“Banding reduces the amount of material used while enhancing branding”
Since 2018, Tanner & Co. AG has been working with Swiss asparagus growers supplying the retail sector. The aim of this partnership is to offer an alternative that is both eco-friendly and commercially appealing compared to traditional packaging methods. Instead of shrink film, transparent trays, or rubber bands, a wide band is now used—combining functionality and aesthetics.
Sales team leader Denis Nunes explains why this solution is particularly suitable for asparagus and other stalk vegetables: “Banding significantly reduces the amount of material used while providing a large surface to highlight branding and product information,” he says. “Thin rubber bands are still used in some cases to hold the stalks together, but the 100 mm-wide band now plays a central role in point-of-sale communication,” Nunes adds. In addition to asparagus, many other fruits and vegetables can be banded—from bananas and zucchinis to cardboard trays for apples.
Asparagus banded for Swiss retail
“Depending on customer preferences, we use either paper or film bands, fully pre-printed with information such as origin, logos, or advertising messages. Variable data such as EAN codes, batch numbers, or expiration dates can also be added during packaging via thermal transfer printing. The design is developed in close collaboration with the client.”
High-performance packaging machines
The most commonly used model for asparagus is the US-2100, which can handle up to 30 cycles per minute.
“That’s a major advantage compared to manual packaging, especially during peak season,” says Nunes.
The machines are particularly efficient when the stalks have similar diameters, ensuring consistent placement of printed elements. Even with unusual lengths or weights, the technology remains flexible, and the systems can be easily integrated into existing packaging lines. ATS banding machines offer precise and varied settings, ensuring optimal strap tension that secures the bunches firmly without damaging the asparagus.
“Our machines, developed and manufactured in Switzerland, meet the highest quality standards. They are extremely reliable, low-maintenance, and energy-efficient,” adds Nunes.
Courgettes banderolées
TruePaper: the innovative paper band
TruePaper is a flagship innovation from ATS Tanner: a paper band sealed via ultrasonic or heat sealing. It is made from either virgin fibers or at least 50% recycled materials. It is certified for direct food contact and can be fully recycled through the paper waste stream.
“Thanks to a new water-based coating, almost any suitable paper can be turned into TruePaper,” concludes Nunes.
For more information:
Cornelia Sibold
ATS-Tanner Banding Systems AG
Poststrasse 30
6300 Zug, Switzerland
Tel.: +41 41 710 06 03
c.sibold@ats-tanner.com
www.ats-tanner.com
