The folding and gluing of printed blanks plays a crucial role in the production cycle, and Thomson Print & Packaging had previously outsourced this process to a local partner. However, with the recent move to new premises that provided ample space for expanding in-house capabilities, the decision was made to invest in the NOVAFOLD 110 folder-gluer.
Based in the west of Edinburgh, this family-owned packaging manufacturer specializes in bespoke print and packaging solutions, primarily catering to Scotland’s whisky industry with printed and folded cartons and labels. The company also manages non-contact food and drink packaging applications. For whisky products, this typically involves short runs of 5,000 to 10,000 cartons, given their focus on food and drink sustainable packaging. Thomson Print & Packaging already offered services such as printing, hot foil stamping, and some die-cutting.
Production Director Michael Thomson elaborates, “In our previous facility, we faced space constraints that hindered our ability to invest in new carton finishing equipment. We recognized the necessity to enhance our folding carton production capabilities, which included bringing folding and gluing processes in-house to maintain complete control over the quality of our packaging.”
The initiative has led Thomson Print & Packaging to internalize all aspects of folding carton converting. With no prior experience in folding and gluing, the company sought a supplier that could assist in realizing its ambitious plans.
The BOBST NOVAFOLD 110 folder-gluer, known for its reliability, precision, and versatility, consistently produces exceptional end-product quality. It accommodates a wide array of box styles using various materials, reaching speeds of up to 300 metres per minute. Its user-friendly design facilitates quick setups and seamless job changes.
“As we were newcomers to folding and gluing, we clearly communicated our service and support needs to potential partners,” Mr. Thomson continues. “BOBST has exceeded our expectations, helping us navigate the complexities of the process.”
“Our operators have found the machine extremely intuitive to operate, aided by on-site training and follow-up support. Whenever we had inquiries, BOBST was readily available to provide guidance, even on fundamental aspects. One of our initial questions was, ‘what glues do we use?’ They understood our business and the specific nature of our work, enabling them to provide precise advice.”
Lee Alton, BOBST UK’s Area Sales Manager for Northern England and Scotland, expressed his satisfaction in assisting Thomson Print & Packaging in elevating its production capabilities. “When a converter aims to integrate entirely new functionalities into their output, it becomes our role as the key supplier to support them throughout the journey. We not only supplied the ideal machine for their needs but also ensured they maximize their investment. In the competitive landscape of print and packaging, ROI is paramount, and delivering the service and support that Thomson Print & Packaging required has proven as rewarding as the installation of the machine itself.”
The NOVAFOLD 110 installed at Thomson Print & Packaging is fitted with a blank aligner and a 4- & 6-corner module — critical features for their operational requirements. The blank aligner enhances accuracy during the folding process, minimizing production waste, while the 4- & 6-corner module ensures more precise control of box folding, enabling quicker and simpler setups.
Michael Thomson adds, “These features were not only essential but indispensable for single-pass operation, fitting seamlessly into the space allocated on our factory floor. The BOBST NOVAFOLD 110 met our requirements perfectly.”
“By bringing folding converting fully in-house, we have significantly boosted customer satisfaction and are attracting new business that we were previously unable to secure. This investment has solidified our position in the market as a trusted supplier and has opened up exciting new opportunities.”
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