AFFCO Imlay & Unipak – a partnership built on protection and trust
Background
AFFCO Imlay, a premier ovine and bobby calf processor has been at the forefront of the meat industry for over a century. With a commitment to delivering premium New Zealand meat to global markets, it prioritises operational excellence, food safety, and the protection of its workforce.
Located in Whanganui, the AFFCO Imlay facility has undergone extensive renovations to maintain its status as a leader in the industry.
The challenge
In a demanding meat processing environment, safety, hygiene, and efficiency are paramount.
The team at AFFCO Imlay needed a reliable supplier of high-quality personal protective equipment to ensure their workers remained safe while handling meat products and operating heavy machinery.
With increasing regulatory requirements and evolving workforce needs, AFFCO Imlay required a trusted partner who could provide durable, comfortable, and certified protective gear at competitive prices.
The solution: a strong partnership with Unipak
For over five years, AFFCO Imlay has turned to Unipak for their personal protection needs.
According to Alex King, Purchasing Officer at AFFCO Imlay, Unipak has proven to be more than just a supplier—it's a strategic partner in ensuring worker safety and operational efficiency.
“We always look for ways to keep our people safe and protected at work. The feedback from our team is invaluable, and we are committed to providing them with the best protection available. Unipak makes that easy.”
Why Unipak?
1. High-quality personal protection for a high-risk environment
AFFCO Imlay relies on Unipak’s Bastion™ range, including:
- Bastion Disposable Nitrile Long Cuff Gloves – the most frequently ordered item, these gloves provide durability, comfort, and optimal protection. AFFCO Imlay even designed a custom dispensing unit to house the cartons efficiently.
- Bastion Santona™ Natural Leather Riggers Gloves – essential for handling dangerous equipment, these gloves offer superior protection, durability, and dexterity.
- Hair nets, beard nets, and protective sleeve covers – ensuring hygiene and compliance within the facility.
“All the products we source from Unipak are high-quality and fit for purpose. Our team trusts them, and that makes all the difference.” shares Alex.
2. Certified safety and peace of mind
Unipak’s Bastion products are rigorously tested and certified to the EN 388:2016 European safety standard, ensuring protection against abrasion, cuts, tears, and punctures. These certifications provide AFFCO Imlay with the assurance that they are meeting strict health and safety regulations.
“Knowing that Bastion products are certified gives us peace of mind. We can focus on our operations without worrying about whether our team is adequately protected.”
3. Seamless customer service and fast delivery
AFFCO Imlay enjoys an exceptional customer service experience with Unipak:
- Reliable and efficient ordering – same day dispatch for orders made before 3:30 PM, ensuring no disruptions in supply.
- Dedicated account management – Alex values his relationship with Hank Anderson, Unipak’s General Manager, who is always available to strategise and provide insights on new solutions.
- Competitive pricing – AFFCO Imlay benefits from cost-effective pricing without compromising on quality.
“Kim, our customer service contact, is brilliant at what she does. She makes ordering easy and seamless. And Hank? I can call him, and he’s here on the double!”
Looking ahead: innovation and growth
AFFCO Imlay and Unipak continue to collaborate on innovative solutions. Currently, the team is exploring a sleeveless smock with a rip-down middle for easier and more hygienic removal—another example of Unipak’s commitment to meeting the specific needs of its customers.
“Unipak is a great company to work with. They’re reliable, innovative, and genuinely care about our business. I see this relationship continuing for the foreseeable future.” finishes Alex.
Conclusion
The partnership between AFFCO Imlay and Unipak is built on trust, quality, and a shared commitment to safety. With Unipak’s industry expertise, high-quality certified products, and exceptional service, AFFCO Imlay can confidently protect its workforce while maintaining its position as a leader in meat processing.
Web: www.affco.co.nz
Interested in learning more about Bastion products? Contact Unipak to experience the same reliable quality and service that AFFCO Imlay trusts.