ASAMS Business Development Manager, Jamie Podgers, recently attended the New Anglia Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering (NAAME) Group meeting, hosted by Berry Global Group, Inc., at their impressive site in Beccles, Suffolk. Berry Global, a Fortune 500 company and a leading manufacturer of plastic packaging products, provided an engaging platform for industry leaders to discuss and explore the theme of “Smart Automation” in low-volume manufacturing.
The event brought together 40 delegates, including representatives from manufacturing and engineering businesses, local government, and the broader support ecosystem. The gathering facilitated insightful discussions and networking opportunities, emphasising the importance of automation and technology in driving efficiency and innovation.
Jamie stated “A highlight of the meeting was the participation of guest speakers from Mitsubishi Electric and BPX Electrical Mechanical Co, they shared their expertise and demonstrated cutting-edge solutions that are transforming the landscape of automation.”
Delegates also had the chance to witness these advancements in action during a guided tour of Berry’s state-of-the-art facilities. The site tour offered insights into Berry’s extensive operations, which produce over 300 million bottles annually. The facility boasts nearly 300 machines encompassing extrusion and injection stretch blow moulding, injection moulding, flexible tubes, CNC printing, and more.
The event reinforced the critical role of smart automation in enhancing productivity, even in low-volume manufacturing scenarios. It also highlighted Berry’s commitment to innovation, workforce development, and safety, setting a strong example for others in the industry.