Why Bale-Arm Trays Remain the Gold Standard in Grocery Distribution

When it comes to efficient grocery distribution, bale-arm trays remain the packaging solution of choice for leading supermarkets and food retailers. Designed for durability, hygiene and space optimisation, these trays have proven time and again to be a vital part of the supply chain, especially in fast-moving retail environments.

Designed with Grocery Distribution in Mind.

Bale-arm trays, also known to as stack nest crates, have become the packaging format of choice for many of the UK’s largest retailers. They are specifically engineered to meet the needs of grocery supply chains, where goods must be stored, transported, and handled with both speed and care. When the bale arms are locked into position, the trays stack securely, providing stability during transit and reducing the risk of product damage. When the arms are folded inward, the trays nest inside each other, significantly reducing their volume for empty returns or storage. This dual functionality enables better vehicle fill, improved back-of-store space management, and overall logistics efficiency.

Unmatched Hygiene for Food-Grade Handling.

Cleanliness is paramount in food handling. Bale-arm trays are typically made from food-grade, virgin or recycled polypropylene, which offer smooth, non-porous surfaces that resist contamination and are easy to clean.

Many trays are ventilated, allowing for proper airflow around fresh produce, while solid-sided models are ideal for items like dairy, meat, and bakery products. Drainage holes in the base help remove excess water after washing, supporting stringent hygiene regimes in distribution centres and food processing facilities.

Improved Handling and Operational Flow.

From the warehouse floor to store delivery bays, bale-arm trays offer exceptional ease of use. Ergonomic handholds allow for safer manual handling, and their robust design ensures they can withstand repeated trips without warping or cracking. Their uniform dimensions and compatibility with conveyor systems and automated stackers make them especially useful in high-volume operations where speed and consistency matter.

The trays are also designed with label holders or smooth side panels for affixing barcodes and shelf-edge labels, streamlining the tracking and replenishment process.

Long-Term Cost Savings.

While the upfront cost of a bale-arm tray may be higher than that of single-use cardboard or polystyrene alternatives, the return on investment is clear. With proper care and maintenance, a high-quality bale-arm tray can last for years, making them far more economical in the long run. Their reusability also means fewer replacements, lower procurement costs, and reduced waste disposal.

A Sustainable Solution.

In an era where sustainability is a key concern, bale-arm trays support the move away from disposable transit packaging. Their reusable nature aligns with closed-loop logistics and environmental best practices. At the end of their life, most trays are fully recyclable, making them a responsible packaging choice for environmentally conscious retailers.

At RECO Handling, we supply a wide range of bale-arm trays tailored for the grocery and food retail sector. Whether you’re updating your back-of-store equipment or scaling up your distribution network, our trays deliver performance you can trust.

Browse our bale-arm tray range or speak to a member of our team to find the perfect fit for your supply chain.

Unit 1a & 1b Hammond Avenue,
Whitehill Industrial Estate,
Stockport,
SK4 1PQ
0161 429 7536
sales@reco-group.com