Caps Cases EFI Nozomi 14000 release v4 20.05.22

Nozomi 14000 LED Line starts up at Caps Newmarket

We are delighted to announce that our staff have started training on our newly installed Nozomi single pass digital press. A worlds first of type, the machine has been tested and put through it’s paces following a smooth delivery and installation.

The “ramp up” phase has now begun in earnest, with our 1^st production jobs scheduled to hit the press w/c 24/05. Commercial Director Jamie Bissett comments “This is an exciting phase for all involved, from what we’ve seen so far this machine will open up many new opportunities for CAPS and our customers”. The initial plan is to test the machine with different types of work, including detailed images, that may have previously been produced as Litho and mount jobs, Traditional flexo work with large areas of block coverage and of course some POS products.

With the ongoing support of the technical team from EFI and our previous experience of multi pass digital printing CAPS are hoping to hit the ground running and look forwards to the coming weeks. Watch this space for further updates!

Read Our Nozomi Press Release Here

This month marks the end of an era for Caps Cases, as we bid a fond farewell to Pauline Edwards, Linda Wilson and Ed Blair when they all take their well-deserved retirement.

With a combined total of 95 years of service to the company, it’s safe to say that these three will be sorely missed by all at Caps Cases.

Pauline joined the company on 22nd April 1985 and Linda not long after on 10th June 1985 and both have since witnessed Caps Cases grow from infancy to where it stands now 40 years later.

Meanwhile Ed joined the company back in November 2001 and has been an invaluable machine operator during his time at Caps, with his specialist knowledge of slotters and assemblers.

The Directors and Management would like to express their thanks to Pauline, Linda and Ed for their many years of service and commitment to the company.

Managing Director Trevor Bissett comments: “Ed is a credit to Caps Cases and I would like to thank him for his loyalty and hard work over the years, as well as wish him a long and happy retirement.”

Trevor adds: “Pauline and Linda, Linda and Pauline – both have been fantastic people to work with over the years, always going about their business with a smile day after day year after year.

“Mark and I still remember Linda getting us rolls and Kit Kats from the bakers on Saturday mornings when we were still in school! And I’ll never forget Pauline telling me about her struggles with her 12 kids, which as a slightly gullible teenager I fell for! I also fondly remember the days of the tannoy Linda calling for action “PRONTO!” – all happy memories.

“Whilst the average height on the div floor will certainly go up when they retire, they will both be sorely missed and we wish them both all the very best for a long and happy retirement.”

The installation of Caps Cases’ shiny new solar panels is now complete at the Newmarket site.

Some 660 panels and 7km of cable have been installed, and it is estimated that once fully operational these will provide up to 30% of the electricity needed to run the Suffolk-based factory. Phase two will see a similar number installed on unit one.

“Phase one of the solar panel project is now complete in terms of the installation of the panels on the roof. The final part of the project is the electrical wiring up, which is scheduled for completion in mid-April,” Dave Lochhead, Operations Manager.

He adds: “This is an exciting venture for Caps Cases, and we’re looking forward to seeing the benefits of such a huge scale project.”

The solar panel installation is part of the West Suffolk Solar for Business scheme run by West Suffolk Council, which provides and installs solar panels for businesses free of charge. Electricity is generated from the panels and sold to the businesses at a rate lower than their current electricity tariff to help reduce energy bills. So far 63 business premises have signed up to the scheme. This saves 900 tonnes of carbon from being released into the atmosphere each year. That is equivalent to driving around the world 90 times!

The installation is part of Caps’ ongoing mission to improve its carbon footprint.

Dave adds: “As a company we consistently strive to improve our green credentials, and this latest venture is a big milestone for us. The solar panels project has been smooth from start to finish, and we appreciate the support from West Suffolk Council.”

Elsewhere at the Newmarket site work has also commenced on a new extension to house our new digital press which is due to arrive next month. More details to follow soon!

New solar panels are currently being installed at Caps Cases Newmarket site, as part of the company’s ongoing mission to become Carbon Neutral.

Once fully up and running, it is estimated that the solar panels will provide Caps Cases with up to 30% of the electricity needed to run the Newmarket factory.

“We’re excited at the prospect of producing over a quarter of the power we use through solar power,” comments Managing Director Trevor Bissett.

He adds: “The rest of the energy we buy is from renewable sources. This is just one of the ways in which we’re reducing our environmental impact.”

The solar panel installation is part of the West Suffolk Solar for Business scheme run by West Suffolk Council, which provides and installs solar panels for businesses free of charge. Electricity is generated from the panels and sold to the businesses at a rate lower than their current electricity tariff to help reduce energy bills. So far 63 business premises have signed up to the scheme. This saves 900 tonnes of carbon from being released into the atmosphere each year. That is equivalent to driving around the world 90 times!

Caps Cases have been working closely with a specialist consultancy firm, Carbon Footprint Ltd, to track and reduce their carbon emissions. The solar panel installation is the latest step in Caps Cases’ drive towards being a carbon neutral organisation.

Trevor adds: “Sustainability has become a buzzword in packaging and here at Caps we value the importance of protecting the environment. All of our company vehicles are now electric, and last year we switched out traditional additives from our flexo inks, replacing them with renewable materials. This reduces the carbon footprint of our inks, and lessens our impact on the environment.”

Click here to find out more about the West Suffolk Solar for Business scheme.

Learn more about Carbon Footprint Ltd here.

For more information about Caps Cases’ high quality print capabilities, or to find out more about our packaging products contact the team today on 01638 667326.

Each year, it is estimated that the UK generates more than two million metric tonnes of plastic packaging waste – that’s around 36 kilograms per person.

In a bid to tackle the problem, the government has announced a plastic packaging tax, which will come into effect in April.

The tax has been designed to encourage the use of more recycled plastic and will apply to plastic packaging produced in, or imported into, the UK and that does not contain at least 30% recycled plastic.

The UK government has estimated that it will affect around 20,000 packaging producers and importers. The hope is that by implementing this measure, businesses will have an economic incentive to reconsider their packaging needs and opt instead for more sustainable alternatives.

With this in mind, there’s never been a better time to consider switching to sustainable packaging alternatives.

