Business News

Alcan Packaging Acquires Pharmaceutical Flexible Packaging Facility in India

Monday 06. October 2008 - Alcan Global Pharmaceutical Packaging - a division of Alcan Packaging, a business unit of Rio Tinto Alcan - has acquired the Chakan flexible packaging plant from Associated Capsules Private Limited in India.

“The acquisition of this facility advances our leadership position in pharmaceutical flexibles through growth in emerging markets,” said Ilene Gordon, president and chief executive officer, Alcan Packaging.

The Chakan operations both expand Alcan Packaging’s geographic footprint and strengthen the organisation’s strategic presence in the Indian pharmaceutical market, which is currently ranked 14th in the world in terms of scale and expected to triple over the next decade.

“Chakan is a well equipped plant with dynamic people and an asset base that will definitely complement our current product portfolio,” said Michael Schmitt, president of Alcan Global Pharmaceutical Packaging division. “The expertise with local pharmaceutical companies will be an excellent addition to our organisation, increasing our ability to service global and regional customers while maintaining the high quality standards they have come to expect from us.”

With annual sales of US$3.6 million, the Chakan facility is a distinguished supplier to the Indian pharmaceutical market, with solid manufacturing capabilities and management practices. Located 30 km north of Pune, the 2,600 m(2) plant employs approximately 100 people. Its integration into the Alcan Packaging group is expected to be completed early in 2009.