The company has installed an automated filling system, with robot palletisation, for more efficiency leading to increased capacity for growth.
Less waste
Previously the dry packing line was handled manually but investment in the new system means 840,000 bags (20,000 pallets a year) are now handled robotically, meaning more accurate weighing of dry mix and less waste.
Dawn Foods manufactures a complete range of sweet bakery products including dry mixes, bases and concentrates at the site.
“Thirty years after commencing operations in the UK, Dawn Foods, one of the largest bakery ingredients suppliers in the US, continues to invest in its Evesham facilities equipment and infrastructure to grow the business,” said Carrie Jones-Barber, CEO, Dawn Foods, grand-daughter of the original Dawn Foods founder Marlin Jones.
“Our improved automated filling system, with robot palletisation, will reduce packaging materials, enhance effectiveness and provide additional capacity for growth.
“As a family business, celebrating our 30th anniversary in the UK with our team in Evesham was really important to us. Everyone had a great day together marking this milestone, celebrating our culture and continuing our focus on inspiring bakery success every day.”
Unveiling of the automated dry packing line took place as Dawn Foods celebrates 30 years in business in the UK; the Evesham location is where Dawn started its operations in Europe. Dawn’s global business began in 1920 in the US and the company is preparing for its 100th birthday next year.
Tim Clarkson, cluster director, Dawn Foods UK & Ireland, said the firm is investing significantly in its infrastructure both in terms of equipment and working methodologies as part of its programme for continuous growth.
Growth strategy
“Investments, such as the automated dry filling and packing system, are part of Dawn’s growth strategy, allowing for a more sustainable packing and filling system, while reducing packaging materials. We are committed to creating a culture of excellence that best meets our customers’ requirements across the UK and Europe,” he added.
As part of the celebrations, Dawn partnered with Caring Hands, an outreach project from The Vale of Evesham Christian Centre that supports individuals and families in need in practical ways and donated a cheque for more than £1,000 to the charity.
“Dawn Foods started operating in the UK in 1989 and then afterwards opened its first site in Evesham; today we employ more than 200 people at the site,” added Clarkson.
“As one of the biggest employers in Evesham it was important for us to give back to the community where many of our staff live and assist those in the community who may be having a tough time at present. The Caring Hands charity does some superb work ensuring people have enough food and the basic resources to help get them back on their feet.
“We’re delighted our CEO Carrie Jones-Barber and Steven Verweij, Dawn Foods president of Europe & AMEAP opened the new dry packing facility – demonstrating our on-going commitment to the town – but launched our partnership with Caring Hands. We’re delighted to be working with them and Diane Bennett, founder of the Caring Hands in the Vale charity.”
