August 16, 2024
At PLAN IT Packaging, we take pride in supporting businesses that push the boundaries of innovation and efficiency in their industries. One such business is WG Pro-Manufacturing Inc., a leader in the Canadian consumer goods sector. Since its inception in 1993 by President Karl Wirtz, WG Pro has transformed from a small operation in a 9,000-square-foot facility into a major player in the co-packing industry, with expansive facilities in the greater Toronto area and Lethbridge, Alberta.
WG Pro's journey began with managing reclaimed and returned products for a major pharmaceutical company. Over the years, the company has evolved into a powerhouse in the co-packing industry, offering a comprehensive range of services, including ambient, frozen, and refrigerated product packaging. Their commitment to innovation and quality has earned them the trust of high-profile clients like PepsiCo, Laura Secord, Nestlé, and Kellogg's.
"We’ve always focused on providing a controlled environment where we can handle packaging for our clients," says Wirtz. "This approach has allowed us to alleviate congestion in their spaces and offer streamlined services."
The challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in the second year, made it difficult for WG Pro to maintain its operations due to labor shortages. Faced with this obstacle, Wirtz turned to PLAN IT Packaging Systems for a solution.
"I’ve known Mark Evangelista, PLAN IT’s Director of Sales, for many years, so when we faced labor challenges, I knew PLAN IT's automated solutions could be the key to our continued growth," Wirtz recalls. "The flexibility and efficiency of their equipment, particularly the portable bagger, were exactly what we needed."
WG Pro's facilities are now equipped with state-of-the-art machinery from PLAN IT Packaging, including the Mars ComPak vertical form/fill/seal (VFFS) bagging machine. This advanced system has revolutionized WG Pro's operations, allowing them to achieve high-speed, precise packaging with minimal manual intervention.
"The Mars ComPak allows us to produce approximately 40 bags per minute, a task that would have required about 24 to 25 personnel to accomplish manually," says Wirtz. "This machine has enhanced our efficiency and flexibility, enabling us to handle various products with ease."
The Mars ComPak is integrated with automated weighing systems, ensuring precise measurements and compliance with weight regulations—essential for maintaining consistency in packaging weights and reducing product waste. Additionally, PLAN IT's comprehensive array of automated packaging equipment, including filling machines, sealing equipment, and labeling systems, has streamlined WG Pro's processes, reduced labor costs, and improved operational efficiency.
As WG Pro continues to expand, the role of automation will be pivotal in supporting their ambitious growth plans. Wirtz is already considering additional investments in PLAN IT Packaging’s systems, including the potential establishment of a new facility in Tennessee or Georgia.
"Our advancements in automation are creating new opportunities for us," Wirtz notes. "PLAN IT Packaging’s solutions have been integral to our success, and we look forward to further collaboration as we continue to grow."
At PLAN IT Packaging, our mission is clear: to engineer robust, turnkey automated packaging solutions that optimize efficiency, enhance productivity, and foster sustainable growth for our clients. Our partnership with WG Pro is a testament to the power of innovation and the importance of tailored solutions in driving business success.
With our cutting-edge equipment, comprehensive support services, and commitment to excellence, PLAN IT Packaging is proud to be a trusted partner for businesses like WG Pro, helping them achieve new heights in the competitive world of consumer goods.
