For any small- or mid-sized brewery, beer packaging is more than just the final step in production—it’s how your customers recognize your brand. Selecting the best beverage automated packaging systems can be the key to scaling up effectively and consistently meeting demand. With so many options on the market, knowing what to prioritize will help you select machinery that matches your immediate needs and supports growth over time.
Speed and Adaptability: Scale with Your Brand
The faster your beer packaging machine works, the more you can keep up with demand—especially during peak seasons like summer or around product launches. Consider beverage packaging automation options that allow for rapid adjustments and tool-free changeovers. For example, Wayne’s VCE case erector handles up to 75 cases per minute, and provides tool-free changeovers. So if you’re adding a seasonal IPA to your lineup, switching is a breeze.
Rapid adaptability also allows breweries to experiment with new product lines without long lead times. This flexibility can create a competitive edge, allowing your brewery to respond to market trends, or experiment with new packaging sizes and formats without adding operational delays.
Automation and Control: Focus on Usability and Efficiency
Investing in beverage packaging automation is about maximizing productivity while minimizing complexity. Effective automation should streamline processes, not add layers of complexity that require more personnel to manage. Consider beer packaging machines equipped with high-definition touchscreens and diagnostic tools that allow operators to control multiple functions—from speed adjustments to product-specific settings—in real time.
Automation isn’t just about filling labor gaps, it keeps quality steady and reduces downtime. With Wayne Automation’s Allen Bradley microelectronics, teams get user-friendly controls and instant diagnostics for smooth operation and quick fixes.
Durability and Safety: A Long-Term Investment
Durability and safety are priorities in beverage packaging automation, particularly machines that run around the clock. Breweries depend on rugged machinery that can withstand intense use, which is why Wayne machines incorporate safety features like rotary brakes and Total Planned Maintenance (TPM) systems.
Wayne’s machinery is built for endurance, engineered to perform day-in and day-out without breakdowns—a critical factor when consistency is essential. You’ll appreciate how durable systems with built-in maintenance reminders help avoid costly repairs and downtime.
The Right System for the Right Product
With varying packaging needs, having versatile machinery is a clear advantage. For breweries packaging multiple product sizes or styles, such as cans and bottles, a flexible beer can packaging machine or tray packing system can increase efficiency and product integrity. Wayne’s TR-50 tray formers can create up to 55 trays per minute and accommodate different configurations, offering valuable flexibility as breweries diversify their offerings.
Additionally, Wayne’s partition inserters—developed for the glass industry—are uniquely suited for protecting fragile beer bottles. These systems keep products secure during transportation and storage, which reduces breakage, and adds an extra layer of quality assurance.
Success Story: Sierra Nevada’s Partnership with Wayne Automation
Reliable beer packaging solutions are critical for a high-demand brewery like Sierra Nevada. They needed equipment that could handle inconsistent case material without slowing production. Our case erectors and sealers deliver steady performance, helping them meet demand even during peak times. It’s a great example of how the right equipment can boost efficiency across the board.
But Wayne’s commitment to service was what sealed the deal for Sierra Nevada. We quickly addressed equipment issues—even those unrelated to their machines. For brewery CEOs and decision-makers, this level of support means one less thing to worry about, ensuring operations continue running smoothly.
The Financial and Operational Impact of Packaging Automation
For decision-makers, evaluating beverage packaging automation involves understanding the ROI. Beyond just upfront costs, automated systems impact labor costs, reduce material waste, and minimize downtime due to human error. Each of these benefits contributes to a stronger bottom line. While a high-quality beer packaging machine might require a significant initial investment, the long-term savings in labor, increased productivity, and waste reduction often justify the cost.
Recent industry insights suggest that automation in manufacturing can increase productivity by as much as 30%. For breweries looking to grow, this investment becomes a pathway to scaling production sustainably. Packaging automation allows breweries to maintain quality, achieve faster production times, and make adjustments easily, which is especially valuable for small to mid-sized operations looking to expand regionally or nationally.
Maximize Production with Smarter Packaging Systems
Is your brewery ready to streamline its beer packaging and increase production without sacrificing quality?
Reach out to Wayne Automation today and discover how our beverage packaging automation systems can set you up for scalable success. When you partner with Wayne, you’re in good company with industry leaders like Sierra Nevada, who’ve boosted their packaging lines with speed, reliability, and top-notch support. Let’s help your brewery reach its full potential.
