ProAmpac Earns Finalist Nomination at PAC Global Awards 2025
ProAmpac, a leader in flexible packaging and material science, is proud to announce its ProActive Recyclable® RP-1000 Paper Series as a finalist in two categories at the prestigious PAC Global Awards 2025. These recognitions underscore ProAmpac’s dedication to advancing sustainable and technically sophisticated packaging solutions.
The company’s ProActive Recyclable® RP-1000 Paper Series, used in Marks & Spencer’s Select Farms Organic potato range, has earned nominations in the Sustainability and Technical Design categories. This solution combines a fully curbside recyclable paper structure with excellent seal performance to deliver a premium sustainable solution with vibrant printability.
“At ProAmpac, our customers are at the center of our product innovations,” said Hesam Tabatabaei, ProAmpac’s senior vice president, global product development and innovation. “These nominations highlight our dedication to the Fiberization of Packaging®, working closely with partners to develop fiber-based solutions that prioritize sustainability, technical performance, shelf appearance and brand impact. It’s an honor to see this effort recognized on a global stage.”
Combilift Scoops ‘Company of the Year’ at the 2024 Business & Finance Awards
Combilift, the global leader in material handling solutions, has been awarded Company of the Year at the prestigious Business & Finance Awards 2024, in association with KPMG Ireland. This remarkable achievement marks Combilift’s 9th major win in the last three months, solidifying its position as an industry leader.
The Company of the Year award, presented to Combilift’s CEO Martin McVicar by Seamus Hand from KPMG at the 50th Business & Finance Awards ceremony - held in Dublin, is a testament to the company’s significant impact on both the Irish economy and the global market. Combilift, with annual revenue exceeding €500 million, has continued to thrive with its exportfocused business model, with 98% of its operations serving inter national markets.
Since its founding in 1998, Combilift has built a global reputation as the largest manufacturer of multi-directional, articulated, and sideloading forklifts, as well as large material handling equipment such as straddle carriers, with over 85,000 units in operation across 85 countries. The company’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and research and development has been pivotal to its exceptional growth, making it a true leader in the material handling industry.
Martin McVicar, CEO of Combilift, said:
“This award reflects the bold vision and relentless drive that has been at the heart of Combilift since Robert Moffett and I started in 1998. Every forklift, every innovation, and every milestone reflects our commitment to pushing boundaries and transforming material handling worldwide. This moment belongs to our employees, our dealers, and our customers, who rely on us to deliver quality material handling solutions to optimise their warehouse space.”
Joining a Legacy of Excellence
Winning this award places Combilift among an elite group of previous winners, including industry giants Glen Dimplex, Kingspan, Primark, Google, and Intel. As a homegrown Irish business with a global footprint, this latest recognition serves as a powerful reminder of the company’s ongoing success and its critical role in shaping the future of the material handling industry.
The winners of the PAC Global Awards will be announced on February 4, 2025, at the Futures Edge Summit, held at the City Winery in New York City. A VIP networking mixer will precede the ceremony on February 3, 2025, providing a platform for industry leaders to connect and celebrate packaging excellence.
To learn more about Innovation and Material Science or ProActive Sustainability® offerings, contact Marketing@ ProAmpac.com or visit ProAmpac.com.
SGS responds to rise in
demand for
food exports to Qatar
According to official figures, food and beverage imports to Qatar have risen by nearly 15.8% in comparison with 2023 figures.
As a trusted partner of government and trade communities all over the world, this year has seen SGS support increasing numbers of global businesses to gain entry to Qatar’s competitive and prosperous market.
Ensuring products are safe and conform to relevant standards is key. To this end Qatar’s Ministry of Public Health – Food Safety Department (MoPH-FSD) implements its Conformity Assessment of Food Scheme which applies to a wide variety of food products, including:
• Meat and meat products
• Genetically modified ingredients and products (GMOs)
• Fresh fruit and vegetables • Seafood • Processed food • Dairy products
• Vegetable oil • Honey
Any business looking to import goods into Qatar must obtain a certificate of conformity (CoC) for them from an MoPH-FSD-approved certification body, such as SGS.
SGS supports businesses all over the world to gain market access by ensuring their products conform to Qatari technical standards. A one-stop-shop service provides customer-focused conformity assessment for a complete range of regulated food products. Through its global network of 2,600 offices and laboratories, SGS accelerates products’ time-to-market while ensuring quality and safety to reduce potential losses.
To obtain a certificate of conformity (CoC), exporters must provide their chosen certification body with a range of documents for the corresponding shipments. These include:
• WATEQ registration • Invoice/pro-forma invoice • Packing list
• Quality management system (QMS)
• Internal CoA (certificate of analysis/test reports) • Product label (artwork)
• Label inspection report
• Evidence that product samples are analyzed in an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory and show compliance with Qatari technical standards/Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) General Standard Organization requirements
All meat, meat products or products containing ingredients of animal origin must also supply a Halal certificate alongside the mandatory CoC. In addition, while products manufactured in countries of the GCC do not require mandatory CoC, food products re-exported will require a CoC.
To find out more visit https://www.sgs.com/en/services/qatar-pvoc-program-for-food
Kevin Hughes, Kenny Gilmour, Lisa Mc Crudden, Fintan Sherry, Ian Hyland, Martin McVicar, Seamus Hand, Patrick McMeel, Colin Gray, Donna Rutledge, Margaret Courtney & Peter Campbell
Trusted by professionals worldwide, Teknomek provides hygienic furniture and equipment tailored to the highest industry standards.
• High quality materials
• Innovative designs
• Bespoke and customised solutions
our website at teknomek.co.uk or call us on +44 (0)1603 249 663 today!
Tipples for Dry January | Lyre’s Non-Alcoholic Spirits
Lyre’s Non-Alcoholic Spirits, a pioneer in the alcohol-free beverage industry, is pleased to announce that 2025 marks its fourth consecutive year of being the Official Wine & Spirit of the Dry January® challenge by Alcohol Change UK.
Offering a carefully curated range of alcohol free classic spirits, ready-todrink options, and a sparkling wine alternative, Lyre’s provides an elevated drinking experience which is designed to captivate the senses and redefine the art of alcohol-free mixology.
Dry London Spirit, 700ml (£23.99) - Inspired by a classic Dry London Gin evoking notes of juniper and citrus.
American Malt, 700ml (£23.99) - A unique spirit curated to embody the essence of a gently mellowed American Classic Bourbon Malt.
Veganuary, Dry January or neither - Hampshire drinkers and diners have never had it so good
While some people across Hampshire are turning into temporary teetotal vegans for January, a restaurant and pub group in the south has decided to join them.
A growing number of people in the south are now regularly trying to turn the tide on the excesses of the festive season by observing Dry January and Veganuary to give them a healthy kick start to the year.
Now the chefs at Ideal Collection venues throughout the south - Kimbridge Barn near Romsey, Boathouse at Swanwick, The Bugle at Hamble, The White Horse in Otterbourne and The Boat House in Chichester Marina - have joined them.
