SIG: Best Innovation IPO Switzerland 2018

The packaging powerhouse of Switzerland — SIG — has evolved over its 165-year history from a small local company to a global player. The SIG story began in 1853 in the railway carriage construction industry and the company’s engineering expertise subsequently enabled it to become a valued equipment supplier to the Swiss Army and law enforcement agencies. However, by the year 2000 both these businesses had been sold in order to focus on packaging technology, an area where SIG has a long history dating back more than 100 years. SIG has a global team, with 5000+ employees serving customers in more than 60 countries. SIG is a leader in aseptic carton packaging, providing cartons for over 10,000 food and beverage products in a safe, sustainable and affordable way. The company also manufactures high-tech filling machines for its customers and currently has an installed base of more than 1,100 machines, which are maintained by a field force of 550+ engineers. SIG offers a wide range of carton formats, including two world firsts: a resealable spout and a screw cap (CombiTop and CombiTwist). Responsibility towards people and the environment are an integral part of the business strategy and SIG’s innovative Signature Pack is the first aseptic pack 100% linked to plant-based renewable materials. The company has made significant progress towards achieving its 2020 goal of using 100% renewable energy at its production plants and already uses 100% renewable electricity. SIG’s geographic diversification and product innovation have contributed to its long-term sustainable growth. The recent IPO cut its debt from €2.5bn to €1.5bn. The CFI.co judging panel presents SIG with the award for Best Innovation IPO (Switzerland) 2018.