When we talk about multipacks, we are referring to groupings of already packaged individual products that are presented in a single sales unit (package). This second layer of packaging is what we know as secondary packaging, and its function goes far beyond aesthetics: it must facilitate transportation, protect the products during logistical handling and meet the expectations of the commercial channel.
The flowpack packaging system, which is commonly known for primary packaging solutions, also adapts very effectively to multipack secondary packaging, offering a flexible, automatable and cost-effective solution for different sectors.
What is secondary packaging?
Secondary packaging is the packaging that groups products already packaged in their individual format (primary packaging) into a single package. It is not in direct contact with the product, but fulfills key functions:
- Commercial grouping: facilitates the sale of several products as a single set (promotional packs, family packs, etc).
- Additional protection: improves the resistance of products and protects them against mechanical damage or transport conditions.
- Logistics optimization: allows more efficient palletizing, stacking and distribution.
- Point-of-sale presentation: improves visual impact with a larger printable surface and visible on-shelf branding options.
This type of packaging is common in food (packs of cookies, snacks, yogurts), pharmaceutical products (grouped blisters) or personal care (batches of sachets or tubes). In all cases, it requires a technology capable of handling variable groupings without compromising either the protection or the aesthetics of the whole.
If you want to know more about the difference between primary packaging and secondary packaging, you can check this specific article about it.
Flowpack technology for multipack packaging
Flowpack wrappers designed for secondary packaging are prepared to handle multiple products in parallel. Unlike flowpack equipment specifically designed for single units, these machines are combined with feeders, product grouping systems and synchronization with other stages of the line (among others) in order to form multipacks.
Some of the common technical features of flow wrappers for multipack packaging are:
- Grouping products in 2, 3, 4 or more units per pack.
- Grouping configurations in line, in block or in mixed arrangement.
- Integration of automated lines with robots, groupers or other product distribution systems.
- Consistent medium-high speeds, even with irregular grouping, without compromising sealing quality.
- Compatibility with different types of film, including sustainable ones such as those made of mono-materials.
Benefits of flowpack for secondary packaging
Some of the benefits of flowpacks in secondary packaging are as follows:
- Format versatility: it allows grouping products into different configurations (2×2, 3×1, 4×2…) with ease, adapting to both commercial and logistical requirements.
- Production speed: it works at high packaging rates without compromising the quality of the package sealing.
- Compatibility with automation: easily integrated into automated lines with the possibility of synchronization with product feeding systems, or even case packing or palletizing at the end of the line. It is common to develop complete packaging lines, with a high degree of automation.
- Package traceability: key data such as batch codes, expiration dates, QR codes or other information can be printed directly on the film without slowing down the line.
- Format changeovers: adjustments to change the number of units per multipack or product type are fast, minimizing downtime.
- Reduced cost per unit: by using flexible film instead of rigid or bulky materials, resource consumption, warehouse space and transportation costs are reduced.
Flowpack applications in multipack packaging
The applications of multipack secondary packaging with flowpack technology are very diverse. Some specific examples that can benefit from this flowpack packaging system are:
Snacks and cookies
Grouping several primary flowpacks inside an outer package for family or promotional formats, or distribution to the horeca channel.
Pharmaceutical sachets
Multipack of individual doses in sachets, with ease of dispensing and presentation adapted for sale in pharmacies or hospital distribution.
Tablet blister packs
Packaging of several blister packs with printed information such as batch, expiration date or traceability codes.
Food pouches
Multipacks of pouches with shelf-ready presentation in physical store or online sales, with easy opening and good protection. It is especially useful for food products such as supplements, prepared meals with seasonings or sauces…
Single-dose cosmetic products
Groupings of sachets or small tubes with a promotional or travel focus, in a compact but visually attractive package.
Synchropack, flowpack packaging specialists
At Synchropack we are specialists in the design, assembly and commissioning of flowpack machinery, both for primary and secondary packaging (multipack). We develop packaging lines for different industries: from pharma to the food industry.
If you want to go a step further in the packaging of your products and go for automation, you can reach our team through our contact form or by writing to info@synchropack.com
