Titan Enterprises expands reach in North America
For nearly 20 years, Titan Enterprises’ trusted North American distribution has been expertly handled by its long-term partner, JLC International. This successful collaboration has laid a strong foundation for further growth in the region.
A UK-based manufacturer of small-bore liquid flowmeters, Titan Enterprises has built a robust global network of partners and distributors in Europe, the Americas, Australia, and East Asia. This strong international presence enables its flow measuring products to reach markets that might otherwise be restricted, easing import access and providing local support and technical expertise.
“The US and Canadian flow measurement market presents exciting opportunities, especially in key industries such as fluid power, oil and gas, chemicals, and food and beverage,” says Jeremy Thorne, Operations Manager for Titan Enterprises. “Market growth projections highlight the expanding adoption of flow meters in these sectors, underscoring their critical role in ensuring accurate flow measurement and control in industrial processes.”
When Basecamp Process Components (BPC Valves) approached Titan and showed strong interest in becoming a key distributor for the USA and Canada, discussions began. With a rich legacy itself as a leading provider of industrial valves, BPC not only understand the process and flow measurement industries, but their long-
established market also provides a clear synergy with Titan’s flow meters and flow measuring instruments.
“In 2023, the flowmeter market was valued at approximately USD 9.9 billion and is projected to reach around USD 17.1 billion by 2033,” states Kate Thomas, Titan’s Company and Finance Director. “In the 2023/2024 fiscal year, America contributed 16% of our gross sales, showcasing a solid base with tremendous potential for expansion.”
“With the global flow meter market experiencing significant growth, we are excited to partner with Titan as we enter 2025,” Scott Will, Owner of BPC, says. “Customers here in the USA and Canada will benefit from Titan’s industry proven products and the added distribution and support we can offer through BPC.”
UPFs reduced from diets
1 in 3 UK adults decreased their consumption of ultra-processed foods in past 12 months
Almost a third (31%) of UK adults have decreased the amount of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) in their diet in the past 12 months, according to a survey of 2,000 people by Opinium on behalf of specialist health and nutrition agency Say Communications.
Most (79%) surveyed had heard of UPFs, as defined by the NOVA food classification, only 27% said they know exactly what
UPFs are. Even so, 50% actively avoid them. People over 55 are leading the change, with 35% cutting down on UPFs. Also, more women (35%) decreased their UPF consumption than men (28%).
The top UPFs eliminated are ready meals (45%) and processed meats (43%), soft drinks (37%) and fast-food items (35%). However, 30% believe not all UPFs are unhealthy with 40% young adults (18-34) believing this compared to 21% of those over 55.
Stefania Rucci, MD at Say Communications, said, “The NOVA UPF classification can feel like a blunt instrument when used without education and guidance. This is the time for food and nutrition companies to educate customers about their food processes with honesty and transparency, so consumers can make the best choice for themselves and their families.”
T +44 (0)20 8971 6400 hello@saycomms.co.uk www.saycomms.co.uk
Titan’s dependable flowmeter technologies play a vital role in the development of innovative products aimed at promoting sustainability, reducing waste, supporting alternative energy use, and driving both environmental and financial savings. The versatile range of Titan flowmeters offers advanced features such as chemical resistance, long lifespan, clean bore design, and precise low-flow measurement.
“North America also opens opportunities for us with OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) customers,” says Neil Hannay, Senior Development Engineer with Titan Enterprises. Titan has the experience and engineering skills to develop and manufacture tailored flowmeter solutions, from research and test through to prototypes and full production. “Having BPC as an additional trusted and knowledgeable partner alongside JLC in the US will help to extend and deliver these projects more efficiently,” continues Neil.
Over the next few years, Titan will be seeking established international distributors in the Middle East / UAE and Southern African regions to develop a more coordinated approach to these markets.
Customers in the US and Canada can find our global partners through Titan’s website or via email: sales@flowmeters.co.uk
https://flowmeters.co.uk/ titan-enterprises-expands-reach-in-north-america
Herits: Quality refurbished equipment, backed by industry experience
In this issue of Food & Drink Matters, we are delighted to feature Herits Ltd as our Industrial Food Machinery and Commercial Catering Equipment Company of the Month.
Herits Ltd was founded by brothers James and Xander Phillips in February 2024. Their journey began prior to the launch of Herits, in their own restaurant kitchens, where they experienced first-hand the shortcomings of traditional food machinery and catering equipment suppliers. Determined to make a change, they established Herits to provide higherquality and more cost-effective service.
