Schweppes Zimbabwe boosts efficiency with advanced PET line
Schweppes Zimbabwe Limited (SZL) has revolutionised its production capacity at its Harare plant with the installation of a non-returnable PET line from German supplier KHS. The state-of-the-art system includes an InnoPET BloFill stretch blow moulder/filler, an Innoket Neo labeler, and advanced packing and palletizing solutions. Designed for maximum efficiency, the new line can process up to 36,000 containers per hour and handle various packaging formats between 400 milliliters and two litres.
The new line has increased SZL’s production capacity by 300%, allowing the company to meet growing domestic and regional demand for beverages like Mazoe Orange Crush, Minute Maid, Bonaqua, and Schweppes water. “This upgrade gives us a competitive edge by enabling faster format changeovers and reducing operator intervention, which improves efficiency,” said Ropafadzo Gwanetsa, Corporate Affairs Executive at SZL.
In addition to boosting productivity, the KHS technology significantly enhances sustainability. It has reduced SZL’s energy consumption by 30%, water and CO2 use, and primary packaging materials by up to 15%. These advancements align with SZL’s sustainability strategy and commitment to cutting greenhouse gas emissions.
The project faced space constraints, requiring the system to be installed in a custom L-shape. Despite this challenge, the first products rolled off the line within six weeks, thanks to seamless collaboration between KHS and SZL teams.
SZL also benefits from tailored palletizing solutions, advanced training, and KHS’ remote diagnostic service for ongoing support. “We’re now producing better-quality beverages at lower costs with a smaller carbon footprint,” said KHS Sales Manager Bradley Naicker.

Stretch blow molder and filler in one: the InnoPET BloFill block from KHS allows up to 36,000 containers to be manufactured and filled per hour.