We are seeing a shift in the manufacturing landscape, and this comes in the form of the scarcity of the Packaging Engineer. Tasked with creating innovative and sustainable packaging solutions, Packaging Engineers work hard behind the scenes to ensure products reach consumers safely and fit for purpose.
The job role requires a specific set of skills including understanding materials science, design, and logistics, to be creative problem solvers and to come up with solutions quickly.
At one time they were seen as indispensable in the supply chain, but these once sought after roles seem to be having a demise within the packaging development process. With efficiency and cost-effectiveness driving many in the industry, the introduction of automation and robotics have been seen to revolutionise the packaging industry. Thereby, streamlining processes and pushing for the reduction in the need for human intervention, leaving little room for the creative input of Packaging Engineers.
Freddy Bourdais, Co-Founder and Sales Director, Plastic Mouldings Northern said: “As companies prioritise speed and cost-cutting measures, we have seen that the role of the Packaging Engineer has been marginalised. In addition, over the years the industry has seen mass consolidation, and with this comes a loss of product knowledge.
The loss of a specialist skills base and knowledge leads companies to be responsive, but not particularly productive in terms of getting to the root of the customers’ needs and requirements.
Here at Plastic Mouldings Northern we work as the Packaging Consultant, we look at the product differently, and can suggest something better either through sourcing or bespoke product design in-house. This really is our USP in the industry, our experience, insight and innovative capabilities.”
One of the primary responsibilities of a Packaging Engineer is to ensure that the products are adequately protected during transportation and storage. The role is complex, and they have to take into account things like temperature, humidity, and shipping conditions.
Freddy added, “The role of the Packaging Engineer can’t be underestimated, they are truly unique in their abilities and knowledge to add value to the product specifically in terms of logistical considerations, their ownership of supplier relationships and maximising profitability.”
As a plastic and packaging specialist, Plastic Mouldings Northern are a full circle solutions supplier and we are able to maximise our capabilities, combining all aspects of the business to ensure a successful conclusion for customers.
Chris Parker, Southern Sales Manager at Plastic Mouldings Northern works closely with customers on a daily basis to find or create the right outcome, whether standard or bespoke.
“My role is centred around solving material handling and supply chain issues for our customers. I collaborate closely with customers and our partner factories to develop efficient solutions tailored to their specific needs. This involves a deep understanding of our products and the industry to provide everything from bespoke to simple solutions.
We tailor our support to match customer budgets and needs, leading to cost savings, enhanced efficiency, and improved productivity for our clients.”
What makes Plastic Mouldings Northern unique is our innovative spirit and our independence from specific manufacturers. This allows us to globally source the best output for our customers, without being limited to certain suppliers.
Chris added: “We are invested in providing solutions for customers. A notable project for a major player in the Seafood Industry really stands out, where we sourced a historic solution for a novel application, eliminating polystyrene from their supply chain – a significant breakthrough.”
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