance to great value and remarkable quality, They cater to a diverse range of industries.

Their packaging solutions helps extend shelf life & ensures that the product does not lose its freshness. Being in this unwearied packaging industry for over a decade, their success, wealth of experience, and remarkable industry-wide performance Is a reflection of the corporate strategy, operational excellence, focus & commitment to customer satisfaction.

They are proud to say that they have added recognizable value to this industry over the last decade, by not only being innovative, but by acquiring the latest technologies that enables them to introduce new & creative packaging solutions which often exceeds the customer’s expectations.

Toyo Packaging Toyo Packaging was established in 1989 and has emerged as one of the leading flexible packaging companies in Pakistan. They deal in conversion of flexible packaging material and they specialize in gravure printing, bag making, anti-counterfeiting holographic film, PVC Twist film, PVC Rigid Sheet and triplex laminates.

Toyo Packaging serves clients from diverse backgrounds and industries including multinational FMCG’s, tea, confectionary, cakes, snacks, ice creams, textiles,

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pharmaceuticals and automotive. With our twenty-five years of experience in the industry, they not only serve well-established companies but also support new setups and assist them with know-how of the packaging field. They associate themselves as strategic partners of their clients by aiming to grow the business by strongly integrating with customers. Toyo Packaging is a strategic partner who they can trust to deliver and make our job easier by providing unique packaging solutions.

They help us in reducing your packaging worries and allow you to maximize our focus on our core business.

Toyo Packaging produces a wide range of custom designed laminate structures for the primary packaging of products in solid, powder or liquid form in consumer packaging as well as bulk packaging. Their customization optimizes the design to achieve product protection and brand image promotion whilst keeping in consideration the clients’ budget. Our R&D team is devoted to provide new packaging solutions that meet the latest packaging trends and customer requirements.

With decades of solid experience, they’ve built up a team of experts and state of the art equipment supported by a strong MIS system that enables Toyo Packaging to convert different types of substrates, including BOPET, MetallizedBOPET, Pearlized BOPP, Matt BOPP, BOPP, Metallized-BOPP, CPP, Metallized-CPP, BOPA (Nylon), ALU FOIL, CO-EX PE, into duplex and triplex laminates.

Quality Flavors Pvt Ltd Quality Flavors Pvt Ltd. always goes one step further to make sure they can.

Their fragrances & Perfume Oils are all about the very best of nature, their own local processing facilities, the most innovative technologies and worldwide knowledge of regional preferences and the latest trends. Because Quality Flavors does so much more than just create fragrances & Perfume Oils, their development experts always know every fragrance that will make our product truly indulgent.

Quality Flavors unlocks all type of Fragrances & Perfume Oils for us.

Consumers are constantly on the lookout

for a new fragrance. As they are the worldwide best fragrance manufacturer, so they are always driving the development of fragrance technologies forward. For us, that means an ever greater variety of unique fragrance and totally new opportunities for our success on the market.

Standard Manufacturing Company (Pvt.) Ltd. SMC – leading Pakistani manufacturer of flavours & fragrances, committed to developing high-quality flavours & fragrances with more than 100 years of experience in the industry. Tracing its roots to Pre-Partition India, SMC has been combining the experience passed down from one generation to another with modern technologies to deliver the best sensorial experience.

They are a hundred years full of tasteful experience in flavours and fragrances, creating endless possibilities through their exhaustive innovation and vast expertise.

Their commitment to great taste is matched by the diverse skill set of versatile team that brings a unique understanding of the customer’s needs. Every time and every step of the way, they help us bring our dream to life.

Wiztec Food Solutions Wiztec Food Solutions is part of the Almoiz Industries Ltd having a Journey over 50 years. They are the most technologically advanced and innovative group in Pakistan. Wiztec Food Solutions is a popular name in agro-based industries that deal with the manufacturing and exporting dehydrated ingredients.

The company has a 4-acre state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located at Dera Ismail Khan in a pollution-free and natural atmosphere. The Project is integrated with 22000+ acres of land. They deal with highquality dehydrating products and ensure good manufacturing practices at our plant.

They are here to solve the needs of: Their farmers by giving them opportunities to explore the best potential of their fields.

Their customers by providing them high quality, safe and stable ingredients for their recipes. 61