Transforming Co-Packing with Innovation
Key Takeaways
The Mars ComPak enables WG Pro to produce 40 bags per minute, a level of output that would have previously required 24 to 25 employees, dramatically improving efficiency and reducing labor needs.
A Legacy of Innovation and Growth
WG Pro’s journey began with managing reclaimed and returned products for a major pharmaceutical company. Over the years, the company has evolved into a powerhouse in the co-packing industry, offering a comprehensive range of services, including ambient, frozen, and refrigerated product packaging. Their commitment to innovation and quality has earned them the trust of high-profile clients like PepsiCo, Laura Secord, Nestlé, and Kellogg’s.
“We’ve always focused on providing a controlled environment where we can handle packaging for our clients,” says Wirtz. “This approach has allowed us to alleviate congestion in their spaces and offer streamlined services.”
Meeting Challenges with Automation
In the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic, businesses across various industries struggled to maintain efficient operations, and WG Pro was no exception. Labor shortages became a critical challenge for the company, severely impacting production rates and overall efficiency. These shortages and increased demand for packaged goods created a bottleneck that traditional manual labor systems could not handle effectively.
To address these challenges, WG Pro turned to PLAN IT Packaging Systems for an automated solution that could offset the labor gap and streamline its operations. PLAN IT Packaging Systems, known for its innovative automated packaging machinery, provided a tailored system incorporating advanced robotics and automation. This allowed WG Pro to increase production capacity without relying heavily on manual labor, reducing operational downtime and increasing throughput.
The automated solutions from PLAN IT, such as their vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) machines and robotic case packers, not only ensured consistency in packaging but also allowed for rapid scaling of operations to meet the growing demand. By integrating these automated systems, WG Pro was able to maintain business continuity, improve efficiency, and reduce the risks posed by future labor shortages. The collaboration also reinforced the importance of automation in creating resilient supply chains, especially during unprecedented global disruptions like the pandemic.
“I’ve known Mark Evangelista, PLAN IT’s Director of Sales, for many years, so when we faced labor challenges, I knew PLAN IT’s automated solutions could be the key to our continued growth,” Wirtz recalls. “The flexibility and efficiency of their equipment, particularly the portable bagger, were exactly what we needed.”
WG Pro faced significant operational challenges due to labor shortages and increased demand for packaged goods. To address these issues, WG Pro turned to PLAN IT Packaging Systems for a reliable solution. Our Mars Vertical Form Fill and Seal (VFFS) machine played a crucial role in combating these challenges by automating the packaging process, reducing dependency on manual labor, and enhancing production efficiency.
The Mars VFFS machine allowed WG Pro to maintain consistent output, improve production speed, and meet rising customer demands, all while minimizing downtime and ensuring business continuity. This partnership not only helped WG Pro overcome immediate obstacles but also positioned them for future operational resilience.
The Mars ComPak allows us to produce approximately 40 bags per minute, a task that would have required about 24 to 25 personnel to accomplish manually
Karl Wirtz, WG Pro Manufacturing
WG Pro’s facilities are now equipped with cutting-edge machinery from PLAN IT Packaging, including the Mars ComPak vertical form/fill/seal (VFFS) bagging machine. This advanced system has transformed WG Pro’s operations by delivering high-speed, precise packaging with minimal manual involvement.
“The Mars ComPak allows us to produce around 40 bags per minute—a task that would have previously required 24 to 25 employees,” says Wirtz. “This machine has significantly boosted our efficiency and flexibility, making it easy to handle a variety of products.”
The Mars ComPak is also integrated with automated weighing systems, ensuring accurate measurements and full compliance with weight regulations, which is crucial for maintaining consistent package weights and minimizing product waste. Along with PLAN IT’s complete range of automated packaging equipment—including filling, sealing, and labeling systems—WG Pro has streamlined its processes, reduced labor costs, and enhanced overall operational efficiency.
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