Serving clients nationwide, with a repairs workshop, store and showroom in South Devon in Ipplepen, Herits operates with one simple goal, to make it easy for customers to cost-effectively upgrade their commercial kitchen facilities.
“We specialise in buying, refurbishing, and selling high-quality pre-used industrial food machinery and catering equipment. We take pride in sourcing the best products available at prices that match our customers’ budgets. Beyond sales, we offer a comprehensive service that includes installation, de-installation, and responsible disposal of old equipment, allowing our clients to stay focused on their food service operations. Every piece of equipment we sell is carefully repaired, thoroughly safety-checked, and professionally cleaned before delivery to ensure it meets the highest standards,” stated James.
Each member of the Herits team has previously worked in the industry which means they really do understand commercial kitchens and have the technical know-how to be able to refurbish pre used equipment to a reliable quality standard. This service is also backed by a minimum 3month warranty often extending to 6-12 months.
Receiving 5-star reviews across the board, customers have left comments such as:
‘Fantastic support for a small local business – fast service and nothing was too much trouble.’
‘Purchased a double refrigerated drawer unit. It was serviced and delivered by the team professionally and promptly.’
‘I recently bought some second-hand catering equipment from James, and I must say it was incredible value for the price.’
Herits is also extremely conscious of its environmental responsibility, and is committed to doing everything it can to positively increase its sustainable impact on the planet, including services like full de-installations and disposal services, as well as recycling, retaining, and re-using good quality parts for repair when required. Herits also works on behalf of its clients to reduce their footprint:
“By sourcing and offering good quality refurbished cleaner refrigeration technologies and providing energy efficient appliances, we enable commercial kitchens to reduce their costs as well as their carbon output. Whether you’re a bakery, restaurant, hotel, school, or any commercial/industrial kitchen, we would love to work with you,” stated James.
Looking ahead, Herits is launching its own ecommerce site next month with the intention of enabling other suppliers in the same industry sector to
use that site to sell, making it easier for customers to only source pre-used items from one site only.
In closing, James added, “Commercial kitchens have come a long way with today’s smart, high-tech appliances. With AI, sustainability, and technology driving progress, kitchens are becoming smarter and greener. At Herits, we use our industry expertise to help customers optimise their kitchens with highquality, pre-used equipment that fits their budget.”
For more information, please see below: T 01803 501066
https://www.herits.co.uk
https://www.ebay.co.uk/usr/herits-food-machinery
Connecting the Plant Based World with global businesses
The Plant Based World Expo Europe is the only 100% plant-based expo for retail and foodservice and the 2024 show, held at London’s ExCeL from 13th-14th November, did not disappoint!
Whether you’re looking to improve your profitability, find menu items that capture customers, or implement long-lasting changes that will transform your business as well as the global food system, then Plant Based World Expo makes it all possible.
As well as being the launching platform for hundreds of new brands and showcasing the
latest industry trends, findings, knowledge and products, the 2024 show welcomed a large range of exhibitors all striving to move the plant-based scene forward.
Previous attendees include Harrods, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Papa Johns, and Wholefoods Market. The expo is also known to have attracted some big well-known buyers all looking for that one unique, innovative idea and product.
The 2024 show welcomed The Plant-Based Excellence Awards – a new comprehensive awards scheme judging against the credentials of great tasting, appealing presentations, sustainable packaging and attractive margins – of which are expected to champion the excellence coming from this industry. Covering 17 categories from sweet, savoury, meat-mimics, ready-meals and everything in-between some of the 2024 winners were: 2024 Best Product: Let it V Foods – Veikon Bacon, Best Alcoholic Beverage 2024: Casa Savoia – Savoia Orancio, Best Cold Beverage 2024: Goodrays – 30mg CBD Sparkling Drink, and Best Dairy Alternative Cheese 2024: Jay and Joy – Jeanne Alternative to Blue Cheese.
Live from the Buyer Meeting Area and the Pulse Theatre were plenty of insightful and interactive seminars and discussions covering topics such as Plants First Healthcare, and Breeding Improved Ingredients, as well as culinary demonstrations from the likes of David & Stephen Glynn creators of The Happy Pear who showed visitors how to cook a Cashew & Chestnut Wellington and Festive Spiced Moose perfect for the Christmas period.
The event’s Gold Sponsors were Brenntag, Exberry, Bord Bia, New Originals Group, Nova Meat, and Nadura.
Want to take your business to the next level?
