Australian fresh produce company Matilda Fresh Foods is set to expand its export operation using Packaging Automation equipment.

The award-winning company selected a PA182 tray sealer, through Packaging Automation’s Australian agent MPI, to pack broccoli which it intends to export into South East Asia later this year.

Andrew Waddell, business development manager at Matilda Fresh Foods, said: “During 2005, the company built a new processing facility in Toowoomba, Queensland, and invested in a variety of new equipment for processing and packaging broccoli. This move is part of our strategy to increase our exports this year and further develop our market in South East Asia.

“Packaging Automation’s Australian agent MPI has a proven record with some of the project team here so we were happy to work with them - and they haven’t let us down.”

The PA182 is renowned for its robust construction and reliability. Operators can switch tray sizes in two minutes and the equipment can be easily relocated to accommodate changes in production.

The machine is completing 10 packs a minute but speed will increase as the processing line is developed.

Waddell added: “We have had an excellent service from MPI to date and the machine is operating well, allowing us to maintain the high quality standards our business is built on. “We are currently working with MPI on an expansion using a variety of Packaging Automation equipment, and I would not hesitate to recommend Packaging Automation to anyone else looking for this kind o packaging solution.”