tna inserter targets promotional packaging for confectionery and bakery

06-Dec-2016 - Last updated on 06-Dec-2016 at 09:26 GMT

The tna integrated labeler and inserter can provide value-added packaging for confectionery as well as snacks. Pict: tna

tna has launched a VFFS (vertical form fill seal) system with integrated labeler and inserter for snack manufacturers who want to insert sachets of seasonings or dips into their bags and confectionery producers who want to add promotional inserts like toys or collectibles.

The inserter and labeler from tna’s Unique Solutions brand is mounted onto its robag machine and can deliver speeds of over 450 labels and 500 inserts per minute.

Toys & liquid-filled sachets

tna robag with integrated labeller and inserter

It can apply promotional labels or insert two-dimensional items, such as coupons, and three-dimensional items, like toys or dry or liquid-filled sachets, into primary packaging.

Mark Ulan, group product manager, inserters and labelers, tna, said packaging today needs to do so much more than just protect the contents inside. Not only does it have to stand out on the shelf, but encourage consumer interaction and engagement to maintain brand loyalty well beyond the point of purchase.

“On-pack and in-pack promotions are a cost-effective way for manufacturers to maximize sales and grow market share,” he said.

“Whether it’s a voucher that offers a discount on the next purchase or a new flavor sample in a bag of sweets, value-added premiums like inserts and labels facilitate direct interaction, deepen consumer engagement, encourage repeat purchase and provide numerous up-sell and cross-sell opportunities.

“For example, the inclusion of a small pouch of salad dressing, croutons and grated cheese, can turn a bag of precut lettuce into a ready-to-eat meal. While an additional sachet of spicy seasoning in a bag of chips provides a quick flavor boost for the more adventurous consumer, offering the ultimate in convenience and flexibility.”

Pack Expo, Chicago

Ulan said the technology was launched at Pack Expo 2016, in Chicago, US (November 6-9), and has just started promoting the device to customers.

“For food manufacturers, the integration of this type of equipment into a VFFS system means they can buy a complete turnkey packaging system that comes with fully integrated scale, metal detector, labeler, inserter and any other ancillary equipment like date coders, film splicing technology etc,” he added.

“There are multiple benefits to this level of integration. Firstly, it means all the systems can be operated from a single controls screen to provide maximum ease of operation. Secondly, manufacturers can be sure that each component of the system will operate in complete harmony with each other, ensuring the system operates at its maximum potential.”

tna acquired Unique Solutions, which manufactures inserting and labeling technology, in November last year.

“Thanks to our acquisition of Unique Solutions, we can offer our customers a range of tools to distinguish their products in the market,” added Michael Green, group general manager, tna.

“Whether they want to include promotional items, such as coupons, game pieces or small collectibles into their packaging, or insert small sachets of complimentary sauces or extra seasoning to provide an extra flavor boost, the possibilities to add extra value to your product are endless.”