Bristol-based confectionery retailer Treasure Island Sweets has taken its first step into packaging automation with the installation of an IPS-420 Mini Vertical Form Fill Seal (VFFS) Machine and a Micro 10-Head Multiweigher from Intamac Packaging Systems (IPS).

Owner-Manager Wesley Thorne first explored automation at the PPMA Show 2023, where his focus was finding ways to grow the company’s online business while reducing reliance on seasonal labour. Among several suppliers, it was Intamac’s hands-on approach and practical engineering support that convinced him the 420 Mini was the right choice.

“We spoke to three or four machinery providers at the Show, but liked the fact that Tom [Poston] and the engineers from Intamac were really hands-on and thoughtful about our requirements,” said Wesley. “They visited us and we were able to test our product on the machine, meaning that we were happy it could do what we needed.”

Compact, Scalable and Easy to Use

Established 22 years ago, Treasure Island Sweets offers over 900 different products, selling both online and through its Bristol shop. The business needed equipment that could fit into its existing facilities, scale with demand, and be simple for staff with no automation experience to learn.

The installation process took just half a day, with an Intamac engineer providing on-site support and staff training for two further days. The addition of the multiweigher has been a major productivity boost, ensuring consistent and accurate portioning that is difficult to achieve manually.

“The support and after-sales experience has been really good. With labour costs rising and the challenge of sourcing good seasonal staff, the machine has improved our productivity and safeguarded us against future labour cost increases,” Wesley added.

Future-Proof Flexibility through Packaging Automation

One of the key advantages of the IPS-420 Mini is its ability to handle both traditional plastic films and paper-based heat-sealable materials, giving Treasure Island Sweets sustainable options for the future. The packaging automation system can also be quickly configured to pack different sweet varieties, helping the business adapt to seasonal ranges and consumer demand.

Tom Poston, Sales Manager at IPS, commented:

“Seeing Treasure Island Sweets discover the benefits of automating their confectionery packaging has been really rewarding. The 420 Mini’s compact footprint and ease of use make it perfect for a business like this. We look forward to supporting their growth over the coming months.”

The IPS-420 Mini VFFS is designed for efficiency and versatility, handling liquids, powders, and granules in pillow packs, even within confined spaces. Its eco-friendly packaging compatibility makes it a strong choice for businesses seeking sustainable solutions.

Visitors to the PPMA Total Show 2025 can see Intamac Packaging Systems and the IPS-420 Mini in action at Stand D60, NEC Birmingham, 23–25 September.