Feature

Automation roadmap accelerates packing efficiency at Morrisons fresh-produce operations

Packing automation success is all in the planning. Embarking on a mission to reconfigure its fresh-produce packing hall at Thrapston, the Morrisons Centre of Excellence – which prepares and delivers 130 million packs of fruit every year to 82 stores – has succeeded in its automation ambition.

01/02/2023 12:31:27

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Brillopak supported Thrapston at every phase of the five-year programme. It installed 11 fully integrated fresh-produce packing lines, comprising around 40 machines, with equipment
and capital investments split across three defined phases.

Rather than piecemeal different technologies together, Thrapston’s Site Manager at the time, Matthew Peczek, sought a cohesive automation
investment approach to increase efficiency, achieve packing consistency, and optimise produce quality.

Deciding to redevelop the factory layout in 2017, Peczek was resolute that all
machinery would be designed and placed linearly, with everything coming from the chillers and out to the back end for distribution, in one continuous flow. His
linear vision has since been realised. Now, every part of the line faces in the same direction throughout the packing hall.

Read the full article in DPA's February issue

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.