As a result, suppliers are coming under increasing pressure to offer packaging solutions that maintain product integrity while meeting demands for less packaging. In turn this means packaging equipment suppliers must offer versatile machinery to meet these needs.

To comply with changing customer demands, Ulma Packaging Ltd come up with a solution to help cut packaging to meet demand from retailers. As a result Ulma has secured an order from a prominent UK fruit and vegetable supplier.

In this case the supplier, contacted Ulma when its retail customer asked for a reduction in avocado packaging which were originally packed and supported in a tray.

Ulma's solution - the Atlanta Hi Tech which seals the fruit in a flow-wrap pack - has resulted in a 60 per cent reduction in packaging and a significant cost reduction. In this application it is operating at over 70 packs per minute.

The Atlanta Hi Tech, fits into automatic packaging lines, and works with BOPP, PVC, polyester cellulose, complex laminates and cold sealing films. It includes a multi shaft electronic control. In addition, its ergonomic design, reliability and robust construction all add to easy cleaning and maintenance.

Commenting, Ulma UK director Derek Paterson, said: "We are getting more and more enquiries from the fresh produce sector for this type of packaging solution to cut waste.

“There is also awareness amongst consumers that they can make a difference by selecting lightly packaged produce - while ensuring what they buy is protected from direct handling by others."

Ulma's customer, which is one of the UK's leading supplier of fruit and vegetables, has said it will now look at how other products it supplies to Britain's major supermarkets could benefit from this packaging solution.

Derek Paterson added: "The feedback we have had from the customer is very good - they are pleased that they can meet the needs of the retailer through reducing packaging and the subsequent reduction in costs.

“We believe they chose our machine because of its flexibility and value for money. We are now running trials on recyclable packaging films to see how successfully these can be used. Environmental concerns are not going to go away and this is an area we see continuing to grow in the future."

The company, a provider of packaging equipment and services, offers a wide range of packaging solutions for the food and non-food sectors.

Established in 1956 in Onati, Northern Spain, Ulma Packaging has grown into a group, with subsidiaries in 14 countries throughout the world.