Resisting automation often leaves packhouses behind

Consumer needs continue to change, and one of the best ways this industry can keep up is by embracing new technologies. To adapt doesn’t just mean to survive, it means to thrive. Packhouses that aren’t at least exploring some of the potential benefits of automation are unlikely to keep up with demand.

With an over-reliance on manual processes, ongoing labour shortages both inside and outside the packhouse will never be resolved. There are simply too many labour-intensive roles to fill and too few workers to fill them. “Our customers need to automate in the packhouse so that labour can be redeployed in the field, where it’s needed.” says Cameron McInness, director of Global Pac Technologies. “Without picked fruit, there isn’t much point in having a packhouse!”

Elsewhere, and the pandemic has thrown a spanner in the works with social distancing. Having too many people working in close proximity is now unsafe. As we come to understand the benefits of more space, these regulations are likely to be adopted voluntarily in the future.

Remaining stagnant in an evolving industry means missing the opportunity to grow. As packhouses waste time sourcing labour, battling with old equipment, and placing staff on labour-intensive processes, their export earnings potential continues to dwindle.