INTERVIEW – Stuart Loudon: Project Manager at Thomas Tunnock Limited

I imagine that efficiency and packaging quality are the most important things you look for in machines. What can you say about the Sapal machines?

I think that regarding efficiency and packaging quality, for the product we are trying to package, the Sapal BNK and DPN 7 machines we have are the perfect machines for the job. Over the years, we have tried different types of machines, but we remain loyal to Sapal because Sapal is the best in the field, which is why we have always maintained our relationship with Sapal.
The wrapping of the tea-cake on the BNK must be done slower than on the DPN7 because the chocolate is very delicate. With the BNK, everything works really well and efficiently, thanks to the good quality of the Sapal machine.

L’emballage du tea-cake sur la BNK doit se faire à une vitesse plus lente que sur la DPN7 parce que le chocolat est très délicat. Avec la BNK, tout fonctionne vraiment très bien et efficacement, grâce à la bonne qualité de la machine Sapal.

What do you think about how the Sapal machines are used and maintained?

The Sapal machines are really easy to use; there is nothing too complicated about the buttons. On the DPN7, we have an HMI interface, a screen that is very clear, simple, and easy to use. This is also an advantage because there is no need to train our operators in a complex way. We can train them in a short time on how to use the machine, dismantle the parts and clean them, and stop the operation at the end of the shift. It is very similar for both machines.

For example, on the DPN7, you only have to remove the folding box, and it can be cleaned very easily. Accessibility is excellent. The doors are all locked when the machine is running, which means they are very safe. It’s the same for the BNK.

Why did you decide to refurbish your machines?

We found that, because we maintain our machines well, they now run longer and better. I think that if you look after the machine, the machine will look after you.

After how many years did you decide to refurbish your machines… are they still there, are you still satisfied with them? Do they work as well as the first day, 50 years ago?

As soon as I became project manager, it was a priority for me. At first, Boyd was not very convinced, but now that he has seen the benefits, he is satisfied with the result.
When the DPN7 came back after refurbishment, it worked immediately, as if it were new! We also refurbished three BNK machines, and it took some time to get them running again. Now the machines are perfect and run very well.

What does Sapal do for you that makes you happy to work with them?

I would say that Sapal is a very nice company to work with. And it is even better now that Sapal is independent again. I deal directly with them; I have also visited the factory, which I find very positive. The maintenance staff, salespeople, service team, and office people now know me, and I think it is really important to have a good relationship.