A thermoform packaging machine comprising a forming station for thermoforming troughs in a bottom film web adapted to be conveyed in the thermoform packaging machine in a conveying direction, as well as a closing station for closing the troughs with a cover film. The machine further comprises a machine frame that includes a plurality of interconnected vertical members, longitudinal members, cross members, and machine feet. At least one substantially U-shaped or O-shaped portal is rigidly integrated in the machine frame, the portal comprising two columns and a crossbar extending between the two columns and above a conveying plane of the bottom film web transversely to the conveying direction, wherein the portal has a 2-axis robot mounted thereon.