In today’s packaging landscape, rising material costs and increasing global pressures are forcing businesses to take a closer look at long-established processes.
David Hicklin, Antalis Technical Sales Manager, Packaging Systems, looks at how stretch wrapping is now under greater scrutiny as packaging companies search for cost savings and operational efficiencies.
At Antalis Packaging, optimisation is not about simply reducing film usage. It is about applying the right film, in the right way, with the right equipment to deliver consistent, measurable stretch performance.
This philosophy underpins Antalis Packaging’s free stretchCONSULT audit, a structured approach that identifies inefficiencies, challenges assumptions, and unlocks improvements across the entire stretch wrapping operation.
In a market where margins are tightening, this kind of informed, data-driven approach is becoming essential rather than optional.
Moving beyond cost per tonne
For many organisations, stretch film procurement is still driven primarily by price per tonne. While this may appear logical, it often leads to unintended consequences. A lower-cost film that underperforms can result in higher usage, increased product damage, and reduced operational efficiency.
The more meaningful metric is not what the film costs to buy, but what it costs to use. This includes factors such as containment performance, consistency of application, waste, and the impact on downstream logistics. Antalis’ stretchCONSULT encourages businesses to rethink this perspective. By shifting the focus away from price, companies can uncover hidden inefficiencies and identify opportunities for improvement.
A holistic view of the operation
Rather than focusing on a single element of the process, Antalis works with clients to consider the entire wrapping operation.
The process begins with listening and understanding the challenges. These may include issues such as load instability, transit damage, inconsistent wrapping, or concerns around consumption.
The load itself is assessed. Every pallet presents its own set of variables, from product type and weight distribution to transport condition requirements.
By building a complete picture of the operation, Antalis can provide recommendations based on real conditions rather than assumptions.
When the problem isn’t the film
A common misconception in stretch wrapping is that performance issues are always linked to the film itself; in fact, the wrapping equipment can be the root cause.
It is not uncommon to find machines that are incorrectly set up, insufficiently maintained, or not being used to their full capability. Pre-stretch settings, tension control, and wrap patterns all affect how effectively film is applied.
At Antalis, transparency is central. If there isn’t an issue with the film, it may be a machine adjustment or service that will improve performance.
The right film
Film selection remains a key part of the optimisation process. The goal is to identify the film that delivers the best performance for the specific application.
In some cases, this may involve switching to a lighter film that offers improved yield without compromising strength. In others, a slightly thicker film may be recommended to reduce the number of wraps required or improve containment.
The relationship between film, load, and machine is complex, and small changes can have an impact.
Balancing performance and sustainability
Sustainability is now a consideration in packaging decisions, particularly with the introduction of the UK Plastic Packaging Tax and increasing pressure to incorporate recycled content.
Films containing 30% recycled material are increasingly used. However, performance cannot be overlooked, as reduced effectiveness can lead to increased usage.
In some applications, virgin film provides superior performance in terms of stretch, consistency, and yield. The key is to strike the right balance between tax implications and efficiency.
From insight to impact
The stretchCONSULT service from Antalis offers customers the opportunity to take an informed, expert-led approach to stretch wrapping, replacing assumptions with evidence.
Antalis is already working with customers to reduce stretch film usage by typically 30–50%, while improving load stability and reducing damage in transit.
Book a FREE stretchCONSULT with Antalis. Visit www.antalis.co.uk/packaging or contact the team on pkteam@antalis.co.uk or 0370 241 1466.
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