Packaging, Warehouse and Logistics Issue 205

PACKAGING
WAREHOUSE
& LOGISTICS
January 2026 | Issue 205
A trusted standard in loss
prevention and inventory
intelligence
Pages 4-5
Quartix Ltd
Page 7
Croxsons
Page 13
East Riding Sacks
Page 18

On the Cover
4-5
Contents
Issue 205
7
Checkpoint Systems
With roots stretching back to 1969, Checkpoint Systems has evolved from a
specialist in loss prevention and electronic article surveillance into a global leader
in radio-frequency identification (RFID), RF technology and connected solutions.
Editors Notes
Welcome to our January edition of Packaging Warehouse
& Logistics! In this issue, we showcase a curated selection
of features on innovative companies across diverse
industries, exploring the technologies and solutions
shaping the future of packaging, logistics, and automated
systems.
Featured as our Security & Loss Prevention Company of the Year, Checkpoint Systems
has evolved from a specialist in loss prevention and electronic article surveillance into a
global leader in RFID, RF technology, and connected solutions. In this issue, we highlight the
company’s achievements over the past year and take a closer look at its forward-looking
product development roadmap. Please see pages 4-5.
On pages 8-9, we celebrate Solar2Polar, specialists in advanced heating solutions and highperformance
biodiesel heating systems for commercial and industrial applications. This feature
explores the Veltron range of heaters, including Veltron infrared models and other fuel-driven
systems, all specifically engineered to operate on regular diesel or biodiesel – with no separate
flue required.
Show preview: Packaging Innovations & Empack 2026.
Show review: Fleet & Mobility Live 2025.
Gina Burton
Editor
gina@industrialprocessnews.co.uk
Quartix Ltd
Croxsons
13
16
Other topics include: Fleet & Logistics Management, Food & Drink Packaging, Warehouse.
Don’t forget to send us your latest Industrial news and updates and email us at:
fallonwaldron@pwamagazine.com.
Sovereign Labelling Machines
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T 0121 824 4742
accounts@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk
Editorial
Gina Burton, Editor
gina@industrialprocessnews.co.uk
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PWL is sponsored by – see them on page 7 3

Security & Loss Prevention Company of the Year
A trusted standard in loss
prevention and inventory
intelligence
In this issue of Packaging, Warehouse & Logistics,
we are pleased to feature Checkpoint Systems as our
Security & Loss Prevention Company of the Year
With roots stretching back to 1969, Checkpoint
Systems has evolved from a specialist in loss
prevention and electronic article surveillance into a
global leader in radio-frequency identification (RFID),
RF technology and connected solutions. Today,
the company plays a pivotal role in reshaping how
products are tracked, protected and managed from
source to shelf across packaging, warehousing and
logistics environments.
At the heart of Checkpoint’s impact is its ability to
combine hardware, software, labels, tags and cloudbased
platforms into fully integrated technology
ecosystems. These solutions are designed to meet
the complex demands of modern retailers, logistics
providers and distribution centres, where real-time
visibility, operational efficiency and loss mitigation
have become business-critical priorities. As
omnichannel fulfilment models expand and
supply chains grow more complex, the
need for reliable, data-driven inventory
intelligence has never been greater.
Checkpoint’s vertically integrated
operating model sets it apart
within the market. By designing,
developing and manufacturing
its solutions entirely in-house
across its lines of business, the
company maintains complete
oversight of every stage
of the product lifecycle.
This approach enables
rigorous quality control,
rapid innovation and consistent
performance – from research
and development through
to deployment and postsale
support – while giving
customers confidence that
their solutions are built for
long-term reliability and scalability.
To understand how the business
has performed over the past
year and where it is heading
next, we sat down with Jenny Parisi – Sales and
Marketing Director UK to discuss Checkpoint’s recent
momentum, strategic priorities and future plans.
Reflecting on the past 12 months, Jenny described
2025 as a particularly dynamic year for the business.
“2025 was a very busy year for us. From
strengthening relationships with existing customers
to building new ones, we’ve continued to drive our
business deeper into the logistics industry,” she
explained. “The potential RFID has for warehousing
is immense, and this will only continue
to grow in 2026.”
That momentum has been driven
in part by growing market demand
for RFID-enabled solutions
that go beyond traditional
inventory tracking. Over the
course of the year, Checkpoint
secured several significant
software projects while also
seeing a marked increase in
interest in RFID from both
new and existing customers.
Jenny noted that this reflects
a broader shift in how
organisations view RFID –
not just as an operational tool,
but as a strategic enabler.
“We’re seeing much greater
interest in how RFID can deliver
efficiency, visibility and loss
prevention simultaneously,”
she said. “Solutions such
as our SFERO RFID as EAS
antenna demonstrate how
businesses can combine product
protection with detailed inventory
insight, allowing customers who previously relied
on RF technology to evolve their approach without
compromising security.”
Beyond product development, Checkpoint has
also invested heavily in customer engagement and
internal capability. One notable initiative in 2025 was
the expansion of its Newbury showroom, designed
to provide customers with hands-on exposure to the
company’s full solution portfolio. The space serves
as a hub for live demonstrations, customer meetings
and comprehensive training, supporting both sales
and engineering teams while helping clients visualise
how different technologies can be deployed within
their own operations.
Industry engagement has also played an important
role in the company’s continued growth. During the
year, Checkpoint attended several major sector
events, including the Retail Technology Show, where it
showcased its RFID capabilities alongside its Apparel
Labelling Solutions team. The business also attended
Tomorrow’s Warehouse for the first time, an event Jenny
described as a valuable opportunity to engage directly
with logistics leaders and demonstrate the transformative
role RFID can play within distribution environments.
4
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Security & Loss Prevention Company of the Year
“Tomorrow’s Warehouse was an incredible
opportunity for us,” she said. “It allowed us to highlight
how RFID can simplify warehousing processes,
improve asset management and ultimately change
the way distribution centres operate. In 2026, we plan
to attend even more events like these and continue
expanding our reach across multiple industries.”
Checkpoint’s RFID solutions are designed to enable
item-level traceability throughout the supply chain,
helping businesses reduce stock discrepancies,
accelerate replenishment cycles and optimise labour
utilisation. These benefits are particularly valuable
in highly automated environments, where precision
and data accuracy are essential. Beyond tracking,
the company’s RFID innovations support smarter
packing processes, automated pallet validation and
improved shipment accuracy, enabling organisations
to respond quickly to changing market conditions.
As customer priorities continue to shift, Checkpoint
has observed increased demand for data-driven
platforms that can deliver actionable insight alongside
operational control. In response, the company’s
ItemOptix Software platform has become a
cornerstone of its offering, providing retailers and
logistics operators with comprehensive visibility
across their entire inventory ecosystem.
ItemOptix enables end-to-end inventory management,
loss prevention, asset tracking and shipment validation
across stores, suppliers and distribution centres. It
also supports visual merchandise management and
advanced reporting, helping businesses gain deeper
insight into customer behaviour, purchasing trends
and stock performance.
“For software, ItemOptix is unmatched in terms of
flexibility and capability,” Jenny explained. “It allows
customers to tailor the platform to their specific
operational needs with ease. On the hardware side,
our SFERO RFID as EAS antenna delivers combined
product protection and inventory control, while our
RFID tunnels and tables give distribution centres
exceptional asset visibility. Alongside this, we offer
an extensive portfolio of RFID labels designed for
virtually every use case.”
Checkpoint’s differentiation is further reinforced by
the depth of its technical expertise. The company
employs more than 635 highly experienced R&D,
field service and software engineers, ensuring
that every solution is installed and supported with
precision and care. Dedicated specialist sales teams
also guide customers throughout the purchasing
journey, helping them identify the most effective
technologies for their packaging, warehousing and
logistics operations.
Operating on a truly global scale, Checkpoint Systems
employs over 5,000 people across 35 countries
and extends its reach into more than 55 additional
markets through a strong network of partners.
This global footprint allows the company to deliver
consistent service and support worldwide while
maintaining the agility required to meet local market
demands.
Reflecting on some of the organisation’s key
achievements in 2025, Jenny highlighted several
milestones that underscore Checkpoint’s commitment
to quality, sustainability and growth.
“At the beginning of the year, we were extremely
proud to achieve ARC Quality Certification for 2025,”
she said. “Issued by the Auburn University RFID
Lab, this certification guarantees the compatibility
and performance of RFID tags, ensuring customers
receive reliable, cost-effective solutions.”
