Abstract: A parallel linkage loading apparatus designed to be made part of a larger case packing machine which has a special retraction operation to improve efficiency. The push plate (ram) of the apparatus is lifted up and around in a pre-determined path as it is retracted, instead of pulling horizontally straight back. This retraction motion allows for the simultaneous positioning of subsequent sets of the product material (under the lifting push plate), avoiding the delay associated with waiting for this positioning after full retraction. Immediately upon completion of the retraction operation, the push plate may extend forward again, without delay, to push the waiting product materials into the next waiting case.