Harrison Packaging has become the first UK converter to invest in a highly specified Rapida 106X, the largest investment in the company’s history. The press – an eight colour with two coating units – will be installed into the company’s Stockton on Tees factory in late January 2022, an exciting year for Harrison Packaging as they celebrate 140 years in business, making them one of the oldest independent carton converters in the UK.
Harrison produces packaging for a diverse range of customers and brands in several markets including beauty, healthcare, food and beverages. The company has recently invested in new die-cutting and CAD equipment and has already chosen new CTP equipment. They are heavily committed to programmes for sustainability and manufacturing excellence alongside an increasing focus on the development of the team.
Left to right: Mark Francis and Mike Baum.
Mike Baum, Managing Director, explains, “This was the most involved investment process we have ever undertaken and our team decided that the Koenig & Bauer option would enable us to take the biggest step forward at this point. The new technology the press boasts will ensure that our print process becomes faster and more agile, delivers greater efficiency and produces less waste, all critical in us providing a sustainable future for all those associated with Harrison.”
He continues, “Initially, the new line will replace an existing six colour B1 press, although when the new machine reaches the levels of output we expect, we anticipate removing another of our older presses. Our five year plan is one of significant growth and this press will create sufficient additional capacity to ensure Harrison maintains the levels of flexibility and response we have become known for. We are excited to see the new machine installed and look forward to working with the team at Koenig and Bauer to maximise the potential for this ‘game-changing’ press.”
Chris Scully, UK Director of Sales, Koenig & Bauer, adds, “We are delighted to have Harrison Packaging as our first customer in the UK to purchase the Rapida 106X and to have them as a returning customer. The Rapida 106X not only looks fantastic but it has been designed to provide our customers with the ultimate in performance and quality, alongside unrivalled labour and waste saving features.”
