FORTRESS Technology has unveiled its new ‘support-on-your-terms’ service packages at PPMA Show.
The initiative is designed to help eliminate machinery downtime and rescue food processors from production disruptions, in the ‘simplest, most supportive and cost-effective’ way.
Fortress explained each element of the programme has been devised to extend the lifespan of its metal detection, x-ray and checkweighing range by keeping machines in peak condition and sharing tips with customers to optimise performance of their inspection equipment. The new three-tiered training, support and maintenance packages hasbeen tipped to ‘virtually eliminate’ emergency call outs.
The packages offer different layers of support ranging from basic to comprehensive. This enables customers to define the individual level of cover on a machinery-by-machinery basis and pay for what is most beneficial for their inspection fleet and business needs.
Fortress service manager Chris Jones said, “Food processors will frequently have business-critical inspection equipment that run 24/7, year-round, supplemented by seasonal metal detectors or checkweighers that may not warrant a comprehensive support package. In creating these bundled packages, customers can now cherry-pick the level support they want for a specific piece of kit, including legacy Fortress machines.”
Fortress added that the new service contract and training packages are designed to boost resilience and help customers pre-empt potential failures.
“Well maintained equipment is less likely to break down,” Chris stated. “Resulting in increased uptime and much longer equipment working hours, fewer repair costs, and consequently, increased revenue.”
Manufacturers can select from three service contracts: Basic, Essential, and Comprehensive. Each contract provides at least one equipment validation/calibration visit. The Comprehensive contract also includes a preventative maintenance review to flag potential part failures. Every level includes a pre-paid priority breakdown callout by a Fortress engineering expert.
The Essential and Comprehensive contracts provide a 10% discount on all spare parts, as well as training to equip operators with technical knowledge, confidence and competency to troubleshoot issues and perform tasks ‘more safely and effectively’.
The new Fortress training packages follow a defined syllabus. This means every operative, quality manager and engineer is trained on-site, to the same level, using their equipment. At the end of each course, trainees are tested and certified.
Food processors can select the training level that suits their operational requirements, including Operator, Quality and Engineering. Discounts are available on the training bundles.
Fortress has also been highlighting its new technical support help desk. Providing immediate support from the moment a call is logged, customers can benefit from a new ticket system. Dedicated to getting things right from the start, the help desk’s main objective is to de-escalate stressful situations.
