Divine Deli in Lancashire, was one of the first companies to install the Pack Leader ELF-50 for different sizes of jars after launching its own brand sprinkles for cakes, ice cream and cookies.
Desktop entry level machines
Orchard Valley Foods, a supplier of bakery mixes, confections and powder ingredients also bought ELF-50 because it can be moved around production areas and is adjustable for round bottles.
Malcolm Little, managing director, Advanced Dynamics, told FoodProductionDaily, Pack Leader’s label applications cater for a variety of container sizes, cartons and bottle shapes, whether they are glass or plastic.
“The Elf-20 and Elf-50 are desktop entry level machines which are compact and fully-automatic that can sit on a bench or table. Either model can be installed in-line for automatic or semi-automatic applications, which is more convenient than heavier, elaborate labeling machines,” he said.
“Automating repetitive processes can save time, money, boost output and alleviate work-related stresses such as RSI. Labeling jobs are being made easier by these machines, because it is easier to place a container onto the conveyor and it reduces physical work.
Hologram labels
“We are offering free audits by walking round a factory to see how we can help companies, similar to Divine Deli. Manufacturers know how to get their product out to market but they don’t always understand the technology behind their packaging machines because it is a niche industry and we can help them with that.”
Advanced Dynamics currently distributes Pack Leader products to the UK and Ireland but has seen increased interest from Europe and took an order from Spain recently to install one of its hologram label machines.
The company has also launched a Pot Dropper for de-stacking pots and tubs for filling soups, stews and sauces.
One of the first companies to install a Pot Dropper is Rod&Ben’s organic seasonal foods in Devon, for its soups.
“If pots are incorrectly placed or labels skewed, damaged or out of position, production is interrupted and delays occur in getting products to market, while if these faults do get through they can damage the integrity of the brand,” added Little.
“We installed the technology for de-stacking pots with soup manufacturer Rod&Ben’s in August developed in conjunction with the customer on a brand new launch.
“The machine ensures a fast, uninterrupted flow of containers that are always in the correct position, whether they are used for filling viscous or semi-viscous products, delivering significant production benefits for food to go and ready meal companies amongst others, while meeting stringent food preparation and labeling regulations.”