Benchmark Brings Innovative Packaging Service to Scotland

Benchmark’s managing director, Russell Cohen said: “For too long too many companies in Scotland have had to contend with the logistical and financial nightmare of sending products to England, or further afield, for packing.

Sep 13 2011 --- A Glasgow company best known for its bonded storage and distribution services, and point of sale fulfilment, re-work and assembly operations, has launched an innovative and technically driven contract packing service aimed at delivering the very best solutions to businesses in Scotland.

Hillington-based Benchmark Packaging Ltd is planning to invest over £500,000 during 2011/12 in its management team, facilities, processes and new product areas in order to launch and develop the service. It is also being supported by Scottish Enterprise including RSA (Regional Selective Assistance) grant funding.

Benchmark’s managing director, Russell Cohen said: “For too long too many companies in Scotland have had to contend with the logistical and financial nightmare of sending products to England, or further afield, for packing.

“Our intention is simple – we want to give these companies the choice of eradicating these problems by keeping their business in Scotland. In addition, we aim to compete with the major national contract packers, meaning Scotland is truly represented in this sector for the first time.”

The Scottish Enterprise including RSA funding was granted for use on job development, technical investment, quality management and IT system implementation. Totalling £168,000, it has already been put to use in the creation of 20 new full time positions, including the appointments of a production manager, warehouse manager, accountant and site engineer.

The contract packing service offered by Benchmark includes automated case assembly, specialist carton and tube packing, automated front and back bottle labelling, shrink sleeving, gift set management, RF tagging, and glass inspection and assembly. Additions to its capabilities are expected shortly. Chivas Brothers, Chesapeake, Burns Stewart, AG Barr, The Edrington Group and William Grant & Sons are already on-board as customers.

“We were aware that the demand for a high quality contract packing service here in Scotland was high, but have still been taken aback by the enthusiastic response we have had from so many leading names in such a short period of time,” concluded Mr Cohen.