The BOBST NOVACUT 106 ER in-line blank separating die-cutter offers fully automated, inline blanking separation to streamline carton processing and removes the need to manually strip waste from die-cut work
Food-to-go carton packaging manufacturer Amipak chooses BOBST NOVACUT 106 ER die-cutter. (Credit: BOBST)
Foodservice and takeaway packaging specialist, Amipak, has made its first BOBST machine purchase as part of a major expansion and investment programme.
The London-based company is scheduled to take delivery of a new NOVACUT 106 ER in January 2022 as it seeks to ensure it can meet current demand for its packaging and future-proof operations and capacity at its Croydon site. The footprint of the plant will double in size and machinery and assets will be upgraded or replaced as part of Amipak’s growth strategy.
Daniel Schwitzer, Director of Communications and Sustainability at Amipak, said: “These moves represent the latest phase in an ongoing multi-million-pound investment in technology and modernisation of Amipak’s production facilities. With the additional capacity, we look forward to introducing new packaging solutions for the foodservice market and enabling customers to benefit from shorter lead times and faster turnaround times.”
The BOBST NOVACUT 106 ER in-line blank separating die-cutter offers fully automated, inline blanking separation to streamline carton processing and removes the need to manually strip waste from die-cut work. Operating at speeds of up to 8,000 sheets per hour, the machine can deliver perfect in-line stripping of delicate and light materials and its range of locking and tooling adjustment features ensure accuracy and precision, while supporting fast job changeovers. Importantly, the die-cutter enhances downstream processes as its inline separation capabilities allow piles of blanks to be delivered straight to the next stage of production and automatically blanked cartons run more productively on equipment, such a folder-gluers.
Operating out of Croydon and Willesden, Amipak is a third-generation family business that specialises in manufacturing food-grade packaging with strong sustainable credentials.
“The new die-cutter will enable us to respond to the rapidly growing and ever-changing demands of the food-to-go sector. Our capacity, reliability and flexibility will all increase, while customer lead times and waste within the business are reduced. It is an exciting time for the business and we are looking forward to seeing the NOVACUT in action here in Croydon.”
Amipak conducted a thorough and extensive virtual testing process to ensure the machine was the right choice for the business.
Craig McGowan, Area Sales Manager for Bobst UK & Ireland, added: “Amipak is going through a real step change and the team was focused on introducing a die-cutter to the production line that was going to play a key part in improving processes and driving business growth.
“Due to the pandemic, all testing and trials were carried out virtually but that doesn’t mean it was any less extensive than if it had been done on site. We ran multiple jobs, with various make-readies, to demonstrate the machine’s suitability and capabilities. The Amipak team was thrilled with what they saw and impressed by the blanking feature. As a result, the team made the decision to invest in BOBST for the first time. We are delighted to be part of Amipak’s journey and hope it will be the beginning of a long and prosperous relationship for both of us.”
Amipak Commercial Director, Josh Friedler, said: “The NOVACUT investment is part of our long-term plan to grow the business and ensures we continue to operate according to our core values of being efficient and sustainable. We will also be able to continue exceeding our customers’ expectations in terms of service and flexibility.
Source: Company Press Release