Specialist carton manufacturer, Kennedy Smith Press Ltd., has invested in not one, but two die-cutters from Bobst in a side-by-side installation to increase capacity and drive efficiency at its Scotland site. Founded in 1997 to provide for the packaging and printing requirements of Bioforce, the European herbal remedies producer, Kennedy Smith now supplies many well-known high street retailers from its purpose-built factory and is one of the fastest growing food carton manufacturers in the UK.
The Novacut 106 E die-cutter offers high precision cutting and minimises the need for manual intervention, driving efficiency along the processing line and ensuring consistent quality to optimise the return on investment.
This latest investment means Kennedy Smith are now a full Bobst house, having first invested four years ago with the Expertfold and Visionfold gluers, now used exclusively throughout their Irvine, North Ayreshire site. The company serves the packaging and printing requirements of various industries including pharmaceuticals and food. It is the largest independent carton manufacturer in Scotland.
Michiel Molenaar, Director at Kennedy Smith, said, “This dual Novacut installation will allow us to push the boundaries of what is possible for our customers. Our net output has increased significantly, while maintaining the overall quality of our products. Brands and retailers require packaging that engages and responds to consumer demands, often at short notice, so there is a tremendous need for speed.
“The innovative side-by-side installation provides us with a solution that allows our capacity, and therefore production speed, to increase within the footprint of the previous single machine. As the two die-cutters share a platform, the layout also helps to foster a culture of teamwork amongst our operators, as they can work closely together and support each other. We have a fantastic relationship with Bobst and their willingness to deal with any issue that may arise and find the right solution for us makes any issue surmountable.”
Lee Alton, Area Sales Manager, Business Unit Sheet Fed, Bobst UK & Ireland Ltd, said, “This is a really exciting step for both Bobst and Kennedy Smith, as the distinctive side-by-side installation is believed to be the first of its kind in the UK. We work closely with our customers to ensure they have the right machines for their business and see a great return on their investment. We are pleased that this novel installation is already having a positive impact.”
