eCorrugated expands UK packaging park capacity with two EMBA Ultima casemakers

Independent corrugated packaging manufacturer eCorrugated has confirmed a significant machinery investment at its Ellesmere Port facility, acquiring two new EMBA casemakers to scale up its high-volume production capabilities. The installation of an EMBA QS 245 Ultima and an EMBA QS 175 Ultima targets the growing demand for FEFCO 0201 glued cases across the UK's fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), e-commerce, and distribution sectors.

Technical upgrades for high-volume output

The strategic addition of the two EMBA lines directly addresses the need for faster turnaround times and higher print quality in transit and retail-ready packaging. Both machines are equipped to handle up to four-color printing in a single pass, allowing eCorrugated to meet increasingly complex branding requirements without sacrificing line speed.

The EMBA Ultima platform is recognized in the converting sector for its proprietary non-crush technology. By utilizing a specialized feeder system without traditional feed rolls, the machinery preserves the structural integrity and geometry of the corrugated board throughout the printing, slotting, and folding processes. This technical feature is particularly relevant for converters processing lighter board grades, as it prevents caliper loss and maintains the compression strength of the final box.

• EMBA QS 245 Ultima: Designed for high-speed output, capable of processing up to 30,000 sheets per hour (500 sheets per minute).
• EMBA QS 175 Ultima: Provides complementary flexibility for varying board calipers and dimensions, maintaining the same non-crush converting standards.
• Print capability: Up to four colors, supporting multi-color branded packaging applications.

Strengthening the Packaging Park model

Operating from what is described as the UK's only "Packaging Park" in Cheshire, eCorrugated works in close physical proximity to its raw material supplier, Prowell Ltd. This integrated model already eliminates significant transport mileage and reduces lead times. The integration of the new EMBA casemakers builds upon this operational efficiency, pushing the plant's capacity well beyond its previous benchmark of 500,000 cases per 24-hour cycle.

Managing Director Paul Lavelle has positioned this expansion as a direct response to market pressures requiring both volume and precision. As supply chains in 2026 continue to demand tighter delivery windows and robust transit packaging, the ability to produce high volumes of FEFCO 0201 cases with consistent quality remains a critical competitive advantage.

The investment in the QS 245 and QS 175 Ultima lines reinforces eCorrugated's focus on the high-volume glued case market, where minimum order quantities start at 3,000 boxes. By upgrading its converting technology, the company secures its manufacturing footprint in the UK corrugated sector, ensuring it can absorb larger contracts while maintaining the structural performance and visual impact required by modern retail environments.