22 Jul Automation Investment Leads to 110 New Jobs
An Investment in Robotics and Automation has almost doubled Panelto’s workforce
The strategic robotics and automation investment by Panelto Foods along with the expansion of their new facility has brought an additional 110 jobs to Longford town and brings Panelto’s employment to 240.
There is a common misconception that automation and robots will cause a net loss in jobs, but this isn’t the case and the recent announcement by Irish Manufacturing Research members, Panelto Foods, is an example of this.
Transforming and Improving Through Investment and Collaboration
Panelto Foods, established in Longford in 2004 is a high technology bakery producing premium quality breads for the in-store bakeries in the major supermarket chains in Ireland and the UK. Despite the unprecedented challenges brought by Brexit and COVID-19, Panelto continues to invest in product and process innovation to ensure it continues to serve customer needs in both Ireland and UK markets.
Minister of State with responsibility for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Robert Troy T.D., visited Panelto Foods’ purpose-built state-of-the-art bakery facility in Longford during the week. Speaking on his visit he said
“It is a strong endorsement of both Longford and the Midlands when companies such as Panelto not only establish operations but continue to innovate and thrive there. Collaboration and investment will be key to our recovery and I am pleased that through our agency, Enterprise Ireland, and collaboration with the Irish Manufacturing Research Centre in Mullingar, Panelto continues to transform and improve their product offering for consumers both here and overseas, thus supporting jobs and the regional economy. As we look to emerge from the pandemic stronger and more resilient, it is always positive to see companies innovate and embrace technological change to be competitive and successful in addressing market challenges.”
Working in conjunction with technology partners, including Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR), and with Enterprise Ireland through their lean manufacturing supports, Panelto has recently invested in emerging robotic technologies to deliver enhanced product characteristics and to improve factory efficiencies. The Minister continued:
“Panelto is a good example of how a vibrant Irish food company investing in enhanced technology can underpin company growth in challenging markets. Buying food produced from all areas of the island will generate and sustain jobs and stimulate the economy across rural Ireland. Like many Irish food companies exporting to Britain, Panelto Foods has faced and addressed complex Brexit and Covid challenges while continuing to grow the business in the past year. Today’s visit was a great opportunity to see this in action and I wish them every success with their expansion.”
Staff Upskilling Initiative also on the Agenda
Panelto has also put in place upskilling initiatives for staff members including e-learning courses with Sligo IT and has also partnered with TU Dublin to support scholarships for six students participating in New Food Technology and Mechanical & Design Engineering courses.
If you’re interested in the adoption of Automation and Robotics and wish to explore the capabilities and possibilities please get in touch.