In response to huge demand, Krones Andina, the Colombian subsidiary of German blow moulding and bottling equipment supplier Krones (Neutraubling / Germany; www.krones.com), has opened a new training centre for its clients. The academy, which was inaugurated early this month, is located in Krones’ buildings in Bogotá. It will provide training for operating and maintenance staff of bottling lines not just from Colombia, but also from Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru and Panama.

At present, there are three training rooms containing a variety of Krones’ machines and technologies to give hands-on experience. As well as a "Contiroll HS" labeller, the equipment includes a module of the "VODM" filler and a "Contiform blow-moulding machine", as well as automation modules and networks.

Krones said it can choose from a very sizeable pool of trainers worldwide. It stressed too that lessons are given in the native Spanish of its clients’ staff.

“This training centre will make a meaningful contribution towards upgrading the knowledge of technical personnel in the region’s various countries. Feedback from clients has been enthusiastic,” Krones said.