In the shadow of the spotlight cast on plastics are other packaging materials, including the understated but all-round awesome corrugated cardboard.

Made from a renewable resource, reusable and recyclable corrugated packaging comes full circle every day. Once recycled, corrugated box fibres are used 7-10 times to make new boxes and other paper products.

Here’s why corrugated cardboard reigns supreme…

Recycles: Corrugated packaging is renewably-sourced and 96 percent is recovered and recycled to make new boxes and other paper products.

Protects: It combines structural rigidity with cushioning qualities to protect heavy or fragile contents from damage.

Transports: It is lightweight and clean, lowering shipping costs with fewer lorries, less fuel and lower emissions.

Sells: Corrugated packaging sells your product with high-impact graphics that drive brand awareness and product preference to help close the sale.

Here at Caps we’re passionate about corrugated cardboard products, and we’ve already helped many companies switch to plastic-free packaging. If you would like to know more, give the team a call on 01638 667 326 or email sales@capscases.co.uk

For more information about corrugated cardboard material, visit www.corrugated.org.

Caps Cases has installed a brand new box maker machine to complement its existing short run equipment.

The machine, which has been installed at the Newmarket site, is capable of running conventional box types and can add hand grips if required.

Managing Director Trevor Bissett commented: “We have always been proud to offer our customers a flexible service in terms of run lengths, however this machine will improve our ability to provide a wide range of box types and sizes in smaller quantities as well.”

He adds: “We’ve been impressed with this machine from the outset and it’s already proving to be a valuable addition to our operation. It is simple to run and produces to a consistently high standard.”

Caps Cases would like to give a special thanks ID Machinery and Lead Operator Nigel Bavey.

Trevor comments: “Nigel has been with Caps for the best part of 40 years and has risen to the challenge of the new machine. Great work!”

Caps Cases is meeting the heightened demand for premium e-commerce packaging with the welcome addition of a new double-sided printer and rotary die cutter.

The state-of-the-art machine is already proving to be a valuable asset by producing two-sided high quality flexo print work much more efficiently. In turn, reducing lead times for clients.

Caps Cases Managing Director Trevor Bissett comments: “The boom in e-commerce has made the ‘unboxing experience’ more important than ever. With this is mind, this duplex printer means that Caps Cases is well-placed to produce a premium product more efficiently than ever before.”

He adds: “The addition of the new printer also ties in with our recent investment in taping machinery to strengthen our e-commerce offering.”

The duplex printer takes pride of place within the Newmarket factory, and utilises Caps Cases’ renewable inks system, which the company is now using across the board to help reduce its carbon footprint.

Find out more about Caps Cases’ move to renewable inks here.

For more information about Caps Cases’ high quality print capabilities, or to find out more about our packaging products contact the team today.

Caps Cases has been recognised on an international level for its supreme flexo printing capability, after scooping a Silver award at The Global Flexo Innovation Awards.

Caps Cases worked with plate supplier Victory Graphics on the winning entry, which showcased what can be achieved with flexographic post-print on corrugated.

The e-commerce box was previously litho-laminated, and the brief from the client was to match the visual impact of litho at a lower cost. Flexo post-print was evaluated as more cost-effective than digital and litho.

Caps and Victory Graphics used a single FLEXCEL NX plate to create the photographic-quality image with its challenging mix of highlights and dark shadows. The box was printed on the inside to create an enhanced ‘unboxing’ experience for consumers.

On average, Flexo post-print costs around 30% less than litho, and also significantly decreases the lead time for re-orders.

“We’re thrilled to have been recognised in the 2021 awards and we feel that our winning design really raises the bar in terms of what can be achieved with flexo printing,” comments Caps Cases Print Manager Wayne Booker.

“Working in partnership with Victory, we were able to provide the client with a high quality packaging solution that is sustainably sourced and produced with renewable inks, while being considerably more cost effective than litho printing.”

Caps Cases’ Managing Director Trevor Bissett added: “Whilst we’ve long been at the forefront of flexo printing, to have been recognised in these prestigious awards is a huge achievement and is testament to the hard work of our outstanding team here at Caps.”

To find out more about the awards, visit www.transformingflexo.com

For more information about Caps Cases’ high quality print capabilities, or to find out more about our packaging products contact the team today.

Caps Cases Newmarket is awaiting the arrival of its hotly anticipated new double-sided printer and rotary die cutter.

The state-of-the-art machine will enable Caps Cases to produce two-sided print work more efficiently.

The Caps team have been busy clearing the way for the new machine, which will take pride of place in the Newmarket factory when it arrives next month.

Caps Cases Managing Director Trevor Bissett comments: “We’re always striving to improve our products and service where possible, and the addition of the new printer will allow us to streamline our double-sided print work and expand our HQPP offering, which is particularly beneficial for our e-commerce clients”.

Watch this space for more updates…

Caps Cases can now boast a same-day turnaround on printed colour swatches, thanks to its new 14 colour Epsom printer and cutting-edge software.

The new kit means that colour swatches can be printed in a matter of hours, as opposed to the traditional postal method, which could take up to three or four days.

“The new printer sits perfectly alongside our suite of High Quality Printers and makes the first time run process more efficient for all involved,” explains Print Manager Wayne Booker.

This latest print advancement follows Caps Cases move to renewable inks across its entire print system earlier this year. The move has seen the replacement of traditional binders and additives with natural and renewable materials. Traditional pigment concentrates have been replaced with newly developed varnishes, thus reducing the resource related CO2 footprint of the printing ink.

For more information about Caps Cases’ high quality print capabilities, or to find out more about our packaging products contact the team today.

Caps Cases has boosted its carbon neutral credentials with the introduction of greener printing inks across its entire print system.

The move has seen the replacement of traditional binders and additives with natural and renewable materials. Traditional pigment concentrates have been replaced with newly developed varnishes, thus reducing the resource related CO2 footprint of the printing ink.

Caps is the first UK company to use renewable ink supplied by the Doneck Network, which is formulated with renewable resources and is tailored to post-print. Apart from the premium printing results, this
product innovation is characterised by outstanding running properties in the printing unit, therefore creating an all-round high quality and sustainable product.