Sustainability has also remained a core focus for the
business. In May, Checkpoint’s carbon reduction
targets were officially verified through the Science
Based Targets initiative (SBTi), reinforcing the
company’s commitment to both near-term and longterm
environmental goals.
In July, the company announced the opening of a
new manufacturing facility in Mexico City, creating
100 jobs and strengthening its capacity to serve
the North American market. Strategically located
to improve responsiveness and streamline supply
chain operations, the facility represents a significant
investment in regional growth and global scalability.
“With the support of more than 200 CCL plants
worldwide, we offer an unparalleled RFID production
network,” Jenny added. “This ensures our customers
benefit from a supply chain that is scalable, reliable
and agile.”
Most recently, Checkpoint achieved SOC 2 Type
II and SOC 1 Type II certification for its ItemOptix
Software platform, further demonstrating its
commitment to data security, reliability and
customer trust.
Looking ahead, Jenny outlined the company’s
short and long-term priorities as it continues to
expand its presence across packaging, warehousing
and logistics.
“Our plans for 2026 are centred on continuing to
support our customers – whether that’s maintaining
their existing EAS systems or helping them transition
into RFID to gain better insight into purchasing
behaviour and sales performance,” she said. “We will
also continue expanding within the logistics sector,
supporting distribution centres with RFID solutions
that simplify processes, improve asset visibility and
strengthen warehouse-to-store tracking.”
She added that Checkpoint remains committed to
guiding businesses through every stage of their RFID
journey.
“No matter the industry, we have the capabilities to
support customers from manufacturing through to
the end user, delivering bespoke solutions tailored to
their specific needs.”
Closing the conversation, Jenny shared her
appreciation for being recognised as Security & Loss
Prevention Company of the Year.
“We’re absolutely honoured to receive this award
from Packaging, Warehouse & Logistics. 2025 was
a hugely important year for us within the logistics
industry, and it’s been fantastic working with PWL
across articles, sponsorships and our Company
of the Month feature. To now be recognised as
Company of the Year is a real privilege, and we look
forward to continuing our collaboration in the future.”
Contact
T 01635 567070
ukinfo@checkpt.com
https://checkpointsystems.com
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Fleet & Mobility Live Review – Top Exhibitors
Europe’s leading
event for fleet
Fleet & Mobility Live 2025 was held from 7th-8th
October at the NEC this year and welcomed over
2,000 attendees to one of its biggest shows yet.
Fleet & Mobility Live delivers real-world strategies,
cutting-edge solutions and a powerhouse network of
experts and innovators to benchmark best practices
across the industry, share invaluable insights, establish
meaningful connections, and stay informed about the
latest developments in legislation, sustainability, EV
approaches, employee benefits and more.
As Europe’s largest fleet event, Fleet & Mobility Live
has developed a reputation over the years for its
supportive, inclusive community, as well as becoming
the number one place for engaged members of
the fleet industry to exchange ideas, strengthen
professional networks and learn from industry leaders.
2025’s event included over 60 of these industry leaders
who delivered a full programme of diverse panels tackling
some of the toughest issues in the sector, with a special
focus on the rise of electrification in transport.
In ‘Electrification – Overcoming the Hurdles to Fleet
Transition’ The panel discussed what was preventing
EV take up, as well as offered practical advice to help
fleets tackle the operational impact of transitioning
commercial vehicles to electric.
The ongoing electrification of the transport was
further explored in ‘Electrifying Your Fleet’ where
the industry leading panel explained how energy
management and a durable charging policy underpin
robust EV strategies for working fleets.
There were also over 100 exhibitors from across the
sector at the Fleet & Mobility Live 2025. Split across
several key areas of the industry, exhibitors not only
showcased their latest innovations, but proposed
groundbreaking solutions for the future of fleet
transportation.
There was a dedicated LCV (Light Commercial
Vehicle) zone that gave exhibitors and visitors an
opportunity to discuss the latest innovations in
the LCV sector. Companies like Speedy Hire, Sure
Serve, BT Group, Platform Housing Group, Beko and
Network Rail shared low and zero-emission vehicle
case studies from early adopter fleets and revealed
the latest technologies, solutions and services to
support fleet sustainability.
E-Street was where electrification came to life at Fleet
& Mobility Live 2025. Here visitors could explore the
newest plug-in models from emerging OEMs and
established players, and understand the business
opportunities behind each brand.
Farizon, Nissan and Volvo gave direct insights into
their future plans and network strategies, as well
as delivered advice on how to stay ahead of the
electrification curve and how to build the partnerships
that will shape tomorrow’s dealer networks.
New for 2025, Fleet & Mobility Live was the
dedicated micromobility zone, which showcased
innovative displays and examples from this rapidly
growing sector. Micromobility covers innovations like
e-bikes and scooters, and this year’s zone offered
micromobility operators a prime opportunity to
present their products to fleet managers, while also
enabling decision-makers to network and discover
the latest mobility trends that can help reduce carbon
emissions.
Brompton Bike Hire showcased their innovative
one size fits all bike lease scheme while cycle giants
Raleigh, used their unique position as a manufacturer
of over 800,000
bikes annually to
provide businesses
with solutions to reduce emissions and promote
eco-friendly transportation.
As well as the sterling speaker line up and host of
industry leading exhibitors, Fleet & Mobility Live
2025 was also an excellent opportunity for visitors
to network and connect with fellow professionals in
the field.
The Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP), a
premium association supporter of Fleet & Mobility
Live 2025, hosted The AFP Networking Hub; a
dedicated space to connect, network and collaborate.
Situated at the heart of the event, The Hub was
open to both members and non-members of the
AFP, making it the ideal place to expand networks
and for new attendees to feel part of the wider fleet
community.
As well as connecting with fellow industry
professionals, The AFP Networking Hub also gave
visitors the chance to meet with leaders shaping the
future of fleet, discover more about the AFP Fleet
Academy or simply catch up with colleagues.
In addition to the AFP Networking Hub, Fleet &
Mobility Live 2025 also hosted The EV Cafe. This
informal area was a big hit with attendees looking
for a more relaxed approach to electric vehicles.
Here visitors could enjoy the EV Cafe team hosting
podcasts, webinars and other events that brought
together industry experts, EV enthusiasts and the
EV curious.
Fleet & Mobility Live 2025 was a standout event
in the show’s history. Its commitment to delivering
the latest in fleet, sets the show apart in this everchanging
industry and cemented Fleet & Mobility Live
as the number one place to be for fleet and transport
professionals across the UK and Europe.
This is our pick of the best exhibitors from last year’s
show, listed here in alphabetical order: Quartix Ltd.
Further details can be found below.
Fleet & Mobility Live 2026 returns to the NEC on
the 6th-7th of October. To register for next year,
please see below:
https://fleetandmobilitylive.com
6
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Fleet & Mobility Live Review – Top Exhibitors
Telematics
shaped
by realworld
fleet
operations
For road haulage and logistics operators, this
visibility supports better route planning, more
reliable delivery times and clearer communication
with customers. Journey and mileage reporting help
identify underutilised vehicles, reduce unnecessary
mileage and support accurate job costing or billing.
How do you keep vehicles moving, costs under
control and customers satisfied? You need to
understand how assets are being used, how driver
behaviour affects risk and operating costs, and where
efficiencies can be gained across your business
without adding complexity. These are the practical
realities Quartix has been helping fleet operators
address for more than 24 years.
Founded in 2001, Quartix is one of the most
established vehicle telematics providers, supporting
fleets across road haulage, logistics, recovery, leasing
and a wide range of site-based services. More than
800,000 vehicles are currently tracked worldwide
using Quartix systems, reflecting steady growth built
on long-term customer relationships rather than shortterm
market trends.
This approach has been recognised by the industry.
Heading into 2026, Quartix has been named
Telematics Award Winner at the WhatVan? Awards,
acknowledging its contribution to improving vehicle
safety, security and operational efficiency for Light
Commercial Vehicle fleets. In addition, Quartix was
voted Fleet Recommended Telematics Supplier
2026 by Fleet News readers for the second year
running. This recognition is based on direct feedback
from fleet professionals responsible for specifying and
managing telematics systems.
For fleet operators and decision-makers, these awards
provide independent confirmation that the technology
performs reliably in everyday use, reinforcing Quartix’s
position as a stable supplier with a proven track record
in demanding commercial fleet environments.
