The global packaging systems manufacturer, part of the Barry-Wehmiller group, said that along with its existing engineering and manufacturing centres in Italy and the Netherlands, the new facility will expand its product testing capabilities, enhance customer collaboration for complex projects, and increase partnership with major material suppliers.

The new centre will also complement BW Flexible Systems’ existing network of customer sales and service hubs in Italy, Russia, Dubai, and South Africa.

“Our legacy is built on a portfolio of brands that offer best-in-class packaging machinery, including Rose Forgrove, Sandiacre, Schib, Simionato and Symach,” said BW Flexible Systems vice president of Europe Michele Allamprese.

“Our expansion plans ensure we leverage the combined strengths of these iconic brands to offer a seamless experience for customers and deliver innovation that addresses their greatest needs.”

BW said the new Nottingham facility will provide a dedicated research and development facility to maximise its technical expertise, and bring machinery experts, material partners, and customers together “to collaborate on innovative packaging solutions”.

“This will include a focus on two areas of increasing need: developing automated solutions, as well as designing machinery that supports customers’ increasing focus on packaging that uses sustainable materials,” the company stated.

Customers will be able to use the new facility for product and material testing, as well as live machine demonstrations.

“We understand the increasing need of our customers to meet sustainability commitments,” said Allamprese.

“At the same time, we recognise the current challenges with labour shortages and the demand our customers have for automation. These challenges, together with increased competition among brand owners, are creating a profound transformation in the packaging industry. Our investments will allow us to fully support our customers through that transformation.”

BW Flexible Systems’ machinery portfolio includes form-fill-seal packaging, horizontal flow-wrapping, and bag filling and palletising, among others.

The business is part of the BW Packaging Systems part of Barry-Wehmiller, which has a combined group turnover of $3bn (£2.16bn) and employs nearly 12,000 staff.