“We have worked closely with Doneck over the last 18 months to carry out extensive field trials on various substrates,” explains Caps Cases Print Manager Wayne Booker. “This has allowed us to maintain our excellent print quality.”

The move to renewable ink goes hand in hand with Caps Cases’ ongoing commitment to its ISO 14001 accreditation, in which the company continually works towards reducing its environmental impact.

For more information about Caps Cases’ high quality print capabilities, or to find out more about our packaging products contact the team today.

To learn more about the Doneck Network and it’s range of renewable inks visit www.doneck.com

Top quality print combined with a clever box design and a premium finish has proven to be a winning formula for Caps Cases and it’s range of wine packaging solutions.

Caps recently worked closely with Laithwaites to produce a branded box that would safely transport three bottles of wine.

The box was designed by the Caps Cases in-house team and it is a prime example of high quality flexographic printing.

This particular print was made up of just two colours, however, Caps Cases’ top of the range HQPP line was able to achieve extremely fine detail and ultimately create a pristine finished product.

The box itself is cleverly designed to protect the wine bottles in transit and also features a bespoke cardboard sleeve for additional branding.

The client opted for brown board to reinforce the box’s recyclable and environmentally friendly credentials, while maintaining a premium quality finish.

A spokesperson for Laithwaites commented: “The box looks brilliant together with the case literature and wines, so thanks very much to everyone at Caps Cases for all your help with this.”

For more information about Caps Cases’ high quality print capabilities, or to find out more about our packaging products contact the team today.

If a single image can show what a business is all about, the cat on the gin box is the one that does just that for Victory Graphics. The attention-grabbing combination of dark black tones, a fine image and bright reverse-outs are exceptional enough, but when you consider it was produced on a 20-year-old press using a single KODAK FLEXCEL NX plate, thus eliminating register issues and reducing cost, it becomes truly extraordinary.

Helping printers produce flexo packaging that combines such high quality and remarkable on-press efficiency is all in a day’s work for specialist flexo prepress business Victory Graphics, based in Portsmouth, UK. In the case of the cat image, the impressive print was produced by Newmarket-based Caps Cases, where print manager Wayne Booker, supported by Victory Graphics, is continuously driving print quality on such challenging jobs using FLEXCEL NX plates…

Want to know more? Read the full story here.

In light of the COVID pandemic, Caps Cases has taken special measures to help keep its workforce and customers as safe as possible, by teaming up with hygiene and decontamination specialists NanoSorp.

The NanoSorp antimicrobial service provides surface protection, and has been used throughout Caps Cases’ factories and offices in both Newmarket and Bailieston.

How does it work?
Once the Antimicrobial coating has dried, it forms an invisible layer of “nanospikes” that penetrate and destroy cell membranes rendering the virus and bacteria no longer active.

Check out the video below to see the application in action…

Caps Cases has given the go ahead to a ‘green’ overhaul of its entire ink system.

The introduction of renewable ink is the latest step in Caps Cases’ drive towards being a carbon neutral organisation.

The company’s inks are already water based, but this move will see the replacement of traditional binders and additives with natural and renewable materials, such as sugar, sugar cane, tree resin and vegetable oils. Traditional pigment concentrates will be replaced with newly developed varnishes thus reducing the resource related CO2 footprint of the printing ink.

“We’ve run several print trials with the renewable ink and we’ve been really impressed with the results. We’re confident that the new ink produces a premium print quality that’s on par with that of our current water-based inks,” explains Wayne Booker, Print Manager at Caps Cases.

The final step is to trial the ink on a variety of different substrates, before changing the entire print system over to renewable in the coming months.

Wayne adds: “Corrugated cardboard is the leading sustainable packaging choice, due to its recyclability, reusable and biodegradable credentials. However, there is room for improvement from an ink perspective, and we’re confident that the introduction of renewable ink is a step in the right direction.”

Healthy Herby is one of Caps Cases’ first customers to benefit from the new eco-friendly renewable ink.

The Worcestershire-based company supplies premium hay and herbs to feed small herbivores, rabbits, guinea pigs and chinchillas.

“To support the environment we decided to pack the hay in cardboard boxes as opposed to plastic bags,” explains Healthy Herby Founder Amanda Westwood.

“Rabbits and guinea pigs enjoy playing in and gnawing the boxes, so the fact that the new ink is safe and plant-based is very important to us.”

Amanda adds: “The team at Caps were great to work with. They were all very responsive and answered all our questions. The boxes were delivered on time and we are delighted with the design and quality of the printing.”

For more information about Caps Cases’ high quality print capabilities, or to find out more about our packaging products contact the team today.

To learn more about Healthy Herby and their range of products visit healthyherby.co.uk

As part of our continuous improvement program and drive towards being a carbon neutral organisation we’ve started a project with our ink supplier that will see us develop a range of renewable inks.

Our inks are already water based but this project will see us replacing traditional binders and additives with natural and renewable materials such as sugar, sugar cane, tree resin and vegetable oils. Traditional Pigment concentrates will be replaced with newly developed varnishes thus reducing the resource related CO2 footprint of the printing ink.

Testing is underway and the initial results have been positive, we hope to have completed our trials and made the switch by December 2020.

Caps Cases were recently involved in creating bespoke boxes for a unique kids clothing company based in Suffolk.

Selfie Clothing produce customisable clothing that children can colour in to create their own works of art. Their range includes Colour In Tops and the all new Colour In Capes and Colour In Pyjama Sets.

Caps Cases were asked to design and produce some funky home delivery boxes for the kits to be shipped to customers in. The boxes are fully recyclable and feature a high-end double-sided flexographic print.

For more information about Caps Cases’ high quality print capabilities, or to find out ore about our e-commerce packaging products contact the team today.

Lockdown has brought with it a huge spike in demand for home delivery services.

The UK’s supermarkets have all increased the number of online delivery slots to meet the unprecedented demand.

In fact, Tesco has achieved an increase in online capacity of 103% in the space of a few weeks, growth which would normally take years to achieve. Before the crisis, only about 7% of all groceries were bought online.