Practical technology for operational fleets
Quartix provides vehicle tracking and fleet
management software designed to give clear
operational oversight across your fleet. You can
see where vehicles are in real time, review historical
journeys and respond quickly to changes in schedules
or customer demand.
Driver behaviour data provides insight into speeding, harsh
braking and idling, allowing safety and fuel consumption
to be addressed in a consistent, evidence-based way. For
haulage and recovery operations, where operating risk and
insurance exposure are higher, this information supports
driver coaching, incident review and risk reduction.
Improving safety with video and vehicle checks
Quartix’s connected dashcam solutions add valuable
context to vehicle tracking data, providing video
evidence when incidents occur. Forward-facing and
driver-facing cameras help clarify the circumstances
around collisions, near misses or disputed events,
reducing investigation time and supporting fair
outcomes for both drivers and operators. Many fleets
use video evidence to resolve insurance claims more
quickly and reduce the cost and duration of disputes.
Quartix also offers a vehicle safety checks app,
Quartix Check, enabling drivers to complete daily
walkaround checks digitally. Inspections can be
submitted in real time, defects identified quickly and
checks carried out consistently, supporting compliance
and helping maintenance teams prioritise issues
before they lead to downtime, accidents or penalties.
Supporting asset management, maintenance
and integration
Quartix helps plan vehicle maintenance more
effectively by linking usage, mileage and safety check
data to service schedules. This reduces the risk of
missed services, unplanned downtime and avoidable
repairs, while supporting longer vehicle life.
For those responsible for workshops, leased vehicles
or mixed fleets, access to accurate usage data allows
maintenance activity to be aligned with actual vehicle
use rather than estimates. This improves planning,
protects asset value and supports more efficient
workshop operations.
Quartix also integrates with third-party systems to
reduce duplication and enhance system capability.
Integrations with systems such as Haulage Exchange
allow vehicle location data to support job allocation and
freight workflows, helping transport planners and logistics
teams match available vehicles to work more efficiently.
Designed for everyday use
Quartix is designed for busy business owners, transport
managers, operations teams and engineers. The
system is straightforward to use, without unnecessary
complexity or a steep learning curve, and reporting can
be configured to suit operational requirements.
Commercial terms are kept simple. Clear pricing and
transparent contracts allow costs to be planned with
confidence, a crucial factor when operating on tight
margins or managing long-term fleet replacement and
leasing cycles. Importantly, Quartix contracts never autorenew,
so businesses are never unexpectedly locked in.
Experience that supports long-term decisions
With more than two decades in the market, Quartix’s
experience reduces risk when selecting a technology
partner and embedding telematics into day-today
operations. As fleet data becomes central to
productivity, compliance and risk management,
Quartix delivers telematics solutions shaped by
real-world fleet operations.
See how Quartix fits with your fleet operations.
Reach out to our tracking experts on:
01686 806663 or visit: quartix.com today.
PWL is sponsored by – see them on page 7 7

Heating Solutions Company of the Month
Sustainable, energy efficient
warehouse heating
In this issue of Packaging, Warehouse & Logistics, we have featured
Solar2Polar as our Heating Solutions Company of the Month
Solar2Polar was established to meet the growing
demand for efficient, sustainable and cost-effective
heating solutions. Founded by a team of industry
professionals with experience across renewable
energy, heating technology and building services; the
inspiration behind the company was to bridge the gap
between traditional heating and modern, energyefficient
alternatives that reduce both carbon footprint
and operating costs.
Originally established in 2023, The company primarily
works with commercial businesses, industrial
facilities, property developers and managers. Based
in the United Kingdom and operating nationwide,
Solar2Polar is centrally managed, but the company
supports customers across multiple regions through
supply, consultation, and installation.
Solar2Polar specialises in advanced heating solutions
and provides high-performance bio diesel heating
systems designed for commercial and industrial
applications. At its core, Solar2Polar prioritises
efficiency, reliability, and ease of installation in
its heating solutions. With this ethos driving the
company, its widespread support for the fantastic
Veltron line of heaters aligns perfectly.
The Veltron range of heaters consists of an
economical and efficient burner, paired with an electric
fuel pump, directing combustion gases through
pipelines made from double-layered precious metals.
The pipes are further fortified with a ceramic coating
ensuring a quick method to heating up internal spaces,
reaching max heat in 120 seconds.
All of the heaters are fitted with small fuel injectors
and advanced burner technology which delivers a
precise spray of fuel, burning an impressive 99.9%
of it. Furthermore, ceramic filters inside the heating
pipeline eliminates odours and fine particles from the
combustion process meaning no smell or smoke.
8
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Heating Solutions Company of the Month
company is the biggest mobile heater supplier in
Europe for professionals and has almost 1,500
retailers, as well as working with the likes of JET2,
UPS and Octopus Energy.
Recently, Solar2Polar also expanded its finance
options, partnering with Kennet Equipment Leasing,
one of the UK’s leading providers of business
equipment finance and asset leasing. This new
partnership allows Solar2Polar clients to invest in the
very latest business equipment without drawing on
critical working capital.
This advanced engineering also ensures the heaters
run incredibly quietly at around 32db.
Solar2Polar’s Veltron infrared heaters and other fueldriven
heating systems are also explicitly designed
to operate on regular diesel or biodiesel, with no
separate flue required. This fuel flexibility appeals to
businesses and customers seeking lower-carbon
heating alternatives without changing hardware.
Additionally, the Veltorn line not only warms the air
but also directly heats materials, ensuring an even
distribution of heat throughout the space. This
efficient heating method eliminates the need for heat
blowers, making it quieter, safer and more energyefficient.
Plus, standard building ventilation is all
that’s needed for optimal performance.
The cost benefits speak for themselves, with Veltron
Heaters being around two thirds cheaper to run
than other energy sources and the general initial
investment being cheaper than fixed heating sources
or space heaters, which are usually uninsurable. As
well as this, Solar2Polar’s Veltron heaters are mobile
and the heaters can be deployed wherever they
are needed, saving on installation costs and adding
further flexibility.
Solar2Polar's competitive advantage lies in its full
scale adoption of the high-efficiency Veltron Heater
technology. The product’s simple installation process
causes minimal disruption and can scale with a wide
range of property types, but Solar2Polar’s distinct
edge with the product lies in the company’s strong
technical support and customer-focused service.
The company’s guiding philosophy is centred on
delivering efficient heating without compromise and its
dedication to not only supply the most efficient heating
solutions, but also support its clients in installation and
advice, points to the company’s operational excellence.
To this end the company offers 100% spare parts warranty
on all its products. Solar2Polar stocks all original Veltron
spare parts in its warehouse and its professional service
personal team has been trained by the manufacturer to
service any model heater at the client’s convenience.
The combination of customer service and top of
the line product has paid off for Solar2Polar. The
Looking ahead, Solar2Polar aims to expand its
product range within energy-efficient heating
and increase the adoption of Veltron Heaters in
commercial and industrial markets. The company
plans to be at the forefront of the UK’s transition
toward low-carbon and electric-based heating
solutions, by ensuring it maintains the same
operational standards and eye for quality
that have built its current reputation.
Positioning itself within the energy-efficient heating
and low-carbon technology sector, Solar2Polar
operates at the intersection of innovation and
practicality, offering solutions that align with modern
building standards and sustainability goals.
Solar2Polar is focused on long-term value
rather than short-term trends. By combining
proven heating technology with a forward-thinking
approach, the company aims to remain a trusted
partner for customers seeking dependable,
energy-efficient heating.
For more on Solar2Polar, please see below:
T 01283 342321
richard@solar2polar.co.uk
https://solar2polar.co.uk
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Warehouse News
Dematic
Multishuttle 2 is
Cradle to Cradle
Certified® Bronze
The Dematic
Multishuttle®
2 has recently
become the
industry’s first
Cradle to Cradle
(C2C) Certified®
shuttle-based
automated
storage and retrieval system (AS/RS). The certification
highlights how data-driven sustainability is
progressing in the material handling industry.
According to Dematic, a global leader in supply
chain automation, the technology has received a
bronze certification.
The Dematic Multishuttle 2 is a high-speed AS/RS
that stores, buffers, consolidates and sequences
inventory while increasing storage density.
Following its market launch in 2006, the technology
played a decisive role in the implementation
of Industry 4.0 in logistics and has become a
mainstay of Dematic’s automation portfolio.
