ASC Direct Expands Capacity with Three AOPACK Box Making Machines for Short-Run Packaging
UK-based packaging producer ASC Direct has significantly expanded its short-run corrugated packaging capabilities by adding two new AOPACK box making machines to its existing production setup.
The company, which first installed an AOPACK BM2508-Plus in 2020, has now added a BM2508-Pro and BM1800-Mini, commissioned in March 2026 through GTS Europe, AOPACK’s UK sales and service partner.
With this expansion, ASC Direct now operates three AOPACK machines, enabling it to allocate production across different models based on box size, order volume, and workflow requirements.
From One Machine to a Flexible Production System
ASC Direct manufactures bespoke corrugated packaging for both online and offline customers. Its online platform allows custom box orders ranging from 25 to 2,000 units, with the majority of orders under 100 units. This high-mix, low-volume structure demands fast changeovers and flexible production.
The additional machines allow the company to distribute workloads more efficiently, optimize board usage, and reduce setup costs.
Enhanced Functionality and Space Efficiency
The BM2508-Pro adds advanced features such as cold gluing, QR code scanning, and glue flap crushing, enabling more integrated production workflows. The BM1800-Mini also includes cold gluing and QR scanning while offering a compact design suitable for space-constrained production environments.
Both machines enhance ASC Direct’s ability to process frequent order changes and diverse corrugated formats.
Efficient Short-Run Corrugated Production
AOPACK machines combine multiple processes—such as slitting, creasing, cutting, slotting, gluing, and printing—within a single programmable workflow. Operators can input specifications directly, eliminating the need for traditional cutting dies.
This system is particularly effective for short-run production, where frequent size changes and small order quantities make conventional methods less efficient.
According to AOPACK, ASC Direct has improved operational efficiency by replacing its previous rotary slitter process with the integrated AOPACK workflow.
Industry Collaboration and Feedback
AOPACK Sales Director Anna Qin noted that ASC Direct’s repeat investment demonstrates long-term production value, highlighting the addition of cold gluing and QR scanning features along with improved space efficiency.
An AOPACK after-sales visit was also conducted recently to evaluate machine performance, operator experience, maintenance routines, and future production needs.
Long-Term Expansion Strategy
The ASC Direct project highlights how packaging producers can scale gradually—starting with a single machine and expanding into a multi-machine system tailored to different production requirements.
Together, the three AOPACK machines now support ASC Direct’s production of standard cartons, e-commerce boxes, and customized corrugated packaging formats.
