Expanding bakery defines automation supplier

A Memorandum of Understanding that recognises Mitsubishi Electric as its first choice supplier of automation equipment and systems has been signed by Roberts Bakery.

A Memorandum of Understanding that recognises Mitsubishi Electric as its first choice supplier of automation equipment and systems has been signed by Roberts Bakery of Northwich, Cheshire, UK, to support major expansions to its plant now underway.

"We have worked with Roberts for many years," says Roger Payne, divisional manager for Mitsubishi Electric.

"The new agreement refreshes our relationship, putting it on a flexible and responsive footing suitable for today's competitive market".

"It encompasses not just hardware and software supply, but also other technical and human elements needed to keep a production plant at the forefront of modern technology." Roberts bakery started in 1887 and is still today lead by a member of the founding family.

It produces over two million bakery items a week and now serves regional, national and European markets.

Its current expansion will not only see an increase in production volume but also broadening of the product range, improved productivity, traceability and flexibility, as managing director Ian Connell explains: "International retail buyers are very demanding about product specification, manufacturing standards, traceability, packaging, delivery and cost reduction, for which we need 100% support from our engineering suppliers".

"They also have to work with us to achieve continuous cost reductions and to keep up with developing standards and legislation." Naturally, the bakery is a large user of energy and Mitsubishi is already working on specific objectives including the installation of energy efficient technologies and advanced energy management software.

Internal audits will be undertaken with the Melsec Energy Centre to establish targets, identify best practises and develop a culture of continuous improvement.

Payne again: "Automation is no longer only about equipment supply".

"We have to become an extension of the plant operator's engineering resource, to be as committed to their customers as they are themselves".

"The flexibility and focus built into a well-defined Memorandum means we can be a seamless part of their team.".

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