Bradman Lake Group is set to highlight its latest innovations in packaging automation at Interpack 2026 (7–13 May, Düsseldorf), with a strong focus on high-performance systems suited to confectionery applications. Visitors to Hall 5, Stand C22 will experience a fully integrated packaging line designed to maximise efficiency, flexibility and sustainability across chocolate, countline and boxed sweet production.
Global Launch: FT-iFLEX Flow Wrapper
At the centre of the showcase is the global debut of the FT-iFLEX Flow Wrapper, engineered for high-speed, high-mix confectionery environments such as chocolate bars, coated biscuits and snack-sized multipacks.
Powered by Rockwell Automation’s iTRAK® intelligent track system, the FT-iFLEX enables independent product movement and variable pitch infeed, allowing it to automatically adapt to different product lengths without mechanical adjustment. This ensures precise product placement and consistent sealing – critical for maintaining quality and shelf appeal in confectionery packaging.
Key benefits include:
- High registration accuracy for branded wraps
- Reduced changeover times for multi-SKU production
- Improved efficiency through automatic pitch adjustment
- Compatibility with recyclable packaging materials
Its open-frame, hygienic design also supports easy cleaning – an important factor in chocolate and sugar confectionery production.
Compact Feeding and Sustainable Formats
Feeding the flow wrapper is the HS Mini Tray Former, a compact system ideal for confectionery manufacturers working with limited floor space. Capable of producing up to 60 trays per minute, it is suited to applications such as praline assortments or grouped chocolate products.
Notably, the system supports the transition away from plastic by forming recyclable carton trays, aligning with growing sustainability demands in the confectionery sector.
Intelligent Product Handling and Cartoning
Following wrapping, products are transferred via the Intelligent Motion Loader (IML), which uses advanced tracking technology to synchronise and collate products for smooth, high-speed loading. This is particularly beneficial for confectionery lines where items such as bars or sweets arrive in random spacing.
The integrated line is completed by the SL903 End-Load Cartoner, widely used for packaging chocolate boxes, multipacks and seasonal confectionery. Designed for flexibility, the SL903 handles a range of carton formats and materials, including fully recyclable board. Fast changeovers and robust construction help maintain uptime in demanding production environments.
End-of-Line Automation
Bradman Lake will also present its WR5 Robotic Wraparound Case Packer, which uses robotic collation to efficiently pack finished confectionery products into cases. The system accommodates multiple pack configurations and supports quick size changes, making it suitable for diverse product ranges.
Sustainability and Integration
Across the entire line – from tray forming to case packing – machines will run recyclable materials, demonstrating Bradman Lake’s commitment to sustainable packaging without compromising performance. Integrated control systems using Allen-Bradley software ensure seamless operation, simplified maintenance and real-time monitoring.
See It Live at Interpack 2026
Bradman Lake’s Interpack exhibit offers confectionery manufacturers a comprehensive look at how integrated automation can enhance productivity, flexibility and sustainability.
Visitors can explore:
- The FT-iFLEX Flow Wrapper
- HS Mini Tray Former
- Intelligent Motion Loader
- SL903 End-Load Cartoner
- WR5 Robotic Case Packer
Together, these solutions demonstrate the next generation of intelligent packaging tailored to the evolving needs of the confectionery industry.
