Bolton-based MAMS has begun its transition away from plastic-based polywrapping due to demands from its customers for a more environmentally friendly solution.

Working closely with Italian manufacturer CMC, the firm will install three CMC One machines, paper wrapping lines with hybrid capabilities for film. The first machine is expected to be installed in mid-February, with the second later that month and a third in March. They represent an investment in excess of £1m for MAMS.

Managing director Anthony Krajniewski said: “There has been a lot of discussion around the use of polythene recently, so we have been looking at how we can help support our customers' requirements.

“We listened to their demands for a wrap solution that is more environmentally friendly. It is our role to help with that, so we found a way to wrap with fully recyclable material.

“By taking on the three CMC machines, we will have the largest paper wrapping capacity in the country. We also know a lot of people are cautious that this would be more expensive, but we are able to offer a solution that is actually cheaper than polywrapping.”

MAMS will use the machines on a wide variety of direct mailing applications for its clients, including multiple-insert magazines, in sizes from C6 to C4.

With quick changeover between its two wrapping capabilities, the CMC One can wrap 20,000 pieces/hr in paper and 25,000 pieces/hr in film.

The firm is also in the process of moving to new premises in nearby Leeds, where it will set up shop in the former Whistl depot. As far as operations and staff go, Krajniewski said around “90%” will transfer to Leeds, with the remainder staying in Bradford.

Currently employing 120 staff, MAMS will also go on a recruitment drive “across the board” in 2019 as it settles into the new plant.

Earlier in the year, MAMS installed two Buhrs Kern 4300 10 station enclosing machines as additions to its already-extensive portfolio, including Pitney Bowes machines and other Buhrs, to boost its capacity by 20%-25%.