Collaboration between W&R Plastics and Kornelis Caps & Closures

Willeke Lubbinge, buyer at Kornelis Caps & Closures, was recently interviewed by our supplier W&R Plastics. In W&R’s feature ‘op de korrel',’ she talks about the colorant pellets that W&R supplies and the great cooperation with this supplier.

How long has Kornelis been a customer of W&R?
“I’ve been working at Kornelis for 13.5 years and I don’t know any different than that we’ve been doing business with W&R. I checked with a colleague, and this partnership has actually been going on for more than 40 years.”

How did Kornelis start working with W&R?
“I’m not exactly sure how the collaboration began. There are other suppliers, but Kornelis and W&R are a perfect match. Both are family businesses. We have more employees, but our way of working and treating colleagues is quite similar. We like short communication lines and a familiar atmosphere. That’s also how it is working with W&R.”

Which specific ‘pellet’ does W&R supply to Kornelis?
“They supply color masterbatches and additive masterbatches. Right now, we have over 125 different masterbatch solutions. Because there are so many different colors, the colorants are added manually. For every production run, we place a small container with the right colorant next to the machine. Besides the current range, we often get requests for new colors. Our customers provide a color reference (PMS, RAL code) asking if we can deliver a cap in that color. This goes to W&R, and they develop the right masterbatch solution. Then we do tests and send it to our customer for approval.”

Why do you choose this specific pellet?
“Because we mostly make caps and closures for the food industry, the most important thing is that the pigments used comply with food safety regulations. Together with W&R, we developed a monobatch project. This means that many pigments have been tested and approved under these regulations. We use this for new color requests.”

Where is the pellet used/processed?
“Kornelis grew by making wide-mouth caps, like those for peanut butter and chocolate spread jars. We make these in various sizes and colors. Besides coloring, we also add an insert or foil, which is glued or heat-sealed by the filler on the jar to ensure first-user safety and prevent leakage. In recent years, we have especially grown in custom-made caps. For example, in collaboration with a local mayonnaise brand from Zaandam, we created a new design, and now all their products have a tamper-evident cap.”

How is the cooperation with W&R?
“W&R takes the burden off us. Whether it’s about new colors or existing ones, we always find each other in consultation. We work with weekly orders and have daily contact. Today’s order is delivered within the agreed time. When there is an urgent need, W&R always finds a solution. This works well for both parties.”

What is the main reason Kornelis chooses to work with W&R?
“Due to the many years of cooperation, a confidential and personal bond has developed. This ensures we can easily reach each other. Both parties find the collaboration very pleasant. Besides, we are loyal to our suppliers and try to buy as much locally as possible.”

Who at W&R advises or supports Kornelis?
“We have a lot of contact with all departments but especially with the internal sales team. Joshua Pothoven is our contact person, and the contact is informal and personal. That suits us well. We also often have contact with René Stegehuis. We regularly see René in Steenwijk, and over a cup of coffee, we discuss all ongoing matters.”