Automation investment leads to 110 new jobs
The strategic robotics and automation investment by Panelto Foods along with the expansion of their new facility has brought an additional 110 jobs and brings employment to 240 people. Established in Longford in 2004, Panelto Foods 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.
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. There is a common misconception that automation and robots will cause a net loss in jobs, but this is not the case and Panelto Foods is an example of this.
Minister of State with responsibility for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Robert Troy TD, visited Panelto Foods’ purpose-built state-of-the-art bakery facility in Longford recently. Speaking on his visit he said: “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.”
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.
