Romel invests in new paperboard sheeter

Independent family-based paper merchant, Romel Australia, has invested in a new paperboard sheeting machine to convert packaging boards into sheets based on customer specifications.  

Representing the company’s largest machinery investment to date, the multi-reel, twin-knife sheeter has the ability to sheet up to 1650mm wide reels, 1900mm diameters, up to 1000gsm, with cut lengths from 450mm to 1850mm lengths, all with multiple pockets.

Gary Formaggio, national sales manager, Romel Australia, said “We have multiple markets we deal in – from commercial and digital printers, to food packaging and paper, as well as soft carton packaging.

“We see the sheeter as the opportunity for our customers across Australia to buy cut-to-size products, meeting end-user requirements, and reducing costs of raw material for their print or packaging jobs.

“An upside to buying a cut-to-size sheet is the reduction of waste and overall environmental impact. Additionally, our sheeter allows our sheetfed customers to compete in markets and products where raw material is primarily available in reels.

“This sheeter ticked all the boxes, and we have been pleased with the investment and its performance. We are seeing orders coming through from far and wide for products we can produce off this sheeter.”

Romel Australia was established 23 years ago in Perth by husband and wife team, Romano and Elsabe Formaggio, initially offering indent paper and paperboard Australia-wide.

From there, the company steadily grew and the team continued to expand, now including the founders’ three sons and additional staff. It is based Landsdale, WA.

In response to market requests, Romel also expanded its offering to include warehousing and merchanting operations. The company now has multiple warehouses and supply a range of customers across the country.

“We are constantly expanding our range of reels and materials and maximising our productivity and quality and we are optimistic about maintaining this growth trajectory,” says Formaggio.

“We are already in discussions with customers about some exciting new projects, which would mean investment in additional equipment and machinery, coupled with the addition or expansion of stock lines, grammages and finishes to our range of products.”

The company currently competes with two big merchants in the same space, so in order to differentiate themselves from the pack, Romel offers what it considers family-oriented service from a family-owned business.

“Being a family business, we value our customers as if they are part of the family and we see ourselves as big enough to make a difference, but small enough to care,” Formaggio adds.

“We concentrate on offering superior service at a competitive price – good products, fair price, great responsive service and a positive attitude are key to succeeding in this industry.

“We are thrilled that our customers keep trusting us by sharing and including us in their future plans. We are seeing some great opportunities on the horizon for print and packaging here at Romel Australia.”