Pope Packaging completes Adelaide facility expansion

Australian packaging products manufacturer Pope Packaging has announced it has completed a major expansion of its paper sack manufacturing facility in South Australia, the largest single project undertaken in the company’s 70-year history.

This major local manufacturing investment builds on its existing Windmöller & Hölscher (W&H) equipment. Printing capacity has doubled, while converting capacity has increased by 50%. The facility upgrade also brings new technology, additional warehousing and greater manufacturing flexibility.

The company says that for its Australian and New Zealand customers the expansion means shorter lead times, increased safety stock and lower working capital holding costs, and significantly reduces supply chain risk. CEO and Chairman Craig Elkington said security of supply was a major reason behind the investment.

“With our increased production capacity and footprint, Pope’s now offers unmatched security of supply, especially when compared to import alternatives,” he said.

The expanded operation also brings production and warehousing together on one site. Advanced warehousing software provides greater visibility and accuracy throughout the process.

The production expansion also introduces new manufacturing capabilities, including 8-colour printing, digital pasting technology and inner patch capability. Inner patch technology opens opportunities for products previously unavailable in the Australian and New Zealand market. Paper Sacks Australia’s General Manager Matt Sullivan said local access to advanced manufacturing was a key benefit.

“What excites me most is being able to offer our customers world-class capability, right here in Adelaide,” he said.

The new Miraflex II can print photo-like, 8-colour images at more than 1000 bags per minute. W&H RUBY also provides 24-hour visibility across connected equipment. This helps improve efficiency, reduce costs and continually improve performance.

Image credit: Pope Packaging