Bosch relocates packaging unit

Bosch Packaging Division, the packaging machinery division of the Euro 43.7 billion Bosch Group, today opened its new manufacturing facility in Verna Industrial Estate, Goa.

The new facility, spread over 2,600 square metres, will produce and assemble packaging technology equipment for requirements such as candy wrapping, solid food and biscuit packaging as well as packing vials, ampoules and syringes.

With an initial investment of Rs 8 crore, the Goa facility will directly employ 80 persons and will have an initial installed capacity of 120 machines a year with plans to increase this it to 240 machines in three years.

"The Bosch brand is synonymous with quality, technology and innovation which is reflected in the tailor-made solutions that we offer our customers across the globe. Our machines are today a preferred choice for large businesses worldwide," said Friedbert Klefenz, Global Head, Bosch Packaging, Germany.

Bosch has already sold over 400 packaging machines and process equipment in India to leading names in the pharmaceutical, confectionery and food processing industries and exported an additional 75 machines primarily to the food industry.

Bosch's decision to relocate its packaging division facility from Bangalore to Goa was based on several factors, most important being the excellent opportunity Goa provided for the company to concentrate on its customer base in and around Goa particularly those in the pharmaceutical industry, said V K Viswanathan, Joint Managing Director, Motor Industries Co Ltd.

Globally, Bosch Packaging Division caters more to pharmaceutical companies and in India Goa is emerging as the new hub for pharmaceutical companies.

Further, the availability of skilled manpower, a good supply base, excellent infrastructure and logistics were other factors that influenced Bosch's decision.

"We have ambitious plans for our Packaging Division and this new facility strengthens our commitment to offering customers in India world class technology and equipment," he said.

The Packaging Division of Bosch has been in India since 1994. In 2006, the division entered into the confectionery segment.

A new focus for the Packaging Division is the pharmaceutical industry which will be served well by the plant's relocation to Goa.