YPS: 45,000 different SKUs proves no problem for new automated bagging line

When a footwear manufacturer, producing goods for a wide range of household names, doubled their business in just 4 years, they had to find smart ways to keep up with demand. The addition of a new automated bagging system from YPS has solved their packing issues, with YPS’ award-winning service and support making the change as smooth as possible for them.

To date, they report that they haven’t experienced a single customer issue with a split or open bag since the change and are considering several more machines as their business continues to experience rapid growth.

The footwear company had already invested in automation within their warehouse and found that the packing of goods was then not keeping up with the rest of the operation. The footwear specialists calculated that, to cover their new level of demand with manual packing stations, they would need to run 16 packing benches, operating 7am – 10pm, 7 days of the week.

The business was reluctant to invest in more costly conveyors and didn’t wish to move or expand their premises, so automating the bagging process looked to be the only way forward and they began their search for the right solution.

A key challenge in finding the right bagging equipment was the business’s complexity as it produces some 45,000 SKUs of all different shapes and sizes.

When investigating possible solutions, the company discovered only two machines on the market that could fit the bill. They selected a Flexo 700 Ecom supplied by Yorkshire Packaging Systems (YPS).

“Our initial attraction to this solution was the large range of sizes that the Flexo 700 Ecom could handle,” their Warehouse Continuous Improvement Manager explained. “However, it was the friendly approach and the expertise of the YPS team that won us over.

“We asked lots of silly questions but YPS always took the time to give us answers that made a lot of sense. YPS’ experience was absolutely fantastic.”

YPS delivered the Flexo 700 Ecom, with a full installation and training package, plus an included service contract. Direct contact with a nominated YPS engineer helped them to understand the equipment and quickly get answers to their questions. YPS are also supplying the packaging material to complement the new equipment.

“We were a bit in the dark about what materials we’d need so we discussed this with the YPS team and they were able to come up with a suitable film as well,” the footwear specialists’ Improvement Manager commented.

“It’s also great that YPS stock the material so I can call and get next day delivery whenever I need to. YPS having back up supplies is key for us. Overall, YPS have been so easy to deal with and have been there every step of the way to support us on this journey.”