A Smarter, Safer, and Greener Switch for UK Manufacturing

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A Smarter, Safer, and Greener Switch for UK Manufacturing

Enhancing Sustainability and Efficiency with Lindström's Industrial Wiper Service

About Flexipol Packaging

Flexipol Packaging, the UK’s leading manufacturer of innovative sacks, bags and liners, has relied on Lindström’s Industrial Wiper Service for over a decade. But in Q3 2024, they made a strategic switch — transitioning from bag-based servicing to Lindström’s metal dispensing and storage solution.

The results? A measurable boost in site efficiency, enhanced fire safety, and a notable reduction in costs.

The new storage and dispensing methods are not only more efficient, but they also look far more professional across our site. We’ve seen instant improvements.

Wayne Jenkinson, Flexipol Packaging

The Challenge: Good Service, But Room for Improvement

Prior to the change, Flexipol operated with a bag-based wiper service. While the service from Lindström was consistently reliable, it presented several challenges:

  • Storage inefficiencies: Clean and soiled wiper bags needed to be manually handled and stored — a logistical and safety concern.
  • Compliance limitations: Soiled bags required off-site storage due to fire regulations.
  • Visual clutter: Overflowing bins across the plant detracted from the site’s professional image.

With growing demand on operational efficiency and an increasing focus on environmental and fire safety standards, Flexipol recognised the need for a more scalable solution.

The Solution: Lindström’s Container-Based Wiper Service

Efficient Service

Lindström responded with a customised industrial wiper service upgrade: a streamlined, container-based system complete with metal PODs for soiled cloths. This upgrade enabled:

  • Safer handling and storage
    Lindström is the only UK provider transporting soiled print wipers under UN3175 — the legal classification for solids containing flammable liquids under Carriage of Dangerous Goods regulations. This ensures Flexipol’s operations are fully compliant and risk averse.
  • Fire regulation compliance
    The switch to metal PODs eliminated the need for off-site storage, aligning with UK Buildings Insurance best practices.
  • Increased on-site efficiency
    The streamlined container system reduced manual handling, freed up floor space, and simplified the movement of materials around the plant.
  • Cost savings and inventory optimisation
    By accessing Lindström’s eLindström Portal, Flexipol identified usage trends and optimised stock levels, reducing their wiper inventory by 7% — directly impacting their bottom line.

Sustainable Innovation in Industrial Cleaning

As sustainability becomes a priority across UK manufacturing, Flexipol’s switch is a clear example of how businesses can reduce their environmental footprint without compromising on quality or efficiency.

Lindström’s reusable print wipers are significantly more sustainable than disposable options such as blue roll or rags — which typically increase hazardous waste disposal and end up in landfill or incinerators.

All wiper laundering is done in Lindström’s dedicated Bradford facility, with zero discharge to drain.
Meaning no harmful chemicals are released into the environment, and no used wipers are shipped overseas.

Why Flexipol Chose Lindström

Flexipol’s long-standing relationship with Lindström, backed by industry-leading service, played a crucial role in their decision to stay with the provider after a competitive benchmarking exercise. Key reasons for their loyalty include:

  • Specialist wipers for each sector – eliminating cross-contamination
  • Easier manual handling – lighter containers reduce physical strain and improve workflow
  • Cleaner workspaces – sealed storage prevents leaks and maintains hygiene standards
  • Faster servicing – streamlined container exchange minimises disruption during collections
  • Reduced waste – reusable wipers replace disposables, supporting sustainability goals
  • Enhanced fire safety – metal PODs provide secure, regulation-compliant storage for soiled wipers

Looking Ahead

With impressive early results, Flexipol is now trialling Lindström’s absorbent spill mats to replace existing granules and cloths for cleaning up industrial spills — continuing their journey toward safer, cleaner, and greener operations.

Interested in Reducing Waste and Costs?

If your business is ready to enhance safety, cut costs, and reduce your environmental impact, talk to Lindström about switching to our Industrial Wiper Service.

📧 industrialwiperuk@lindstromgroup.com
📞 North UK: 01274 736767
📞 South UK: 01403 799100