Group Executive Chef Matt Whitfield has cooked up a special menu just for January that includes a combination of brand new tasty vegan dishes alongside some delicious meat alternatives so Veganuary fans and carnivores can still enjoy a night out together.
And the fixed price January special menu, called Dine with Cocktails and Wine, also includes a drink - cocktails, mocktails, beers, wines and alcoholfree alternatives as a nod to those staying dry for January.
Ideal Collection Managing Director Oliver Weeks said the January set menu was designed to deliver great value - £26.95 for two courses and £29.95 for three, including a first drink - as well as plenty of choice for those taking part in Dry January and Veganuary, and those who are not.
“January is a time when many people retreat indoors and yet mixing with friends, socialising and having a good time is always the best way to banish the winter blues. We hope this new initiative for January helps to tempt people back out to live a little and have fun.”
Classico Grande, 750ml (£9.00) - A sparkling wine alternative that tantalises the taste buds with crisp, fruity notes of green apple, pear, and peach.
For more information visit https://lyres.co.uk/
Generative AI Set to Be Pressing Priority for Food Manufacturers in 2025
The adoption of generative artificial intelligence (AI) within food production lines has been identified as one of the most pressing priorities for food manufacturers in 2025 by a leading weighing, packaging and inspection machinery specialist.
The insight comes from Ishida Europe, who are reporting a spike in interest in this field of technology, especially when it comes to quality control and improving performance in food manufacturing factories. Ian Hodgson, Systems General Manager at Ishida Europe and a team of experts from across the business have already begun responding to growing interest in the implementation of AI from those looking to combat rising energy costs, labour shortages and other supply chain issues.
Ian said: “We are speaking to food manufacturers every day, from global conglomerates through to start-ups, and almost everyone we have spoken to is interested in leveraging AI to help their business and food production lines to perform better.
“Reducing downtime, maximising throughput and improving OEE are especially high on food manufacturers’ agendas going into 2025. Generative AI is perfectly positioned to help with these goals. This form of AI is advancing rapidly and means food manufacturers can rely on software capable of automatically tapping into an ever-expanding knowledge base, feeding back on production issues, and potentially solving these issues without an operator’s intervention. Ultimately, this type of AI transforms a production monitoring system from one merely capable of identifying a fault with a piece of equipment, to a system that actively solves problems and prescribes optimisations in food factories.”
To bring this idea to life, Ishida Europe unveiled its new AI-enabled remote monitoring and production software, Sentinel 5.0 at this year’s Gulfood Manufacturing exhibition in Dubai.
Sentinel 5.0 leverages generative AI to offer predictive maintenance and troubleshooting solutions. The system’s AI-driven anomaly detection highlights issues, triggering the AI to offer solutions and detailed reports that assist operators proactively, before the issue becomes a bigger problem that may introduce potential downtime.
To find out more about Sentinel 5.0 and Ishida Europe, please visit https://www.ishidaeurope.com/en/products/reporting-software/ reporting-software/sentinel-5/
Harford End-to-End MIS/MES
Helping Manufacturers Eliminate Risk, Reduce Wastage & Improve E ciency
Are your modules spread across di erent systems, making integration di cult? Why not consolidate all your solutions into one system for seamless real-time insights?
Harford’s end-to-end MIS/MES system integrates risks, variables and e ciency constraints to deliver a comprehensive, real-time view of compliance, quality, yield and operational e ciency. This holistic approach ensures that all factors are considered, providing the most accurate insights into performance and enabling proactive management. Let’s see how Harford MIS/MES system can help:
Optimise Production Process with End-to-End MIS/MES
• Remove Paperwork
• Ensure Product Quality
• Reduce Wastage
• Optimise Filling Process
• Eliminate Risk
• Ensure Accurate Labelling
• Improve E ciency
• Drive Operational Excellence
Despatch ERP/SAP Integration
Raw Materials Request A Demo
New Year, New Opportunities.
All it takes is a fresh perspective to uncover growth opportunities within your production process. If you're ready to explore these possibilities, please contact us with your enquiries at info@harfordcontrol.com or give us a call on +44 (0)1225 764461.
How System Integration Can Unlock £14bn Growth for Food and Drink Manufacturers
An article By Roy Green, Harford Control Ltd. January 2025
A report released by Newton and Food and Drink Federation indicated that there’s a £14bn growth opportunity for UK food and drink manufacturing, which can be unlocked by productivity gains. Every £1 invested in food and drink manufacturing has generated £9 value to the wider economy over the last 20 years. Investing in automation and digital technology to prioritise productivity and growth has proven to help the food and drink manufacturing industry unlock growth opportunities.
However, it is complex to adopt new technologies effectively. There is a gap between digital enthusiasm and actual implementation. The maturity of new technologies adoption in different factories varies. We have seen some factories already install digital systems, but they turned these off eventually and went back to what they did before, often paper recording. Among these factories, we found that disconnected systems were one of the major challenges and the lack of operational buy-in was often the greatest inhibitor to progress.
The Hidden Cost of Disconnected Systems
Disconnected systems can create significant hurdles for manufacturers, impacting efficiency, quality, and profitability. During a recent visit to a bottling plant, the true cost of
disconnected systems was on full display. The factory relied on more than three different systems scattered across its operations.
As we walked through the factory, the disadvantages of disconnected systems became evident. For instance, if a batch failed to meet quality standards due to overfilling, underfilling or labelling errors, the team faced a major challenge. The labelling system logged batch numbers, the weighing system recorded product weights and the OEE system tracked machine performance. But these data points weren’t connected. Tracing the issue back to its root cause—whether it was a machine malfunction or an operator error—required hours of piecing together information from separate systems. The lack of integration slowed response times and made compliance with strict quality regulations far more difficult. By the time the information
was sufficiently mature to warrant action, it was too late and a new set of problems had become the priority.
By the time we finished our visit, the situation was clear: disconnected systems not only create inefficiencies but also amplify the risk of errors and slow down progress. For this factory—and many others like it—an integrated MIS/MES system was needed to bridge the gaps, streamline operations and bring their data into harmony, so that instant corrective actions could be taken, as appropriate.
Start with Scalable Solutions: From Quality to Efficiency
Convincing your finance team to invest in a full system can be challenging. A great way to start is by implementing one or two solutions first—but ensure you select a supplier that offers scalability and flexibility for seamless expansion into other modules, and has the knowledge and available manpower to support your teams in their transition.
At Harford Control, we always advocate a quality first approach. Begin by replacing paper-based systems with paperless solutions that provide instant, actionable data to enhance quality consistency and deliver real-time visibility. Focusing on quality is the fastest route to driving efficiency. With Harford’s end-to-end MIS/MES solutions, factories can easily scale into additional modules such as Autocoding, Vision Inspection, Weight Control, SPC, OEE, Energy Tracking, LIMS, Traceability and more.
