Wyandot Snacks has come a long way from their humble beginnings during the Great Depression as a popcorn company in Marion, Ohio. Over the years, they have evolved into a major player in the snack industry, producing a wide range of extruded and baked snacks for some of the most recognized brands in the U.S. But with growth comes new challenges, and Wyandot realized the need to optimize their end-of-line production to keep up with increasing demand.
CEO Jaap Langenberg recognized the importance of automation in boosting productivity and closing labor gaps while maintaining the company’s commitment to quality, safety, and employee well-being. By automating manual palletizing, Wyandot could not only increase efficiency but also take the strain off production line employees who were previously tasked with physically demanding jobs.
The decision to invest in automated palletizing was also driven by the desire to transition employees into more value-added roles that require judgment, creativity, and oversight. By freeing them from strenuous tasks, Wyandot could provide opportunities for growth and development within the company. An automation certification program was launched to train employees to operate and maintain the new systems, creating a pathway for advancement into supervisory or technical roles.
While automation has its benefits, Wyandot understood the importance of choosing the right partner for their automation needs. After a successful transition to case packers a few years ago, they opted for Formic’s Full Service Automation model for their palletizing needs. This model allowed them to implement systems quickly without upfront capital investment and provided ongoing technical and maintenance support. Additionally, Formic’s ability to swap equipment and manage redeployment aligned with Wyandot’s ever-changing business needs.
By partnering with Formic, Wyandot could focus on what they do best – making great snacks – while leaving the installation, maintenance, and equipment swapping in expert hands. This approach reduced the risk and guesswork often associated with large-scale automation projects, allowing Wyandot to continue their legacy of innovation and growth. The data collected from these automated systems is also paving the way for smarter, more sustainable operations in the future. Wyandot, a mid-sized manufacturer, has embraced Full Service Automation to enhance its operational efficiency and meet the evolving demands of its customers. By gaining real-time visibility into energy usage, production bottlenecks, and scheduling efficiency, Wyandot is now better equipped to address customer expectations regarding transparency and reducing its carbon footprint. This proactive approach not only benefits the environment but also optimizes long-term planning across the entire supply chain.
With Full Service Automation in place, Wyandot has found the perfect balance between flexibility and scale in its investments. This strategic decision has enabled the company to streamline its operations and stay ahead in a competitive market. The automation tools have proven to be instrumental in driving growth and ensuring that Wyandot remains a leader in the industry.
Looking towards the future, Wyandot is already planning to deploy new automated case packers to further enhance its production capabilities. The company’s leadership recognizes that automation is not about replacing the existing workforce but empowering them with advanced tools to excel in a new era of manufacturing. By leveraging automation technology, Wyandot is paving the way for sustained growth and success for years to come.
As Wyandot continues to innovate and embrace automation, it remains committed to its core values of quality, culture, and dedication to excellence. The company’s journey into automation is a testament to its commitment to continuous improvement and staying at the forefront of technological advancements in the manufacturing sector.
In conclusion, Wyandot’s transition to Full Service Automation has been a pivotal step in its evolution as a forward-thinking manufacturer. By investing in automation technology, Wyandot has positioned itself for long-term success and sustainable growth. Just like Wyandot, other businesses can also benefit from embracing automation to enhance their operations, scale their production, and meet the ever-changing needs of their customers. Discover how Formic’s Full Service Automation can help your team grow, your operation scale, and your customers stay satisfied by visiting the link provided.
