This step forward in our packaging formats validates Compleat’s commitment to our packaging strategy, in particular those targets aligned with the UK Plastics Pact of eliminating unnecessary single-use packaging, through innovation.
After implementing the second stage of investment into automation equipment this year, we were able to move our higher volume pork pie packs to trayless packaging.
The main challenge here is the speed of the packaging process. Automation requires a pause between each set of four or six pies. However, the new innovative investment at our Tottle site will reduce plastic use for this product by 75%, saving 110 tonnes every year. We’ll be rolling it out from summer 2024 for both our own label products and a range of private label products.
The new trayless format has required numerous trials to overcome the issues we faced with wrapping the products. This involved a collaborative approach with our Engineering teams and equipment suppliers to ensure we can pack the products with the same efficiency and speed, whilst eliminating the tray.