Automatic, wireless data registration for Van Diermen Masterbakers, even at extreme temperatures

Food manufacturer maximises efficiency, productivity and compliance with a custom solution

Van Diermen Masterbakers is a leading supplier of cream puffs for a multitude of retailers around the globe. Manufacturing a wide variety of products to varying customer specifications and packaging places huge demands on the company’s logistics operations. To maximise efficiency, productivity and compliance, Van Diermen entrusted its warehouse automation project to the experts at Zetes.

Streamlined workflows

Time is of the essence when baking up to 50,000 cream puffs per hour, especially when it is essential that all products be cooled or frozen immediately to maintain freshness. That means accurate order administration, intelligent stock management and efficient flows between production and cold storage areas are of the utmost importance. Zetes therefore developed an automated, wireless tracing system robust enough to do the job, even in temperatures as low as -20 degrees.

Total control

The new barcode-driven system with handheld wireless terminals not only optimises workflows but affords management more control over its business processes:

• 15 handheld terminals adapted for operation in extreme temperatures
• 2 truck-mounted terminals for automatic data registration and maximum continuity
• state-of-the-art wireless RF network designed to ensure complete coverage
• seamless integration with existing warehouse management system software
• fully compliant solution enabling full traceability
• clear insight into weekly consumption of ingredients and packaging material

Effective implementation on the line

The new system and terminals did take a little getting used to for some employees on the line. However, it did not take long before they became familiar with the main functions of the handheld terminals. The decision for on-the-job training proved best adapted to the employees’ needs.