Many businesses from various sectors have now turned to home delivery to enable them to continue serving their customers.

With home delivery providing such an essential service to consumers, it’s never been more important to get the packaging right.

Whatever your business, if you’re looking for a cost effective, environmentally sound way of getting your products delivered directly to your customers door we can help.

Caps Cases has a huge range of existing cutting tools on site that can be utilised for:

• Food delivery packs
• Drinks packs
• Presentation packs

We can quickly develop graphics and customise your packaging to match your brand identity and present your products in a professional manner.

Get in touch with a member of the team today to find out more.

Environmentally friendly packaging for food and drinks

We are aware that Coronavirus (COVID-19) is causing a level of uncertainty for everyone. During this difficult time, the welfare of our team is our top priority. However, as a supplier to many key food businesses, we also have a duty to continue production to support our customers who in turn are feeding the nation.

Whilst we have lots of clients requesting our services, we do have capacity to cope with more shelf ready or retail ready packaging. We have a huge range of tooling available for SRP type packaging and if none of that is suitable our design team will be able to take your brief and turn a concept into a pack quickly and efficiently.

Sourcing suitable packaging for food and drink can be a challenge. There’s a great deal to think about after all – protection, hygiene, presentation, shelf-life to name but a few.

We provide a ‘one stop shop’ in that we can carry out all the structural design, graphic design and proofing under one roof. Our Newmarket and Glasgow production facilities house the very latest flexo-printing, die-cutting and gluing equipment. As such we can provide a quick response and control each aspect of the process from start to finish.

As a corrugated manufacturer with a current BRC Grade AA status and FSC certification we specialise in delivering retail ready packaging to our clients. We have helped numerous customers to package a wide range of goods in a way that conveys the right message for that brand or product. We use water-based food safe inks and have a strict site hygiene program in place to ensure our packaging is safe for non-direct contact with foods.

We are happy to discuss stock and serve arrangements and now successfully operate such arrangements with various customers and would love to hear from you.

If you are looking to;

• Reduce damage in transit
• Rationalise the number of different boxes you use
• Minimise your costs
• Use eco-friendly packaging materials
• Re use packaging

We’d be delighted to talk to you about;

• Retail Ready Packaging (RRPs)
• Shelf Ready Packaging (SRPs)
• Takeaway food packaging
• Printed bespoke packaging
• Cardboard food boxes

We would like to thank all to our hardworking and dedicated staff who are enabling us to remain open and continue to support our customers.

Following the latest guidance issued 23rd March we wanted to clarify the following.

Caps Cases is designated as an essential business as we supply many food manufacturers and essential delivery companies. We are following the government guidance and staying open to support these key businesses.

We continue to operate with a split shift, and with extra hygiene controls in place over and above those already in place as grade ‘AA’ BRC certificated site. Office staff are working from home where possible, and non-urgent visits to our sites have been postponed.

We thank all our customers for your continued support. Please keep us informed as your situations change, and we will do the same from our side.

From everyone at Caps Cases we’d like to extend our best wishes to you and your families in these challenging times. Stay Safe.

Caps Cases has upgraded its self-seal taping capabilities, with the addition of a brand new taping machine.

The top-of-the-range machine systematically applies double sided tape to cardboard boxes at four times the speed of Caps Cases’ previous taping machine, therefore increasing efficiency and workload capacity.

“We have invested in our self-seal taping technology in order keep pace with the increasing demand for this type of packaging,” comments Commercial Director Jamie Bissett.

“We see this as a product area that will continue to go from strength to strength.”

Double-sided taped packaging is essential for many e-commerce businesses. Statistics suggest that anywhere between 25-50% of all internet orders are returned, with certain e-commerce sectors reporting higher numbers still.

With this in mind Caps Cases has developed a range of e-commerce boxes that are designed to provide the receiver with the option of resealing the box and returning it to the sender, with minimal fuss.

Our ‘hassle-free’ packaging is designed to suit your individual requirements and can be printed on the outside of the box, the inside, or both, depending on your preferences.

Our dedicated retail packaging design team can create innovative packaging ideas that provide new ways to protect your products in transit and to present them perfectly to the consumer.

Whether you are looking for returnable packaging solutions or a new way to promote your brand using flexographic or digital printing, Caps Cases are here to help you create frustration-free solutions for a positive consumer experience.

For more information on our new taping machine or our e-commerce packaging, contact the team on 01638 667326 or email us sales@capscases.co.uk

Tipple Box has revealed this year’s must-have Christmas present for Gin lovers – a Yard of Gin. But what makes this gift even more special is that it’s packaged in a decorative gift box manufactured by none other than Caps Cases!

The Yard of Gin from Tipple Box is a world-exclusive limited edition gift and features a hand-picked selection of twelve gins to sample from distilleries across Great Britain.

When Caps Cases of Newmarket were approached by leading Gin and cocktail gift retailer Tipple Box, to come up with a bespoke design for the Yard of Gin packaging we jumped at the chance to be involved.

Working with the client, Caps Cases’ in-house design team came up with a unique and sophisticated design that fulfilled the brief and met all the specifications.

“The box design is long and thin with separate vertical and horizontal dividers to safely accommodate the individual bottles of Gin,” explains Paul Flint, Account Manager at Caps Cases.

“The key aspect of this design is the print. Tipple Box wanted a festive look so we supplied several Christmas pallet metallic swatches and they decided the Gold would suit the product most. The end product is a stylish and eye-catching box that not only look great but also protects the products inside.”

Transporting and storing bottles safely can be notoriously difficult, but not when you have the right packaging for the job.

When it comes to robust and reliable bottle packaging, Caps Cases have got it covered. Our custom printed wine, beer and drinks packaging is suitable for a variety of uses, from robust transit packaging through to eye catching display packs.

As with all our products, our bottle packaging is 100% recyclable and can be custom printed to reflect your own design or branding.

For more information on Caps’ drinks packaging products or if you’re looking for something bespoke, get in touch with the team via email sales@capscases.co.uk or by phone on (01638) 667326.

For more information on Tipple Box’s Yard of Gin, visit www.tipplebox.com

Caps Cases has reinforced its position as a leading supplier of corrugated cardboard packaging to the drinks industry by becoming an affiliated supplier member of the Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA).

