International Paper ‘Tool Up’ For Growth In UK Vending Market

International Paper is preparing to storm the vending market with the arrival of new tooling which will allow the leading paper cup manufacturer to produce 7oz and 12 oz paper cups to fit any vending machine for the very first time from its UK base in Winsford. The 7 oz cups, which have a 70.3 mm diameter, will be manufactured primarily for the European market while the 12 oz cups will be available to all vending operators in the UK. The company has invested heavily in the new tooling as part of its strategy to expand its UK manufacturing. It is also keen to enhance the vending experience by encouraging all UK vending operators to eventually switch from plastic to paper. Managing director for International Paper Foodservice, Mike Turner explains: “We have been advocates of the High Street experience for some time. The message is quite simple. By spending an extra couple of pence or so, the vending operator can give the end customer the same quality cup as he or she might expect to get if buying a coffee from a High Street chain – but obviously at a fraction of the price. “Nobody wants to drink from a plastic cup if paper is an option and, with this equipment in place, there is no need for plastic. All efforts should be made to enhance the customer experience and there’s no reason why vending should be any different from the High Street when it comes to that experience. Our aim is to see paper cups used in most vending machines by 2015 and we have put our money where our mouth is on this one. The new equipment will be in place from next month to ensure that International Paper plays an active role in getting the plastic cups out of vending machines and replacing them with quality, well-designed paper ones.” International Paper has been producing paper cups for over 50 years and has a reputation as a world leader for innovation in this field. The company has welcomed new additions to the team in recent months and is expected to announce further investment soon. For further information on International Paper Foodservice’s product range, log on to www.ipfoodservice.co.uk or call 01606 552537.