Tickets for this year’s show which is due to be back at London’s ExCeL from 26th-27th November 2025, are available now.
Contact
https://plantbasedworldeurope.com
A fresh range of plant-based proteins now available in the UK
Protein 4 U Ltd is a subsidiary of Wiesenhof International, which is part of the PHW Group. It operates facilities in Germany dedicated exclusively to the production of plant-based meat and fish products. Supplying the European food service sector and private label markets, the company also owns the Green Legend brand in Germany.
For UK retailers, brands and the food service sector, Protein 4 U Ltd offers a delicious and varied range of products based on plant-based proteins made without soy, palm
fat or coconut oil. Specifically aimed at flexitarians, vegans and or those who take their concerns for the environment and animal welfare seriously, all products use ingredients that are natural with no artificial flavours.
The range is now available in the UK market for private label and the food service sector. The range features a variety of plant-
based and vegan options, frozen products, and frozen-to-chilled items.
The selection includes vegan meatballs, steaks, nuggets, sticks, mini schnitzels, chili cheese balls, crispy chicken popcorn, chicken pockets, chicken burgers, and vegan burger patties. Additionally, it offers plant-based seafood alternatives such as salmon fillets, Calamari and whitefish fillets. Flavoured options are also available, including sweet & smoky vegan meat ribs, spicy herb chicken fillets, and lemon & herb vegan salmon fillets.
For more information, please see below: T 07778 648391 info@protein4u.uk https://www.protein4u.uk
Call me bubbles, darling!
CANS
UK is a brand-new start-up that is set to take the canned beverage industry by storm!
Offering a simple, refreshing crisp alpine spring water drink made with real fruit juice and just the right amount of bubbles, CANS was a big hit at the recent Lunch! North 2025 event where it showcased its new products just 18 months after launch.
Showering shame on all its sugar alternatives, CANS, if you didn’t know, stands for Crusaders Against Nefarious Sugars, is now available in the UK. Since the product was first launched in 2023, CANS has officially sold over 1.6 million units, saving the equivalent of 33 tons of sugar or 8 million sugar cubes that would have been consumed if people drank other sweet soft drinks instead.
Proving that CANS is heading in the right direction, the company has continued its growth trajectory now distributing to Germany, Czechia, Slovakia, and now its latest expansion, the UK!
Ready and armed to tackle a challenging, yet hopefully rewarding UK market, CANS not so secret plan for world domination, is looking very likely with current offices set to open in Brighton and London.
Reflecting on its first year, cofounder and CEO Dominic Rice shared, “We are happy with our growth and reaching new consumers through expansion.”
“Our brand, product and mission has already been very well received by consumers in the Czech market, and I would say that we are where we hoped we would be after the first year. We have already launched sales in Slovakia and Germany, and now we are ready for the UK.”
“We chose this path because we wanted to start on the domestic market first and learn as much as possible from this process. The choice of other markets was ultimately simple: the largest ones. The reason is also simple: we are here to try to change the situation – to help reduce the excessive consumption of sugar and artificial sweeteners
in society, which is causing major health problems around the world. The fastest way to achieve this is to be available to consumers in the largest markets as quickly as possible.”
Made using just three simple ingredients: pure water from the Alps, natural juice from real fruit, and effervescent bubbles from wherever bubbles come from, CANS was founded by entrepreneurs Jaroslav Beck, Dominic Rice, and Jan Rambousek.
Soft on the mind, body and the planet, each can is 330ml and includes flavours such as Apple, Cherry, and Lemon. There is also a CANS sample box available that offers two units of each flavour.
CANS mission to reduce excessive sugar intake is gaining momentum, and this is only the beginning. If you’re ready to join CANS on their journey to shake things up, enquire below for more information.
hello@cans.co.uk https://cans.co.uk
illycaffè presents X-CAPS: The new proprietary system for a never-before-experienced journey of taste and aroma
On the occasion of Milan Design Week, illycaffè unveiled its new exclusive illy X-CAPS system in the stunning setting of its flagship store on Via Monte Napoleone. A space-inspired installation welcomed visitors with silver spheres and oversized capsules, taking them on a journey where design, excellence, and innovation merged into a unique tasting experience. This immersive setting allowed participants to fully explore the X-CAPS system.
The new X-CAPS capsules preserve the freshness and aroma of the coffee in the best possible way, ensuring a smooth and even extraction thanks to their exclusive design. Their symmetrical shape allows for bidirectional use, ensuring a simple and intuitive user experience. Made from 85% recycled aluminum, the capsules are available in the following varieties: Classico Roast, Intenso, Forte, Decaffeinato, and Classico Lungo.