The C2C certification process validates the product
is safe, circular and responsibly made, meeting
rigorous standards for material health, recyclability,
renewable energy use, water stewardship and
social fairness. The process evaluates whether
lifecycle emissions are being satisfactorily reduced,
how end-of-life recovery is being managed and
ensures sustainability is built into the solution.
The intensive assessment required all suppliers
of components for the Dematic Multishuttle 2
technology submit their processes for the same
transparent evaluation.
The certification level – ‘Full Scope Bronze’ – is
specific to the Dematic Multishuttle 2 produced at
the company’s production facility in Stříbro, Czech
Republic and is valid through June 2028.
To learn more about Dematic’s circularity strategy
as well as its overall vision for a more sustainable
future, download its 2024 Annual Sustainability
Report.
For more information about Dematic, please visit:
dematic.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook,
and Instagram.
How smart automation
saves Christmas
Last year, Statista forecasted that the UK’s total
value of Christmas spending was to be the highest in
Europe at almost £85 billion. With that in mind, how
can businesses prepare for this year's spike in holiday
demand? Here Tom Cash, director of automation
parts supplier Foxmere, explains how advanced
technologies are helping Santa meet the seasonal
surge without compromising quality or timeliness.
As festive cheer builds, so does customer
expectation, which often turns into frustration
if packages containing gifts are delayed. For
businesses, this means that the pressure to deliver
on time has never been greater.
Thankfully, Santa is no stranger to global supply
chains, but speed, traceability and the need to
accurately predict demand are just some of his
challenges.
While a sprinkle of Christmas magic can work
wonders, integrating automation into Santa’s
workshop will ensure every package makes it onto
the sleigh on time.
Contact Foxmere today for more information or a
no-obligation quote to receive spare or obsolete
automation parts: https://foxmere.com/en
Warehouse automation
depends on the right racking
Edward Hutchison, Managing
Director of BITO Storage Systems,
explains why successful automated
warehouse solutions require careful
consideration when choosing the
racking.
The UK’s world leading
e-commerce retail sector swells
demand and raises expectations
for rapid delivery but the sector is
also in the midst of dealing with
rising labour costs combined with
a shallower pool of available skills
for its warehouses. This is driving
growing interest in automation
among many more managers
responsible for fitting out these
facilities, particularly as the technology continues to
become more flexible, bringing it further within reach
of many more companies. In fact the UK will, by 2025,
be Europe’s largest warehouse automation market
at over £3bn, according to market research company
Interact Analysis. That will be £0.71bn larger than in
Germany, which has traditionally
been far more automation friendly
when it comes to warehouses.
Another market researcher, IMARC
Group, which put the UK warehouse
automation market at USD 2 Billion
in 2023, expects it to reach £4.6
Billion by 2032. That’s a growth rate
of over 10% during 2024-2032.
Automation’s modularity,
sophisticated control systems,
and performance developments
can create a more practical and
flexible solution for a greater variety
of applications – from fulfilling
omnichannel retail to supplying lineside
manufacturing. Stacker crane
based automated storage and retrieval systems, for
example, will provide high density storage on a given
footprint within a warehouse to offer an efficient and
safe goods to picker solution.
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For more information, please visit:
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Packaging Innovations & Empack Preview
The future of food & drink packaging
Packaging Innovation 2026 will take place on 11th & 12th February at the NEC, Birmingham
This year, Packaging Innovations & Empack 2026
will establish itself as the UK’s premier packaging
and processing event for food and beverage
professionals. Brands, manufacturers, and innovators
will have the opportunity to explore the latest
packaging trends, sustainable solutions, and cuttingedge
technologies that will transform how products
are designed, packaged, and delivered to consumers.
The show will bring together more than 450
exhibitors spanning the full packaging lifecycle,
from design and primary packaging to machinery,
automation, and materials innovation. Food and
drink visitors will explore solutions tailored to their
specific needs, gaining inspiration and practical
ideas to implement in their businesses. Sustainable
packaging options will feature prominently, including
biodegradable, recyclable, and compostable materials
that will meet both regulatory requirements and
growing consumer expectations. Attendees will also
encounter innovative labelling and branding concepts,
from smart labels to premium designs, all aimed at
enhancing shelf appeal and elevating products in a
competitive marketplace.
Automation and technology will play a central role,
with live demonstrations of robotics, filling, sealing,
and labelling machines showing how efficiency can
be increased without compromising product quality.
The exhibition floor will be organised into themed
zones, allowing visitors to navigate easily to the
area’s most relevant to their interests, whether that is
materials innovation, automation, or contract packing
services. Sustainability will also take centre stage,
with the Material ConneXion and Innovation Galleries
showcasing novel substrates, from plant-based
polymers to compostable films, providing inspiration
for next-generation packaging. Circular Economy
workshops will guide attendees on implementing
closed-loop strategies, reducing food waste, and
improving supply chain sustainability. Expert-led
seminars will cover compliance with UK and EU
packaging regulations, eco-design principles, and
ways that sustainable packaging can strengthen
brand loyalty and resonate with environmentally
conscious consumers.
Automation and technology will continue to shape
the visitor experience, illustrating how robotics, filling,
sealing, and labelling systems will help production lines
achieve greater efficiency, consistency, and safety.
Many of the solutions will integrate data-driven tracking
and traceability, enabling food and beverage brands to
meet evolving regulatory and consumer expectations.
Attendees will be able to see these innovations
firsthand, helping them future-proof operations,
streamline production, and reduce labour dependency.
The seminar programme will provide insights across
multiple key areas, covering sustainable packaging
in practice, packaging design strategies, and supply
chain efficiency. Sessions will explore smart labelling,
traceability solutions, and case studies from leading
food and drink brands. The newly introduced
Discovery Theatre will feature short, expert-led talks
designed to inspire small to medium-sized food and
drink businesses, while the Expert Trail will offer
one-to-one consultations with specialists to address
specific packaging challenges and provide practical
guidance that attendees can immediately apply to
their operations.
Visitors will encounter a wide range of exhibitors
offering innovative solutions. Material and substrate
specialists will present recyclable, compostable,
and biodegradable packaging innovations, while
machine manufacturers will showcase automated
filling, packing, and labelling equipment optimised
for beverages, dairy, snacks, and frozen foods.
Technology innovators will demonstrate smart
packaging solutions, including QR code integration
and IoT-enabled traceability systems.
Leading suppliers such as Amcor, Elopak, Saica
Flex, and Zeus Packaging Group are expected to
feature prominently, offering solutions that will directly
benefit food and drink brands seeking sustainability,
efficiency, and consumer appeal.
The show will also feature interactive experiences
and networking opportunities to engage attendees.
Visitors will be able to join Empack Tours to see
machinery and automation in action, explore the Start-
Up Zone for disruptive packaging ideas, and attend the
Pitch to Co-Packers session, a place where emerging
brands present packaging concepts to industry
specialists. The Museum of Failure Workshop will
provide valuable lessons on design missteps and how
to avoid common pitfalls, while social spaces, bars, and
lounges will encourage networking and collaborations
beyond the exhibition floor.
For food and beverage brands, Packaging
Innovations & Empack 2026 will provide inspiration,
practical solutions, and expert guidance. Attendees
will discover novel materials, creative designs, and
smart technologies, gaining the knowledge and
connections needed to reduce costs, improve
efficiency, and enhance consumer engagement. From
sustainable packaging innovations to automation and
design excellence, the show will equip food and drink
professionals with the tools, insights, and inspiration
to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market.
For more information, please see below:
https://www.packagingbirmingham.com
12
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Macsa id UK at Empack:
Future-proof laser
solutions for packaging
and converting
At this year’s Empack,
Macsa id UK will be
showcasing how
laser technology is
transforming both flexible
packaging coding and
converting applications,
helping manufacturers
improve efficiency
while meeting growing
sustainability demands.
A key highlight on the stand will be
iLumiFlex, Macsa id UK’s UV laser
coder that is redefining coding on flexible
packaging. iLumiFlex offers a clean,
waste-free alternative to traditional
TTO systems – eliminating ribbons and
consumables while delivering permanent,
high-contrast codes on films, foils,
and recyclable mono-materials. With a
compact footprint equivalent to a TTO,
integration is straightforward, allowing
lines to upgrade without disruption.
