KraussMaffei boosts Mexico’s agricultural industry with sustainable logistics solutions in packaging

In the heart of Mexico’s avocado-growing region, Del Llano Agrocomercializadora is setting new standards for sustainable packaging solutions for the agricultural industry. Based in Tacámbaro, Michoacán—famous for its export-quality Hass avocados—this young company has quickly become a leading force in Mexico’s logistics and packaging sector.

Since its establishment in 2015, Del Llano has embraced an aggressive growth strategy focused on innovation, sustainability, and efficiency. A pivotal partnership with KraussMaffei and its advanced injection moulding solutions has helped Del Llano meet the demands of international produce markets—delivering quality, reusable vegetable crates at scale.

About Del Llano Agrocomercializadora: Del Llano Agrocomercializadora specialises in manufacturing plastic transport crates for the agricultural industry. From its modern production facility in Michoacán, the company supplies high-performance, reusable containers tailored for produce such as avocados. The business model centres on scalable, eco-conscious production and is committed to integrating circular economy principles. Their crates—used for both domestic logistics and international export—are designed for multiple reuse cycles and are produced using high-quality recycled plastics.

Challenge

With the global demand for Mexican Hass avocados rising, Del Llano faced increasing pressure to scale production while maintaining product quality and sustainability targets. The company needed a high-output injection moulding solution capable of producing crates in two different sizes—10 kg and 30 kg—with cycle times of 14 and 40 seconds; respectively. These crates also needed to meet stringent durability standards and incorporate up to 100% recycled polypropylene (PP) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), depending on the application. Flexibility, fast changeovers between moulds, consistent quality during peak harvest periods, and the ability to meet export logistics requirements were all critical.

Solution

To meet these operational demands, Del Llano partnered with KraussMaffei, a global leader in plastics injection moulding technology. The cornerstone of the solution was the MX 1000-12000 injection moulding machine—selected for its high clamping force (10,000 kN), efficient cycle performance, and compatibility with recycled materials. This flagship machine enabled Del Llano to dramatically increase throughput while ensuring product consistency. Complementing the MX 1000, two additional KraussMaffei machines—the GX 550-6100 and CX 160-750—were integrated into the production line. The GX 550 handled crate production, while the CX 160 produced precision-moulded lids.

Key technical features included:

• High-performance screw (HPS) for enhanced plasticising and shot weight consistency.
• APC plus technology ensures precise melt control and reproducible quality.
• Optimally configured clamping unit to support quick mould changeovers and flexible production runs.

Implementation

The integration of KraussMaffei’s MX 1000 began in mid-2019, with full-scale production commencing shortly after. Within one year, Del Llano’s crate production increased by over 200%, reaching a monthly output of 137,000 crates by mid-2020. The system’s reliability and easy operability allowed the company to quickly adapt to peak harvest periods, significantly improving responsiveness to seasonal demand. The use of recycled materials did not compromise product quality thanks to KraussMaffei’s advanced melt homogeneity capabilities.

A strategic advantage was the ability to switch between two moulds (10 kg and 30 kg crate designs), ensuring optimal resource usage and production flexibility. With shorter cycle times and stable performance even at high shot weights (up to 2000 g), the MX 1000 enabled Del Llano to meet customer delivery timelines without sacrificing sustainability goals.

Results and benefits

The partnership with KraussMaffei delivered a robust, future-ready production platform that supports Del Llano’s mission of offering economical and environmentally responsible transport solutions.

Key outcomes included:

• Production more than tripled within 12 months.
• Maximum throughput and flexibility, even during high season.
• Use of 100% recycled materials, supporting circular economy goals.
• Improved product quality and consistency, meeting international export standards.
• Increased market share and customer trust through reliable, on-time delivery.

As Tirso García, founder and owner of Del Llano Agrocomercializadora, remarked:

“With the new MX 1000, we have increased our production more than threefold within one year.”

Conclusion

Through its collaboration with KraussMaffei, Del Llano Agrocomercializadora has proven that sustainable manufacturing and high productivity can go hand-in-hand. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, the company has positioned itself as a leader in packaging innovation for Mexico’s agricultural export sector. This case study exemplifies how strategic investment in advanced machinery and sustainable practices can unlock new growth opportunities—providing an inspiring model for other producers in the region.

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