Loma to expand processing machinery in 2014
The company supplies IP69K certified inspection equipment, including metal detectors, x-rays, check weighers and replacement detector heads.
The QuickShip Programme promises to deliver machinery overseas with 21 days compared to the average lead time of two-three months and includes Loma’s x-ray range, IQᶾ and IQᶾ+ metal detectors and its combo CW3 checkweigher.
Widened the scope of machines
James Chrismas, marketing manager, Loma, told FoodProductionDaily the program was launched three years ago but it only recently widened the scope of machines.
“Being able to react to customer and market demand is really important to suppliers,” he said.
“Supermarkets react to seasonal demands such as Christmas, summer time and Easter which can put a strain on clients. We can ramp up capacity and put out an extra line for them in a matter of days.
45th anniversary
“Prior to this, the QuickShip Program delivered metal detectors but now it includes checkweighers and x-ray machines.”
The company will celebrate its 45th anniversary next year and plans to further expand its product range in 2014 adhering its technology to meet supermarket codes of practice.
The firm recently delivered two stainless steel checkweighers to confectionery co-packer, IPS Contracting in West Yorkshire, UK, and five combination metal detectors and checkweighers to 2 Sisters Food Group, also in the UK.
Steve Kay, technical director, IPS Contracting said the machines can check up to 80 products at any one time and packs in excess of 35,000 tonnes of snacks, sweets and chocolates into cartons, bags and flow wraps per year.
Immediate demand
“The very nature of co-packing makes it hard to anticipate production increases. Working with suppliers who can react to our needs is paramount,” said Kay.
Tony Bryant, sales manager, Loma, added at this time of year, when producers and packers need extra capacity to fulfil increased demand due to the promotional season, we receive an influx of enquiries for metal detectors and x-ray systems from manufacturers wanting immediate delivery.
“To achieve a tight turnaround, we now carry stock of our most popular products guaranteeing detector head delivery within three days, metal detectors within 14 days and combination units and x-ray systems within three weeks.