Visitors will also discover how Macsa
id UK’s laser solutions support the
converting industry. Traditional tooling
for perforating, creasing, scoring,
and cutting suffers from blade wear,
frequent changeovers, and downtime
Packaging Innovations & Empack Preview
Crafting glass
packaging excellence
since 1872
As a family-owned business with
over 150 years of packaging heritage,
innovation has always been part of our
story. From our beginnings in 1872 to
the global partnerships and technical
expertise we offer today, every
generation at Croxsons has focused on
doing one thing: making a difference.
Packaging Innovations & Empack
provides the perfect platform to reflect
on that journey, while looking firmly
ahead. In 2026, Croxsons continues to
innovate, investing in Rightweight® glass,
smarter integrated packaging solutions,
and sustainable choices that support our
customers’ commercial and environmental
goals. As a certified B Corporation, we
want to support each brand we work
with on their packaging journey, without
harming the world around us.
At this year’s show, we’ll be sharing
how heritage and innovation can sit
side by side. From the development of
new UK-produced bottles as part of our
Rightweight®
range to
collaborative
design and
supply-chain expertise, our focus
remains on creating packaging that
performs beautifully and works hard for
brands across food and drink.
We look forward to welcoming visitors
to our Stand: B142, sharing ideas, and
exploring what the next chapter of
packaging innovation looks like together.
T +44 (0)208 337 2945
hello@croxsons.com
www.croxsons.com
The foremost expert in manufacturing
caps, closures, and dispensers
At TIRRIT UK Limited, innovation
is at the heart of everything we do.
We’re proud to announce a recent
investment in new fully automated
production lines for our Mono Plastic
range of products, reinforcing our
commitment to quality, efficiency,
and continuous improvement.
The advanced equipment enhances
precision and consistency across
our manufacturing process, allowing
us to deliver reliable, high performing
products while meeting increasing
demand. By streamlining production,
we can maintain the high standards
our customers expect, without
compromise.
– challenges that are amplified when
working with mono-materials. Laser
converting removes these limitations,
enabling fast changeovers, consistent
quality, and reduced maintenance.
Whether coding or converting, Macsa
id UK’s laser technology delivers lower
running costs, improved uptime, and a
fast return on investment. Macsa id UK
looks forward to welcoming visitors to
Stand: V110 at Empack, to discuss how
laser technology can support more
efficient, sustainable, and future-ready
packaging operations.
Please visit Stand: V110.
T 01462 816091
sales.uk@macsa.com
www.macsaid.co.uk
Our mono plastic program is
designed with recyclability
in mind, and this investment
supports smarter, more controlled
manufacturing aligned with
sustainable packaging goals.
This upgrade reflects our focus on
long term improvement, innovation,
and customer confidence. It’s another
step forward in delivering dependable
solutions, today and into the future.
T +44 (0)1135 210700
www.tirrit.co.uk
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Packaging Innovations & Empack Preview
Advancing auger
technology
All-Fill International will be exhibiting at
Empack on the 11th-12th February 2026
at the NEC, Birmingham at Stand: W114.
All-Fill International is the world
leader in precision auger-based filling
equipment, trusted by manufacturers
across industries for unrivalled build
quality, innovation, and customer care.
Precision Co-packing
& Fulfilment to Global
Delivery
From our UK headquarters, All-Fill
International offers more control,
accuracy and reliability through our
cutting-edge solutions for powder
filling, ranging from micro-dosing
stations to fully automated highspeed
lines. Designed to handle
powders of every type – free-flowing,
compactable, or complex – our
machines ensure accuracy, efficiency,
and reduced waste, with dose ranges
from 10mg to 50kg and speeds up to
400 containers per minute.
We take great pride in the flexibility and
ease of use of our machines as well
as features like quick-change tooling,
tool-less cleaning, and customised
configurations that guarantee seamless
integration whether filling into jars,
pouches, sacks or more.
If you need to fill 10 containers per
minute or 200, All-Fill International
delivers customised solutions that
uphold the highest hygiene standards
while maximising productivity. Backed
by extensive R&D, rigorous testing,
and dedicated after-sales support,
All-Fill International builds long-term
partnerships that earn customer trust
and loyalty time after time.
At the show we are excited to
present information on our range
of filling machines, ranging from the
high precision Series 1 Micro Fill, the
semi-automatic Series 10 Volumetric/
Gravimetric and the Series 100 fully
automatic filling machine.
Our expert team are excited to be
returning to the show this year and
looking forward to the opportunity
to discuss projects face-to-face with
customers, partners, and prospects.
Contact
T 01767 691100
info@allfill.co.uk
https://allfill.co.uk
For over seven decades, we’ve been
more than just a global supply chain
and logistics company, we have been a
growth partner, At Charles Kendall we
build genuine partnerships, taking the
complexity out of your supply chain so
you can focus on what you do best.
Whether you’re an established brand
or ambitious business on the rise, we
listen first. Our team designs bespoke
solutions around your specific goals
leveraging over 200,000 sq. ft of UK
warehousing and a full suite of services.
ä Pack & Store: We manage the
complete flow from expert copacking
and secure storage in
our certified facilities to seamless
fulfilment across your sales channels
ä Connect & Simplify: We integrate
your platforms to effortlessly handle
B2B orders, returns and distribution.
ä Move with Precision: We arrange
reliable transport by Air, Ocean,
Road and Rail tailored to your
needs.
Come and visit our Team at
Stand: R140.
Contact
sales@charleskendall.com
www.charleskendall.com
14
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Packaging Innovations & Empack Preview
eComPack: A breakthrough packaging
solution designed for modern e-commerce
— Set to showcase at Packaging
Innovations 2026, NEC Birmingham
Datec Packaging UK, a leader in innovative
packaging solutions, is proud to showcase
eComPack®, a pioneering packaging system
engineered specifically for the evolving demands
of e-commerce. The company will showcase
this new product at the Packaging Innovations
Exhibition at the NEC in Birmingham this February,
giving visitors the opportunity to experience
eComPack’s unique benefits first-hand.
As online shopping continues its rapid expansion
throughout the UK and Europe, brands and
fulfilment centres face increasing pressure to
deliver products quickly, safely, and sustainably
– without introducing unnecessary cost or
operational complexity. eComPack has been
developed specifically to solve these challenges,
combining simple but smart design with ecomaterials
to create a packaging solution that
elevates the entire fulfilment process.
A packaging solution designed for the realities
of today’s e-commerce
eComPack was created following extensive
research into the pain points faced by online retailers,
3PLs, subscription services, and distribution hubs.
Across the industry, businesses are looking for
packaging that is faster to assemble, optimised
for logistics, cost-effective, and environmentally
responsible. eComPack delivers on all four fronts.
At its core, eComPack uses a durable yet
lightweight material structure that provides
superior protection during transit while reducing
overall material consumption. This means brands
can expect fewer damages and returns – a major
cost burden in e-commerce – while also using
less cardboard and filling material. By optimising
both strength and volume, eComPack helps
customers improve last-mile efficiency, reduce
shipping costs, and meet sustainability targets
without compromising product safety.
Speed, simplicity, and efficiency
One of eComPack’s standout features is its ultrafast
assembly design. Traditional e-commerce
packaging often requires multiple steps, excessive
voidfill, or tissue wrapping – slowing down
fulfilment operations. eComPack removes these
inefficiencies with a streamlined design that can
be assembled in seconds, improving packing
speed and reducing labour costs.
The product is fully compatible
with automated packing systems,
offering scalability for growing
fulfilment operations. For high-volume
e-commerce businesses, this
means eComPack supports both
manual and automated
workflows without the need for
separate packaging SKUs or
major operational changes.
Sustainability at the forefront
With increasing regulatory
requirements and heightened
consumer expectations around environmental
responsibility, sustainability has become a top
priority for packaging buyers. eComPack has
been engineered to meet these expectations
from day one.
Made from
responsibly sourced
materials and designed
for easy recyclability, the
product helps businesses
transition to more
sustainable fulfilment
processes while also
reducing their overall
material footprint. The
innovative structure
means that less
packaging is required
per shipment,
reducing waste and
delivering notable
improvements in
carbon impact across
the supply chain.
Beyond its material advantages, eComPack is
engineered to minimise void space and eliminate the
need for additional filling materials. This both reduces
waste and maximises the efficiency of delivery
vehicles, enabling more parcels per
journey and lowering emissions
on a per-package basis.
