Automation and the Modern Bakery

Ever since Otto Frederick Rohwedder invented the first loaf-at-a-time bread-slicing machine, automation has played a major role in the baking industry. In today’s technology centric world, there is a wide range of bakery products that are produced within fully automated processes.

In addition, an increasing number of bakeries are turning to warehouse automation in order to effectively manage the short shelf life of fresh bakery products, efficiently manage labor costs, minimize product damage, increase inventory accuracy and maximize warehouse capacity. Implementing automation enables bakeries to slice overhead costs while improving sales as each item reaches store shelves well before its expiration date.

Warehouse automation allows bakers to thoroughly plan and improve their resources for a more efficient produc flow. With an automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS) and warehouse execution system (WES), bakeries have increased visibility and control of inventory with real-time data, which increases operational efficiency.

Manufacturers can use real-time data for future production and supply chain planning, including ingredients and packaging supplies.