Our end-to-end MIS/MES system ensures optimal quality, compliance, efficiency and yield, with robust flexibility and scalability. With over half a century of continuous development, our performance improvement systems keep us at the forefront of real-time factory floor cost effective improvement technology. No other company has created such a seamlessly integrated set of production modules, offering the most comprehensive view of factory performance. Let’s take a look at how we help our clients.
Fresh Product Business Case Study
One of our fresh produce clients faced significant challenges—they relied on paperbased recording and maintained a separate print room for labelling. This led to frequent batch rejections, reworks, wastages and unplanned downtime. They sought solutions to eliminate process rework, ensure quality, improve coding and labelling accuracy, and enhance operational efficiency while maintaining scalability for future business growth and development.
Harford worked closely with the client to plan and execute the project in three phases:
Phase 1: We installed Harford Autocoding solutions and removed their print room to improve label accuracy. This was replaced by end-of-line Print & Apply printers on each line. By tracking all materials from Goods-In to Despatch within the system, we ensured that only the correct origin information for any product was printed on the appropriate retail packaging. This eliminated coding and labelling errors and guaranteed full compliance with retailer requirements.
Phase 2: We installed Harford Paperless solutions to ensure product quality and provide real-time actionable data. These
solutions enable operators to perform quality checks and record results, ensuring the technical team is always informed about product quality. Large screens display performance metrics, yield, and plan conformance, keeping all personnel aligned with operational goals.
Phase 3: We installed the Harford OEE system to identify and address production downtime using tools such as 5 Whys, Pareto Analysis, and Fishbone (Ishikawa) Diagrams. Live ‘Short Interval Control’ screens above production lines provide instant updates on key performance indicators and improvement opportunities, enhancing both operational efficiency and data accuracy.
From compliance and quality to efficiency and yield, we worked closely with the team, providing comprehensive training for both operators and managers. The scalability and flexibility of Harford’s end-to-end MIS/ MES support the fresh produce business in continuously achieving operational excellence.
Seize the £14bn Growth Opportunity
With a £14bn growth opportunity for the food and drink manufacturing sector, the potential for your business is immense. In 2025, we are ready to support more manufacturers on their journey to ensuring consistent quality, improving labelling accuracy, whilst driving production efficiency and yield. When you’re ready, please contact us at info@harfordcontrol.com or call us on +44 (0)1225 764461.
The Ice Cream & Artisan Food Show 2025: Bigger, Cooler, and Sweeter than Ever!
After 80 years of serving the finest scoops in the ice cream industry, The Ice Cream & Artisan Food Show is gearing up for its biggest year yet in 2025!
Taking place at a bigger venue in the Birmingham National Exhibition Centre on the 4th and 5th of February 2025, The Ice Cream Alliance’s flagship event promises to deliver a more vibrant, interactive and visually-captivating spin on their highly-anticipated annual trade show.
With top exhibitors in the ice cream industry, the show draws in crowds of global buyers, leading manufacturers, wholesalers, importers, parlours, restaurants and more, offering ice cream enthusiasts an unparalleled platform to explore the latest trends and innovations shaping the world of ice cream and artisan food.
For decades, The Ice Cream Alliance has been a cornerstone of the close-knit yet dynamic ice cream industry. Its annual show is a highlight of the calendar, offering invaluable networking opportunities and industry insights.
This year’s event takes it up a notch with immersive activities designed to educate, inspire and entertain. It’s a feast for the senses and a celebration of all things ice cream.
On this year’s show, Catherine McNeil, The Ice Cream Alliance’s Director of Operations, says, “As the only UK trade show dedicated solely to these markets, it’s an unparalleled opportunity for attendees to connect with top-tier brands, discover the latest products and technologies whilst gaining valuable insights from a dynamic line-up of speakers. Learn, innovate, and network with the best and be inspired at our Ice Cream and Artisan Food Show 2025”.
Although primarily a specialist trade event, it also welcomes both independent brand owners and ice cream enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned industry professional, a budding entrepreneur, or simply on the lookout for the next big thing in ice cream, this year’s event is not to be missed.
Register now for free and secure your spot at the ultimate destination for ice cream, gelato and artisan food professionals!
Register to attend here: https://bit.ly/ICAFS2025
Knowledge is power
Education and learning are hallmarks of Packaging Innovations events, with 2025 set to be a particularly useful event for all those with a thirst for knowledge.
To paraphrase Immanuel Kant, the 18th Century German philosopher and Enlightenment thinker, “All knowledge begins with the senses, proceeds to understanding, and ends with reason.”
In essence, knowledge is more than seeing, it’s a journey of deep thinking.
While Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 will tangibly realise the sentiment that seeing is believing, through the 400-plus exhibitors showing off their latest and greatest innovations, the thinking element of attending should not be overlooked. This is particularly true of 2025, given the legislation and updated regulations that the packaging industry must understand, comprehend and act on.
Education and learning are hallmarks of Packaging Innovations exhibitions and sister show London Packaging Week. At each event, a who’s who of renowned speakers address the most pressing topics of today and tomorrow across an industry-defining conference programme that has been thoughtfully curated.
2025 will be no different, with the likes of Google and McKinsey & Company presenting alongside big-name brand owners such as Kellanova and Reckitt. From designing a plastic-free future and the potential/limitations of fibre-based packaging, to regulatory updates and technology trends set to define the future of packaging, these discussions are sure to engage and inform attendees.
These speakers are interwoven with those from leading industry bodies and associations, such as the British Beauty Council, BCMPA, Confederation of Paper Industries, Foodservice Packaging Association, LARAC, Make UK and WRAP. Each of these brings a high degree of understanding of the marketplace and perspective on the current operating environment for packaging and manufacturing companies.
For example, reuse as the future of packaging will be the central thrust of the Foodservice Packaging Association’s presence. LARAC represents local authorities on recycling, waste and resource management and is to lead a discussion on circular models across the UK. As the voice of the contract packing, manufacturing, logistics and fulfilment sectors, BCMPA will explore how outsourcing for fulfilment can be a game-changer for both established brands and those looking to scale quickly. Make UK comes to the NEC ready to discuss why UK manufacturers need a coherent industrial strategy, now.
You can find the current speaker programme here https://www.packagingbirmingham.com/exhibitor/
Meet, learn, grow
As well as taking the opportunity to present on important topics, key industry bodies and knowledge partners are exhibiting alongside the machinery suppliers and packaging
manufacturers who will call Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 home for two days in February next year.
BPF – the British Plastics Federation – (A64) is the UK’s leading plastics trade association. With over 600 members from across the whole supply chain, including raw material manufacturers and suppliers, plastics processors, equipment manufacturers, recyclers and service providers, the industry body represents over 80% of the UK plastics industry by turnover. BPF resources include: a Carbon Footprint Tool, to help the UK plastics industry measure its corporate emission footprint; the Eco-Design Zone, for everything needed to create sustainable plastic products; Packscore, a free, quick and simple sustainable design tool; Recycling Locator, to confirm what can be recycled where; and PolymerJobs, a job board for the UK plastics industry.