SIBA represents around 800 independent craft brewers across the UK, as well as 300 supplier businesses.

By joining the society, Caps Cases is recognised as a trusted supplier to the brewing industry.

“Drinks packaging is a big part of our business and we produce cardboard packaging for a number of independent craft brewers,” comments Managing Director Trevor Bissett.

“We are proud to be supplier associate members of SIBA and we look forward to expanding our network of customers as well as keeping up to date with the latest brewing standards and legislation.”

When it comes to robust and reliable drinks packaging Caps Cases has got it covered.

Our custom printed wine, beer and drinks packaging is suitable for a variety of uses, from robust transit packaging through to eye catching display packs.

As with all our products, our bottle packaging is 100% recyclable and can be custom printed to reflect your own design or branding.

Caps cases offer a variety of drinks packaging options including courier safe packs, gift boxes and carry packs, transit boxes with dividers and retail display units.

For more information on Caps’ drinks packaging products or if you’re looking for something bespoke, get in touch with the team via email sales@capscases.co.uk or by phone on 01638 667326.

Caps Cases has once again achieved top marks in its annual BRC packaging audit.

The prestigious BRC standard is globally recognised as the hallmark of a quality packaging manufacturer.

Caps Cases achieved a Double A standard at both its Glasgow and Newmarket sites – the highest grade available for this certification.

In order to achieve the top level, Caps Cases must comply with the strict manufacturing controls set out by the BRC Global Standard for Packaging and Packaging Materials, and undergo a rigorous two-day assessment each year.

The achievement means that Caps Cases can supply secondary packaging products to the food industry. The company offers a broad range of food-related packaging products including Shelf Ready Packaging (SRP), transit boxes, turkey and goose boxes and wine, beer and beverage boxes with dividers.

“We pride ourselves on maintaining consistently high quality products, procedures and systems here at Caps, and we are delighted that this has once again been recognised by BRC Global Standards,” comments Managing Director Trevor Bissett.

“Achieving Double A grades across the board at both sites is testament to the hard work and dedication of the team.”

For more information on Caps Cases’ range of food-related packaging products contact the team today on 01638 667326 or email sales@capscases.co.uk

Caps Cases is delighted to be the sponsor of the PSG U13’s girl’s football team for the 2019/20 season.

Members of the talented team, based in Saffron Walden, have already been sporting their new blue kits complete with Caps Cases logos.

We would like to wish the team the best of luck in their upcoming matches and fingers crossed for a super season ahead.

Working with the leading travel accessories brand Travel Blue, Caps Cases recently created a bespoke Floor Standing Display Unit (FSDU) design, which is currently catching the eye of shoppers in Dixons stores across the country.

The 5ft tall hook unit display stand features 15 merchandising hooks, which cleverly display Travel Blue’s premium range of accessories, such as plug adaptors, phone chargers, ear plugs, luggage locks and a host of other travel essentials.

“We were approached by Travel Blue with a concept for an FSDU and it was our job to bring it to life,” explains Caps Cases’ Sales Director Jamie Bissett.

“The brief was to create a striking display stand that would hold a number of products and allow for easy shopping. Crucially the stand also needed to adhere to the retailer’s strict specification guidelines.”

In terms of design, Caps Cases took Travel Blue’s branding and advised on how best to use it on the FSDU for maximum impact. Once a draft design had been agreed, Caps’ design team used their cutting edge 3D modelling software to create a 3D mock-up of the display stand for the client to approve. A full printed prototype was also produced and sent to the retailer for approval.

“We were able to take the strain for Travel Blue by distributing the FSDUs fully assembled, which is an option we offer for all clients. The products could then be quickly and efficiently added to the stands before being delivered to the retailer,” explains Jamie.

As a leading manufacturer of cardboard Point of Sale (POS) display units, Caps Cases are experts in delivering stand-out display units that will set your products apart. Our purpose built digital suite can create all manner of cardboard POS and POP (Point of Purchase) units, and our in-house team of structural designers will guide the design process from start to finish.

Jamie adds: “It has been a pleasure to work with Travel Blue on this project and we are really pleased to have been able to fulfil their brief. The result is a unique and eye-catching stand that ticks all the boxes.”

If you’re looking to develop a POS campaign or would like to know more about our POS products, contact the team today on (01638) 667326 or email sales@capscases.co.uk

With over 200 products sold in over 110 countries and thousands of stores, Travel Blue is a world leader in travel accessories. For more information about their products visit https://travel-blue.com/

There’s much more to a Free Standing Display Unit (FSDU) than meets the eye. If used effectively, these stands not only hold and display stock but they can also have a significant impact on in store purchases and brand success.

Bright, high-quality graphics create a striking display which is sure to grab customers’ attention, even in a bustling retail environment.

As a leading manufacturer of cardboard Point of Sale (POS) display units, Caps Cases are experts in delivering stand-out display units that will set your products apart.

We recently designed and produced bespoke FSDUs to showcase books within stationery stores nationwide. The units were digitally printed and CAD cut, so there were no set up fees included. As requested by the client, the units were delivered flat-packed but pre-glued for easy assembly in store.

If you’re looking to develop a POS campaign, our in-house team of structural designers will guide you through the design process from start to finish.

Our purpose built digital suite can create all manner of cardboard POS and POP (Point of Purchase) units, FSDUs, Off Fixture Displays (OFDs), Dump bins, Counter Top Displays units (CDUs), In-store Pallet size display bins and Standees and Retail Ready Packaging to name but a few!

Our state-of-the-art digital and production CAD table allows us to produce complex bespoke FSDUs with no set up charges. We can also offer split print runs for multiple designs if required. Sampling and transit testing is also available.

In terms of delivery, we can send the units flat-packed or pre-assembled and in some cases we are able to offer a pre-filled service, depending on the products.

For more information about any of our POS products or to discuss your requirements with a member of the team, drop us a line at sales@capscases.co.uk

Caps Cases recently rolled out the red carpet as part of a special project for the launch of Working Title’s latest movie release – Yesterday.

