How Packaging Specialties Transformed Inventory Control
with APR’s Advanced SupplySentry System
Background
Packaging Specialties, a leader in flexible packaging solutions, specializes in producing a diverse range of flexo-printed packaging products including frozen produce bags, pet food bags, beverage containers, tray packs for poultry, lidding and overwraps. With facilities in Arkansas, Idaho, and Georgia, Packaging Specialties has grown significantly over the years, offering advanced packaging solutions to a wide range of industries.
Challenge
Before implementing APR’s SupplySentry system, Packaging Specialties faced several challenges in managing their inventory. The company relied on Kanban cards, a manual tracking system that often led to inefficiencies. The manual process was prone to human error, resulting in either overstocking or stockouts, causing significant disruptions in their production workflow. As Aaron Lackey, Assistant Plant Manager at Packaging Specialties, explained, "Anytime you have humans involved in a process, there’s going to be a margin of error. That process is eventually going to have flaws, and not everyone is going to follow it."
APR’s SupplySentry Solution
To address these challenges, Packaging Specialties turned to APR's SupplySentry system. Initially, the company implemented SupplySentry to monitor stickyback mounting tapes. This success prompted them to expand the system to include other supplies, including splicing tapes, packaging tapes, flagging tapes, trash bags, printed roll labels, and more. The SupplySentry system's automated inventory management provided a more efficient and reliable solution, reducing human error and streamlining their inventory processes.
“We really appreciate APR’s help and support in streamlining our inventory process. SupplySentry is saving us money and has greatly helped to clean up our workspace. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this system to any flexible packaging converter in the market.”
Aaron Lackey
Assistant Plant Manager
Packaging Specialties, Inc.
The system’s organized shelving and bins have also helped to clean up the production floor. "SupplySentry has made a big difference to the overall appearance of our work area,” said Lackey. “Our employees take more pride in having customers in the production area.” The system's RFID technology ensures accurate and timely replenishment of supplies, reducing the risk of stockouts and overstocking.
Conclusion
Since implementing APR's SupplySentry system, Packaging Specialties has seen significant improvements in their inventory management. The automated system has not only reduced the frequency of stockouts and overstocking but has also helped to keep the production floor more organized and presentable. The company stresses that the support from APR has been exceptional, with prompt replenishment of orders and hands-on assistance in initially setting up the system.
Aaron Lackey summed up his company’s experience, stating, "We really appreciate APR’s help and support in streamlining our inventory process. SupplySentry is saving us money and has greatly helped to clean up our workspace. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this system to any flexible packaging converter in the market.”