Converting

The increased use of flexible packaging, such as pouches, is increasing the use of corrugated cases rather than trays in the supply chain, according to Cama Group managing director Daniele Bellante.

While bottles and tins can be shipped in corrugated trays, flexible pouches require more substantial protection, said Bellante. However, the PMMI's Secondary Packaging Market Research Study predicted a move away from corrugated secondary packaging towards shrink wrapping.

Bellante added that many in the industry were looking at ways to reduce the practice of placing items into both a retail-ready case and then a transit shipper. One option is to strengthen the retail-ready case so that an additional shipper is not required.

The comments were made at a press open day for European journalists at the equipment manufacturer's Italian headquarters last month. 

Cama Group, which is based north of Milan, makes a range of secondary packaging machines, including cartoning, sleeving, case packing and case erecting machines.

Bellante stressed that Cama Group was more than just an equipment manufacturer. "We are a solution provider. We can provide complete turnkey solutions," said Bellante.

Cama Group is aiming to raise the profile of its company and prove that Italian manufacturing can be synonymous with high quality equipment.

The Group is family owned and employs 130 staff.