Caps produced 38 corrugated cardboard movie stands for the movie’s launch event in Barcelona. Each stand was made up of five or six components, with around ten different pieces of artwork. The stands are completely self-supporting and freestanding.

“We were delighted to be involved in the project and were glad to be able to produce the stands for the client at short notice,” comments Dan Bowman, Account Manager at Caps Cases.

“All of the stands were made within a week. In fact, one last addition of artwork was supplied on a Friday and the stand was printed and CAD cut over the weekend ready for delivery on Monday morning.”

Caps Cases’ purpose built digital suite can create all manner of cardboard display units including POS units, FSDUs, off fixture displays, counter top displays units in-store pallet size display bins and standees.

Our state-of-the-art digital and production CAD table allows us to produce complex bespoke FSDUs (Floor Standing Display Units) with no set up charges. We can also offer split print runs for multiple designs if required. In terms of delivery, we can send the units flat-packed or pre-assembled.

Dan adds: “The Yesterday movie stands are part of a wider ongoing project by Caps Cases, which involves movies that are yet to be released, so for now it’s top secret!”

For more information about our movie stands or similar products, or to discuss your requirements with a member of the team, drop us a line at sales@capscases.co.uk

Earlier this year Caps Cases expanded its sales team with the appointment of Jasmine Dorling as Sales Coordinator.

Jasmine comes from a sales and recruitment background and is now on the front line of the Caps Cases sales team, handling customer orders and queries.

A few months down the line and having settled into her new role, we thought it was a about time we caught up with Jasmine to find out a bit more about her and how she fits into the Caps Cases team…

– What are your areas of responsibility at Caps Cases?
On a daily basis I’m involved in order processing, as well as dealing with customer queries and generating new sales leads.

– Tell us about your career before you joined Caps?
Before Caps Cases I worked in recruitment and before that as a Sales Administrator for a global medical business.

– What do you enjoy most about your job?
I would have to say the customer engagement. Everyone is really friendly and in addition to that my team have been extremely welcoming and friendly too.

– What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
“Don’t take yourself too seriously”.

– What’s your proudest achievement?
I guess my proudest achievement was travelling on my own. I’m usually a bit of a home bird, so to have travelled to Fiji, New Zealand, America and Bali solo was pretty cool. I’ve also done the third highest bungee jump in the world and the world famous canyon swing.

– Tell me a bit about what you like to do outside of work?
In a nutshell: gym, shop, eat! And my new hobby is camping.

– Any other interesting facts we should know about you?
I’m a bit of cat lady and have one of my own called Gili.

With National Picnic Week in full swing, there’s no better time to mention our range of premium cardboard picnic and food hamper boxes!

We offer a comprehensive range of bespoke cardboard boxes, ideal for the transportation of food and taster hampers.

Specifically designed with the packer in mind, the boxes can be quickly and efficiently assembled without the need for tape.

Made from high quality double walled cardboard, the boxes feature double base flaps for extra strength, resulting in a highly robust and durable product.

The boxes are available in a range of sizes to suit all requirements. They can also be printed with your own bespoke logo or design.

Plain boxes can be ordered in any quantity required. Bespoke printed options are available for orders in excess of 500.

Picnic facts:
• The average person picnics at least three times a year, that’s 94 million picnics per year.
• The most popular picnic snack fifty years ago was the humble cheese sandwich. Now, it’s a bag of crisps.
• Did you know the word ‘Picnic’ was first found in a 17th-century French book entitled “Origines de la Langue Françoise de Ménage”

*Facts and image courtesy of www.nationalpicnicweek.co.uk

For more information about the sizes and options of picnic and hamper boxes that we offer or to discuss any queries, specific requirements or pricing information please contact the team via email sales@capscases.co.uk or by phone on (01638) 667326.

After almost three decades of trouble-free service, Caps Cases has bid a fond farewell to one of its longest-serving machines.

The large 3.4m casemaker was originally installed at the Newmarket site some 28 years ago and has since been an instrumental part of the Caps Cases production process.

It is estimated that during its time at Caps, the casemaker has produced over 25 million boxes, most of which were transit boxes.

The departure of the old casemaker makes way for the installation of a brand new machine, which is due to be up and running by the end of the month.

“While we’re sad to see the old machine go, we’re excited about its replacement,” comments Managing Director Trevor Bissett.

“The new casemaker is not only faster, but will also enable us to print five colours and rotary die cut inline, so it will be used for both transit and retail packaging (SRP/RRP).”

The good news is that the old machine is still in use but has moved on to pastures new and is now producing boxes elsewhere in the country.

For more information about the new casemaker, or to enquire about any of our products, contact the team via email at sales@capscases.co.uk or by phone on (01638) 667326.

Plastic reduction and recyclability are two of today’s hottest topics.

News headlines are increasingly dominated by ‘go green’ stories, as global businesses and consumers become more eco-conscious.

Leading the way is the UK’s supermarket sector. Take Sainsbury’s for example. The supermarket chain is currently trialling new plastic vending machines that will actually pay you to recycle. Customers get a 5p Sainsbury’s voucher for each item they recycle can return 500 items per visit – that’s a £25 off your next shop!

Not to be outdone, Waitrose has launched a packaging-free trial in one of its stores, which offers refillable options for items such as alcohol, rice and cleaning materials.

There’s no doubt that reducing single use plastic usage is crucial, so with this in mind we’ve come up with a few strategies to help you and your business become greener through eco-friendly packaging…

1. Choice of material
Opting for a high quality recycled and recyclable material for your packaging, such as corrugated cardboard, is the first step. On average, corrugated boxes made in the UK already contain 76% recycled material and many boxes are made from 100% recycled material.

2. Size is vital
Using the right size packaging for your products reduces the need for filling materials such as chips and air pillows, therefore minimising packaging waste. Made to measure packaging will also allow you to save on storage space and transport more products at a time, resulting in savings on fuel and CO2 emissions.

3. Easy disposal
Give some thought to the way that your packaging will be disposed of. Corrugated packaging is very flexible when it comes to disposal. More than 80% is already recycled but it can also be reused, composted or incinerated with energy recovery.