Thanks to Hyperinfusion technology, X-CAPS capsules deliver a full-bodied espresso, a dense and persistent crema, and an extraordinary aromatic experience. This technology was specifically developed to ensure optimal coffee extraction, enabled by two new X-CAPS machines designed by architect and designer Luca Trazzi. In the X-CAPS system, the interaction between machine and capsule is key: the new integrated Hyperinfusion technology
allows water to meet the coffee at the ideal pressure, guaranteeing an aromatic extraction and a rich, fullbodied espresso with a long-lasting crema.
“With the launch of X-CAPS, we are proud to combine over 90 years of experience in high-quality coffee with a concrete commitment to innovation.” commented Cristina Scocchia, CEO of illycaffè. “X-CAPS represents excellence in taste, thanks to our new Hyperinfusion technology, and marks an important evolution in the way we aim to offer consumers a unique and sustainable coffee experience – even at home.”
The new range includes two models: the X1, the iconic coffee machine with sleek curves and a vintage-inspired design, featuring a steel body, instant heating, and energy-saving mode, always
ready to brew; and the X3, a minimalist and functional machine made from 50% recycled or renewable plastic, available in two colors – white or black – and two finishes (satin or glossy). It stands out for its integrated capsule container, offering simple and practical user experience.
A focus on innovation, technology, and superior quality has always been at the heart of illycaffè’s heritage, and with the new X-CAPS system, the company takes another significant step forward. The X-CAPS system is now available on the illy e-shop, in illy’s monobrand stores in Italy and Europe, at Mediaworld stores, and in a selection of top-tier bars known as Artisti del Gusto.
Contact www.illy.com
CATERING & HOSPITALITY MATTERS
At TheCommercialOvenStore.
com, we know that the heart of any professional kitchen is a reliable, high-performance oven. That's why we offer an extensive range of ovens from the world’s leading brands – including Blue Seal, Lincat, Unox, Rational, and Merrychef.
Whether you’re running a bustling restaurant, a cozy café, or a fast-paced catering business, you’ll find the ideal
solution with us. Our selection includes powerful gas and electric ranges, versatile combi ovens, high-efficiency speed ovens, and durable convection ovens, all designed to keep your kitchen operating at peak performance.
Explore cutting-edge features, energyefficient designs, and trusted engineering – all in one place. From compact units for
smaller kitchens to heavy-duty systems for large-scale operations, we make it easy to find the right fit for your needs and budget.
Expert advice, competitive prices, and trusted brands – all at TheCommercialOvenStore.com
Get the equipment you can rely on, and take your kitchen to the next level.
T 0207 965 7502 sales@thecommercialovenstore.com
At The Commercial Oven Store, we take great pride in being your go-to destination for all your commercial oven needs. We understand that when it comes to running a successful business, having the right equipment is crucial. That’s why we have dedicated ourselves to providing top-notch products, coupled with expert advice, to help you make informed decisions and achieve your goals.
As a supplier of commercial ovens, we have established strong partnerships with leading manufacturers in the industry. By working closely with these renowned brands, we ensure that our customers have access to a wide range of high-quality ovens that meet the diverse needs of various businesses. Whether you’re in the food service, hospitality, or catering industry, we have the perfect oven to suit your requirements.
Focus Label Machinery Ltd
Focus Label Machinery Limited has been a leader in label printing machines since 1981. With over 40 years of experience, we design, manufacture, and install all types of label printing machines in-house, with training, servicing, spare parts, and consumables provided. Our range includes inline label printing machines, digital inkjet and toner printing machines, heat transfer printing machines, silk screen printing machines, rewinding machines and finishing equipment.
The AccurioLabel 230 digital toner press from Konica Minolta is available in the UK, through Focus Label Machinery – an Accredited Industrial Print Partner of Konica Minolta. This cutting-edge technology also perfectly
complements the Focus Reflex range of digital print finishing systems.
For digitally printed web, the Reflex 330 Digital Finishing System provides a fully comprehensive off-line finishing solution. The Reflex 330 re-register system is extremely accurate – even at speeds well over 100 metres per minute and includes the option for semi-rotary or full rotary converting for roll-to-roll or roll-to-sheet formats.
