SunOpta has put in place stand-up pouch packaging equipment at its Buena Park, California, frozen fruit unit, and Wahpeton, North Dakota, roasted snack facility.
Another facility of similar kind will also be set up at the company’s SunOpta fruit snack operations in Omak, Washington, expected to come on stream during the first half of 2016.
SunOpta, which deals with organic, non-genetically modified and healthy foods, has embarked on its drive to upgrade its frozen fruit, roasted snacks and fruit snack manufacturing operations.
SunOpta president and COO Rik Jacobs said: "Stand-up pouches are quickly becoming preferred by many consumers, with 90% of consumers influenced by the package and 45% of consumers placing packaging ahead of price in buying decisions.
"The enhanced technology and added capacity has led to new customers and expanding order volumes from existing customers.
"Our investment is in line with our core two-touch strategy and supports our growth plans in value added consumer products."
At present, SunOpta outsources pouch packaged volumes for fruit snacks. Combined with this, the commencement of newly contracted business early next year is expected to help the firm package such volume internally.
Recently, SunOpta has boosted its consumer product goods lineup with the purchase of Sunrise Growers and Niagara Natural.