Environmental responsibility is something we take very seriously at Caps Cases, both as an individual business and as a global industry. That’s why we ensure we do everything possible to minimise our own carbon footprint.

To speak to one of our packaging experts about your packaging requirements, get in touch today.

Caps Cases has recently become a member of the European Flexographic Industry Association (EFIA).

EFIA is the UK trade association representing the entire flexographic print supply chain.

The membership is part of Caps Cases’ ongoing commitment to ensure that all of our print operators are given the opportunity to develop their printing skills.

With this in mind, four of our operators will be taking part in the EFIA’s nationally accredited training and education scheme.

The modular online course covers all aspects of flexo printing and technology, such as best practice, fault finding and preventative maintenance. Through the EFIA, we have also enrolled a factory supervisor on an NVQ diploma course in Performing Manufacturing Operations.

“By ensuring our staff receive this training we hope that this will encourage our team to attain the best possible quality product consistently,” comments Managing Director Trevor Bissett.

“As their knowledge and skillsets grow, it will enable the company to enter into new sectors whilst still maintaining our reliable reputation for quality and service.”

For more information on the EFIA, visit www.efia.uk.com

For more on Caps Cases and the products we offer, contact the team via email sales@capscases.co.uk or call (01638) 667407.

Like us, the ice lolly brand Lickalix take their environmental responsibility very seriously. In fact, Lickalix recently became the first iced treats company in the world to receive the plastic free trust mark for their compostable packaging.

So when the company approached Caps Cases to produce recyclable transit packaging for their range of lollies that would fit in with their ‘go green’ ethos, we jumped at the chance.

Lickalix have been producing organic ice lollies since 2014. Made with real fruit and free from all allergens, the lollies are stocked in over 800 retailers nationwide, including Jamie’s Italian restaurants and Ocado to name but a few.

“Being eco-friendly and responsible is something that is very important for us. We are slowly and organically transitioning the business to be sustainable,” explains Lickalix founder Karis Gesua.

“We want to try and do our bit in every way we can. Through our processes, we have no food waste and we are internally changing single-use plastic within the office and company structure. Our flyers, business cards, posters and boxes are all recyclable cardboard. The stickers we use are biodegradable and we use paper bags or organic cotton tote bags to deliver our lollies.”

Lickalix was awarded the Plastic Free mark from A Plastic Planet at the start of this year for their new ice lolly packaging.

“The biggest milestone that we have achieved is changing our lolly packaging to compostable. We took a passionate risk for our planet and to spread the knowledge of plastic and its effects on our environment,” says Karis.

“There has been a lot of blood, sweat, tears, and money spent on going plastic-free with our packaging. It’s really not an easy feat for a small start-up business to do in our sector, but we are really proud to say we are the first frozen food company in the world that has been awarded the Plastic Free trust mark.”

Caps Cases is delighted to be a part of Lickalix’s plastic-free initiative, by providing bespoke printed recyclable cardboard transit boxes for the company’s range of products.

For more information about Caps Cases environmental credentials here.

Or for more information on our range of bespoke cardboard packaging products contact the team at sales@capscases.co.uk or (01638) 667326.

You can learn more about Lickalix here: www.lickalix.com

With Brexit looming, the nation is wondering what will the UK’s departure from the EU mean for the economy? When will we leave? Who will lead the country post-Brexit? Who’s got the style, strength and the skills?

The good news is that during this time of political uncertainty, you can still count on Caps Cases!

Our Glasgow team is currently working on a bespoke project manufacturing corrugated cardboard polling booths for use in the upcoming elections.

These individual booths are not only extremely cost effective in comparison to conventional timber booths, but they are also easier to store and transport.

Recyclable or re-usable, the booths are quick to erect and can then be stored flat for future use, or sent back into the waste stream for recycling.

“We’re delighted to be working on the project, and one which demonstrates the diverse range of corrugated cardboard products that we’re able to manufacture at Caps Cases,” says Tommy Allardyce, Operation Manager at Caps Cases Glasgow site.

For more information about Caps Cases’ polling booths, or any of our other products, contact the team via sales@capscases.co.uk or call (01638) 667326.

Caps Cases’ premium print quality has been recognised on an international scale by the judges of the prestigious Global Flexo Innovation Awards.

A print sample for one of our drinks clients made it through to the final judging stages in the Design Innovation/Process Improvement category of this year’s competition.

The international awards are hosted by Kodak and recognise the companies that, through innovation, are driving the industry transformation of flexographic standards worldwide. This year’s competition attracted over 200 entries from almost 100 companies across 26 countries.

“We’re thrilled to have made it through to the final stages of the awards, and although we didn’t win, we’re celebrating our position as finalists in such a prestigious competition,” comments Wayne Booker, Print Manager at Caps Cases.

“Most of the winning entries seem to be multicolour work across a variety of flexo processes, so we were hoping that our entry would do well based on the quality of print when considering the spec of the press that achieved it.”

Wayne adds: “This was our first entry into the competition and it has inspired us to continue to push forward in our print innovation and hopefully better our position next time!”

With innovation in mind, Caps Cases will soon take delivery of a brand new five colour flexo casemaker, which is set to further boost the company’s manufacturing capabilities.

The state-of-the-art machine not only offers five colour flexo print but also features an in-line rotary die-cutter, meaning premium quality print and precision at high speed.

“It’s a really exciting time to be involved in print and with the arrival of our new machine we’re holding our position at the forefront of corrugated print technology,” says Wayne.

If you would like more information about our new printer, please email info@capscases.co.uk or call us on 01638 667326.

Last month saw the welcome return of two members of the Caps Cases Newmarket team – Hannah Ayers and Gill Bridgman.

Hannah has returned to her role in Business Development and Gill is back in the office overseeing general administration duties. Both are settling back in to ‘Caps life’ after a short break to pursue other interests.

“We’re really glad to have Gill and Hannah back on board – in fact it feels like they’ve never even been away!” says Trevor Bissett, Managing Director.

