Key Facts:
- Rockwell Automation has partnered with Middleby Food Processing to create the industry's first fully automated bacon production line
- The solution features FactoryTalk Optix technology to standardise interfaces and enable remote troubleshooting
- The automated system reduces labour requirements, water usage and improves production efficiency
- Middleby Food Processing chose Rockwell for its engineering expertise and ability to provide future-proof manufacturing systems
- The collaboration extends beyond bacon production to include automation solutions for bakery and protein segments
Innovative solution streamlines operations, reduces labour and water usage, and sets new industry standards
Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK), the world's largest company dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation, has been selected by Middleby Food Processing to help develop the food industry's first fully automated bacon production line. As demand grows for more efficient, flexible, and sustainable food processing solutions, Middleby Food Processing turned to Rockwell to deliver a unified automation platform capable of transforming production.
Headquartered in Elgin, Illinois, Middleby Food Processing is a global leader in foodservice innovation. The company needed a scalable solution to support customers facing rising labor costs, space constraints and stricter sustainability goals. Rockwell stood out for its deep engineering expertise, seamless integration capabilities and proven ability to future-proof manufacturing systems.
"Premier integration of Rockwell Automation equipment across the Middleby Food Processing brands was key to our decision," said Mark Salman, president, Middleby Food Processing. "We needed long term flexibility and interoperability across machines. Rockwell delivered that, along with robust engineering support and best-in-class programming practices."
Rockwell's solution includes FactoryTalk® Optix™, which standardises operator interfaces and application code libraries, such as Machine Builder Library and Device Objects, which create a consistent programming structure across equipment brands. This architecture makes it easier for service technicians to troubleshoot and support systems remotely while enabling real-time data strategies and production agility.
"We are proud to support Middleby Food Processing's vision for the future of food production," said Steve Pulsifer, senior manager, partner marketing, Rockwell Automation. "This collaboration shows what's possible when innovation and automation come together. This fully automated bacon line improves throughput, reduces labor and wastewater usage and raises the bar for food manufacturing"
While the bacon line is a breakthrough, Middleby Food Processing's automation efforts extend across food segments, including bakery and protein. Its solutions, powered by Rockwell, are designed for adaptability – making it easier for customers to tailor systems to unique operational needs and stay ahead in a competitive market.
