Acquisition boosts Ishida’s advance protein packing automation

Ishida - the Birmingham-headquartered end-to-end weighing, packing and quality control solutions specialist – has announced the acquisition of Swedish robotics automation expert, RobotGrader AB.

The acquisition marks the expansion of Ishida’s automation capabilities, enabling protein processors to benefit from smarter, automated fixed weight tray-packing systems, supported by enhanced service and project expertise.

It also strengthens Ishida’s expertise and reinforces its position as a market leader in protein packing automation.

Based in Mölndal, Sweden, RobotGrader was founded by Sverre Stenbom in 2004.

Today, RobotGrader consists of a team of mechatronics engineers who design innovative robotic equipment integrating weighing, grading and pick and place technologies.

The two companies have enjoyed a successful partnership since 2014, with Ishida serving as the exclusive European distributor of RobotGrader’s systems for more than a decade and installing systems in 13 countries worldwide.

Darren Chandler, general manager for Protein Solutions at Ishida Europe, said: “RobotGrader has long been known for its innovative robotic grading systems, and this move brings together two family-owned businesses with a shared commitment to engineering excellence and quality service.

“We are excited to build on the success we’ve experienced already. Precision tray-packing technology is becoming ever-more important to improving performance while reducing food waste and giveaway.

“We are confident our even closer ties will lead to even greater innovation in this space, and ensuring RobotGrader’s team can continue to flourish.

“Depending on the machine and product type, RobotGrader’s solutions can handle up to 320 pieces per minute, whilst reducing reliance on labour, increasing pack output and achieving low levels of give-away.”

Dave Tiso, managing director at Ishida Europe, added: “With automation high on food manufacturers’ agendas, we are pleased to be able to offer RobotGrader solutions as a direct part of the Ishida portfolio.

“With Ishida’s experts in weighing, packaging and quality control, and RobotGrader’s mechatronics specialists working more closely together than ever before, we can provide even deeper integration to serve the needs of protein processors globally.”

Sverre Stenbom, who will remain actively involved in the business, said: “This is a very positive move for both companies and clearly demonstrates the ambition of Ishida to be a major contender in the protein packaging and automation sector.

“I am looking forward to seeing what the future holds.”