Automated bagging boost for footwear firm

The addition of an automated bagging system from YPS has solved packing issues. The footwear firm has also invested in service and support from YPS.

To date, the firm reports no customer issues with a split or open bag since the change. The footwear firm is considering several more machines as their business continues to experience rapid growth.

The footwear company had already invested in automation within the 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. It 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,” the 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 is 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.”

For more information, vist www.yps.co.uk