The versatile d-Flex digital hybrid press incorporates the latest HiQ 1800dpi high-speed, full-colour Konica Minolta inkjet technology (CMYK + W), which has been cleverly integrated into the existing Reflex servo press with in-line UV or LED flexo print heads, die-cutting, slitting and rewinding. High quality variable images can be overprinted in perfect register with UV or LED flexo ink, then converted & rewound – in a single pass with speeds up to 70 metres per minute.
plus storage of job details for future retrieval and are said to make the e-Flex, the most effective, affordable servo-driven flexo/digital combination press in the marketplace today.
The latest e-Flex twin servo flexo press with automated pre-register functions can be specified with multiple drying options, including UV, LED, infra-red and chill rollers. The dual servo system provides single touch set ups, with minimal waste for conventional printing and can be combined with a digital module for variable data, text & images.
The touchscreen HMI operator controls provide a fully programmable digital platform,
The e-Flex incorporates top-loading print cylinders and quick-change print cartridges to reduce downtime and set-up wastage. A choice of ultra-efficient interstation drying systems enables much higher press speeds. The short web-path allows for a compact design, whilst still maintaining good accessibility for the operator and plenty of space for optional equipment. A rail system is available for overhead press options, including delam/relam, rotary cold foil transfer, silk screen, turn-bar, and multi-layer re-register laminating.
T +44 (0)1949 836223 admin@focuslabel.com www.focuslabel.com
L éclair Patisserie experiences growth with a Riggs Autopack depositor
Leeds based L éclair Patisserie was born from a passion of French cooking, especially the sweet side, and the realisation that everyone needs an eclair in their life. With a small team of pastry chefs all sharing the same obsession for French patisserie and perfection, L éclair Patisserie was born!
Their story began in lockdown. They took what was an old gym in West Leeds and converted it into a huge all singing, all dancing kitchen perfect for creating their patisserie. Then came the shop.
They wanted to bring a little bit of Paris to Leeds so got a real-life Frenchman (Frank the Machine) who could see their vision. Armed with a drill and a paintbrush, off he went waving his magic wand of wonder and created their little shop.
Since the early days of the little bakery shop, they’ve substantially grown and become a contract supplier producing 1,000’s of bespoke products each day for national hotel groups. Their skilled team create a huge variety of tarts, macarons, gateaux and cheesecakes to name just a few products each week on a bespoke basis to meet each client’s specific requests.
As production has grown over the years, they realised that to keep up with demand they would need to look at a suitable semi-automatic depositor. Co-founder Stephen Thompson approached depositor manufacturer Riggs Autopack to discuss their potential depositing requirements. The initial remit was to speed up their production process by accurately depositing their range of ambient temperature cake batters, directly into trays, with a nominal single deposit range of 3ml-40ml.
Following the initial enquiry, Riggs Autopack Technical Sales Engineer Neil Pygott visited their premises to discuss their requirements in person and review their range of products and containers. To meet their specific production needs, Riggs Autopack recommended their Model 1000 Series 1 Micro Depositor and supplied L éclair Patisserie with a free of charge depositor for a 2-week period to conduct comprehensive product trials.
Stephen Thompson said, “The support and guidance we received from Neil Pygott and Riggs Autopack was invaluable and perfect! We haven’t used depositors before and relied heavily upon their expert guidance. Within just a couple of days of running the machine in production, operators reported back how much easier and quicker the depositor had made their jobs. They loved it!”
They were astonished with the increased production speeds, depositing accuracy and product presentation. Consequently, L éclair Patisserie placed an order with Riggs Autopack for the Series 1 Micro Depositor.
The depositor has dramatically changed the company and transformed the cost of production; they are now producing 5 times the volume when compared to before the machine. 22 minutes of previous production
time is now only 4 minutes! By purchasing the depositor, it has also opened new doors and undertake many larger contracts that they would previously have not been able to fulfil.
Stephen Thompson added, “I contacted several companies that sell depositors, however from the first call to Riggs Autopack I knew these people had the experience, knowledge and support we would need in this new field to us.”
“At our first meeting there was no pressure to buy or ‘our machine is better than everyone else’s’ approach; they let the machine do the talking. Even on the set up of the trial machine, Neil Pygott and a service engineer came out to set up the machine and talked the team through every element.”
“The machine never left our premises. I called Neil and said send me an invoice, it’s staying! Buy this machine, it will save labour cost, portion costs, opens up NPD and the most important for me is ANYONE can use this machine…..and as a bonus you will get a great new friend called Neil.”
Application
Door for internal high traffic areas which require fast opening and closing operations.
