Abstract: An apparatus for discharging a flowable material from a container having a discharge duct comprises support means for supporting the container, preferably in the form of a conical hopper having a central aperture, a clamping enclosure extending downwardly from the hopper, a discharge duct having its mouth located inside the enclosure and facing upwardly towards the aperture in the hopper, and an annular clamping ring inside the enclosure, the ring being movable so as to clamp the spout of the container against the mouth of the discharge duct. Preferably, the enclosure is substantially sealed, with reclosable access openings provided in a front wall of the enclosure through which the spout of the container can be manually handled. The enclosure is also provided with vacuum means to create a negative pressure in the enclosure and therefore prevent release of the contents of the container into the atmosphere.