Compact track system

Sewtec will launch compact versions of its existing large-scale track-and-trace (T&T) systems to ensure all tobacco manufacturers can comply with the revised EU Tobacco Products Directive (TPD2), which comes into full force on May 20, 2019.
The British high-tech automation company has been designing, manufacturing and integrating T&T systems for major tobacco manufacturers since the introduction of the original TPD in 2001.
Sewtec plans to launch its compact T&T systems by the end of 2018, with manufacturers able to install the systems before the regulation comes into effect. The company’s systems will deliver operational efficiencies, helping manufacturers realize the commercial benefits of enhanced supply chain management and richer data.
Commenting on the company’s new T&T systems, Sewtec managing director, Mark Cook, said: “Although this is a directive, all tobacco companies will benefit from T&T systems that provide the ability to track products from end-to-end. It will improve operations and logistics whilst avoiding costly penalties.
“We already have a range of highly effective systems successfully operating for large scale manufacturers, so for us to modify this for smaller companies was a logical next step.
“The directive provides an opportunity for tobacco companies to further improve their distribution processes, collate richer data and, ultimately, create commercial advantage.”
Sewtec employs 80 people and specializes in producing tailored automation solutions for precision engineering projects in the tobacco, FMCG, pharmaceutical and other industries.