Lotgering boosts productivity with smart automation

Lotgering, a leading producer of high-quality meat for dogs and cats, faced a significant challenge in their packaging process. The outdated packaging machine no longer met the demands of their modern production environment.

“The existing packaging line required considerable manual effort from two operators,” says Udo Bezuijen, Operations Manager at Lotgering. “This resulted in physically demanding work that could be done more efficiently. We had been searching for a solution for some time, with automation being a key component.”

Health is a core principle for the producer. They consciously produce only pure, fresh food for dogs and cats. They prioritize processing fresh, pure, and high-quality meat without premixes, as all essential nutrients, minerals, and vitamins are already naturally present in the meat and can be absorbed or excreted by the healthy dog or cat’s body without difficulty. In addition, sustainability, carbon footprint reduction, and recycling are integrated throughout the entire production process, and they continuously work on aligning with the latest developments and innovations. During a routine meeting with Sismatec’s spare parts department about a component for a meat processing machine, it became clear that a new packaging machine was essential for the future of their operations. Lotgering did not hesitate to move forward with this process.

Manager Robert Klaassen (left) and Operations Manager Udo Bezuijen

Green light

“Our first visit to Lotgering quickly revealed their requirements,” says Rogier Drost, Technical Manager at Sismatec. “The aim was not only to improve the packaging line but also to enhance the well-being of the employees. We first took detailed photos and videos of the existing situation. These visual data formed the basis for a custom layout for further automation. Sismatec and Sismation then collaborated to offer a compact and efficient solution. Lotgering was impressed with our solutions and gave the green light for the implementation of a completely new packaging line.”

Improved employee well-being

The new line has already delivered impressive results. “Our new Sismation casepacker now handles 120 packages per minute,” says Udo. “This increase in production speed has improved the efficiency of the entire production line, resulting in higher productivity and lower operating costs.” But the benefits go beyond just production. “The new solution has significantly reduced the physical strain on our employees. Where lifting and bending were once required, automated processes now provide an ergonomically responsible work environment. We are offering our staff a more pleasant workplace and improving overall well-being.”

More efficient, sustainable, and flexible

The automation has also reduced the need for human intervention. Previously, operators had to frequently step in during breakdowns or make adjustments to the process. Many of these manual processes are now automated. The new systems have significantly increased the efficiency and reliability of the production line.

Numerous benefits

With investments in advanced technologies and automation, Lotgering has not only achieved its initial goals of modernizing processes but also realized broader benefits. These include increased operational flexibility, better compliance with sustainability standards, and improved customer satisfaction through consistent product quality.

www.lotgering.nl
www.sismatec.nl
www.sismation.nl 

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