BARCODING, LABELLING & PACKAGING FEATURE Flexibility to match the market Table top packing machines are
By Andy Pretious, sales and marketing manager at Automated Packaging Systems
portable, and one step up from hand bagging, bringing speed and consistency to hand load applications. Solutions such as the Autobag PS125 from Automated Packaging Systems can operate at speeds of up to 25 bags per minute and is a straightforward table top design that has a plug-and-play configuration. This level of solution is suitable for low to mid- volume packaging operations. Another element for consideration is
Left: Automated Packaging Systems’ AB 180 OneStep Autobag machine
Below: The PS 125 OneStep Autobag machine
T
he advantage of small and medium enterprises over larger companies is
frequently down to the ability to be more flexible, agile and responsive. Business growth depends on being able to diversify and adapt the offer to meet market demand, often in a relatively short space of time. It is important for SMEs to manage cost
and investment in equipment; while value for money may be front of mind, there are a number of other factors that need to be taken into account when specifying packaging equipment. This applies not just in the short term, to ensure a solution is not only fit for purpose immediately, but scalable so it works hard for the business in the future.
EVALUATING THE MARKET By putting in the legwork to anticipate future needs, you can examine not only what equipment will deliver in terms of output and service to existing clients, but also what new market opportunities it will open up. To gather insight into the long-term
possibilities, market predictions, policy decisions and industry reports can all provide valuable information as to how marketplace drivers are likely to impact on current company capabilities as well as stimulating ideas on how to ensure that the business can stay ahead of the curve and maximise any fresh opportunities that present themselves. For example, in February this year, the
Government released a white paper stating the need to build 250,000 additional homes each year, which is set
to bolster, if not boost, the growth in the construction market. This undoubtedly represents an opportunity for manufacturing and construction markets, but businesses must ensure that they are ready. These market insights can inform
business decisions and help plan for anticipated requirements for both growth with existing customers and new opportunities. For example, the number of bags needed per annum will not only impact on the method of bagging but potentially the number of machines required. Once calculated, and the method of
bagging whether manual, semi- automated or fully automated bagging is decided, this calculation can then be up- scaled to reflect planned future scenarios based on commercial growth objectives. This will ensure that systems can cope easily with sudden and planned fluctuations in demand.
PLAN FOR THE FUTURE Not having the right tools for the job required can have a significant impact. Organisations must specify based on the number of product lines they run, coupled with how often they change these lines, or whether they need these product lines to run concurrently.
printing and labelling. SMEs specifying a packaging solution need to consider whether there is any requirement to include labelling and printing in their offering to customers. As well as this, customers are looking to increase transparency throughout their supply chains with labelling playing a critical role in this process. Even if an immediate requirement has
not been identified, it is vital to review the potential future requirement should the business or industry grow substantially or develop its technology. For example, a packaging machine like the Autobag AB 180 OneStep can pack up to 30 bags per minute whilst incorporating printing of high-resolution text, graphics and barcodes. This solution is suitable for short production runs and build-on-demand operations. If printing is a key requirement,
companies must specify a machine with an integrated printer. The OneStep versions can print and index in a single- step, virtually eliminating bag waste, product queuing and the need for separate labelling equipment. This machine enables an SME to flex its bagging capabilities to include possible requests from customers who want a more complete solution. With the option to simply bag, or to bag, label and fully package its products, a business may be able to offer this as a unique selling point, helping to secure new business based on its packing capabilities on a client’s behalf. Businesses who prepare for surges in
their market and get their business model right have the chance to thrive; but must ensure that their stock management and ability to meet customer demand is guaranteed, whilst ensuring that they still deliver the service levels expected from an SME. Having a packaging solution that is
modular or can be up-scaled helps ensure the flexibility required.
Automated Packaging Systems
www.autobag.co.uk
/MATERIALSHANDLINGLOGISTICS MATERIALS HANDLING & LOGISTICS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017 S5
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