A better customer experience
In an age where the
unboxing experience plays a
critical role in brand perception
and customer satisfaction,
eComPack offers a clean,
modern, frustration-free
design that enhances the
recipient’s experience while
reducing the typical mess of fillers
and excessive tape. The easy-open
tear strip and smart structure ensure
that customers enjoy a seamless,
positive interaction with the brand from the
moment the package arrives.
This user-friendly experience not only delights
customers but encourages repeat purchases
– a fundamental metric for online retailers.
Launching at Packaging Innovations 2025,
NEC Birmingham
Visitors to the Packaging Innovations Exhibition
at the NEC in Birmingham this February will have
the exclusive opportunity to see eComPack in
action. Datec Packaging UK will be showcasing
live demonstrations, providing hands-on trials, and
offering personalised consultations for businesses
looking to upgrade their packaging operations.
“Packaging Innovations is the perfect platform
to introduce eComPack to the market,” said
Glenn Izard, Sales Manager at eComPack. “The
e-commerce sector has evolved dramatically in
recent years, and businesses need packaging that
keeps up with faster fulfilment speeds, growing
sustainability demands, and the need to reduce
costs. eComPack delivers on all of these fronts.
We’re excited to show the industry what it can do.”
Visit us at Stand: R144
Attendees are invited to visit Stand: R144 to
explore the eComPack range, speak
with our technical experts,
and learn how the solution
can be adapted for
businesses of all sizes
and sectors. Whether
you operate a largescale
fulfilment
centre or a boutique
e-commerce brand,
eComPack has
been designed to
make your packaging
process more
efficient, sustainable,
and cost-effective.
About Datec Packaging UK
Datec Packaging UK is a
leading provider of innovative
packaging products and systems, committed
to helping businesses improve efficiency,
reduce environmental impact, and enhance
their customer experience. With a focus on
design excellence, sustainability, and operational
performance, the company delivers solutions
trusted by retailers, manufacturers, and logistics
providers across the UK and beyond.
Contact
T 02476 611234
ecompack@datecpackaging.com
www.ecompack.co.uk
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Packaging Innovations & Empack Preview
Sovereign’s tailor-made labelling
solutions are the talk of Packaging
Innovations & Empack 2026
Sovereign Labelling Machines is exhibiting a line-up
of tailor-made labelling solutions on Stand: R110 at
Packaging Innovations & Empack 2026, which are
engineered to suit the industry’s needs and simplify
and demystify complex labelling processes.
On Stand: R110 during Packaging Innovations & Empack
2026, Sovereign will focus on the capabilities of its
labelling systems, which are tailor-made and offered as
cost-effective solutions that help brands and co-packers
take their labels and labelling to the next level. This
includes ergonomically designed lines equipped with
advanced capabilities and the latest technologies.
Jordan Hynes, Business Development Manager at
Sovereign Labelling Machines, said, “At Packaging
Innovations & Empack 2026, we are helping brands
and co-packers to fully comprehend the capabilities
at their fingertips; to rediscover the ways in which costeffective,
efficient, and high-quality labelling improves
the look and feel of their brand and products.”
“In such a competitive market as brands are
experiencing today, this is imperative to ensure
they secure success on the shelf. We are already
successfully working with big and small brands in
beverages, dairy, personal care, pharmaceuticals,
and many other markets to drastically improving
their use of labels and labelling.”
“We look forward to helping even more of the market
take their next step through labelling and
sleeving solutions designed for today’s
demanding marketplace and built with
the realities of their business in mind.”
As the leading manufacturer of labelling
and sleeving solutions, Sovereign
works with brands and co-packers
of all sizes to understand their needs
and deliver solutions that are expertly
engineered and capable of serving
everyday needs for high-quality
labelling and precision sleeving, through
to more complex set-ups that integrate
marking and coding, inspection and
verification, and security features.
Regardless of scale and complexity,
all of Sovereign’s lines are built fully
in the UK and manufactured from
components that are fabricated inhouse
by Sovereign, as part of the
UK-based ENE Group.
Sovereign’s revered entry-level desktop labeller is
also presented. This system is an effective tool for
brands and co-packers of all size, whether a start-up/
disruptor seeking to enhance their labelling or a large
manufacturer looking to add capacity and flexibility to
their production.
L-R: Thomas Glendinning &
Jordan Hynes
Jordan will be present on
Stand: R110 throughout
Packaging Innovations &
Empack 2026, alongside
his colleagues John
Walsh, Todd Killington,
and Thomas Glendinning.
Thomas, who is
Managing Director at
Sovereign Labelling
Machines, said, “Our
customers highly rate the
time and care we take to
understand their business
and build systems that are
precisely what they need,
available when they need,
delivered where they need,
and which support their
growth. Complementing
that is the level of service
and support we provide,
during installation
and commissioning
and throughout the
lifetime of their lines.”
The line is being used to label cans for supermarket
retail, special editions, and Patrons Projects beers,
which account for around 40% of the beer packed
by Northern Monk. Self-adhesive labels are applied
to cans at a rate of up to 200 a minute using the
Sovereign Monarch line.
Nat Newport, Trainee Packaging Manager at Northern
Monk, explained, “We were looking for a labeller that
could meet current demand, eliminate issues we were
encountering, while also being future-proof.”
“The result of this project has been a huge improvement
in operational efficiency, a reduction in label waste, and a
much higher quality to our applied labels.”
“Our new Sovereign Monarch labeller has brought our
operational efficiency back up to where it needs to be
and reduced the workload on our operators enabling
them to more effectively allocate their time.”
“Overall, this project has been a great success and
allowed us to achieve an even better result than we
hoped.”
Jordan added, “Northern Monk is a fantastic example
of the impact high-quality labelling has for a brand
and its products. It also goes to show the impact of
production and operational efficiency when labelling is
not at the required level.”
To discover how Sovereign’s labelling solutions can
benefit your business, visit them on Stand: R110 at
Packaging Innovations & Empack 2026, which takes
place 11th-12th February at the NEC in Birmingham
(UK). Sovereign is exhibiting as part of the Empack
processing and packaging element of the leading
trade exhibition for the UK packaging industry.
Contact Thomas Glendinning or Jordan Hynes,
T 01206 304182
sales@sovereign-labelling.co.uk
www.sovereign-labelling.co.uk
“This is made available to all customers and by using
our decades of experience and expertise in building
labelling and sleeving solutions, we are able to work
to the customers’ budget and guide them through
this critically important investment.”
A recent example of this in action is Sovereign’s work
with leading UK independent brewery, Northern Monk.
The system installed at Northern Monk is a Sovereign
Monarch line and features a linear wrap labeller that
precisely and securely applies full-height wraparound
labels onto containers.
16
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Packaging Innovations & Empack Preview
Pont Packaging Group at Packaging
Innovations Birmingham
Pont Packaging Group will be exhibiting at Packaging
Innovations & Empack, where the business will also
mark an important milestone. This year celebrates 120
years since Pont Packaging was originally incorporated in
Amsterdam, reflecting the group’s long-standing role as
a trusted European packaging partner and its continued
focus on sustainable, compliant packaging solutions.
New Cylpacker Jars
Pont will be showcasing the Cylpacker Jar, which
will be the hero product on display. Designed to
meet the needs of fast-growing consumer
categories, the Cylpacker is a versatile PET container
that combines strong shelf presentation with efficient
handling and filling performance. It is especially well
suited to the vitamins, minerals and supplements
market, as well as confectionery, functional foods
and nutraceutical products.
The Cylpacker’s clean, cylindrical shape delivers a
modern, professional on-shelf appearance, while its
In a sector where reliability, consistency and quality
are essential, Steadfast Tapes Ltd continues to build
a strong reputation as a trusted UK manufacturer and
supplier of packaging tape solutions for businesses
operating across logistics, warehousing, e-commerce
and manufacturing.
Based in Huddersfield and part of the wider Logo Tape
Group, Steadfast Tapes combines the responsiveness
of a British manufacturer with the experience and scale
of an established group. This enables the business
to support customers with both everyday packaging
requirements and more tailored solutions, delivered
with a clear focus on performance and service.
high clarity ensures excellent product visibility. This is a
key advantage for categories where consumers expect
to see the product before purchase, such as capsules,
gummies, powders and functional confectionery. The
lightweight yet durable PET construction also supports
efficient logistics and handling, helping brands manage
transport and storage more effectively.
Available in multiple sizes and compatible with a wide
range of closures, the Cylpacker allows brands to build
consistent product families across different formats
and SKUs. This flexibility makes it suitable for both new
product launches and established ranges looking to
standardise packaging or improve visual consistency.
