FOLDING carton specialist Graphic Packaging International (GPI) has announced an investment in a new beverage packaging development centre at the firm’s Bristol plant.
GPI said the facility, known as the ‘Hub’, will act as a central point for “structural and graphic design excellence” and will coordinate with the existing regional resource base.
Steve Gould, GPI innovation and development manager explained, “The idea behind the ‘Hub’ is three-fold: to develop a centre of excellence, aligned with both packaging machinery and marketing; to act as a central point to support and coordinate our regional resources; and above all, to offer a facility where our customers can participate in and inspire new product development.
“For GPI, the key to success is promoting an integrated approach which combines all disciplines. From graphics and constructional design to marketing and engineering, everyone makes a valuable contribution to beverage packaging development and the new Bristol centre will help to nurture these synergies.”
GPI said it has introduced “advanced communications facilities” to improve inter-site collaboration and also equipped the centre with the latest graphics, 3D design and digital rendering tools. Other investments include a large format digital printer.
Steve added, “Our aim is to offer customers the opportunity to discuss and develop new concepts and ideas from a structural and graphical perspective. We will guide the developments using our experience and knowledge and help ensure concepts and ideas are turned into cost effective and technically viable solutions.”
