Leading independent integrator of packaging lines, Autopack, has achieved a remarkable tenfold increase in turnover over the past five years, with ambitious plans aimed at sustained growth.
Forecasts indicate that turnover at the Hereford-based company will reach £12 million this year. Notably, Autopack is already £1.5 million ahead of its sales targets for the first quarter of 2025. Back in 2020, the company’s turnover stood at £1.2 million with a modest workforce of five. Currently, the team has expanded to 25 employees, positioning Autopack as the premier independent supplier of food and drink packaging and processing machinery, along with serving the chemical, cleaning, and personal care sectors.
Moreover, Autopack’s physical presence in Hereford has significantly increased over the past five years. This month, they will further expand their operations with the addition of a new unit, increasing their workspace to over 1680m².
“Our success is based on meeting the needs of our customers, whether they are blue chip or SMEs,” stated Autopack Managing Director Wayne Kedward. “The growth of our business over the last five years reflects that. Innovation comes through our collective experience and expertise, and while this strategy has been successful for our own business, our customers have also grown through automating their manufacturing process.”
To capitalize on this growth, Autopack is pursuing a strategy of organic development and acquisitions. The company has outlined a clear plan to acquire businesses, building on its recent mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity. In 2020, Autopack acquired Postpack, a specialist in Spanish flexible packaging equipment. This was succeeded by the addition of Gainsborough-based engineering firm Technosys in 2023.
“We are actively building a pipeline of acquisitions to maintain our momentum and deliver even more value to our customers,” added Wayne Kedward. “The integration of new businesses into Autopack enhances our knowledge base and expertise, while also enabling us to reach new markets.”
Furthermore, the 25-strong workforce is set to expand, fueled by Autopack’s dedication to training and apprenticeships. “Investing in apprentices and career development creates opportunities for personal and professional growth,” Wayne emphasized. “Autopack can share knowledge across generations of experts, fostering a diverse, inclusive, and supportive culture.”
Wayne concluded, “Our team is clear in its aims: to deliver exceptional processing and packaging line solutions through our independence, best-in-class manufacturing partners, and technical expertise. We are delighted with how the last five years have progressed and will move forward together with our growing customer base.”
