If you produce more than one capsule format — or expect to — a multi-format machine can replace several single-format lines. For contract packers and growing brands, that means lower capital cost, less floor space and the flexibility to take on any customer’s product. Here’s how it works and who it’s for.
What “multi-format” means
A multi-format machine fills and seals different capsule systems on the same line — Nespresso, Dolce Gusto, K-Cup and Lavazza — by changing tooling and parts rather than buying a separate machine for each. ONWIN’s CMAF20 series is built around this: one machine, multiple capsule formats.
Who needs it
- Contract packers / co-manufacturers testing and producing many customers’ ingredients and formats.
- Brands with a multi-drink range — e.g., espresso in Nespresso and tea/milk in Dolce Gusto.
- Growing brands that want to add formats later without re-buying equipment.
How changeover works
Switching format means changing format-specific parts (cup handling, dosing, sealing tooling). A well-designed multi-format machine makes this fast and repeatable, so downtime between runs stays low. The trade-off vs a dedicated single-format line is minimal for most operations — and far cheaper than owning multiple machines.
Capacity tiers
Match the machine to your throughput:
– ~2,500/hour — CMAF20-1 (pre-cut lids) or CMAF20S-1 (roll film).
– ~5,000/hour + cup-sorting — CMAF20S-2, with a built-in cup-sorting/feeding unit for hands-off operation.
– Higher volumes — available on request.
Use the Machine Capacity Calculator to size it.
A compatibility note worth knowing
Not every automatic machine runs every format. The CMAF20 series is multi-format including Dolce Gusto, while some inline models (e.g., CMAF03S-1, CMAF13S-2) run Nespresso/Lavazza/K-Cup but not Dolce Gusto. If Dolce Gusto is in your plan, confirm it up front — we’ll flag it in your machine recommendation.
Get the right configuration
Tell us your formats, volume and whether you need one machine for multiple formats, and we’ll recommend the configuration. Start with the Machine Selection form or the dedicated multi-format machine page.
FAQ
Can one machine really run Nespresso and Dolce Gusto? Yes — the CMAF20 series is multi-format including Dolce Gusto.
How long does changeover take? It depends on the formats; the machines are designed for fast, repeatable part changes.
Is multi-format worth it vs dedicated lines? For most multi-product or contract operations, yes — lower capital and floor space, more flexibility.
