Skip to Content
Exit
 

What Is the Role of Automation in Achieving Volume Flexibility?

automated machine
automated machine

In today’s food industry, demand isn’t always predictable. One week, a brand might need a small run for a seasonal product; the next, they could be scaling up to meet nationwide distribution. That’s where volume flexibility comes in—and automation plays the starring role.

At Econo-Pak, automation isn’t just about speed. It’s about building a system that can scale, adapt, and deliver—no matter the project size.


Flexible Machinery for Changing Demands

With over 200 state-of-the-art packaging machines, our automated systems can shift between packaging types quickly. From pouches to flow wrapping to volume filling, flexibility is built into our operations. As our Maintenance Manager, Jared Ellsworth, puts it: “We change things over on a daily basis.”

That means clients don’t have to worry about whether we can handle their product—we can pivot to meet the need.


Scaling Smart: From Manual to Automated

Not every project starts with full automation. For many new SKUs, we begin with manual runs to better understand product handling and throughput. Once the process is refined, automation is introduced to increase speed, precision, and efficiency.

This step-by-step approach lets brands grow without the upfront strain of large-scale automation—while still knowing the option is there when they need it.


The Power of Robotics

Automation at Econo-Pak isn’t just about machines; it’s about robotics, too. Collaborative robots (cobots) and pick-and-place systems help us handle repetitive tasks like sorting, loading, and sealing.

The result? Faster turnaround times, fewer errors, and reduced strain on human workers. Robotics make it possible to adapt packaging lines to different volumes and formats without losing efficiency.


Quality and Control at Every Volume

Automation also ensures that quality never slips—whether we’re producing a short run or millions of units. With in-house filling operations, real-time monitoring, and rigorous checks, every package meets the highest standards.

This is especially important when volumes fluctuate, since consistency is what keeps food brands trusted in the market.


Continuous Investment in Flexibility

We don’t stop at “good enough.” Each year, Econo-Pak invests in new equipment—from bag-in-box bagging to advanced cartoning lines—that push automation further. These upgrades allow us to serve more clients, meet more formats, and handle higher volumes without compromising on quality.

Let's start scaling.

Is your demand outpacing your ability to package your own product? Then consider outsourcing with Econo-Pak.

With over 40 years of experience working with both small brands and Fortune 500 companies, we are capable of handling your specific dry food product.

Get in touch with our team for a fixed-price quote for your project.

You might also like...