Prompt Attention From Ossid Helps Cucina Fresca Get its Packaging Back on Schedule

Learn more about the Reepack ReeForm T45 Thermoformer from Ossid.

There may be nothing more maddening than not being able to reliably package and ship products because a machine is constantly down for maintenance. Cucina Fresca is a Seattle-based gourmet foods manufacturer that’s been serving tasty Italian dishes to the Pacific Northwest and beyond for more than 30 years. The company began as a small mom-and-pop shop, but steadily grew as its popularity took hold.

“We received the T45 three weeks after our first call with Ossid. It was amazing how quickly everyone jumped in with all hands-on deck, because it was pretty crucial that we get a new machine,” said Clingman, President of Cucina Fresca. “They seemed to move heaven and earth to get the deal done and get it out here.”

When it comes to food packaging equipment, reliability is crucial. Brad Glaberson and Pat Klingman, operators of Cucina Fresca—a Seattle-based gourmet food manufacturer—understand this well. For over 30 years, Cucina Fresca has produced fresh pasta, ravioli, tortellinis, sauces, and mac and cheese, all natural and non-GMO.

Despite their successful products, their packaging was problematic due to a troublesome thermoform fill and seal machine. “Our previous thermoformer kept me awake at night, was beyond stressful. It never worked as it was supposed to,” says Brad. The machine’s frequent breakdowns caused significant delays and stress, pushing Brad and Pat to seek a solution.

They consulted a trusted industry professional who recommended Ossid, known for packaging solutions in tray overwrapping, sealing, and flexible packaging. The recommendation led them to the ReeForm T45 thermoformer, which proved to be the ideal solution.

The Ossid ReeForm T45 thermoformer is versatile, capable of handling flexible, semi-rigid, and rigid packaging applications. It is perfect for Cucina Fresca’s pasta in modified atmosphere packaging and rigid trays. The machine’s stainless steel frame and easy-to-clean design make it suitable for sanitation and washdown environments. Its user-friendly control panel allows operators of varying skill levels to use it efficiently. The T45 can handle film thickness up to 900 microns, film width up to 560 millimeters, tray forming depth up to 120 millimeters, and a maximum cutoff up to 460 millimeters.

Customer service is another area where Ossid excels. “Ossid gave us the best customer service, installation, and support we’ve had for any machine,” says Brad. Ossid’s attentive and responsive service ensures quick resolution of issues and challenges.

As the North American master distributor of Reepack, Ossid offers a wide range of packaging solutions, recommending the best fit for customers' needs. Operating five days a week, two shifts per day, the T45 has significantly improved Cucina Fresca’s operations. “We’ve been cruising along and I couldn’t be happier with the performance and customer service. It’s been a great experience working with Ossid,” says Brad.

Overall, the partnership with Ossid has provided Cucina Fresca with reliable equipment and excellent support, enhancing their production efficiency and peace of mind.