Akona Marks Start of UK Production of Cablevey Conveying Systems
Akona Process Solutions, a specialist in material handling and processing solutions, has established UK-based manufacturing of Cablevey conveying systems. The initiative will facilitate faster lead times, reduced costs and more sustainable solutions for European manufacturers.
Historically produced exclusively in the US, production growth into the UK has been initiated through growing customer needs and a determined commercial approach.
The growing need for quicker shipment times, reduced shipping costs and locally sourced services allows Akona to now more rapidly and efficiently respond to European customers without compromising Cablevey's long history of quality.
Production is in progress, with three being manufactured in the UK at present. The first one is planned to be commissioned in Ireland within the next three or four months.
“Customers have been asking for a locally manufactured Cablevey solution for some time,” said Akona’s Ben Ayrton, Managing Director Europe. “They want faster, more cost-effective delivery with the confidence that comes from dealing with a regional partner who understands the regulatory and logistical landscape. We’re now in a position to meet that demand head-on.”
The strategic initiative has a number of advantages to Akona. It enables the company to take on a wider range of projects and provides it with more competitiveness across European markets. With production located in the UK, Akona is better placed to meet local clients and expand its presence across the continent.
There was also thought given to environmental footprint. By eliminating the transatlantic transport of systems from Cablevey's American headquarters in Oskaloosa, Iowa, the company can significantly decrease its carbon footprint. Shipping 5,000 kg of equipment from the US to the UK is accountable for a total of around 779 kg of CO₂. Locally produced gives off a fraction of this.
The move is also improving internal operations. It is expanding the expertise of Akona's engineering and production teams, liberating more aftermarket opportunities and enhancing profitability while decreasing lead times further.
“This is more than just a location change, it's a step forward that brings us closer to our customers, improves our flexibility and supports more sustainable operations,” added Ayrton. “We’re excited to see the first UK-manufactured Cablevey systems commissioned.”
United under the union of Advanced Material Processing (AMP) and Automated Handling Solutions (AHS), Akona unites Cablevey's strength, Kason, Marion and Spiroflow under one umbrella. With more than 200 years of combined experience, Akona offers food and beverage, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and chemical industry high-performance solutions.
Its UK, German and United States-based engineering, sales and services operations position the company to meet growing demand for hygienic, efficient and expandable material handling systems.
Find out more about Akona here.
