Dubai-based packaging machinery and systems specialist Euro Pack Trading is planning an expansion to include a Dh2 million ($540,550) assembly and manufacturing plant in Al Quoz.

The company, which currently stocks and distributes European and American machinery and systems, is planning to manufacture and assemble under licence in Dubai.

"The Middle East packaging market is growing and will continue to do so for a long time," said Francis Mendonsa, director, Euro Pack Trading. "Indeed packaging is the only industry, apart from information technology, to grow rapidly over recent years largely due to increasing consumer demands and the need to discard existing systems for those producing a more eco-friendly end product," he says.

Euro Pack will be showing off its products at the PackTech/PrinTech/PlasTech international packaging, printing and plastics technology trade show being held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from September 17 to 20. "We intend to make a big splash at the show which, apart from the complete unveiling of our expansion plans, will also see the launch of special packaging products which will increase the shelf-life of locally produced food and vegetables," adds Mendonsa. "We are also participating to seek new Middle Eastern partners."

The packaging show has exhibitors from 16 countries. Participation will include industry pavilions from Taiwan, Iran, Italy, France and Belgium.