Alliance Packaging (CONT’D FROM PAGE 18)
started up the machine about two weeks ahead of the expected start date,” says Leland. “Anybody that knows about installing machinery realizes that just doesn’t hap- pen.” Training also went well. “Engico had two trainers, one very experienced and one relatively new guy, both of whom spoke perfect English. They both did very well but I think they were a little stunned when they saw what we wanted to do. Most of these machines are going into full- line corrugated box plants making two, three, maybe four jumbo setups a day. We’re looking to make 15, maybe 20
setups in a two-shift day! Once they understood some of the ‘crazy stuff’ we did, they excelled. After they trained our operators, they stayed here for another two to three weeks and just stood back and let the guys operate the machine. When they saw our guys were stumped about something, the trainers stepped right in and handled the issue. I was very impressed.” Generally, it requires only two operators to run the mammoth Engico flexo on long-run jobs, but Leland says that he adds a third on short runs to do set ups while the crew of two is operating the machine. “We're continuing to push for large volume, large box business. But for the first few weeks of operation, every order was new so it took some time to enter all the dimensions into the machine. I think by the end of January 2025, when 80-90 percent of our orders are repeat orders, we’re going to open up 20- 25 percent more volume on the machine because setups will go from 30 minutes to 12 minutes,” he says. “What we were able to do is get more Amazon business based on having this machine and we’ve opened ourselves up to handle a lot more volume.” “This is huge,” says Austin Umlauf, Sales Coordinator for Haire Group who continues to service and nurture the partnership with Alliance Packaging. “Like other satisfied customers of the Engico, Krist and Alliance Packaging ap- preciate the set-up while run feature that much of the in- An Alliance Jumbo Bottom Feeder keeps the Engico fed quick- ly and efficiently.
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January 27, 2025
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