OPRL (B74) is a not-for-profit organisation created to help consumers recycle more. It supports brands and retailers, as well as packaging manufacturers and suppliers, with expertise and guidance on recyclability so to determine the correct recycling label for packaging. OPRL offers a labelling tool that gives the ability to generate the correct labels as print-ready artwork and a new recyclability assessment tool confirms the recyclability of packaging and provides actionable advice for improvement.
A number of exhibiting companies offer consultancy services and compliance schemes directly linked to the environment and sustainability. Many of these put information at the fingertips of packaging companies, allowing them to make informed decisions and plan for a sustainable and circular future.
Ecosurety (F46) is a compliance scheme committed to accelerating change towards a sustainable world. It works to ensure members comply with the UK’s packaging regulations. The business has dedicated itself to improving recycling and facilitating the shift from single-use to reusable packaging. This is achieved by driving innovation on the ground, directly supporting new initiatives and instigating impactful cross-industry collaboration.
Similarly, Beyondly Global (C74) is an environmental compliance scheme and consultancy, which focuses on sharing knowledge with businesses to help them become more confident about their environmental choices – from meeting compliance obligations, excelling in managing environmental data, and achieving sustainability expectations. Beyondly’s service offering includes packaging EPR compliance, WEEE compliance, carbon management and life cycle assessments, and more.
CarbonQuote (B70) aims to empower businesses and their supply chains to take positive action for the planet. Working across the value chain – from procurement organisations and logistics to producers of raw materials
to baseline and build de-carbonisation plans using data from the ground-up, providing very precise and scientific calculations.
Aura Consultants (B72) is a packaging sustainability consultancy, committed to making a measurable difference every day. Its team of packaging sustainability experts combine consultancy and technology to deliver pioneering, sustainable packaging solutions. The company’s e-halo technology platform drives real-time decision-making using live accurate data to manage compliance and ensure alignment with global packaging legislation, while reducing impact on the environment.
CPI (C64) is an independent technology innovation centre and a founding member of the UK Government’s High Value Manufacturing Catapult, itself a strategic research and innovation hub for industry to help commercialise the UK’s most advanced manufacturing ideas. CPI aims to accelerate the development, scale-up and commercialisation of smart AgriFoodTech, energy storage, HealthTech, materials, and pharma innovations.
These examples highlight how Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 is the perfect event for those with a thirst for knowledge and need to learn about, as well as see, the tools and techniques available that will define the industry’s future.
Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 takes place 12 & 13 February next year at the NEC in Birmingham, UK.
The event is free to attend and registration is now open visit http://packagingbirmingham.com
Join the food & drink industry at IFE 2025
IFE, part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week, returns to Excel London on 17–19 March, packed with innovative new products, insightful discussions, and countless opportunities to network with industry peers.
For over 40 years, IFE has been a must-attend trade event for retailers, wholesalers, hospitality professionals, and more to discover the latest trends and products shaping the UK and international food & drink landscape. With its focus on innovation and quality, IFE continues to provide a vital platform for industry professionals to connect, collaborate, and share insights that drive their businesses forward.
With 14 exciting food & drink zones to explore, there’s something for every corner of the industry. From speciality foods to plant-based innovation, the event reflects the breadth and diversity of the sector. The Fresh Produce Section, hosted in partnership with the Fresh Produce Consortium, is set to expand further in 2025, bringing even more products to discover. Whether you’re seeking to diversify your offering or enhance your supply chain, the section promises a rich variety of high-quality produce to explore.
Another highlight of the show is the Startup Market, a dynamic space dedicated to showcasing up-and-coming businesses and inspiring food & drink entrepreneurs. Here, visitors will discover ground-breaking ideas, unique flavours, and cutting-edge solutions from some of the most exciting emerging brands in the industry.
The Speciality Food, Chilled & Frozen, and Vegan & Plant-Based sections will highlight some of the key trends driving consumer purchasing behaviour, including sustainability, health, and dietary diversity. These sections are invaluable for retailers and foodservice professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve in catering to evolving customer demands and quickly and easily source in specific product categories.
This year’s event will also see the return of the New Products Tasting Theatre, where visitors can enjoy live product pitches from innovative startups, attend demos by quality producers, and hear from leading chefs and industry experts. This interactive space is perfect for buyers looking to sample the next big thing in food & drink and connect with the creative minds behind the products.
Alongside showcasing products from across the UK, IFE 2025 will provide a platform for international exhibitors from more than 45 countries, including Greece, Italy, Vietnam, South Korea, Kenya, Poland, and India. This global reach offers visitors the opportunity to source unique products and build valuable connections with suppliers worldwide.
On the Future Food Stage, industry leaders from retail, hospitality, and foodservice will share their expertise, providing deep dives into the trends, challenges, and opportunities facing the food & drink sector. From navigating supply chain challenges to uncovering invaluable consumer insights, this stage is a must-visit for anyone looking to gain actionable knowledge to futureproof their business.
Mark Thomson, Co-Founder of TRKR, reflected on his 2024 experience: “IFE is a must-attend event on the food & drink calendar. It’s a brilliant opportunity to meet suppliers from all over the world and taste many of the latest food & drink flavours and trends. In addition to this, there’s also the chance to hear all about the latest trends and insights from industry experts. What’s not to like!”
Another highlight of IFE 2025 will be the World Food Innovation Awards, held in partnership with FoodBev Media. These prestigious awards celebrate the creativity and ingenuity of brands that are reshaping the industry with groundbreaking products and solutions.
Uncover NPD insights at IFE Manufacturing
IFE’s sister event, IFE Manufacturing, is the ultimate business event for food & drink product development. Taking place alongside IFE, this show offers a unique opportunity for brand owners and manufacturers to source the latest packaging, ingredients, technology, and manufacturing solutions.
Attendees have praised the value of IFE Manufacturing in driving product innovation and networking with industry professionals.
David Ullah, National Account Manager at Riverside Foods, shared: “Thoroughly enjoyed myself, some great insight and even better I came away with loads of NPD ideas to entertain the production team!”
Hoi Yan Chan, Development Technologist at Bakkavor, added: “Participating in IFE Manufacturing proved to be an enlightening experience. It was truly inspiring to glean insights from industry leaders, making the event not only educational but also professionally enriching. Moreover, the opportunity to forge meaningful connections with fellow professionals added an invaluable dimension to my experience.”
The show’s Trends & Innovation Platform will feature talks and panel discussions on key topics such as AI in manufacturing, transitioning to net zero, navigating allergens and reformulation, and the role of contract manufacturing in the future of food. These sessions, led by industry experts and trend forecasters, are designed to provide actionable insights for businesses looking to innovate and thrive in an evolving market.
IFE Manufacturing will also be home to the Exporters Hub, a valuable resource for food & drink brands seeking to expand internationally. Visitors can gain practical advice, hear case studies from successful exporters, and learn how to navigate the challenges of entering global markets.
