Tampa, Florida based Signode, a global leader in transit packaging, announced new advancements in its end-of-line automation portfolio designed specifically for producers of empty containers. Building on decades of experience in empty container and rigid packaging, the company is responding to a clear industry trend: upstream operations are moving toward higher-speed production with greater reliance on integrated, predictable automation.
Empty-container markets—including aluminum cans, glass and PET bottles, jars, aerosol shells, composite tubes, and lightweight rigid plastics—share a common challenge. These products are shipped, stored, and handled before filling, making unit stability and process control essential. Variability in labor, manual handling, or standalone equipment can lead to deformation, product loss, or bottlenecks that ripple downstream.
“Producers want automation that keeps up with faster lines, but they also need systems that communicate, adapt, and deliver consistent load quality, even with lighter or more fragile containers,” said Shawn Semer, Vice President, Global Automation for Signode. “With skilled labor harder to find, simplicity matters. We partner with customers to design reliable, scalable solutions.”
Signode’s automation capabilities extend beyond individual machines to complete, coordinated systems that combine conveying, robotic palletizing, strapping, and unitizing into a unified workflow. These solutions are purpose-built for the unique demands of empty-container packaging, helping customers maintain throughput and load integrity while reducing manual touchpoints. The system offers flexibility to handle everything from robotic bulk pallet unitizing—enhancing load stability through optimized stacking patterns, tier sheets, and top frames—to high-density storage with the StorFast® ASRS (Automated Storage and Retrieval System). This seamless integration connects packaging lines with automated warehousing, driving greater efficiency and line continuity.
Signode will continue expanding its offering for empty-container applications in 2026, with a focus on tighter data integration, enhanced maintenance support, and solutions that help producers scale with confidence.
To learn more, visit www.signode.com.
