Barry-Wehmiller acquired Arcil SA, Paris; Krones purchased 100% of the stock of Germany's HST Machinenbau GmbH; and Pro Mach completed its acquisition of the French capping machinery manufacturer Ets. Andre Zalkin & Cie.
 

 Sidel launches its new low-output Combi Predis/Capdis FMa, an integrated aseptic blow-fill-cap solution. The new aseptic solution is based on the dry-preform and cap decontamination technology already successfully implemented by many beverage manufacturers. 

 Oystar USA offers MultiFormat, a chainless transport system for its Hamba range of cup, tub and bottle filling lines. The system allows for automated format changeover that, through time reduction in format changes, can result in production increases of up to 25%. 

 Schneider Packaging Equipment Co. introduced the next generation Bottle Packer Row case packer to its Robox family of products at Pack Expo in September. 

 Ross SysCon’s line includes the Single Axis Control System in a NEMA-4X stainless steel enclosure for soft start and variable speed control of a Ross Ribbon Blender. 

 Scholle Packaging introduced its new SureFill aseptic filler for bag-in-box at Pack Expo in September. 

 FlexLink’s new X65 platform high-speed conveyor is designed for low friction, low power consumption and a long service life. 

 MAER SA launched its NTN trimmer-combiner mono-block system for reliable trimming, handling and transporting high productions of tandem neck-to-neck manufactured bottles (like drinkable yogurt bottles). 

Dairy manufacturers must work closely with the suppliers of processing and packaging technologies to find and implement operations and production lines changes that will foster growth. In fact, 80% of study participants confirmed they are evaluating their needs for new equipment, and 91% cited increasing production volume and operational efficiency as key goals. 

 Bradman Lake exhibited its new carton forming machine at Pack Expo in Las Vegas in September.