Pont Packaging can also support customers with
closure pairing, sampling and technical guidance to
ensure compatibility with existing filling lines.
New Ruby DTO Jars
Pont will also be presenting a broader selection of
jars, bottles and closures, including the new Ruby
DTO Jar for food applications. This deep twistoff
container has been developed to offer robust
performance on filling lines alongside strong shelf
presentation. The wide opening supports efficient
filling and ease of use for consumers, while the twistoff
closure delivers secure sealing and consistent
performance. The Ruby DTO is suitable for a range
of applications including spreads, sauces and other
viscous products, making it a practical option for both
growing brands and established producers.
Stand: D126
Visitors to Packaging Innovations are invited to visit
Pont Packaging Group on Stand: D126 on 11th–12th
February to view the range of sustainable packaging in
person, review sample options and discuss how Pont
can support current and future packaging projects.
T +44 (0)161 874 1930
sales@pontuk.com
www.ponteurope.com
Steadfast Tapes Ltd: Manufacturers of
custom self-adhesive tapes
Steadfast is widely recognised for its printed
packaging tape capability, supplying bespoke
solutions that allow businesses to integrate branding
directly into their packaging operations. Printed tape
not only reinforces brand visibility but also supports
security and identification throughout the supply
chain. By maintaining close control over production
and quality, Steadfast ensures consistent results that
perform reliably from packing bench to final delivery.
Alongside printed products, the company supplies
a comprehensive range of plain packaging tapes
designed to meet the practical demands of modern
distribution environments. These solutions are
used daily across high-volume packing operations
where dependable adhesion, ease of application and
consistent performance are critical to efficiency.
Quality underpins every aspect of the Steadfast
approach. UK manufacturing allows for tight quality
control, shorter lead times and direct collaboration
with customers, ensuring products are fit for purpose
and aligned to operational needs. This commitment
has helped the business establish long-term
relationships with customers ranging from growing
SMEs to large national organisations.
Sustainability is an increasingly important
consideration within packaging, and Steadfast
continues to support customers who are looking
to reduce environmental impact. There is a growing
portfolio of environmentally focused alternatives,
providing customers with practical routes to reduce
plastic use and improve packaging sustainability
without compromising strength or reliability.
Steadfast Tapes will be exhibiting at Packaging
Innovations and Empack Birmingham at the NEC
on 11th and 12th February, where visitors can meet
the team on Stand: V156. The exhibition provides an
opportunity to explore the company’s range, discuss
packaging challenges and learn more about how UKmanufactured
tape solutions can support operational
efficiency and brand consistency.
As packaging requirements continue to evolve,
Steadfast Tapes Ltd remains focused on delivering
dependable, high-quality tape solutions that help
businesses package with confidence, consistency
and care. With a focus on service, reliability and
partnership, the business continues to strengthen
its position within sector.
T 01484 646699
sales@steadfasttapes.co.uk
https://steadfasttapes.co.uk
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Packaging Innovations & Empack Preview
Sustainable packaging made in the UK
Established in 1968, East Riding
Sacks Limited is the UK’s largest
and most trusted paper sack
manufacturer, with almost 60
years of experience delivering
high-quality, eco-friendly
packaging solutions. Quality,
reliability and long-term customer
relationships remain at the heart of
the business.
As sustainability becomes
increasingly important, East Riding Sacks
continues to lead the transition from plastic
to paper packaging. The company uses
premium sack kraft paper, primarily sourced
from Scandinavian mills that manage forests
responsibly, ensuring growth exceeds harvesting.
Almost all paper used is fully recyclable and
decomposes far faster than plastic, helping
customers reduce their environmental impact.
All sacks are manufactured to the highest
standards and are suitable for food products
including flour, rice, pasta, milk powder,
ingredients and potatoes. East Riding Sacks
holds internationally recognised certifications
such as BRC and ISO, providing customers with
confidence in compliance and quality.
Significant investment in modern infrastructure
includes high-speed conversion lines, automatic
palletisation and advanced printing lines capable
of up to eight colours – capabilities recently recognised
with a Gold Award at the FIA UK 2025 Awards.
Excitingly, East Riding Sacks now offers
SOS bags, expanding its product range to
include smaller-format paper bags, alongside
greaseproof paper options for products requiring
added protection. With its own UK transport fleet,
East Riding Sacks ensures fast, efficient delivery
nationwide.
T 01759 486446
sales@eastridingsacks.co.uk
https://www.eastridingsacks.com
Fleet & Logistics Management News
Eram Group selects
Dematic to automate
new distribution centre
As a critical part of
its overall strategy to
optimise and modernise
a large portion of its B2B
and B2C storage and
distribution operations,
Eram Group’s Fashion
division has selected
Dematic to automate
the company’s new
distribution centre in
Chemillé-en-Anjou
in the department of
Main-et-Loire.
The family-owned company,
based in France and operating
internationally, wants to consolidate
the flows of its footwear activities for
its various brands, including Gémo,
Eram, Bocage and Mellow Yellow in
its new facility covering more than
40,000 square metres in the
Loire Valley region.
“Dematic has demonstrated its
strong expertise when it comes
to delivering solutions featuring
AutoStore systems and has also
clearly shown us the benefits from
Dematic and its fellow KION Group
brands,” explains Jean-Louis Borde,
the director of logistics activities for
Eram Group. In fact, a decisive factor
in selecting Dematic’s solution over
other proposals was the compact
design of the AutoStore system to
be integrated into the new centre.
The solution offers more space for
the same surface area and can be
expanded in future if the need arises.
The project is now underway and
scheduled to be completed and ready
for commissioning in Q4 2026.
For more information about
Dematic, please visit: dematic.com
or follow us on: LinkedIn, Facebook,
and Instagram.
Full charge: Patika
and Wiferion enable
flexibility and agility in
modern intralogistics
More orders, fewer staff: more
and more production and logistics
companies are turning to automation
to meet the current challenges of
the market. Mechanical engineering
companies offer a broad portfolio
of solutions, but a coherent overall
package is crucial for efficient
warehouse processes. Patika Robotics
offers a new, innovative generation of
automotive transport robots – which
the Turkish company combines with
Wiferion‘s inductive charging solution to
create a powerful complete solution.
There are many methods for
maximizing a company‘s profits. In
Turkey, five tech-savvy friends saw
one solution in particular: intelligent
robots. Driven by a shared passion,
they founded Patika Robotics in 2018
and developed their first autonomous
vehicle. Six years later, the company,
headquartered in Istanbul, Turkey,
has grown to 15 employees and
is leading a new generation of
autonomous mobile robots (AMR)
with a payload capacity of up to 4
tons for use in the automotive, textile,
energy storage and metal industries.
As a new in-house supplier to a
major German corporation, Patika
Robotics has opened a second
production site in Germany in addition
to its plant in Sakarya, Turkey: The
company‘s European customers are
now supplied from the service and
production centre in Neuwied. They
receive a high-performance dual
package that combines an intelligent
transport system with an efficient
charging structure. The co-operation
between Patika and Wiferion shows
how promising a common innovative
denominator can be.
Please visit:
https://www.wiferion.com/en
18
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Fleet & Logistics Management
DANGEROUS GOODS TRAINING COURSES
AND CONSULTANCY SERVICES
A leading provider of Dangerous Good Training Courses (Hazmat)
Our aim is to provide interactive Dangerous
Goods Training Courses that builds confidence
in new skills and knowledge in all attendees.
We support businesses to stay in front of the
regulations as the world of logistics, shipping
and dangerous good changes, to ensure
that compliance is the key to controlled and
effective supply chains.
Educating our students to high standards within
the dangerous goods (hazmat) industry giving
you the confidence to conduct your job to the
best of your ability.
Carriage of
Dangerous
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Training Courses
Carriage of
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Training Courses
Carriage of
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Please visit www.logicomhub.com or
call 0330 912 5041 /01608 692177
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Packaging, Warehouse & Logistics News
Shaping the future
of material handling
together
Jungheinrich and EP
Equipment have agreed
on a strategic partnership
under the motto ‘Shaping
the future of material
handling together.’
This collaboration aims
to deliver significant
benefits to customers
worldwide by combining
the strengths of both
companies to enhance
efficiency, productivity,
and sustainability
in material handling
operations globally.
