Markem-Imaje, a renowned global provider of end-to-end supply chain solutions and industrial marking and coding systems, is partnering with Mezzacorona Group, a significant player in the wine making sector, to ensure compliance with the recent EU Wine Regulation and enhance product traceability.
Founded in the Rotaliana plain of north-eastern Italy in 1904, Mezzacorona has united Trentino winemakers, delivering a diverse selection of high-quality wines and sparkling options that honor and innovate an ancient local tradition. Today, the company produces nearly 50 million bottles annually for a worldwide market, necessitating the management of extensive data related to logistics and regulatory compliance.
Since the year 2000, the collaboration with Markem-Imaje has facilitated the automated management of coding processes, such as the late-stage customization of wine cases, significantly reducing the number of required SKUs. Moreover, Markem-Imaje’s solutions have aided Mezzacorona in minimizing its environmental impact. The Markem-Imaje coders demand minimal maintenance and cleaning. Notably, the 5800 case printer uses Touch Dry® inks that are non-hazardous and free of VOCs, eliminating the need for additional protection or solvents during maintenance, which ultimately generates less waste.
“The choice of the Markem-Imaje laser coding system is in the same vein as neither inks nor solvents are used, thus reducing environmental impact while maintaining high coding quality,” states Nicola Berghem, Head of Maintenance at Gruppo Mezzacorona.
The partnership with Markem-Imaje has not only enabled Mezzacorona to enhance throughput but also to improve coding quality. Transitioning to automated, real-time coding has allowed the management of complex technical and regulatory requirements, including adherence to the EU Wine Regulation. Starting December 2023, all EU wine producers and suppliers are required to provide the most accurate and current ingredient and nutritional information possible, addressing the challenges posed by the wine’s ever-changing composition.
In addition to capturing up-to-date ingredient and nutritional information, traceability data is now accessible to both retailers and consumers through a QR code on each label, which verifies the authenticity of the product for both parties.
The seamless integration of Markem-Imaje CoLOS® software with Mezzacorona’s MES system allows for quality control at every production stage. Mezzacorona has ensured precise label application on pallets through automation by incorporating a robot with CoLOS® and the 2200 print and apply labelers.
Furthermore, Markem-Imaje SmartLase® C350 CO2 lasers mark essential details, such as the reap date, on every bottle, while the 5800 case printer—featuring its unique wax-based Touch Dry® ink—facilitates customized coding for Mezzacorona’s diverse lines and brands. This technological suite is backed by a support contract that guarantees optimal efficiency and timely software updates.
“For all these reasons, major companies such as Mezzacorona Group have entrusted us with the responsibility of managing strategic parts of their production, such as writing the right data on the right message for the right packaging. We are happy to work with the Mezzacorona Group and feel proud of the responsibility entrusted to us,” remarks Tommaso Cognolato, Account Manager at Markem-Imaje.
Explore the case study video showcasing the partnership between Mezzacorona and Markem-Imaje.
For more information, visit Markem-Imaje.com.
