A large-format die-cutting machine with an estimated replacement value of up to $2 million is being offered to a suitable Australian operator for no purchase price – provided it can be removed from its Adelaide site by the end of October.
Former Creative Cardboard Company owner Roger Buratto is seeking a new home for the Redline PF2100S semi-automatic die-cutting machine, rather than see the equipment dismantled and sold for scrap.
Purchased new and installed at Creative Cardboard’s Adelaide operation in 2013, the machine represented an investment of approximately $800,000, including installation. Buratto estimates that purchasing, importing and installing a comparable machine in Australia today would cost between $1.8 million and $2 million.
The PF2100S can process materials ranging from 250gsm cardboard to corrugated board up to 12mm thick. It accommodates sheets measuring up to 2120 x 1500mm, delivers approximately 500 tonnes of cutting pressure and can operate at speeds of up to 2900 sheets per hour.
The machine also incorporates automatic feeding capability, a stripping section, waste conveyor and CCTV monitoring. It has been maintained and is now partly dismantled in preparation for removal.
Buratto said his priority was to place the equipment with a business that could use it productively, potentially supporting growth and employment.
“I would rather see the machine being used by a company that genuinely needs it to grow but may not have the capital to purchase equipment of this scale,” he said.
“The money can be waived in this case. What matters to me now is finding the right home for it and giving another Australian manufacturer an opportunity.”
Although no purchase price will apply, the successful recipient will be responsible for dismantling, crane and rigging services, freight, insurance, reassembly and recommissioning. It must also provide a suitable factory site and meet all electrical, engineering, workplace safety and regulatory requirements.
The combined cost of moving and recommissioning the machine in Sydney or Melbourne has been estimated at approximately $25,000. Relocation to regional South Australia could cost between $10,000 and $15,000. All estimates are subject to the destination, site access and installation requirements and would need to be independently confirmed.
Buratto has indicated that he may provide reasonable recommissioning assistance if the machine remains in South Australia, with initial operating advice or training also available by negotiation.
Creative Cardboard operated for 26 years and employed approximately 20 people at its peak, supplying packaging and cardboard products to customers in the wine, food production, vehicle electronics, water purification and defence sectors. The business closed after Buratto was unable to find a buyer or successor amid rising operating costs and competition from imported finished products.
Expressions of interest are open to packaging manufacturers, other Australian manufacturers, entrepreneurs, social enterprises and training organisations with suitable premises, infrastructure and technical capability. Applicants must demonstrate a credible plan to return the machine to productive operation and meet the removal deadline.
Enquiries and expressions of interest can be directed to Greg Pratt at greg@gregpratt.com.au or 0417 881 988.