Another key feature of the event is the Certification Clinic, where organisations such as BRCGS, Halal Certification Organisation (HCO) UK, SALSA, Soil Association, Loop Certified, and RSPCA Assured will offer guidance on achieving essential industry certifications. This service provides businesses with the tools to build trust and credibility in their products.
IFE takes place alongside IFE Manufacturing, The Pub Show, HRC, and International Salon Culinaire as part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week. To find out more about everything happening at this year’s event, and to register for your complimentary trade ticket, visit ife.co.uk.
THE COUNTDOWN IS ON to MULTIMODAL 2025
Bringing together the supply chain and logistics community under one roof for three days for the 18th year running, Multimodal in 2025 will take place from 17th-19th June at Birmingham’s NEC.
Once again Multimodal will bring shippers and cargo owners to the free-to-attend show to improve their businesses by finding ways of moving their products more efficiently, more sustainably, and more cost effectively. Hosting every logistics sector, Multimodal offers a unique opportunity to make valuable face-to-face contact with new prospects and to network with existing suppliers.
Key vertical sectors attending include food and drink, perishables, FMCG, retail, manufacturing, agribusiness, chemical, automotive, electronics, fashion, pharmaceuticals, construction, aerospace, energy, real estate, recycling, paper and print.
The event in 2024 was the most successful to date, with a sell-out exhibition, record
visitor numbers and the most ever entries to its industry-leading Awards. Over the three days of the show, 307 exhibitors showcased their products and services to 13,003 visitors – an increase of 6% on the previous year. In addition, the coveted awards ceremony received over 250 entries, beating previous figures.
A fundamental element of Multimodal is the free to attend conference sessions, extremely relevant to the whole multimodal community along the theme of new regulations, collaborations within the industry, essential tools and guidelines, practical and innovative sustainable practices and wider topical industry issues. New sessions in 2025 will discuss the bigger picture regarding
refrigerated transport of goods at new temperature regulations for transporting food, focussing on the sustainability for all those involved particularly the goal of reducing emissions.
The conference programme is compiled in conjunction with the industry’s leading trade associations ensuring topics of importance to each genre are at the core of the discussions including Logistics UK, the Cold Chain Federation, the Rail Freight Group, The Chartered Institute of Transport and Logistics, the British International Freight Association, Institute of Export and International Trade, the United Kingdom Warehousing Association, and the Road Haulage Association to deliver content and insight in the conferences.
The Multimodal exhibition will include hundreds of companies showcasing the latest innovations in supply chain, including Malcolm Logistics, Kuehne+Nagel, Maersk, Freightliner, DP World, COSCO, Port of Tyne, Bristol Port Company, Swain Group, ONE, Maritime Transport, and Mediterranean Shipping Company.
By registering now for 2025 event, visitors can also look forward to networking with over 300 exhibiting companies and gaining knowledge from the conference sessions which span across four theatres. The Conference sessions feature presentations and discussion from Multimodal, Logistics UK, Cold Chain Federation, British International Freight Association, UK Warehousing Association, Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, Road Haulage Association, and the Chartered Institute of Export and International Trade.
Visitors can register to attend Multimodal via https://bit.ly/49xETgO
Multimodal will be hosting two networking events: the Multimodal Awards, on the 17th of June, and the Multimodal Mixer, which is free to attend to all participants, is on the
18th in the Hall which gives all attendees a chance for a relaxed mingle over drinks and nibbles.
The Multimodal Awards, which celebrate excellence in rail, road, air, maritime, and freight forwarding services are open for nominations until 28th March 2025 with voting for the Finalists opening from 7th April through to the 23rd May. The categories for nomination are Rail Freight Company, Road Freight Company, Air Freight Company, Sea Freight Company, Port Company, and 3PL of the Year. A
As the Modal Awards are nominated and voted for by the thousands of readers of the Multimodal Newsletter and exhibitors and visitors to Multimodal this makes them one of the fairest industry Awards.
The written Awards are also open for Entries with the deadline of 22nd April with Finalists being announced on 1st May when the entries will be sent off to the independent panel of judges for their expert review. These Awards includes Best Warehouse Operation, Customs Technology
Partner, and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Company, Best Technology Company; Shipper/ Partner of the Year; Sustainability Company; Young Logistics Professional, and Technology Company.
All Award Winners will be announced at the Multimodal 2025 Awards evening held at the VOX Centre on the NEC estate on 17th June. Winning an Award is a true independent endorsement of a company’s excellence.
To find out more about being part of the exhibition, conference or the Multimodal Awards please visit www.multimodal.org.uk , or contact Robert Jervis, Event Director on +44 (0)20 7384 7760 robert.jervis@clarionevents.com
Visitors can register to attend at https://bit.ly/49xETgO or via the website.
foreign bodies and product weight errors.
Did you know that up to one in four food recalls is due to foreign body contamination? Our solutions are engineered to safely secure your brand, your products and your consumers from contaminants and beyond. From weighing ingredients to controlling recipes and fill levels to inspecting final packaging, we’re here to support you: For food safety in any form!
New Research Highlights Consumer Preferences for Secure, Easy-to-Open Seals
New research commissioned by Selig Group, a global leader in innovative container sealing and venting technology, reveals significant consumer preferences for tamper-evident and secure packaging. The study shows that four times more consumers prioritize packaging security compared to earlier trends.
Conducted by NSM Research Inc., through U.S. focus groups, the study explored consumer attitudes towards tabbed, non-tabbed, and no-seal options for beverage and supplement packaging. Results indicate that consumers are seeking packaging that offers both reassurance of security and ease of use. As consumers increasingly expect safety to be paired with convenience, the value of user-friendly, secure sealing solutions that protect products - while maintaining accessibility - has become evident.
Research highlights
The focus group discussions revealed that 90% of consumers prefer packages with inner seals, a feature that now plays a key role in their purchasing decisions. This represents a significant shift from 2016, when only 16% of consumers preferred sealed packaging for products such as dairy, peanut butter, protein powder, and mayonnaise. The strong preference for tamper-evident and hygienic seals underscores the priority consumers place on safety and peace of mind.
The research also evaluated consumer opinions on Selig’s Lift ‘n’ Peel™ liner. It showed that over four out of five
respondents preferred Lift ‘n’ Peel™ for its leak prevention, tamper evidence, and ease of opening, compared to nontabbed and no-seal options. Notably, 81% of participants indicated they would choose products featuring Lift ‘n’ Peel™ over traditional non-tabbed seals.
David Griffin, Vice President of Global Sales and Marketing at Selig Group comments: “The results clearly demonstrate that consumers demand packaging they can trust for tamper evidence, while still valuing convenience. Our Lift ‘n’ Peel™ solution meets these evolving needs by offering consumer brands a competitive advantage - providing safety, product freshness, and ease of use, without compromise.”
