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The Netherlands
info@everbake.nl
+31(0)88-7300000
About: Robotization
Subject: Robotization in the bakery: efficiency without loss of craftsmanship
Source: Bakkerswereld
Automation is becoming increasingly important in the bakery sector, as staff shortages and the demand for flexibility increase. Robots and smart machines take over repetitive tasks, while AI helps with quality control and demand forecasting. But how do you ensure that automation supports craftsmanship instead of replacing it?
Due to the ongoing staff shortage in the bakery sector, automation will continue to accelerate, expects Peter Eversdijk, director of EverBake Group. ‘Robots take over (part of) work or work together with employees to increase production and reduce workload.’ In addition, consumers are asking for more flexibility in production processes, which means that bakeries need to become more agile, he continues. ‘Energy reduction and minimization of waste remain crucial. Artificial Intelligence (AI) will play an increasingly important role, for example in demand forecasting, recipe optimization, quality control and predicting maintenance needs of machines.’
Automation is particularly valuable for labor-intensive or repetitive tasks such as dough processing, decoration, packaging and logistical handling, says Eversdijk. ‘Precision work, such as consistent weighing and cutting, can also be done more efficiently and accurately with robots. In addition, digitalization helps with inventory management and quality control, giving bakers more control over their production processes.’
Production capacity up; workload down
EverBake develops machines that take over repetitive and physically demanding tasks from employees. Nick Eversdijk, technical director of EverBake Group, explains: ‘This not only increases production capacity, but also reduces workload. Our machines are as energy-efficient as possible and help to minimize waste. We respond to changing consumer needs by offering flexible production options.’
EverBake machines can be integrated into existing production lines. ‘This allows bakeries to work more efficiently,’ says Nick. ‘We also advise bakers on the optimal routing in their bakery to save energy and organize processes more sustainably.’
Efficiency and accuracy
With the growing shortage of skilled bakers, automation is becoming increasingly important. ‘It is becoming increasingly difficult to find well-trained professionals,’ says Hans Besems on behalf of Vemag-Seydelmann. ‘That is why the demand for efficient machine solutions is growing, for example for automatically spraying cookies or accurately dosing fillings.’
One of the company’s innovations is a portioning solution for above a production line, which helps bakers to dose fillings consistently and precisely. ‘The filling is often the most expensive ingredient in a product, so accuracy is essential,’ Besems explains. ‘Our machines ensure that bakers work as efficiently as possible, without waste and while maintaining quality.’
Analyze bottlenecks
According to Nick Eversdijk, it is important to first analyse the bottlenecks in the production process in order to assess whether robotisation offers opportunities within the bakery. ‘Every bakery and region has different challenges: a full power grid, staff shortages or changing consumer needs. Energy savings and reducing waste are relevant for every bakery, but the cost-benefit analysis determines whether automation is profitable. A conversation with a specialist, such as EverBake, can help to find the best solution.’
A step-by-step approach often works best, in Peter’s experience. ‘Start with a small automated process, measure the impact and then expand. Opportunities lie in flexible machines that can grow with the bakery. In addition, data analysis offers opportunities to further optimise processes and reduce waste.’
Tips for bakers
For bakers considering robotization, Peter and Nick Eversdijk have the following tips: