The Big Picture:
- Automation has revolutionized packaging vinyl at Memphis Record Pressing (MRP).
- What began as a small plant in 2014 now processes more than 120,000 records daily, thanks to cutting-edge automated packaging equipment that ensures both efficiency and quality.
- This growth in capacity is directly tied to MRP’s partnership with Atlantic, which has brought fully integrated packaging lines to their facility.
“We were packaging around 36,000 records a day a little under two years ago, and we are able to process upwards of 120,000 records a day here,” says Austin Burk, Memphis Record Pressing packaging and logistics operations manager.
Driving The News:
- Traditionally, packaging vinyl records was a labor-intensive, manual process, but automation has dramatically changed the game at MRP.
- Atlantic provided MRP with advanced packaging equipment that streamlined their end-of-line process — transforming a slow, hands-on system into a fully automated operation.
- This has allowed MRP to quadruple production within two years, meeting the growing demand for vinyl while maintaining pristine packaging standards.
“When we’re looking at a new automation opportunity, we’re certainly going to come here on-site, evaluate current-state production conditions, learn the nuances of those applications, and of course work really collaboratively with the team that’s on-site to understand the ins and outs of everything going on there,” says Nick Ott, Atlantic Packaging equipment specialist.
Why It Matters:
- Vinyl records have transitioned from being just a music format to becoming prized collectors’ items, which means flawless packaging is essential.
- Automation ensures that every record is carefully handled with precision to minimize damage, like torn sleeves or bent corners.
- MRP’s automated lines now deliver packaging consistency — something that’s critical in an era when every detail of a record, and its packaging, matters to collectors.
Behind The Scenes:
“You can buy equipment from anybody, but the service that is going to come along with the equipment, that’s more important than anything else I can think of,” says Mark Yoshida, Memphis Record Pressing chief operations officer. “That’s a relationship I’ve always looked for.”
- Atlantic’s team of technicians offer continued service and support for any ongoing preventative maintenance and repairs.
- Many packaging companies supply equipment and materials, but the continued technical service offered by Atlantic is truly a differentiator in the market.
What’s Next:
- As vinyl’s popularity continues to rise, MRP is well-positioned to scale even further with automation.
- Their partnership with Atlantic means they can keep pace with increasing demand without sacrificing quality.
- With less manual labor required, their team can focus on maintaining the consistency and reliability that customers have come to expect.
The Bottom Line:
- Automation has revolutionized MRP’s fulfillment operation, allowing them to meet the demands of vinyl enthusiasts worldwide.
- By partnering with Atlantic, MRP has transformed their packaging process into a seamless, efficient operation — one that delivers pristine records every time.