Selig’s Lift ‘n’ Peel™ liners have long been recognized for the combination of security and accessibility, making them a favorite among both consumers and brands. The liners provide a hermetic seal for maximum leak prevention and product integrity, suitable for both wet and dry applications. The ergonomic tab design ensures ease of opening, even for consumers with limited dexterity, offering a perfect balance between safety and usability.
Balancing Sustainability and Food Waste
Manufacturers across the food industry are constantly trying to find ways to reduce the environmental impact of their operations. Consumer pressure, retailer demands, government targets and of course, the moral imperative, have combined to create the perfect storm, and action is very much forthcoming.
One of the main areas of focus is the move to reduce single use plastic packaging, in favour of more sustainable alternatives. As a standalone measure this is sensible and logical. However, there is a juxtaposition which causes many to pause for thought. Plastics are an important part of Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) solutions which help keep food fresher for longer. Their removal puts them at risk of adding to a further problem of sustainability and carbon emissions – that of increasing food waste, adding to the roughly 18 million tonnes of food sent to landfill every year, which has significant carbon impact.
At Air Products we work with producers to help them find the right MAP packaging solutions, in addition to developing other innovations. Our team has decades of experience, but the plastic versus food waste debate has only served to highlight that, when it comes to sustainable operations, there is rarely one simple answer. In response, we’ve come up with our own way to help producers find the optimal solution for their unique circumstances.
Our online calculator helps customers work out which packaging presents the best solution to minimise food waste and reduce carbon footprint. Data is taken from independent sustainability studies to compare the various impacts of either MAP packaging, packaging in air or no packaging based on the type and amount of food.
To give an example: using MAP to package 800g of chicken reduces its carbon footprint by 72 per cent, reduces food waste by 80 per cent, and increases the shelf life by eight days. However, using it for 800g of field grown vegetables increases the carbon footprint by 20 per cent, despite the benefits to shelf life and the reduced food waste.
What this highlights is that each case is different, and there is no ‘one size fits all’ solution to reducing carbon impact. It is therefore critical that different producers spend time reviewing the options for their own products to cut their carbon footprint by as much as possible, as quickly as possible, without compromising on the safety or quality of their products. What must be understood now is that there is more than one way to do that – and sometimes it isn’t the obvious solution which will have the best effect. As packaging suppliers continue the trend in researching and replacing single use plastic packaging, it’s never been more important to find additional solutions that will extend shelf life further and guard against food waste – and MAP gases will play a big part in helping to address these issues.
For further information on how MAP and our other offerings impact emissions in the food industry, read our latest Freshline® Sustainability Whitepaper.
http://airproducts.co.uk/food
Sustainable Food Packaging: The Role of Pouches and MAP Packaging
In recent years, the food industry has been under increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices in order to reduce environmental impact and meet consumer demand for eco-friendly alternatives. Packaging plays a significant role in this transformation, with an increasing focus on reducing plastic waste and improving the recyclability of materials. Among the various innovations, pouches and Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) have emerged as effective and sustainable solutions, helping businesses meet both environmental and consumer expectations.
Pouches:
A Flexible, Sustainable Alternative
Pouches have become one of the most popular sustainable packaging options in recent years, especially in the food industry. Their flexibility, lightweight nature, and efficiency in space usage make them a practical choice. Unlike rigid plastic containers, pouches use less material and are often more compact, leading to reduced energy consumption during production and transportation.
One of the main advantages of pouches is their ability to use multi-layered materials that offer protection against moisture, light, and oxygen. These properties help to prolong the shelf life of food products, reducing food waste. Importantly, advancements in pouch technology have made it possible to use biodegradable and recyclable materials, further reducing their environmental impact. For instance, some companies have started producing
pouches made from plant-based materials or recyclable plastics that meet the highest environmental standards.
Another key advantage of pouches is their space efficiency. Unlike traditional bulky packaging, pouches are often more compact, meaning that they require less storage space. This leads to fewer deliveries, which reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation. Additionally, the lightweight nature of pouches results in less fuel consumption during transport, further contributing to sustainability efforts.
Pouches also offer an opportunity for innovation in terms of convenience for consumers. Many modern pouches come with resealable features, which not only preserve freshness but also reduce food waste by keeping products usable for longer. These functional benefits, combined with their eco-friendly properties, make pouches a promising alternative to traditional food packaging.
MAP Packaging:
Preserving Freshness and Reducing Waste
Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) is another innovative solution that has gained traction in the food industry for its ability to preserve food while extending shelf life. This method involves altering the atmosphere inside a food package by changing the levels of gases such as oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide. By creating an optimal environment for the food, MAP slows down the growth of bacteria and prevents spoilage, which helps reduce food waste.
MAP packaging is particularly useful for perishable products like fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy, which are highly sensitive to changes in their environment. By using MAP, food producers can ensure that their products remain fresh for a longer period, giving consumers more time to use the products before they go bad.
One of the main benefits of MAP is its ability to reduce the need for preservatives, making the packaging more natural and reducing the use of chemicals in food products. The use of modified gases can help maintain the nutritional value, taste, and appearance of the food, which often makes MAP packaging a preferred choice for health-conscious consumers.
MAP can also be combined with other sustainable packaging materials, including pouches. This hybrid approach allows for an even more eco-friendly solution by leveraging the protective properties of MAP with the recyclability and reduced material usage of pouches. For instance, companies can use biodegradable or recyclable pouches combined with MAP techniques to preserve freshness without relying on single-use plastic or chemical preservatives.
The Importance of Sustainability in Packaging Design
The shift toward sustainable food packaging is not just a passing trend but a necessary step in addressing the growing environmental concerns surrounding plastic waste. The food industry, with its reliance on packaging to protect and transport products, is a significant contributor to this waste.
Sustainable packaging solutions, such as pouches and MAP, can help mitigate this issue by offering alternatives that reduce waste, improve recyclability, and lower the carbon footprint of food production and distribution. The transition to sustainable packaging also reflects changing consumer attitudes, as
Sustainable Packaging
more people are seeking out brands that prioritise environmental responsibility. Brands that fail to adapt to this shift risk alienating eco-conscious consumers, who are increasingly making purchasing decisions based on sustainability credentials.
Moreover, regulatory changes around the world are also pushing companies toward more sustainable practices. By adopting innovative packaging solutions such as pouches and MAP, businesses can not only meet regulatory requirements but also stay ahead of market demands.
Sustainable food packaging is an essential part of the modern food industry, with pouches and MAP packaging offering effective solutions to reduce waste, preserve freshness, and minimize environmental impact. By choosing these innovative packaging options, companies can contribute to the global effort to reduce plastic waste while meeting the growing consumer demand for eco-friendly and sustainable products. As packaging technology continues to evolve, the food industry can look forward to more sustainable alternatives that will help build a greener, more sustainable future.
Eco Flexibles
expanded product range success leads to further investment
Recyclable
The installation of a second Karlville Swiss KS-SUP-400-D pouch machine at its new production site comes less than a year after Eco Flexibles first invested in establishing its pouch range. The move sees Eco Flexibles solidify its position as the only supplier in the UK capable of designing, manufacturing and supplying fully recyclable water-based printed mono polymer and paper pouch solutions.
