Swiss packaging specialist SIG Combibloc (Neuhausen; www.sig.biz) has recently partnered with UK contract packing solutions specialist Framptons (Somerset; www.framptons.com) to install a new generation of its “combidome” filling machine, the first of its kind in the UK.

Combidome, a SIG container made of fully recyclable paperboard with an inner and outer polymer liquid barrier, is said to offer all the protective, environmental and logistical benefits of an aseptic carton pack and the light weight, shape, and easy-to-handle features of a bottle. For more sustainability, the Swiss company said customers can combine combidome with its “Signature” packaging material, which in part uses plant-based polymers for the laminate.

The project with Framptons makes it the first SIG customer in Europe to fill plant-based beverages in combidome. The filling machine will allow customers to enjoy the flexibility of combidome in three different filling volumes.

Framptons said it would also support start-up Lilk to become one of the first in the UK to launch new beverages in the container.