The KHS site in Hamburg is celebrating its 50th anniversary. The full-service provider looks back on half a century as a pioneer in PET technology - from the first series-produced stretch blow-moulding machine to Plasmax barrier technology.
The success story began in 1975 with the founding of Gildemeister Corpoplast GmbH, from which the current KHS site in Hamburg emerged. With the first series-produced stretch blow-moulding machine, which later became known as the InnoPET Blomax, the company set close benchmarks in the industry. Further key developments followed, including the pioneering Plasmax technology with the sustainable FreshSafe PET system and ultra-modern lightweight solutions.
„The Hamburg site is one of the pillars and drivers of the KHS Group's success and growth. The past 50 years show just how much innovative strength there is in our location. Numerous solutions developed in Hamburg still characterise the beverage and packaging industry today.“
Kai Acker, Chairman of the Management Board of KHS GmbH
The Hamburg site stands for resource-saving systems and sustainable packaging solutions. All PET machine solutions from KHS are capable of processing up to 100 per cent recycled material. The resulting bottles can thus be integrated into the closed bottle cycle. Thanks to KHS technologies, customers can also significantly reduce their material and energy consumption.
One example is the New generation of the InnoPET Blomax stretch blow-moulding machine. Thanks to optimised double-aisle heating systems, it saves energy costs of up to 40 percent compared to single-aisle stretch blow molders with the same output. This specialisation of the site fits in perfectly with the network of expertise at the other German KHS sites: Dortmund focuses on cleaning, conveying and labelling technology as well as manufacturing, Bad Kreuznach on process and filling technology, Kleve on secondary packaging and Worms on palletising solutions.
A look into the future
The PET market is growing worldwide. In order to fulfil the increased demand for resource-saving packaging solutions and smart production processes, KHS is expanding its site in Hamburg. A new production hall and improved research facilities are being built. By investing in technology, infrastructure and skilled labour, the site will continue to secure its innovative strength in the coming years. The team in Hamburg is a key factor in this, emphasises Acker: „Our employees are the key to our success. Their expertise and unrivalled commitment play a key role in ensuring that we flourish as a globally active company.“
Source: KHS