Eco Flexibles, a high-growth business that helps brand owners switch packaging lines to lightweight, recyclable mono material options without compromising performance, supplies both mono polymer and paper-based structures to customers. The business offers a range of options, including single web 2-side-seal pouches, 3-side-seal pouches, and k-seal or doy stand-up pouches.
David Smith, General Manager at Eco Flexibles, stated, “Pouches are one of the fastest growing packaging formats, as our success demonstrates. Just 10 months on from our first install, due to the high demand we are experiencing, we are happy to announce the installation of our new Karlville Swiss pouch machine. It is a true packaging titan, giving us the ideal combination of speed, agility and quality that allows us to react quickly to our customers’ needs, marking us as a responsive, future-ready packaging partner.
“Due to our significant investment and growth, 2024 has seen us establish ourselves as the only packaging supplier in the UK capable of designing, manufacturing and supplying fully recyclable water-based printed mono polymer and paper pouch solutions. With a wide range of design options including high barrier performance, zippers, tear notches and euroslots, and finishes available in gloss, matte, white, and metallics, it’s clear why Eco Flexibles is becoming a packaging powerhouse in today’s circularity-centric marketplace.”
In January 2024, Eco Flexibles installed the first Fujifilm Jet Press FP790 inkjet digital flexible packaging press outside of Japan at its new production facility. Due to high demand, the packaging specialist ordered a second in June with installation completed in September. Now with two Karlville Swiss KS-SUP-400-D pouch machines added to its offering, it has been a year of significant growth and investment for the Northampton based business.
Sustainability is at the heart of every Eco Flexibles packaging solution. By partnering with clients from concept to completion, the company takes the lead in developing light weight recyclable packaging alternatives that meet the highest standards of performance, while contributing to a robust circular economy.
To learn more about Eco Flexibles and its activities, please visit www.ecoflexibles.com
Richard Poskitt,
Why the UK has a key role to play in tackling global food waste
Richard Poskitt, head of supply chain/commercial at ReFood, delves deeper into the UK’s fight against food waste, explores recent national successes, celebrates positive legislative progress and explains why embracing best practice will help to deliver truly global impact.
The scourge of food waste remains a major national concern. After all, every year in the UK, more than 10.5 million tonnes of post farm gate produce fails to reach the kitchen table. To put that volume into context, it’s enough to easily fill more than 4,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools, or the same weight as the Palace of Westminster… twice over.
With insight from DEFRA suggesting that an estimated 40% is simply landfilled, the implications are threefold. Firstly, valuable resources are lost rather than consumed, a particularly pertinent point considering that 11% of the UK population is already facing food insecurity. Secondly, food waste depletes strained resources
– from land use, nutrients and water, to labour and transportation. Thirdly, it results in a number of environmental impacts, including the release of greenhouse gas emissions considered 21 times more damaging to the environment than CO2.
There is clearly nowhere to hide when it comes to the consequences of our wasteful behaviour. Food remains one of the UK’s most shameful secrets and, as a direct result, one of the nation’s biggest sustainability challenges too. It sits high up the national agenda as a major cause of rising carbon emissions and resource inefficiency, as well as a key contributor to climate change.
It feels, therefore, that food waste is becoming somewhat of a runaway train – no direction, no control and no simple way of stopping its careering momentum. But is this really the case? Is food waste creeping ever closer towards engulfing us? Are the environmental implications too extreme to overcome? Well, on the surface, the data clearly seems to suggest so.
Delivering measurable impact
But while it would be easy to get consumed by the headline statistics, it’s important to consider the longer-term picture and appreciate the momentous progress made by countless businesses across the supply chain in tackling the problem. As a yardstick, when we launched our Vision2020 more than ten years ago, which analysed the UK’s food supply chain and detailed a clear roadmap to achieving zero food waste to landfill, we reported annual food waste volumes of more than 15 million tonnes per annum. Fast forward to 2024 and this colossal figure has decreased by almost a third.
In the main, momentum has been driven by widespread innovation and commitment from across the supply chain, with countless initiatives delivering clear, positive and measurable national progress. From voluntary commitments by some of the UK’s leading businesses, to the monumental rise of food redistribution charities, and countless programmes in between, it’s safe to say that the UK has taken great strides towards tackling its food waste mountain.
With momentum growing, combined with looming targets set out in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), forecasts predict that this volume will continue to decrease if the supply chain maintains its fight. Food waste figures still remain far too high, but progress is at least promising.
Equally as important is the introduction of new legislation regarding ambitions to ban the landfilling of food waste. Indeed, from March 2025, new rules will mandate separate food waste collections for non-household municipal premises (except microfirms). Mandatory food waste collections for all households, including flats, will be introduced 12 months later.
While there will likely be a period of adjustment and handover, it proves a momentous moment for UK waste management. An effective ban on the landfilling of food waste, alongside widespread zero-waste commitments from across the supply chain and the growing infrastructure to support food redistribution initiatives, means that the UK is starting to make real progress when it comes to setting the standards in sustainable best practice.
So, while the war has by no means been won, we are quickly building the foundations to lead from the front in the long-term.
Going global
While the UK has historically failed to hit the high notes when it comes to leading the way in sustainable waste management, it’s becoming increasingly apparent that change is coming. A reduction of 5m tonnes over the past decade, combined with supply chain-wide proactivity and new legislation aiming to take
us even further forward, demonstrates that we are quickly moving towards the front of the pack.
This is good news from a sustainability perspective, from a financial perspective and from a decarbonisation perspective. It hasn’t been plain sailing and, at times, we’ve shot ourselves firmly in the foot, but the direction of travel is beginning to look positive from all angles.
The challenge moving forward is to capture best practice and use our experience as guidance to other countries who are looking to achieve much the same thing. Granted, we are still streets away from many countries who have continued to excel for a number of years, such as New Zealand, but our experiences should not be underestimated, and our progress must be learnt from.
As the world transitions away from traditional, linear, takemake-dispose methods of production and consumption, and instead towards more circular alternatives, food waste will remain a priority for economies around the globe. With no silver bullet solution, knowledge and experience is needed to light the way. The UK, while arguably a painfully slow starter, has a major role to play in both demonstrating and sharing best practice in the future.
For more information about ReFood, visit www.refood.co.uk, or call 0800 011 3214 to speak to the team about your requirements.
CROSS+MORSE MAKES CONVEYING EASY!
At Cross+Morse we aim to fulfil all industry demands, from the simplest to the highest level of precision required. Our objective is to offer a complete solution - not just products - to your power transmission challenges.
Cross+Morse are known in the industry as pioneers in quality standards, which is why we take our quality control processes very seriously. Quality assurance is central to our organisation with controls encompassing all aspects of design, manufacture, logistics and customer service. We are ISO 9001:2015 accredited and have been for over 30 years.
