Variable UK Market For Stretch Wrapping Machines

Aetna UK believes that there is still a marked difference in the fortunes of fully automatic and semi-automatic stretch wrapping machines in the UK marketplace.

Aetna UK believes that there is still a marked difference in the fortunes of fully automatic and semi-automatic stretch wrapping machines in the UK marketplace.

The fully automatic and pallet handling systems segment remains relatively quiet but there are regular orders being received from existing customers putting in new production lines and upgrading.

There is little growth over the previous year but new investment is generally scarce in the area of automatic pallet wrapping and handling systems.

However, the company added that the good news is that many proposals are being put on hold rather than cancelled, so there is a strong feeling that the second half of 2005 will see a greater level of activity.

Interest continues in the automatic placing of corner protection pieces, which are now being seen as the answer to the corner damage that is experienced when using carton multipacks or lower quality corrugated outers, which are delivered directly in to store.

There is further market pressure to wrap faster with the continuing introduction of dollies and the need to wrap, in some cases, at double the speed, added the company.

There is a continuing need to achieve optimum wrapping combined with the minimum use of film.

In that respect, it is Aetna's opinion that the market is coming to recognise the key nature of the pallet stretch wrapper and its importance for minimising film costs and reducing product damage, whilst improving load retention.

Aetna said it is interesting that the semi automatic segment of the market continues to behave in a very different manner.

With sales over the previous year some 20 per cent up, the company is still being kept busy keeping pace with demand.

The company said that it believes the continued growth in the semi-automatic market is still being driven through changing trends in UK warehouse and distribution methods.

However, it is also believed that with the squeeze on major investments, companies are finding it easier to purchase semi-auto units through existing budgets rather than have to go to board for approval.

Aetna believes that momentum will be maintained through the remainder of 2005 and expect at least a real growth of 10 per cent by year-end.

During the year, Aetna will demonstrate the Robopac range of machinery at various industry-specific exhibitions including Drinktec 2005 and the PPMA Show.

Aetna's managing director Mark Tucker said: "We have found over the years that national and international vertical shows produce a really positive return on investment.

They provide us with an excellent showcase for our products and we will continue to exhibit throughout 2005." Apart from demonstrating the range of products from the Aetna Group companies, (including the new Dimac Planet shrink wrap-around case packer), Drinktec 2005 will also see the unveiling of the new Robopac Genesis Futura pallet wrapper.

That system has been designed through market demand, said the company and it is proving popular with customers needing a machine offering lower speeds of between 45 and 60 pallets an hour, with top sheet.

Aetna said that with the Robopac Genesis already well established at the higher speed end of the market, that competitively priced stretchwrapper will bring the undoubted benefits of 'ring' technology to a broader marketplace.

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