New packaging approach improves productivity and connectivity, while taking the weight off staff

摘要

Migration from manual handling practices and the introduction of forward-looking packaging technology has yielded multiple benefits for Sicarev, one of France's leading meat processors. The Loire-based business is currently processing approximately four percent of France's annual beef consumption. It specialises in high quality. 'Label Rouge' and AoC Quality beef supplied by reputable breeders. In recent years, a combination of dated operational equipment and practice, with a heavy reliance on manual handling, had impacted upon the business's workforce at its Roanne facility. This had resulted in high staff turnover and difficulties in attracting new employees. Philippe Feneon, Site Director of Sicarev explained, "The installation was old and not very user-friendly." he said. "Staff faced cold, wet conditions with heavy carcass handling. In short, it was tough for existing workers and unappealing to prospective employees. "We took the view that our primary focus had to be with the employee. We knew that if we created the right environment we could build loyalty and improve recruitment. Ultimately, that would enable us to deliver better operational efficiency, but we had to get the foundations right." To meet its objective, Sicarev started a programme of works to move from dated manual operation to a modern, fully automated approach. The transformation of the packaging line has enabled the redistribution of production line operatives, reducing the physical demands of the job - most noticeably in the burden of manual handling which was down by two-thirds.