Method for overwrapping packets of cigarettes

A method of overwrapping packets of cigarettes, comprising the steps of:

• directing a plurality of packets singly and in succession along a first path;
• directing a plurality of sheets of transparent wrapping material singly and in succession along a second path which crosses said first path at a folding station;
• associating each successive said packet with a respective said sheet at said folding station by bringing the respective said packet into contact initially with a substantially central portion of the respective said sheet;
• causing the respective said sheet to fold around the respective said packet and assume a profile of "U" shape with two lateral portions on each side of the respective said central portion flattened against respective lateral faces of the respective said packet;
• compressing a central band of each said lateral portion when flattened against the respective lateral face of the respective said packet, in such a way that said lateral portions are spread progressively and into uniform contact with the respective said lateral faces;
• both longitudinally and transversally of the direction of movement of the respective said packet along said first path;
• each said packet lateral face having a transversal width which is larger than the transversal width of the respective said central band, said lateral portions as a result of said compressing not being compressed throughout the full width of the respective said lateral face.