At Cross+Morse we have continuously invested in top of the range measuring equipment: Co-ordinate Measuring Machine (CMM), digital tri-bore gauges and micrometers which are constantly calibrated to comply with ISO standards. Our stringent inspection process guarantees that when manufacturing each operation is thoroughly inspected by either a highly trained shop-floor staff supervisor or an inspector, ensuring that manufacturing is only allowed to continue when each phase has been approved. Our hardening treatment is checked using either our Rockwell or Vickers hardness testing machines.
We review our quality procedures continuously to provide up-to-date mechanisms for ensuring conformity to the quality system; different audits are carried out on all activities in the company throughout each year.
Power Transmission Solutions
freewheels, roller ramp clutches, combined sprag and bearing units and many more.
Cross+Morse is the largest authorised distributor and stockist for American transmission products manufactured by RegalRexnord (formerly EPT) in the United Kingdom. The range includes Sealmaster®, Browning®, Jaure®, Kop-Flex®, McGill® and Morse®.
We pride ourselves in offering a complete range of overload protection devices ranging from the simplest to the most accurate and precise overload clutch: Sheargard range of overload clutches, wedge pin type, available as a chain coupling and the option of low inertia rubber elastic couplings for higher speed drives. The Crossgard range, ball detent type, comes in 3 versions and also available with roller chain and low inertia rubber coupling option. The Safegard CS series, ball/roller detent type, comes in 2 two basic types (standard or mini) and also available as shaft couplings. Series CZ and CN zero backlash Safegard clutches for responsive overload protection, available in both basic and shaft coupling types.
Inverted tooth chain: including the standard SC type from 3/16” to 2” pitch and HV type from 3/8” to 2” pitch; as well as conveyor chains up to 12” width in centre or outside guide construction. We manufacture standard and special sprockets in-house for a complete drive solution.
We offer a wide stock range of flexible shaft couplings to accommodate different types of misalignment: Jaw couplings, elastomeric couplings, roller and Delrin® chain couplings, gear couplings GFA & GFAS, polymer gear couplings, Morflex elastomeric disc couplings and Crossflex disc couplings.
Our Crossbore® rework service includes reboring, keywaying and setscrewing of standard sprockets, pulleys and gears in a dedicated production area with specialised CNC machines for a rapid response. Induction hardening of teeth is also offered in-house.
Shaft clamping elements for precision transmission of torque with no backlash: a complete range from stock. Three ranges of locking devices available in corrosion resistant stainless steel.
Our range of Freewheel clutches for overrunning, indexing and backstopping applications; including sprag clutches, industrial ratchet
Waltons Digital Media, the marketing arm of Food & Drink Network UK, executed a highly successful digital marketing campaign for one of the platform’s key clients during the Christmas period. By leveraging the reach of Food & Drink Network UK and advanced optimisation techniques, the campaign exceeded expectations and set a new standard for seasonal marketing in the food and drink industry.
The campaign featured a video link banner on the homepage of https://foodanddrinknetwork.co.uk/, targeting peak traffic during the festive season. With the goal of achieving 300,000 impressions and strong audience engagement, the banner was designed for maximum visibility.
The results surpassed expectations, delivering 840,000 impressions—177% above target—and over 15,000 clicks, achieving a click-through rate (CTR) of 1.77%, well above the industry average of 0.1% to 1.0%. These impressive results demonstrated both the platform’s reach and Waltons Digital Media’s ability to craft highly effective campaigns.
Key to the campaign’s success was Waltons Digital Media’s focus on strategy and optimisation. By analysing user behaviour and scheduling the campaign during peak engagement times, the team ensured maximum impact. A mobile-first approach was implemented, with 92.3% of impressions and 98.6% of clicks originating from mobile users.
Creative execution also played a significant role. The in-house design team crafted a striking banner that resonated with the audience and delivered excellent results. Real-time performance tracking allowed for agile adjustments, maximising the campaign’s effectiveness.
Additionally, Waltons Digital Media expanded the campaign’s reach through LinkedIn, generating over 60,000 impressions and 300+ engagements, showcasing a multi-platform marketing approach.
This campaign illustrates Waltons Digital Media’s commitment to delivering high-impact marketing strategies that drive measurable results. With expertise in optimisation, creative execution, and strategic placement, Waltons Digital Media is a trusted partner to achieve exceptional results across industries. Contact us today to learn how we can support your marketing goals. Ready to take your brand to the next level?
We Are A Creative DIGITAL Agency
Content Marketing
At Walton’s Digital Media, we create content that grabs attention and builds lasting connections with your audience.
Marketing Consultancy
At Walton’s Digital Media, we offer expert Marketing Consultancy services to provide strategic direction and hands-on guidance.
Digital Marketing
At Walton’s Digital Media we craft powerful, results-driven digital and marketing strategies tailored to your business.
Public Relations (PR)
Walton’s Digital Media offers expert Communication and PR services, from crafting compelling messages to managing crises effectively.
Sameh Metawea BA (Hons) Head of Client Services
Graphic Design & Branding
At Walton’s Digital Media, we specialise in Graphic Design & Branding services that enhance and strengthen your brand.
Website Design & Development
At Walton’s Digital Media, we design custom, mobile-responsive websites that are visually stunning on any device.
Waltons Digital Media is part of Waltons Publications Ltd
Industrial Auctions: The online auctioneer to sell your food and beverage machines
Over the years, Industrial Auctions has successfully organised more than 1,500 auctions in the food and beverage industry, for renowned companies like Vion, Nestlé, FrieslandCampina, Homann, Refresco, Danish Crown, 2 Sisters Food Group and many more. With a growing number of auctions across Europe and a worldwide buyer network the online auctioneer has proven invaluable to the industry.
If you’re considering selling food and beverage production sites, lines, or machinery, Industrial Auctions offers a seamless and efficient auction process. By auctioning your surplus equipment, you not only maximize your returns but also contribute to a more sustainable industry by reusing machinery.
Specializing in auctioning used machinery for the food and beverage industry, Industrial Auctions’ focused approach and years of experience have provided them with deep industry and machinery knowledge. Their extensive global database effectively connects thousands of industry professionals, bringing supply and demand together.
Establishing a valuable long-term relationship with sellers and buyers is at the heart of their core values: specialization, sustainability, transparency, and service-orientation, which are reflected throughout the auction process.
That process starts with estimating your machinery’s value, followed by careful cataloging to maximize selling potential. After the auction, your production location can be cleared quickly, with prompt financial settlement.
Industrial Auctions manages every detail ensuring a hassle-free experience for all parties involved. From inventorying assets, organizing viewing days and answering questions, to handling export documents, and arranging dismantling and transport services. Your location will be left in broom-clean condition.
Whether handling a few surplus machines, a complete production line, or an entire factory, Industrial Auctions has the expertise and experience to manage it all.
Contact them today to explore how they can help you achieve your goals, or visit their website to learn more.
85% of regular restaurant guests would recommend an establishment with clean, shiny tableware. **
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