Maple Fine Foods Streamlines NHS Meal Production With Packaging Automation’s SL2

As an existing Packaging Automation customer operating with the semi-automatic EC182, Maple Fine Foods was ready to take the next step in optimising their production line. With growing demand and a desire to improve efficiency, hygiene and throughput, the team began exploring full automation.

Packaging Automation recommended the SL2 Tray Sealing Machine — a compact high-performance solution ideally suited to Maple Fine Foods’ space constraints and future growth ambitions.

Maple Fine Foods required a sealing solution that would:

• Increase production speed without compromising food safety
• Reduce labour demands on the line
• Maintain the consistently high seal quality required for NHS meal contracts
• Fit within a limited factory footprint
• Provide a smooth transition from semi-automatic to fully automated operation
• Use existing rotary tooling to reduce investment

Having already trusted Packaging Automation equipment for years, the team wanted a solution that delivered reliability, ease of use and dependable support.

Maple Fine Foods visited Packaging Automation’s facility for a full demonstration of the SL2. The system’s compact footprint, robust build quality and ease of integration immediately stood out.

The team confirmed that they had “always received good quality from PA” and were confident they had found the right machine for their production needs.

Ahead of delivery, PA engineers visited the Maple Fine Foods site to:

• Assess layout and infrastructure
• Offer preparation advice
• Ensure the factory was production-ready for installation

This proactive approach ensured a seamless installation with minimal disruption.
Packaging Automation then delivered thorough operator training, giving Maple Fine Foods’ team the confidence and skills they needed from day one.

The SL2 machine has been running perfectly, with zero issues reported. The transition from the EC182 to the SL2 was smooth, fast and trouble-free.

The operational impact for Maple Fine Foods has included:

• Reduced labour requirements on the line
• Faster, cleaner, more consistent production
• Improved staff satisfaction thanks to simpler operation
• Increased throughput with confidence in quality
• A reliable, hygienic system supporting NHS-ready meal production

Maple Fine Foods describe the process from initial discussion through to implementation as “great from start to finish”.