GRAPHIC Packaging International is set to unveil ClipCombo, described as combining ‘multiple’ packaging solutions over a modular machinery system, at this year’s drinktec exhibition in Munich, Germany.
The innovation has been tipped to be welcomed by beverage manufacturers, as the market ‘increasingly leans’ towards optimised, fibre-based packaging solutions, the firm revealed.
Graphic Packaging added that ClipCombo offers producers the ability to run multiple fibre-based multipack styles across the same machine.
Machine options are available for either cans or PET bottles, offering multiple combinations, including: KeelClip plus EnviroClip clips for can multipacks; GripClip plus EnviroClip clips for can multipacks; and Cap-It plus EnviroClip clips for PET bottle multipacks.
Boasting speeds of up to 400 packs per minute (dependent on application) and ‘rapid changeovers’, Graphic Packaging revealed that ClipCombo allows customers to differentiate between brands and position premium or standard options.
Doug Hicks, VP of the packaging machinery division at Graphic Packaging, said, “We know many of our customers take their sustainability goals seriously, as do we. We also know that markets change and there is a need to future-proof machine system choices.
“That’s why we’re delighted to reveal the ClipCombo concept, a game-changing machinery philosophy that enables customers to select from a wide range of existing and new packaging options as well as container and configuration choices. Packers can combine products over a single machinery system, and be confident they have the options needed as the market evolves.
“ClipCombo is the ultimate solution to optimise multipack throughput. It gives producers the flexibility to run premium and standard pack styles on the same machine and switch between them quickly and efficiently. At a time when labour and space come at a premium, this approach reduces the need for both.”
Graphic Packaging added that ClipCombo technology lowers capital investment for beverage packers as it eliminates the need for several installs. This, the company explained, frees up factory space and reduces the number of operators required.
Doug Hicks added, “ClipCombo further increases the speed, scale and flexibility of our clip-style multipack solutions. The modern market demands sustainable packaging, flexibility and quality, and ClipCombo delivers. We believe it’s the perfect machine solution for the current and future needs of our beverage customers, and we can’t wait to welcome them to our booth to demonstrate the benefits.”