Advantages
s System of automatic reinsertion of the fabric in case of impact by means of special zip style guide insertion.
s Class III wind resistance.
s Choice of curtain colours
s Time and cost savings.
s Easy and very fast installation, with front access to fixings and wiring.
s Easy regulation and programming.
s Low maintenance
s Choice of activation
– Movement detector
– Pull chord
– Remote fobs
– Induction loops
Maximum Dimensions
Opening width: Max 4m
Opening height: Max 3.5m
Optional features
s Single phase 1,200w Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS).
s Additional or made-to-measure observation windows.
s White-lacquered frames.
s Flashing safety lights.
s Touchless push buttons (optionally integrated in guide).
s Touchless opening with 1-point laser motion sensor.
s IP65 motor
s Motor with special anti-corrosion protection.
s Extra turbo speed package.
Standard features
s Anodised aluminium lintel with brushes for sliding movement and high sealing performance, with cable housing (hidden cables with frontal access).
s Support panel, fixtures and screws in stainless steel.
s PVC fabric with high resistance interlaced nylon, weight 950g/m2, with transparent window 400 x 1,200mm.
s Guide system protected by special PE profile, with low friction co-efficient and better wear resistance than standard PE.
s Standard motor: 240V AC, IP54
s Door opening and closing speed: 1.5 m/s standard. Possibility of speed increase according to door dimensions (on request).
Hart’s Speedor Storms to the rescue
The call to Hart Door Systems was straightforward – a company was having problems with two suppliers of industrial doors and a third party had recommended Hart Door Systems as the best option as the alternative deliverer of the industrial doors which would resolve the problem.
Carl Crossman, Hart’s Project Manager, said the call was very much the part of a typical week at the forefront of manufacture of industrial/commercial industrial doors. “Because of our longstanding reputation as a major supplier of a wide range of industrial doors and the range of options we have, Hart is well placed to problem solve and deliver the very high standard of industrial doors necessary.”
Mr Crossman confirmed an immediate site visit was carried out and an instant order for two Speedor Storms was placed. Both doors have now been installed and the performance of both will be monitored with a view to replacing other doors on the site. “The response was extremely positive. The Storms are a very high standard of automatic industrial door, an essential part of Hart’s family of Speedor options.”
Mr Crossman added, “Typically clients are attracted to the rapid roll Storm
because of its robustness and exceptional wind resistance together with its energysaving potential as well as controlling internal temperatures and reducing escaping noise and odours. It is an incomparable industrial door product in high demand because of its robustness and exceptional wind resistance together with its energy-saving potential and other very important features.”
More about Speedor Storm
This rapid roll door is robust, low maintenance and delivers exceptional wind resistance in exposed areas. While its high-speed opening and closing action improve efficiency, the energysaving potential of this rapid roll door is high, controlling internal temperatures, escaping dirt, odours and noise.
Special features include; moisturecontrolled electrics, mechanical components shielded from dust and dirt, and a unique guide system offering exceptional wind resistance up to class 5 as defined by DIN EN 12424.
The high-performance exterior roller storm door is designed for frequent use in high traffic situations and constructed to withstand harsh environments.
Contact www.hartdoors.com
Union Industries helps Crown Lift Trucks overcome operational challenges with installation of high-speed Ramdoor
Union Industries, the UK’s leading manufacturer of bespoke industrial doors, has assisted Crown Lift Trucks in addressing multiple operational challenges with the installation of its cutting-edge high-speed Ramdoor.
Crown Lift Trucks, based in Warrington, faced several issues at its facility, including the need to segregate two adjoining units with different temperature requirements while allowing the movement of high-mast forklift trucks through a large opening.
To tackle these challenges, Union Industries produced a bespoke solution to accommodate the building configuration, ensuring the required opening height could be achieved without compromising functionality. Additionally, the limited space at high-level, between structural steel frames, posed a significant obstacle.
Since launching their UK operations in 1960, Crown Lift Trucks have become one of the world’s leading manufacturers of forklift and material handling equipment. Designing and manufacturing up to 85% of its forklift components, Crown provide their wide customer base with forklift rentals, servicing and maintenance, used equipment and a variety of support services.
The installation of the Ramdoor not only addressed the temperature control and safety concerns but also enhanced operational efficiency. Union
Industries designed the door to accommodate Crown Lift Trucks’ requirements while incorporating a pedestrian access door to segregate traffic flow, ensuring a safer working environment.
The Ramdoor features a dual height opening facility, allowing for optimal heat retention while accommodating different forklift sizes. Furthermore, the engineered seals and infills achieve a seamless finish, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics.
