UK manufacturer Encirc has launched an academy to provide training and consultancy for the global container glassmaking industry.

The Encirc Academy offers tailor-made technical and service assistance packages that enable glass manufacturers to optimise product quality and plant efficiency, while streamlining production costs.

Its services include audits of production lines and organisational structures to identify areas for improvement, as well as guidance on standardising production line procedures and implementing lean manufacturing processes throughout a plant.

The service also provides training for machine operatives to help develop their skills and deliver excellence to their respective companies. Courses take place at Encirc’s facilities in Elton, Cheshire, and Derrylin, Northern Ireland, as well as on location at customers’ sites, to give trainees an in-depth understanding of their own equipment and how to boost productivity.

The Encirc Academy has already begun working with a glass and drinks manufacturers, including E & J Gallo Glass Company. The US manufacturer has been receiving on-site support on the installation of and training on its new glass bottle making machines at its site in Modesto, California.

Rob Healy, general manager of the Encirc Academy said: “Production lines are no different from any piece of precision technology – they need fine-tuning to ensure they work at their best.

“This is why specialist operative training, as well as support on machine installation and other guidance, is so important. It can help manufacturers calibrate their production processes to deliver optimum product quality for customers, while reducing operating costs at the same time.

“As a company we have two manufacturing facilities that reflect this excellence, both in terms of the technological level of our equipment and the knowledge and skills of our staff; a point of view shared by John Gallo, vice president of Gallo during his recent visit to Derrylin.”

Pictured Encirc's managing director, Adrian Curry (right), with the Gallo Glass team.