Following a successful decade since the introduction of Packexe SMASH, Packexe are returning to FDIC and Interschutz 2020 to showcase their growing range of rescue products.
With an increased number of distributors, an extended product range and full product demonstrations, there’s plenty of reasons to visit Packexe at each of this year’s events.
Reflecting on the past 12 months is a real indicator to how rapidly the popularity of SMASH has grown. “2019 presented ample opportunities to meet emergency teams and new distributors around the world.” Says CEO Andrew Orchard, “we took as many of these opportunities as possible and I would feel confident saying they paid off!”
Packexe were at the Australasian road rescue challenge, the second ever Taiwanese challenge, during which all competitors used Packexe rescue products in their scenarios, and even supported Renault at a training session on their brand-new cars. Changing the way extrication is carried out is ultimately the purpose of SMASH. It makes the process faster, safer and more efficient, creating a safer environment for both casualty and crew.
Following the glass management tool around the world, Packexe have been to all corners of the globe delivering training, attending exhibitions, sponsoring rescue challenges and adding new countries to their growing list of distributors. The most recent being China.
Securing China as a distributor has been a real game changer for Packexe, cementing the belief that the Asian market is a healthy place to be. “China marks a real milestone for the company” says Andrew, “to secure a position in such a prominent market is credit to the product’s popularity and sets an exciting road for the future.” With China now on the list, Packexe currently distribute in over fifty countries.
Given the nature of the products and the situations they are used in, delivering training to teams around the world is a value Packexe are proud to stick by. “Our products improve the way people work, they add a new element to extrication and can ultimately save lives. It’s crucial for those using them to know how to do so properly.” Comments Andrew, “there’s a value in face to face training that can’t be replicated any other way.”
With the range continuing to grow, training sessions take teams through every product in detail ensuring all team members are confident using the tools. Products now include SMASH, a SMASH Kit, SMASH The Edge, a dispenser and partnering tool Sharpswrap.
Sharpswrap, a strong, fluorescent, film provides protection from sharp and hazardous exposed vehicle edges and is now a key piece of equipment on fire engines across the world. It’s available in 100mm x 30m and 200mm x 15m. The 100mm roll comes on a dispensing handle, is easy to tear and perfect for protection around cut pillars and hinges. The 200mm roll is perforated every 100mm and is ideal for covering access points like removed windows, cut windscreens and sharp edges.
“Sharpswrap speaks for itself!” says Andrew, “after seeing earlier protection methods used for the same purpose it was obvious there was room for improvement”
Where previous extrication techniques may require more than one team member, Packexe products are designed to be efficient and can be used by a solo member of crew. The innovative dispenser and perforated film are credit to the products design and go a long way in saving time during extrication.
2020 has already seen Packexe support the Czech Republic Winter Rescue challenge where SMASH and Sharpswrap were provided to all competing teams, attend a week of safety seminars and vehicle workshops with invitation from Renault and secure China as a new distributor.
With what is set to be another successful year for Packexe, Andrew says the team are getting ready for the months ahead “it’s always a pleasure to showcase our products at big events, attend rescue challenges and meet a range of influential people. There are some big events this year and I am confident being a part of them will only make our product and brand stronger!”
For more information, go to www.packexe.co.uk/smash
