At the beginning of 2012, UK-based Southwest Packaging decided to do away with hand platens and opted for an Eterna SA1620S semi-automatic die-cutter. Fitted with a stripping section, this machine proved to be so versatile and productive that the company was able to build up more and more flatbed die-cut work.
Today, as part of its expansion plans, South West have stayed with the same semi-automatic format and have taken delivery of a second Eterna semi-automatic die-cutter. The SA1620E was supplied and installed in September by M&K Trading and was quickly in full production.
The SA1620E has been installed in part of a new 5000 sq ft factory extension, which has been added to enable South West to continue with its growth, while keeping a tight control on systems and procedures. An impressive tooling and stereo store now enables South West to make faster and more efficient machine set ups, which improves overall efficiency from the Gillingham factory.
Ken Stolber from M&K Trading hands over the Eterna SA1620E die-cutter to Stuart Tracy, Sales Director of South West Packaging.