SunDance invests in BW Converting machine

Florida-based converter SunDance has invested in BW Converting’s bag-converting equipment and its Hudson-Sharp Ares 400-SUP (stand-up pouch) machine to diversify into flexible packaging.

SunDance began as a commercial printer in 2007 and evolved to add wide-format printing to its services. SunDance president JohnHenry Ruggieri led the charge to embrace the new operational strategy to mitigate the downturn when the pandemic dealt a blow to its traditional tourism-based business.

'We had decided to get into packaging a little bit deeper in 2019 and bought a label press,' said Ruggieri. 'Our major verticals were all very tourism-based. When Covid-19 hit, we pivoted into flexible packaging. We evaluated a whole bunch of different equipment and did site visits. The staff, the technology and the support were all major drivers in that decision.'

After extensive evaluation, SunDance zeroed in on BW Converting’s bag-converting equipment and invested in its Hudson-Sharp Ares 400-SUP (stand-up pouch) machine. The Florida printer chose the equipment for its adaptability to digital printing, particularly for short runs. Providing quick changeovers, the Hudson-Sharp Ares 400-SUP delivers recycle-ready pouches with low scrap rates.

'The Ares 400 had a relatively small footprint. The auto-correct and other automatic settings were very attractive, particularly with the digital print. And Hudson-Sharp’s reputation was a factor as well,' shared Ruggieri.

'When SunDance approached us for a solution, I was struck by their readiness to adapt in the face of a pandemic,' said Tommy Evans, sales executive for BW Converting’s Hudson-Sharp brand. 'JohnHenry's team had zero experience making pouches, but their eagerness to learn and evolve spoke volumes of their business acumen.'

SunDance experienced challenges during the transition phase. But BW Converting supported the company through extensive training and round-the-clock technical assistance to skillfully navigate its foray into packaging.

Ruggieri stressed the importance of such a supportive partner during major transitions and advised other businesses considering a similar move to 'lean into them and use the support they offer.'

'Our venture with SunDance has set a pivotal example of how flexible and responsive digital printing businesses can be, especially when facilitated with machinery designed for their unique needs,' said Evans. 'Our partnership has shown how companies like SunDance can harness the power of technology and expert guidance to overcome challenges and tap into promising markets.'