Breaking into the Value-Added Segment: A Success Story from a Mid-West Cannery

In the fiercely competitive world of retail supermarkets, standing out on the shelves is essential. For one large Mid-west cannery, this meant responding to a critical demand from their biggest client: packaging their canned tomato products in new high graphics print film 4-packs. Despite having no prior experience with this type of packaging, the cannery recognized the opportunity to break into the value-added segment of the market.

Enter Holland Packaging, a leader in tray packing and shrink machinery. Understanding the cannery’s challenge, Holland Packaging proposed a comprehensive and versatile solution from Autopack, designed to handle the project’s diverse needs. This innovative system featured a 3-in-1 capability, allowing for shrink-wrapping and tray-packing of 4 and 6-pack bundles in various can sizes—a perfect fit for the cannery’s requirements.

The Packaging Process

The process begins with the Autopack 72SIM print film bundler. This machine, utilizing a two-flight bar design, expertly groups the cans in the desired collated pattern and feeds the print film. The 4 and 6-packs are wrapped in film and enter the heat tunnel. The film shrinks tightly around the cans creating an attractive package with brilliant wording and graphics. Additionally, the system was designed with the capability to run five different cans diameters.

Next, the Autopack 80CZH tray packer takes over by automatically collating the primary 4 and 6 packs, extracting the tray blanks, and forming them into a U-shape. The machine then loads the complete collations ( usually 12 and 24 count trays) using an overhead pusher and seals the trays securely with hot melt glue—ensuring that each pack is ready for the next step in the process.

Finally, the trays are directed to the Autopack 70SIT print film tray shrink bundling machine. Here, the trays are wrapped in film and passed through a heat tunnel, which ensures a tight and professional finish. The trays are then discharged wide-side-leading, ready for distribution and ultimately, the retail shelves.

A Strategic Move for Market Expansion

By implementing this end-to-end solution from Holland Packaging and Autopack, the Cannery was able to meet their client’s specific needs and successfully venture into the value-added segment of the retail market. This strategic move not only satisfied their important client but also opened new opportunities for growth and differentiation in a competitive industry.

In today’s market, adaptability and innovation are key. With the right partners and technology, even the most challenging demands can be met—and exceeded. What can we do for you?