Making the investment at Drupa, which took place in Düsseldorf in May and June, the new Novacut 106 ER will provide a substantial boost to the company’s manufacturing, equating to an increase of more than 30% in output capacity.
Set to be delivered in early August, the Novacut 106 ER is an autoplaten die-cutter that is engineered to simplify blanking during folding carton manufacture.
Capable of achieving a production speed of up to 7,000sph – or 8,000sph with speed upgrade, it can handle sheets up to 1,060x760mm, with a maximum corrugated board thickness of 4mm, cartonboard up to 2,000gsm, and a paper weight of 80gsm. A cutting force of 2.6MN is applied, with a 23.8mm cutting rule height.
The Encore Group said the machine’s associated automated logistics (ATP) would be a major boon to the business and its packaging manufacturing capability.
David Cooper, managing director of The Encore Group, said: “It’s important we’re not standing still but are looking to the future.
“We experienced packaging growth of 28% in 2022 and a further 12% in 2023. That means this machine is to be delivered at a pivotal moment for our business, as we focus on further growth.
“We need to ensure we continually invest in the right equipment to make sure we meet the service and commercial requirements of our customers. This investment ensures our customers benefit from the very best the industry has to offer.”
The business also runs converting equipment from Bobst including an Expertfold 110 A2, a Visionfold 110 A2, and a Handypack Gt. A Novacut E and pre-existing Novacut 106 ER are also in place at the company, alongside Heidelberg Speedmaster presses.
Cooper added: “With all the external challenges of recent years, Bobst has still offered the best professional approach to new investment. Communication and continuous innovation have been key to our decision making and this sets Bobst apart from the rest of the competition.”
Lee Alton, Bobst UK area sales manager for Northern England and Scotland, also commented: “We are delighted to once again be able to support The Encore Group with its investment plans and be a part of their continued growth strategy. Our commitment to customers is always one that stretches well beyond the purchase and installation of a machine.
“When partnering with Bobst, it’s a collaboration that is created to deliver ongoing, long-term expertise, support, and ultimately, success to the customer.”
Independently owned envelope and packaging manufacturer The Encore Group was founded in 1983. It produces folding cartons and corrugated packaging for a variety of end uses, including food, retail, e-commerce, and medical and healthcare.
The company employs around 300 staff across its sites in Peterlee, County Durham; Washington, Tyne and Wear; and Dewsbury, West Yorkshire. Earlier this year it moved into an additional 9,600sqm logistics site in Peterlee on the site of the former Walkers Crisps distribution centre.