Now that they’re back, we thought it would be the ideal time to catch up with Gill and Hannah to find out a bit more about them and how they fit into the Caps Cases family…

• Welcome back Hannah and Gill! How does it feel to be back at Caps Cases?
  Hannah: Like I’ve never left. Caps and cardboard feel like home to me!
  Gill: It’s really good to be back – it’s like coming home.

• What does your role at Caps involve?
  Hannah: As a family run business I guess we all prides ourselves in the thought that we can all lend our hand to any task that needs completing. However my main role is the developing new business and growing and maintaining relationships with our existing client base.
  Gill: I help out on reception and general admin duties such as booking in deliveries and answering the phone etc.

• What do you enjoy most about your job?
  Gill: Meeting people and talking to customers.
  Hannah: Ringing the order bell and visiting customers when the sun is shining.

• What are you looking forward to most about being back at Caps Cases?
  Hannah: Being back in the team with everyone and being able to get back out on the road. And the Friday Lunch Club of course!
  Gill: Catching up with friends at work and customers.

• What’s been your most interesting or funny experience during your time at Caps?
  Gill: A Christmas party many years ago, but I don’t think I can go into detail on here!
  Hannah: I’m not sure there are many stories that can be shared but the most cringe-worthy tale is probably filling up my diesel company car with petrol! Awks!

• What do you like to do outside of work?
  Gill: I love travelling and I read a lot.
  Hannah: I enjoy dog walking, exercising and gardening. I sound about 75!

• What’s your proudest achievement?
  Hannah: Keeping my three year old daughter and badly behaved Labrador alive!
  Gill: Still having all my own teeth at the age of 64!

• Any interesting facts that we should know about you?
  Hannah: I am the Great Granddaughter of Sir Henry Ayers. Ayers Rock (Uluru) was Named after him.

Welcome back Hannah and Gill!

As a manufacturer of cardboard boxes, we understand the importance of a reliable and robust shipping and delivery service.

The delivery of our products is the final stage in the fulfilment process for our customers, and for some, the most critical. That’s why we take extra special care when planning and carrying out the deliveries of all orders.

With factories in Suffolk and Glasgow we are able to deliver your corrugated packaging quickly and competitively throughout the UK and into mainland Europe.

Caps Cases’ dedicated transport team works tirelessly to ensure that we deliver on an unbranded vehicle suitable for the specific individual needs of each delivery destination. We also utilise a range of vehicle sizes, meaning we can handle deliveries of all sizes across the whole of the UK and our customers can view details of upcoming deliveries on line via the customer portal.

“We take pride in the presentation of every pallet that we deliver and ensure that your goods are always handled with the utmost care,” comments Operations Manager Dave Lochhead.

“Our rapid delivery service allows us to work to a just-in-time philosophy which helps reduce the stock holding burden throughout the supply chain, ultimately keeping costs down and reducing storage space requirements to a minimum.”

For more information about Caps Cases delivery service or range of products email sales@capscases.co.uk or call us on (01638) 667326.

The amount of paper and cardboard packaging now recycled in Europe has reached a record high, according to figures recently released by the European Union.

Across the 28 countries of the EU, the recycling rate for paper and cardboard packaging waste has reached 85.8% – the largest of all the packaging materials analysed.

The recycling of paper is not a new concept and the UK industry is proud of its recycling heritage that started over 100 years ago.

On average, corrugated boxes made in the UK already contain 76% recycled material and many boxes are made from 100% recycled material.

Corrugated packaging is very flexible when it comes to disposal, more than 80% is already recycled but it can also be reused, composted or incinerated with energy recovery.

In light of the new recycling figures from the EU, we thought it would be an ideal time to take stock of our own carbon footprint and green initiatives. Our environmental responsibility is something we take very seriously at Caps Cases, both as an individual business and as a global industry. That’s why we ensure we do everything possible to minimise our own carbon footprint.

Here are just some of our current green initiatives:

• 100% of our off-cuts and waste paper is recycled. Our closed loop recycling system captures waste directly from the machines and processes it for recycling.
• We implement an accurate and precise setup process for each job, therefore minimising the amount of material waste and off-cuts as much as possible.
• We prefer to use 100% recycled paper and encourage our customers to choose recycled paper when suitable.
• Pallets are re-used where possible.
• Our deliveries are grouped where possible to save fuel.
• We review the energy consumption of both our factories on a regular basis to ensure we maintain a consistent level of performance.
• All toner cartridges and paper used in our offices is recycled.
• We encourage all office and canteen waste, such as cans, bottles and plastic cups, to be recycled.

Our commitment to the continued challenges of reducing our impact on the planet has become part of our everyday management systems. This is supported by our accreditation to ISO 14001: 2004 for Environmental Management and awareness.

You can learn more about corrugated recycling and landfill here.

Transporting and storing bottles safely can be notoriously difficult, but not when you have the right packaging for the job.

When it comes to robust and reliable bottle packaging, Caps Cases have got it covered. Hooray!

Our custom printed beer and drinks packaging is suitable for a variety of uses, from robust transit packaging through to eye catching display packs.

Here’s a taster of what we can offer…

Gift boxes and carry packs: Our high quality print capabilities and in-house design team means we are well placed to provide eye-catching retail and gift packaging that helps show your product in the best possible light.

Transit boxes with dividers: We provide 6, 12 and 24 cell bottle cases with dividers to individually house each bottle. The dividers can be supplied fully assembled to make for easy packing. This is a cost-effective way to protect your bottles in transit. We can also make bespoke dividers to suit any case configuration.

Courier safe packs: We are proud to be able to offer our patented BottleSafe technology – a courier safe means of transporting drinks. The bottles are suspended within an air space in the outer carton, which is created by top and bottom fittings that securely hold the bottles in place.

BottleSafe packaging has been extensively trialled with zero reported breakages. The design is modular meaning we can create 3, 6, 12, 24 bottle packs, without needing bespoke fittings for each configuration. There’s no need for loose fill or bubble wrap and all of BottleSafe’s components fold flat, to minimum storage space required.

As with all our products, our bottle packaging is 100% recyclable and can be custom printed to reflect your own design or branding.

For more information about Caps Cases range of boxes for bottles, or if you’re looking for something bespoke then contact the team today – sales@capscases.co.uk or (01638) 667326.