SMYTHS Toys has implemented Sparck Technologies’ right-size auto-boxing systems to boost throughput for its e-commerce business.
The retailer has installed three Sparck CVP machines at its distribution centre in Corby, Northamptonshire.
Sparck Technologies has provided Smyths with three of its ‘fit-to-size’ CVP packaging systems – two CVP Impack machines, each capable of forming and sealing up to 500 tailor-made cardboard boxes per hour, along with its latest high-capacity model, the CVP Everest, which can create up to 1,100 right-sized boxes every hour.
Smyths Toys has over 100 stores across the UK and a website offering a range of toys for all ages.
The introduction of the CVP auto-boxing machines is said to form part of a major investment into warehouse automation at the Corby fulfilment centre, aimed at increasing capacity and improving sustainability. The move will see over 70% of orders packed automatically by Sparck’s CVP machines.
Stephen Kearney, warehouse manager at Smyths Toys, said, “We believe in automation and have invested in advanced technologies where we can see it will bring significant results. We needed to increase throughput for our fast-growing online business and the most obvious means of achieving the performance required, particularly for peak, was to leverage the speed and efficiency of right-size packaging technology.
“Importantly, these packaging systems are highly flexible, capable of producing tailor-made packages at speed, whilst being able to cater for single or multi-item orders with differing product profiles. We could also see how fit-to-size packaging would help us further improve our position on sustainability through optimising package size and removing the need for void fill. Sparck’s CVP technology offered us the flexible solution that we were looking for.”
To optimise throughput and minimise waste all three machines feature dual induct stations and double corrugate feeders for 600mm and 800mm card. Paper tape is used for sealing packages, aiding the recycling of cardboard.
Jo Bradley, business development manager for Sparck Technologies in the UK, added, “We are delighted to be working with one of Europe’s most respected toy retailers and we look forward to developing a close partnership with Smyths Toys, supporting its growth objectives for the future.”
