Independent UK label and flexible packaging manufacturer Bakers, is significantly expanding its production capabilities within its flexible packaging division, BakPac, this month with the installation of two new Galaxy Packtech pouchmaker machines, bringing the company’s total pouch conversion line-up to five.
The installation follows a major factory extension completed in early 2024 and underscores Bakers’ ongoing £5m, two-year investment in cutting-edge technology to meet growing demand for digitally printed, sustainable flexible packaging.
“We’re committed to short lead times and high quality, and never want to be in a position where capacity holds us back,” said Phil Smith, Operations Manager of Bakers. “Going from three to five pouchmakers allows us to stay ahead of demand and continue delivering the service our customers rely on.”
The new pouchmakers offer enhanced sealing technology, specifically designed to improve performance with mono-materials, which are increasingly sought after by brands for their recyclability. Their non-stop production features and intelligent web handling enable faster changeovers and improved consistency across short and long runs.
The investment also aligns with BakPac’s existing digital print firepower, including two HP Indigo 200K digital presses — making it the only UK site to operate this configuration.
As the “Converter of the Year” winner at the 2023 Global Label Awards and “Highly Commended” Company of the Year finalist at the 2025 Print Awards, Bakers continues to position itself at the forefront of UK pouch manufacturing with BakPac’s innovation, speed, and customer-focused service.
“We’re seeing brands demand faster turnarounds, lower MOQs and greater flexibility. This expansion allows us to meet that demand while maintaining premium quality — from the very first pouch to the hundred-thousandth,” added Smith.
The two new Galaxy Packtech machines are being installed at BakPac’s expanded Brentwood facility throughout May and are expected to be operational by early June.
Steve Baker, Managing Director at Baker reflects on the BakPac journey so far -“Flexible packaging is a very interesting market but it was in need of a shake up, similar to labels 20 years ago when digital technology was first introduced. We have had a sharp learning curve but quickly realized this is not an area that you can stay small and grow slowly if you want to be successful – our customers are fast moving, fast developing and volumes can increase rapidly, they need a supplier that can match this and that’s exactly what BakPac can do. We have an amazing, knowledgeable, hardworking team that realize they are involved in something special and happily go the extra mile to help our customers grow. The future is very exciting…(guess I’m going to delay retirement again!)”
