Preforms

The history

Valgroup's entry into the rigid packaging segment occurred in 1994 with the creation of Lorenpet, in Lorena (SP), the company's first operation dedicated to PET packaging.

At that moment, Valgroup identified a great opportunity. PET emerged as a lightweight, durable packaging alternative with excellent visual appeal and great growth potential, bringing new possibilities to different segments.

INVESTMENT
IN TECHNOLOGY

Like any new technology, however, the early years were marked by significant challenges. One of them was defining the production model. In a market still under development, with different technologies available and without a clearly consolidated solution, Valgroup began its production using a single-stage system, in which the preform and the bottle were produced on the same equipment.

The availability of raw materials also presented an obstacle. PET resin was still scarce both in Brazil and in the international market, making it necessary to import the material and bringing constant supply challenges.

At the same time, it was necessary to develop the market itself. Packaging made from other materials was already well-established, and one of the biggest challenges was demonstrating the advantages of the new solution to customers.

Gradually, PET began to gain ground, especially in the water and soft drink segments. The growth in demand also brought the need to evolve the production model.

Expansion
Geographic

Starting in 1997, Valgroup adopted a two-stage system, separating the production of preforms from the bottle blowing process. This made it possible to carry out the blowing within the clients' own facilities, providing significant gains in logistical efficiency and competitiveness.

This move paved the way for a consistent cycle of expansion. The company broadened its presence, keeping pace with market growth and continuously seeking closer relationships with customers and greater operational efficiency.

The company expanded to Uruguay with LEB and gained new operations in Brazil. Over the years, its industrial presence continued to be adjusted according to market needs, with preform operations subsequently concentrating in Rio de Janeiro and the Northeast, with the Recife unit.

Operations
distributed

In 2000, the company decided to invest in PET recycling, creating its first unit dedicated to the process in Rio de Janeiro. The initiative represented an important shift in how the business was viewed: in addition to producing packaging, Valgroup began to look at the entire life cycle of the material.

This vision would gain even more relevance in the following years. After a long development process, in 2008 Valgroup obtained approval for the use of recycled PET in food contact applications, becoming a pioneer in Brazil and opening new possibilities for the incorporation of rPET into packaging.

With the evolution of the market, the customers themselves also transformed their operations. While initially it was common to buy ready-made bottles, gradually large customers began to vertically integrate the blow molding process within their factories and, consequently, to acquire the preforms.

LOOKING at
THE FUTURE

The company's trajectory has been built on its ability to adapt to industry transformations, anticipate opportunities, and continuously evolve its production and service methods.

From the first operation in Lorena to the integration of preforms and recycled PET, this story reflects a characteristic that has accompanied Valgroup from the beginning: the willingness to believe in new possibilities and transform them into businesses capable of generating value.

A journey built on passion for what we do, for the people who have been part of this evolution, and for the constant pursuit of understanding our clients' needs and evolving alongside them.