Sonoco Launches State-of-the-Art Performance Hub in Hyderabad, Strengthening Global IT Capabilities

Hyderabad/Chennai, February 17, 2025: Sonoco Products Company (Sonoco), a global leader in sustainable packaging solutions, has announced the launch of its cutting-edge Performance Hub in Hyderabad, India. This multi-million-dollar facility is a key milestone in Sonoco's commitment to innovation and digital transformation, aimed at enhancing its technology leadership and creating meaningful opportunities for India’s vibrant talent pool.

The cutting-edge facility, with an investment of up to $10 million in the first phase of this strategic initiative, positions Hyderabad at the heart of Sonoco’s global strategy, leveraging the city’s growing technology ecosystem to drive innovation in packaging solutions worldwide.

The Performance Hub is equipped with modern training environments, collaborative spaces, and advanced IT infrastructure. It focuses on utilizing data analytics, automation, and emerging technologies to drive breakthroughs in packaging design and manufacturing. Additionally, the facility is designed to nurture the next generation of talent, reflecting Sonoco’s belief that people build businesses by doing the right thing.

Sonoco aims to onboard around 300 technologists over the next 12-18 months and grow to 500 over the next three years. In alignment with the company’s growth aspirations, the hub will provide local talent with opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge global initiatives, bridging India’s technology expertise with Sonoco’s worldwide operations.

Howard Coker, President and CEO, Sonoco, stated, “The Hyderabad Performance Hub is a major leap forward in our digital transformation. By investing in innovation, we not only enhance our ability to deliver more efficient and sustainable packaging solutions but also provide local talent with unparalleled opportunities to lead advancements in technology and manufacturing.”

Speaking on the occasion, Rajeev Ankireddypalli, Vice President, Chief Information Officer, Sonoco, said, “Hyderabad, with its dynamic technology ecosystem, offers the perfect environment for our new hub. This facility will provide a platform for local professionals to engage in transformative projects and directly contribute to global initiatives, advancing Sonoco’s technology capabilities and sustainability goals.”

Sonoco has appointed Arvind Chittora as the Managing Director of the hub. With over 23 years at Sonoco, where he has led various businesses in India, Arvind brings a wealth of experience to this new role. He said, "I am truly excited about the opportunity to build the workforce of the future for Sonoco in Hyderabad and accelerate our digital and technology roadmap. This marks a significant step in strengthening our global capabilities, fostering innovation, and driving business impact. Hyderabad’s deep talent pool and dynamic ecosystem provide the perfect foundation for this journey, and I look forward to shaping a high-performing team that will contribute to Sonoco’s continued success."