David Hicklin, Antalis technical sales manager – packaging systems, looks at how stretch wrapping is under greater scrutiny as packaging companies search for meaningful cost savings and operational efficiencies
AT Antalis Packaging, true optimisation is not about simply reducing film usage. It is about applying the right film, in the right way, with the right equipment to deliver consistent, measurable stretch performance.
This philosophy underpins Antalis Packaging’s free stretchCONSULT audit, a structured approach designed to identify inefficiencies, challenge assumptions, and unlock improvements across the entire stretch wrapping operation. In a market where margins are tightening, this kind of informed, data-driven approach is becoming essential rather than optional.
Moving beyond cost per tonne
For many organisations, stretch film procurement is still driven primarily by price per tonne. While this may appear logical, it often leads to unintended consequences. A lower-cost film that underperforms can result in higher overall usage, increased product damage, and reduced operational efficiency.
The more meaningful metric is not what the film costs to buy, but what it costs to use. This includes factors such as containment performance, consistency of application, waste, and the impact on downstream logistics.
Antalis’ stretchCONSULT encourages businesses to rethink this perspective. By shifting the focus away from price, companies can work with us at Antalis to uncover hidden inefficiencies and identify opportunities for improvement that might otherwise go unnoticed.
A holistic view of the operation
One of the defining strengths of the stretchCONSULT approach is its collaborative and holistic nature. Rather than focusing on a single element of the process, Antalis works with clients to consider the entire wrapping operation.
The process begins with us speaking to our client to really understand the challenges. These may include issues such as load instability, transit damage, inconsistent wrapping, or concerns around material consumption. From there, we often look at the load itself. Every pallet presents its own set of variables, from product type and weight distribution to transport conditions and handling requirements.
By building a complete picture of the operation, Antalis can provide recommendations built in real conditions rather than assumptions. Furthermore, we will often complete the testing in front of the customer, gathering data and any insights we can consider and determine together.
When the problem isn’t the film
A common misconception in stretch wrapping is that performance issues are always linked to the film itself; in fact, the wrapping equipment can be the root cause. It is not uncommon to find machines that are incorrectly set up, insufficiently maintained, or not being used to their full capability. Pre-stretch settings, tension control, and wrap patterns all affect how effectively film is applied. Sometimes the film is actually a good fit, but it’s the machine that’s not working to the best of its ability.
At Antalis, we’re always honest with customers. If there isn’t an issue with the film, we’ll say so. It may be a machine adjustment or service that will help them get the most out of their setup. Sometimes everything is working at 100%, and we will reassure the customer of this!
This level of transparency is central to the stretchCONSULT approach. The objective is not to make change for its own sake, but to ensure that every part of the system is working as efficiently as possible.
The right film
Film selection remains a key part of the optimisation process. However, the goal may not simply be to reduce micron or use less material. It is to identify the film that delivers the best performance for the specific application. In some cases, this may involve switching to a lighter film that offers improved yield without compromising strength. In others, a slightly thicker film may be recommended to reduce the number of wraps required or improve the containment.
The relationship between film, load, and machine is complex, and small changes can have a significant impact. Testing and evaluating different options, ensures that the chosen solution is both efficient and reliable.
Balancing performance and sustainability
Sustainability is now a consideration in packaging decisions, particularly with the introduction of the UK Plastic Packaging Tax and increasing pressure to incorporate recycled content. Films containing 30% recycled material are increasingly used, offering clear environmental advantages and reducing tax. However, performance cannot be overlooked. A film that fails to deliver the required stretch or containment can lead to increased usage, reducing its sustainability benefits.
In some applications, virgin film provides superior performance in terms of stretch, consistency, and yield and can represent a more effective and functional solution. The key is to strike the right balance between tax implications and film cost efficiency, ensuring that the selected film delivers calculated benefits.
Complete solutions, backed by expertise
Antalis Packaging offers a comprehensive range of stretch films to suit every application. This includes options containing 30% recycled content, as well as virgin films typically ranging from 10 to 23 micron. Beyond materials, Antalis offers a full portfolio of stretch-wrapping machinery. From core break machines at budget entry level, ideal for low throughput operations, through to advanced power pre-stretch systems designed to maximise film yield in high-volume environments, all supported by Antalis’ UK service teams who can advise on set up, installation and servicing.
From insight to impact: delivering measurable stretch film savings
The stretchCONSULT service is available across the UK and offers customers the opportunity to take a fully informed, expert-led approach to stretch wrapping. At its core, stretchCONSULT is about replacing assumptions with evidence and turning insight into action.
The results speak for themselves – Antalis is already working with customers across a wide range of industries to reduce stretch film usage by typically 30–50%, while improving load stability and reducing damage in transit.
Now more than ever, efficiency in stretch wrapping is not just desirable. It is essential.
