We sat down for an in-depth conversation with Martin, the technical lead for new equipment at Kompak. As a co-packer for major multinational brands, Kompak faces relentless pressure to adapt. Martin explains how Unilogo didn’t just sell them a machine—they provided a future-proof solution that solves every production headache before it even starts.
Martin, you’re handling production for some of the biggest brand owners in the world. What is the reality of the market right now?
Martin: It’s a demanding environment. We are a co-packer working mainly for multinationals, and the market is shifting fast. The days of massive, single-product runs are fading. Now, the market demands smaller boxes and smaller runs. For us, that means we have to do far more changeovers than ever before.
That sounds like a bottleneck waiting to happen. How do you manage that complexity without losing efficiency?
Martin: That is exactly why we bought the Unilogo machine—the Futureproof 100. It’s a modular robotic line that has completely changed how we work. It helps us grow our business because it guarantees we can hit a minimum of 100 units per minute, regardless of the complexity.
Speed is one thing, but you mentioned changeovers. Traditional machines can take hours to switch formats. How does the Unilogo line handle that?
Martin: It’s in a different league. The line is designed to change over completely from product to product in less than twenty minutes. It uses 3D printed parts as format elements for different bottle shapes. This means we can easily upgrade the machine or change the design entirely. It speeds up everything—from the configuration of the line to the final delivery.
So, you are saying the machine is essentially infinitely adaptable?
Martin: Exactly. It handles a massive diversity of shapes, so we are prepared for whatever the near future brings. It even has a robotized bottle unscrambler and cap sorter built right in. It’s not just about moving bottles; it’s about intelligent handling.
What about the downstream processes? Usually, labeling and packing are where things slow down.
Martin: Not with this system. A very important part of the Futureproof line is its connection with labeling and case packer systems. It is actually able to change over the type of label applied to the product and the box on-the-fly. It’s seamless.
With all this high-tech robotics and software, is it difficult to keep running?
Martin: You might think so, but the integration of hardware and software brings a lot of good to us. We have remote diagnosing capabilities, video footage of any problematic situations, and detailed statistics. This information helps our maintenance team keep the machine at the highest possible productivity
And for the operators on the floor?
Martin: They love it. Machines like the Futureproof 100 make the work better and nicer for the people involved. It’s intuitive. A client is able to smoothly and easily operate the line after just one or two months of operation. It empowers us to learn and ask the right questions, but mostly, it just runs.
It sounds like Unilogo has effectively solved the “impossible” triangle of speed, flexibility, and ease of use.
Martin: We are quite happy with it. We have the speed, we have the quick changeovers, and we have the reliability.
Flexible Lines
Cleanline 200
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Martin van Riel
Project Manager, Kompak
