SALPAC’s new BOBST die-cutter cuts make-ready time by 25% at Algerian packaging plant

ALGERIA – SALPAC Emballage has installed a BOBST NOVACUT 106 E 3.0 die-cutter at its Béjaïa facility as part of a €2.5 million (US$2.9 million) modernization program, delivering a 20 to 30% productivity gain and a 25% reduction in make-ready time for food and pharmaceutical packaging production.

The Algerian printing and packaging manufacturer supplies folding cartons to food and beverage, fast-moving consumer goods and pharmaceutical markets across North Africa.

The new machine, installed with technical support and operator training from BOBST staff, represents the latest stage in a manufacturing development program launched in 2025 to replace and update converting equipment. 

Early operating results at the Béjaïa plant showed approximately 15% fewer machine stoppages alongside the productivity and make-ready improvements.

How 1968 Partnership Delivered 20-30% Productivity Gains at Béjaïa Facility

SALPAC’s relationship with BOBST began in 1968 when the company added equipment including a PCR 880 high-speed folder-gluer and an Autoplaten SP 900 die-cutting press. The company has continued upgrading through the decades, installing a NOVACUT 106 E in 2013 followed by the current 3.0 version in 2025. 

The new machine was selected to manage higher output volumes, cut downtime and maintain stable product quality for the company’s diverse customer base. 

BOBST’s long-term technical presence in the region supported the selection, ensuring continuity with SALPAC’s existing folding and gluing lines including the VISIONFOLD 110 and AMBITION 76 folder-gluer systems. 

The manufacturer managed the installation process and provided onsite technical assistance to ensure rapid production ramp-up, with comprehensive operator training focused on new automation interfaces and quick-change tooling features.

What 25% Faster Make-Ready and 10% Less Waste Mean for Algerian Packaging Competitiveness

SALPAC, established in 1967, has positioned itself as one of the leading industrial printing companies in North Africa with 201 to 500 employees, specializing in compact cardboard folding boxes for industries including food, luxury perfume, dairy products and pharmaceuticals. 

The integrated die-cutter has delivered measurable operational gains: job make-ready times decreased by 25%, machine stoppages were reduced by approximately 15%, and material waste decreased by 10% due to enhanced cutting precision. 

Khaled Akouche, chairman and CEO of SALPAC Emballage, said that the partnership with BOBST was built for the long term and represented a key driver of the company’s growth.

He added that with the NOVACUT 106 E, SALPAC was significantly improving converting efficiency while further strengthening quality standards.

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