KM Packaging keeps a lid on Clever Cooks gourmet range

When international food manufacturer Australian Wholefoods decided to launch its Clever Cooks range of gourmet lasagnes, the company sought the services of a lidding specialist.

Although a local lidding supplier was available, Australian Wholefoods chose UK company KM Packaging Services for its expertise in lidding film technology and its global reputation for providing hands-on service regardless of where its clients are located.

KM's lidding solution for Australian Wholefoods.

Shortly after Australian Wholefoods made an initial inquiry, KM Packaging visited the company’s manufacturing facility in Adelaide to conduct a full site review, which allowed the lidding specialist to fully understand the scope of the project and the lidding specifications.

Due to the products’ acidic sauces, varying cooking methods and storage environments, the lidding solution needed to be suitable for both lacquered and non-lacquered smooth aluminium foil trays.

KM Packaging conducted intensive product trials at its UK facility. The products were tested against the exact trays used in Australia, which ensured the chosen films and foil trays worked together.

The first trial reels were delivered to Australian Wholefoods within a few days, which reassured the company that despatch and delivery would not be an issue despite stock being received from overseas.

In addition, KM Packaging provided an all-encompassing technical backup service at each trial stage to ensure that the films and trays remained compatible throughout the entire process, taking into consideration varying pressures, temperatures and dwell times.

“Not only has KM Packaging provided us with lidding solutions that are dual ovenable and deliver reliable seal integrity; the company has exceeded our expectations in terms of quality of service,” said Australian Wholefoods Director Michael Demetriou.

“KM Packaging’s technical support is second to none and we have been incredibly impressed with the speed of delivery and quick response time to any queries - it is as if the company was based only a few miles away.

“The personal service and follow-through that we have received from KM Packaging means that I would have no hesitation in recommending the company to anyone here or abroad. We are currently investing in our manufacturing facilities and KM Packaging will play a significant role in ensuring that we have adopted the most cost efficient processes and that our overall packaging solutions remain effective,” Demetriou said.

“Longer term, we also want to reduce the amount of packaging material that we use and hope that KM Packaging will be able to help us achieve this.”