It has also been designed to achieve a Class 5 wind resistance rating, making it able to withstand strong winds and to remain operational even during severe weather conditions.
Achieving this rating is supported by a number of the Ramdoor’s features, including its thick Ramhide door curtain material, which is high frequency welded to give the strongest fabric joins available.
In addition, it features heavy-duty wind-brace and wind-bar systems for added strength, plus extra-deep side-guides, which all contribute to the Ramdoor’s ability to cope with high wind loads and pressures. Like other doors in the Union range, it also benefits from a ‘Crash Out’ facility, in case of vehicle or personnel impact to the bottom beam, thus ensuring minimal downtime and repair costs.
Alan Hirst, Sales Director at Union Industries, said, “We are delighted to have assisted Crown Lift Trucks in overcoming their operational challenges with our high-speed Ramdoor. This project highlights our ability to provide innovative solutions tailored to our customers’ specific needs.”
Mark Eccleston, Branch Manager, at Crown Lift Trucks, said, “Union Industries’ Ramdoor has revolutionised our operational efficiency and safety standards. Their dedication to understanding our unique requirements and delivering a bespoke solution underscores their commitment to customer satisfaction. The Ramdoor not only enhances temperature control and traffic segregation but also contributes to our sustainability goals. We are grateful for their expertise and partnership in achieving our objectives.”
CLEANING MATTERS
Kärcher UK announces Manchester as location for ground-breaking new Kärcher centre
Kärcher UK, a leading provider of cleaning solutions, is thrilled to unveil it has selected Manchester for its newest and largest Kärcher centre, which will open in October 2024. Building on the established Manchesterbased Kärcher Hire business, the 18,122 square foot, two-acre site, will house a new Kärcher centre, as well as Kärcher Hire’s new headquarters.
Kärcher Hire rents an extensive range of the latest Kärcher equipment and has grown to become one of the largest cleaning equipment hire companies in the UK. Building on its reputation for providing customers with best in class, fast and reliable service throughout the UK, they have outgrown their current base in Droylsden, Manchester. Kärcher Hire is set to supercharge its operations, continuing to expand their client base across the UK.
The Kärcher centre will be run by centre Manager Simon Barlow and will include a superb showroom that businesses and consumers alike are welcome to visit to discuss their cleaning headaches. A major focus will be servicing
professional businesses needs across the North West, including Greater Manchester, Merseyside and Cheshire.
With a distinctly Mancunian feel, the centre is set to offer unparalleled services to local businesses. The centre will provide full sales, lease, hire, maintenance, service and repair solutions, training facilities, showrooms with a variety of different floor types, and meeting rooms for businesses needing to discuss their cleaning needs.
The Kärcher team is also happy to visit business premises to complete site surveys, conduct product demonstrations and provide training – all designed to support companies in finding the right solutions to increase their operating efficiency. With an unrivalled
range of products available for purchase, lease and hire, the Kärcher team will provide the best solution offering the best fit for any business, commercially, practically and financially.
The announcement of the new Kärcher centre comes as the cleaning solutions provider continues to evolve and grow its offering, in the face of a business landscape in which cleaning and hygiene is more important than ever before.
Matthew Gellie, Head of Rental at Kärcher UK, commented, “Kärcher Hire has been working out of four depots across the UK for the last eight years, so we are thrilled to retain the dedicated staff from our Droylsden depot and to announce our headquarters in Chadderton. This expansion will undoubtedly supercharge our growth, doubling the size of our workshop and office space – giving us the ability to scale our operations.”
The new site will be located at: Unit 4, Oldham Broadway Business Park, Chadderton OL9 9XA.
For more information, please visit: www.kaercher.com/uk
Did you know Euroby has been supplying equipment to a broad range of food and drink applications for over 15 Years?
Euroby is the exclusive UK supplier of Polat separation equipment for the Food and Beverage markets.
The foodstuffs industry offers many applications for mechanical separation and the Polat centrifuges that Euroby offer are in manufactured accordance with international quality standards and expectations of the UK market.
Euroby centrifuges are established at the heart of many process lines worldwide. They are used in dairy processes and are efficient and economical for the separation of milk, cream, whey, yoghurt, quark, fresh cheese together with bacterial removal and butter making.
Euroby centrifuges work well in wine and beer clarification achieving products with consistent taste.
Our centrifuges are specially designed for
each application and are economical and efficient.
