Autopack delivers turnkey automation to sauce specialist

Autopack, a leading UK independent integrator of automated packaging lines, has successfully commissioned a bespoke, fully automated production line for sauce manufacturer P&B (Foods) Ltd. The project marks a step in the producer’s modernisation, moving from conceptual design to high-speed execution.

Faced with the challenge of modernising a complex sauce operation, P&B (Foods) Ltd required a solution that could handle a diverse product range — spanning 250 ml to 1 L volumes in both plastic and glass containers.

Autopack provided end-to-end support, including detailed factory layout planning for a new facility. “We chose Autopack because of their extensive experience in the sauces, edible oils, and other viscous product sectors,” said Safiq Shaikh, project manager at P&B (Foods) Ltd. “Their team provided comprehensive design and integration support, which guided us from concept through to completion”.

The new five-machine configuration is engineered for both hot and cold filling, achieving speeds of up to 100 containers per minute (6,000 per hour) for one-litre bottles. The integrated line features:

• Rotary unscrambler: ensures high-speed, efficient container feeding.
• 12-head alternating piston filler: provides precision filling for varying viscosities.
• Dual capping systems: includes a four-head automatic plastic screw capper and an MC100 metal capper for maximum closure flexibility.
• Multifunctional labeller: delivers front, wraparound, and tamper-evident labelling to ensure a premium shelf finish.

The success of the sauce line has served as a catalyst for further automation. Autopack is currently manufacturing additional turnkey systems for P&B (Foods) Ltd, including automated can and glass lines for ghee products and a fully integrated drum-filling line for edible oils.

Jonathon Stewart, Autopack UK sales director, noted that the partnership reflects a growing trend of manufacturers seeking turnkey reliability to combat rising costs. “Our reputation rests on the proven automated benefits our turnkey lines deliver… from improved speed and efficiency to reduced costs and wastage”.

By utilising a dedicated project management structure, Autopack provided P&B (Foods) Ltd with a single point of contact, ensuring clear communication across the multi-phase installation.