Code-It expands into flex pack with Mark Andy P7

Code-It Labels has installed a 20-in Mark Andy Performance Series P7 flexographic press at its Warrington facility, expanding its web width capability and opening the path to flexible packaging production.

The eight-color servo-driven press is fitted with delam/relam, turn bars, laminating, dual rewind and full UV curing, along with a Chill Pack for running unsupported film, a requirement for the converter's flexible packaging ambitions. It can also produce A4 booklets two-across.

The P7 is the latest in a 20-year relationship between Code-It and Mark Andy, following a 10-inch Mark Andy 2200 and two 13-inch Performance Series presses. Owner and managing director Phil Barker says the standardization across the fleet simplifies operator training and press management across different web widths.

'With the ease and speed of makeready on a modern flexo press, we can handle all but the shortest of runs economically,' said Barker. 'The auto-register on the new Performance Series P7 is a great example of how Mark Andy has developed and refined its technology over the years to make life easier for the operator.'

The investment has allowed Code-It to move to a single-shift pattern while increasing production volume and reducing costs across its 10,000sqft facility, which employs 16 staff. Most of its flexible packaging work is expected to come from existing label customers seeking a single source for both product types, with shrink sleeves identified as a particular growth area.

'ISO 9001 and BRC accreditation quantify our quality, but it's our reputation and long-standing partnerships built over the years that really matter,' noted Barker. 'On the supplier side we owe much of our success to Mark Andy technology and its support team.'

'Having different web widths is ideal for the range of products Code-It manufactures, including the volume of peel and reveal labels that is showing increased demand,' added Antony Cotton, sales manager at Mark Andy UK.