Robatech has been supplying labeling machine manufacturer Gernep with adhesive application systems for hot melt labeling for 25 years. Both sides are satisfied with the way things are going. What makes this collaboration so successful? Martin Hammerschmid, Managing Director of Gernep, and Robert Kaminski, Key Account Manager at Robatech Germany, answer this question in an interview.
Mr. Hammerschmid, you are the Managing Director of Gernep. In short, what does Gernep do?
Martin Hammerschmid: Gernep has been an established manufacturer of labeling machines for almost 40 years. Our machines label a wide variety of products in rigid containers in the beverage, food and cosmetics industry, on through to pharmaceutical products. We serve small customers as well as global players worldwide. The business was designed for export right from the start. One of our founders always said: “Wherever you can go on vacation, you can also sell machines.” And you can go on vacation everywhere (laughs).
In addition to wet-glue labeling machines and self-adhesive labeling, you have also been manufacturing hot-melt labeling machines since the year 2000. Robatech was on board right from the start. How did this come about?
Martin Hammerschmid: Exactly. That was back in the early days of the whole PET industry. We had carried out trials for PET bottles with cold glue, but the machine was then converted to hot melt. That was our first project with Robatech, and it was an immediate success story. This machine was in use for 20 years.