Enhancing product offering
Leveraging their combined expertise,
Jungheinrich and EP Equipment
will focus on customer-centric and
innovative industrial trucks, making
both parties more competitive in
their product offerings. As a starting
point EP Equipment will support the
portfolio extension of Jungheinrich
with its new Mid-Tech brand ‘AntOn
by Jungheinrich,’ focussing on electric
counterbalance and warehouse trucks.
With parallel histories and a shared
focus on electric material handling
Do it yourself
For the first time ever, Carlsberg
Bulgaria is canning its beer
itself – thanks to the use of
proven technology and KHS’
comprehensive service.
The making of beer has tradition
here: in 1882, brewer Franz Milde
opened what’s now one of
Bulgaria’s oldest breweries in the
city of Shumen in the east of the
country. Nationalised in 1944,
Shumensko Pivo, as the company
called itself, produced around
350,000 hectoliters of beer per year
in the 1960s – in part with the aid of
a filling system imported from the
former German Democratic Republic.
Re-privatised in 1999, Shumensko
became part of the Carlsberg Group
in 2002 – together with Pirinsko
Pivo, which was established in 1967.
Based in Blagoevgrad near the
border with North Macedonia and
Greece, this company was already
brewing around 400,000 hectoliters
of beer per year by 1980.
equipment, both companies have, over
the last decades, driven innovation and
thereby changed the industry.
Combined strengths delivering
superior value to customers
EP Equipment is a leading player in
lithium-ion-based material handling
trucks, shaping the future of the
industry through innovative solutions
with a clear focus on green energy.
EP is active through a global dealer
network servicing customers all
around the world.
Please visit:
https://www.jungheinrich.com/en
More than the sum of its parts
In 2004, the two entities merged
under the name of Carlsberg
Bulgaria to create one of the
country’s leading beverage
companies. Today, the two sites
jointly fill well over two million
hectoliters of beer per year. This
output includes the two local
traditional beers Pirinsko, the
leader on the domestic market, and
Shumensko, the country’s third
most popular beer. The international
portfolio also includes the Danish
premium brand Tuborg, Žatecký,
which is brewed with Czech hops,
as well as 1664 Blanc, Budweiser,
Erdinger and Grimbergen, which the
company distributes. Somersby
Cider and the mixed beer beverage
Garage round off the diverse range.
Please visit:
https://www.khs.com or
https://carlsbergbulgaria.bg
Bottling business
toasts new floor
Kemtile, a division of Stonhard, has
delivered a ‘single-source’ drainage
and flooring solution for Thomas
Hardy Group, a family-owned
bottling and packaging business.
The company has production
facilities both in Warrington and
Kendal, where they package beers,
ciders, soft drinks, juices and tonic
water for a number of blue-chip
companies.
A multi-national brewing business
referred Kemtile to Thomas
Hardy Group, referencing their
experience with Kemtile delivering
‘fit for purpose’ drAainage and
flooring solutions on their sites
and complimenting their quality of
materials, workmanship, and overall
professionalism.
Kemtile was briefed by the Thomas
Hardy Engineering team to provide a
hard-wearing flooring solution suitable
for use on their new canning line.
The line was to be installed at their
Warrington site, and the new floors
provided an all-important hygienic
finish that is hard-wearing, easy to
clean and would help to impress
future clients of Thomas Hardy.
The Kemtile team successfully
completed the work over three
months including the installation of
1,200m 2 of Stonhard’s Stonclad UR
and Stonclad UF systems. Stonclad
UR and UF are both heavy-duty
polyurethane flooring systems
specifically designed to provide
high levels of hygiene and chemical
resistance to product spillages and
caustic cleaning solutions. These
flooring systems also have HACCP
accreditation, reinforcing their
suitability for environments where
safety is a priority.
For more information, please visit:
https://kemtile.co.uk
The underestimated
role of energy supply
in intralogistics
Automation in intralogistics has
developed rapidly in recent years. More
and more companies are relying on
autonomous mobile robots (AMR)
and driverless transport systems
(AGV) to leverage efficiency potential.
Processes are becoming more flexible,
material flows optimised and manual
work reduced. In theory, this means
continuous availability and maximum
productivity. But in practice, an
unforeseen hurdle quickly becomes
apparent: The energy supply.
While investments in automation
are usually aimed at increasing
throughput, the way in which robots
are charged often leads to unexpected
bottlenecks. Charging breaks mean
downtime, charging zones take up
valuable space and when fleets of
different manufacturers are used, the
infrastructure becomes increasingly
complex. “Many companies initially
underestimate the impact that the
charging strategy has on the efficiency of
their automation,” explains Julian Seume,
Director Wiferion – a PULS business unit.
“It’s not just about supplying the robots
with energy – the way in which they are
charged determines how smoothly and
economically an entire material flow
functions.”
Downtime and space consumption:
an often overlooked cost factor in
intralogistics
If companies only realise during
operation how strongly charging
processes influence the efficiency of
their AMR fleets it is already too late.
Conventional charging concepts rely
on vehicles moving to charging zones
independently after a certain operating
time and remaining there for a longer
period of time. This results in idle times
that are often not fully included in the
original planning. It becomes particularly
problematic in highly frequented
environments, such as in e-commerce
or in production logistics, where delays
can quickly affect the entire supply chain.
Please visit:
https://www.wiferion.com
20
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Recommended Supplier Directory
The leading UK suppliers of Security Cages
Our multi-purpose storage cages are of modular
design, allowing for easy DIY construction and incredibly
flexible usage. Equally at home either inside or outside
the warehouse and are designed to protect goods, gas
bottles or chemicals against vandalism and theft. We
offer a range of mobile security cages with wheels, as
well as fixed static cages all available from stock. Our
product ranges are suitable for everyone from Schools.
Stakrak Limited is a successful B2B market leading
Industrial Supply Company.
We supply Materials Storage Solutions to
businesses & workplaces throughout the UK.
With over 40 years of experience and with our in-house
technical design & CAD Teams for Mesh & Partitioning
enquiries, we are ready to fulfil all your requirements.
Gas Cage Direct strives to provide high quality
information and market leading products relating to
the safe handling and storage of gas.
Almost all of our cages and trolleys are hand made
here in the UK and are manufactured to the highest
standard with either a protective powder coat or
galvanised finish. Supplied flat-packed to your door
ready for easy construction.
With over four decades of expertise in
manufacturing and distributing industrial and
commercial electric vehicles, Bradshaw Electric
Vehicles stands as one of the market’s most
experienced and trusted providers.
Bradshaw EV offers a comprehensive range
of vehicles and serves as Club Car’s leading
dealership and Goupil’s exclusive UK distributor.
From its beginnings in 1962, the family run
enterprise has become the world leader in
machines and materials for the production
and decoration of cylindrical hollow bodies –
a success story!
Hinterkopf continues to set new standards in the
production and decoration of tubes, cans and
sleeves made of aluminium or plastic.
At Bartec Paper & Packaging, we are
committed to sustainability and reducing our
environmental impact. We actively seek out
eco-friendly materials and production methods,
and work with our customers to find sustainable
packaging solutions that meet their needs. We
also prioritise responsible waste management
and strive to minimise our carbon footprint
throughout our operations.
Gas Cage Direct strives to provide high quality
information and market leading products relating to
the safe handling and storage of gas.
Almost all of our cages and trolleys are hand made
here in the UK and are manufactured to the highest
standard with either a protective powder coat or
galvanised finish. Supplied flat-packed to your door
ready for easy construction.
Managing Sustainable Packaging
A family owned independent business, we
manufacture sustainable, recycleable rigid plastic
food-grade packaging solutions.
PFF strives to achieve service excellence in all
areas of our business despite higher haulage
charges, spiralling energy costs and the continuing
knock-on effect of Brexit on imported goods.
Your Partner in Packaging
As the global leader in packaging automation,
Packsize empowers businesses to transform their
packaging processes while driving operational
efficiency and reducing their environmental impact.
Packsize creates and maintains more efficient and
sustainable packaging process flows from packing
to unboxing.
OnRobot was founded in 2018 with the mission of
breaking down automation barriers and bringing the
benefits of robotic automation to manufacturers of all
sizes. Headquartered in Odense, Denmark, and with
offices spread across the globe, OnRobot is the world’s
leading provider of hardware and software solutions for
collaborative applications. All offerings are based on the
same ‘One System, Zero Complexity’ platform, delivering a
unified experience across all major robot brands.
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