Looking across all the categories within the beverage industry, observations showcase that the slogan marketers frequently use, “packaging sells,” might be a reality. The validity is not being challenged; however, the package array on the shelves in most retail outlets indicates that packages, containers, closures and even labels are going through frequent changes at some phase in the supply chain.
An increasing number of SKUs, changing packaging formats and sizes, and a growing interest in personalization are driving a constant need for faster production. Labeling equipment is one area that has felt the pressure from these trends, and the industry continues to innovate to provide beverage manufacturers with the fastest, most flexible machinery, experts say.
As speed and efficiency become increasingly important in warehouse operations, the use of automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and other autonomous vehicles continue to proliferate.
Equipment suppliers continue to release new innovations in packaging. Douglas Machine Inc. offers a robotic TriVex Sl/Sli top load case packer, while Standard-Knapp Inc. unveiled its new packaging machine for the craft beer industry.
Summit Brewing Co., St. Paul, Minn., has served both craft beer and its community since 1986. To Summit, it’s not just a priority to brew fine, hand-crafted beer, but also to give back to the community that has supported it throughout the years. The company feels that great beer is even better when it’s shared with family and friends.
Wilkens-Anderson Co. offers its WACO Accuseam 2000 as part of its line of can quality control equipment, which is designed to improve speed and accuracy while eliminating human error and misinterpretation, the company says.
The maintenance function in beverage facilities is, and always will be, a major contributor to success and profitability. The operational activities within the entire beverage supply chain, from processing raw materials to finished product delivery, usually require the maintenance function to perform effectively, efficiently and economically at the highest possible levels.
Whether planning an expansion or a new facility, the ever-evolving beverage industry necessitates that those involved evolve with it. With trends like SKU proliferation and sustainability impacting the overall beverage industry, a slew of decisions need to be made when planning construction.
Technological changes in beverage processes, machinery and manufacturing methods constantly are evolving into new or different designs, improved methods and procedures, faster and more flexible configurations, cost-effective projects, and in response to consumer preferences or agency regulations.