Innovation funding helps packaging manufacturer cut plastic waste by 20%
A Barnsley-based manufacturer hopes to grab an extra slice of the packaging market after securing support from the South Yorkshire Business Productivity Programme to build a new lab facility.
Flexpak UK has used the match funded grant to help it pioneer an ultra-thin form of recyclable plastic film that is half the thickness of a human hair.
It will help to reduce the amount of plastic packing used to preserve the life of fresh produce, as well as preventing single-use plastics from being sent to landfill sites.
Responsible for manufacturing over 20 million bread bags each month, as well as supplying packaging to the catering and pharmaceutical industries, the Wombwell business recognised that development of a thinner film could not only reduce the amount of plastic used in the manufacturing process but could also result in cost savings for customers.
To bring the new product to market, Flexpak needed to upgrade key equipment within its testing facility, allowing the strength, friction and durability of the new film to be accurately analysed.
The company approached the South Yorkshire Business Productivity Programme to help secure funds to purchase the equipment needed to accurately assess the strength, durability and friction of the film, allowing the product to be integrated into the manufacturing process.
Working with key account manager Paul Johnson, the company successfully secured a match funded grant.
Tom Rich, technical support manager, Flexpak UK, said: “Developing a lab facility in Barnsley was central to our future growth plans.
“The equipment we purchased will enable us to bring new products to market more quickly, while also helping us to have a positive impact on the environment.
“Without the help we’ve received from the Business Productivity Programme, it’s likely that it would have taken us several years to perfect the new range.
“As a direct result of the investment we’ve received, we’re hoping to see our workforce in Barnsley increase to 15 members of staff, as well as reducing the amount of plastic being used by as much as 20%.”
Johnson said: “Innovation is the lifeblood of many businesses, and Flexpak realised that to bring its ultra-thin film range to market, it was essential to ensure it could match the performance of existing products available. To achieve this, the accuracy of the testing results was vital.
“The funds provided by the Business Productivity Programme will help Flexpak to bring its products to market more quickly.
“The lab facility will also help the business continue undertaking vital research and development work in bringing new and innovative products to market in the future.”