We also supply centrifuges which also provide separation solutions for both plant and animal proteins with 2 and 3 phase solutions operating in meat and fish applications.
Euroby centrifuges are also used to process food product waste streams, recovering product, reducing environmental impact and generate savings in overall effluent costs.
We offer:
● High-performance separation
● High-value products
● Reduced waste management costs
● Low energy consumption and carbon footprints
● Low maintenance costs
● Low capital cost.
Interested? Email Lee Blake at Euroby on: lblake@euroby.com, call: 01903 694400 or visit: www.euroby.com
Reliable & scalable: Gellert freeze dryers are perfect for regulated food production
In today’s global environments where disruption to supply chain might have a significant impact on perishable goods, there has been a noticeable shift by manufacturers and consumers alike, toward the freeze-dried product market. The primary reason being, from a manufacturer perspective, freeze drying can help remove the need for cold chain transportation, therefore lowering cumulative costs to transport products. Freeze-dried material is also much lighter than a frozen or refrigerated alternative, which again facilitates a reduction in manufacturer transportation cost.
In addition, freeze drying can expand the reach of the product to potential consumers or end-users in more remote locations where storing product in fridges/freezers during transportation, may not have been possible.
From a consumer perspective, dried products are being preferred to cold chain alternatives because it takes less energy and cost to store before use which leads to overall a lower cost per product, accompanied by an extended shelf life.
As the name suggests, to initiate the process of freeze drying a product must first be frozen and dried by removing the majority of the water that exists within the product naturally. This can be done either at production source using a dedicated freezer during the initial processing, or in-situ of the freeze dryer in a more controlled and repeatable manner, through close contact with the shelves.
While external freezing can reduce the time required to cool product, and theoretically reducing the total freeze drying cycle time, the controlled nature of in-situ freeze drying directly on the shelves can have benefits of its own. For example, ensuring product samples maintain their shape, structure and nutritional value, because controlled and repeatable freezing and then drying on the shelves, through an optimised recipe helps samples to maintain their biological integrity and structure. It is an efficient way of preserving products without significantly denaturing proteins, meaning that the freezedried product is nutritionally as good as the raw
alternative, when reconstituted and inherently safer to handle that in its raw form.
For this reason, Biopharma Group offers to the UK, and Europe the Gellert series of food production freeze dryers, developed for the regulated food, dairy, and nutraceuticals production industries. The versatility of Gellert freeze dryers, made them very popular in the industry due to the development of a range with ease of scale-up, user requirements and operation in mind. For example, the most delicate foods or ones possessing higher brix values/sugar or salt content, may demand processing at lower temperatures to minimise the risk of altering their structure, appearance, or taste and Gellert have designed a Low Temperature model that will accommodate this requirement from the industry.
Other beneficial features that have be designed for inclusion with Gellert equipment include:
● AutoDry which is an intuitive feature that allows users the opportunity to input their desired temperature differential between the product/ sample itself, and the shelves. This ensures the sample can be dried using the AutoDry feedback mechanism, helping to optimise drying cycles, and enable a smooth drying process to occur.
● The chamber,
condenser, shelves, and shelf stack can all also be constructed from 316L stainless steel, should this be desired from a product contact, perspective.
● A hybrid cooling system can also be integrated on the larger equipment to utilise defrost water by re-heating via the freeze dryer compressors, and then re-using to assist in the defrost of ice built up within the condenser – an effective energy and cost saving approach.
● SCADA is also possible, from a secured software perspective of the freeze dryers, which can become an important element at the pilot and production scale.
Gellert is a world respected, specialist manufacturer of freeze drying equipment, with over 40 years in the industry. Over this period, Gellert has accrued a high level of practical experience and in-house expertise, developing an array of different models and configurations to satisfy a broad range of industrial purposes.
Common applications that utilise Gellert freeze dryers are used for include:
● Smart Foods such as supplements and nutraceuticals
● Food and Beverages including coffee beans, meat, fish and even honey to mention a few
● Dairy Products such as infant formula, yoghurt drinks, dried milks, lactoferrin and cheese
● Fruits and Vegetables e.g. strawberries, wine grapes, even olive oils
● Pet Food and Pet Treats
As the exclusive distributor of Gellert freeze dryers across the UK, Ireland and France, contact Biopharma Group’s product specialists to discuss your requirements or request more information
T +44 (0)1962 841092 bps@biopharma.co.uk https://biopharma.co.uk
from manufacturer Deliver anywhere in the UK Tel 02887 784345 or email anthony.conroy@mackleapple.com
