Soon, Plasto-Sac became a globally-recognised polyolefin film and creative packaging specialist, supplying the FMCG, pharmaceutical, chemical, industrial, security and automotive sectors, as well as pioneering a patented range of money transfer packaging.
Over the next two decades, Plasto-Sac continued to expand, in the process aligning with like-minded partners, MOR and Cargal, well established in the worldwide film market, to form a multi-pronged film and packaging group.
Into Africa
In 1994, Plasto-Sac extended its international footprint, launching OCC|Plasto-Sac SA in Johannesburg.
Led by MD, Kitz Shenkman, who still holds the reins today, the company focused initially on two core sectors – money transfer packaging and plain and embossed release films for the tyre industry.
‘Two pillars have supported our business since day one – quality and service – and both stand firm today,’ states Kitz. ‘Of course, not everyone can “walk the talk” but I’m proud to say that our customers sleep soundly at night knowing we’re looking after their film and packaging requirements.’
The credentials are certainly impressive. Kitz claims that his company has changed the benchmark in security bag production with OCC|Plasto-Sac SA’s bags now the product of choice for most leading banks and government institutions. Additionally, in the world of tyres, it’s the principal supplier of EVA bags to South Africa’s top tyre manufacturers.
With tremendous success in both markets, growth is now firmly focused on flexible packaging for fresh produce, food, beverage, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, agricultural, pet food, chemical and industrial markets.
‘It’s a natural path for us and there’s no market limitation,’ Kitz declares. ‘Whether it’s pouches or bags, food-grade or low-migration formulations, printed or non-printed, we’re geared to produce anything. What the customer wants, the customer gets,’ he adds.
No limits approach
Business development manager, Andre Brooks, the man charged with lighting a fuse in an already highly-populated arena, has no doubt that OCC|Plasto-Sac SA is going to make a swift impression.
‘With the resources and materials available, coupled with our global reputation, I’m confident of our long-term future in this competitive market,’ he remarks. ‘We already serve a number of well satisfied South African customers and we’re constantly working on new developments. Our world-class manufacturing sites in Israel boast the most impressive extrusion technologies, multi-colour flexographic and gravure presses, and an unparalleled R&D division. We take time to understand each customer’s needs and respond with expert advice, realistic solutions and logistics support. We adhere to strict work ethics and we’re passionate about getting the best out of our packaging – in character, mechanics, ergonomics, presentation and on-shelf appeal. It’s a partnership approach built on transparency and trust.’
Andre has extensive experience in the packaging industry, having enjoyed roles at Kohler Packaging, Nampak, CTP and CLP. ‘I’ve been exposed to distribution, sales, logistics and raw material purchasing, gaining experience in the entire packaging process,’ he smiles. ‘This is a huge advantage when customers need help to resolve issues such as efficiency and costs. We don’t only supply packaging. We also oversee stock management, if required, and replenish materials for customers according to sales patterns. It all comes down to working hand in hand to find the products and service that best fit.’
On the topic of OCC|Plasto-Sac SA’s supply policy, operations manager, Michele Hine, takes up the story: ‘We manufacture products in Israel and, thanks to our professional logistics services, maintain a highly efficient order, manufacturing and supply process based on just-in-time principles.’
In her view, the company’s BRC (British Retail Consortium) and ISO accreditations provide customers with peace of mind. In addition, customer-friendly turnkey solutions include order forecasting, stock management, warehousing and distribution from depots in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban or Port Elizabeth.
‘Our sales and technical support specialists travel the country and we’re in daily contact with our Israeli counterparts for further support when required. It’s all about going one step further and turning the idea into a viable reality,’ she sums up.
OCC|Plasto-Sac SA
T +27 011 8803030
www.occsa.co.za
