Rockwell and Middleby Launch Fully Automated Bacon Line

Rockwell Automation partnered with Middleby Food Processing to launch a breakthrough bacon production line.
The companies unveiled this innovation at the IFFA trade show in Frankfurt, Germany.
They aim to reshape food processing with automation that drives efficiency, flexibility, and sustainability.

Meeting Industry Pressures

Middleby faces challenges from rising labor costs, limited space, and strict sustainability demands.
The company turned to Rockwell for scalable and future-ready automation solutions.
Rockwell brought deep engineering expertise and seamless integration across Middleby’s brands.
Together, they created a platform that ensures flexibility and long-term system interoperability.

Why Middleby Chose Rockwell

Mark Salman, president of Middleby Food Processing, praised Rockwell’s unified approach.
He said Rockwell provided premier integration, robust engineering support, and reliable programming practices.
Middleby valued Rockwell’s ability to deliver consistency across equipment and machine interfaces.

Technology Behind the Breakthrough

Rockwell introduced FactoryTalk Optix to standardize operator interfaces and code libraries.
This architecture creates consistent programming and simplifies troubleshooting for technicians.
It also enables remote support, real-time data strategies, and greater production agility.

Impact on Food Manufacturing

Steve Pulsifer from Rockwell highlighted the benefits of this collaboration.
He noted the automated line boosts throughput, lowers labor demand, and reduces wastewater.
This project shows how automation and innovation elevate food manufacturing.

Beyond Bacon: Future Opportunities

Middleby’s automation strategy spans bakery, protein, and other food segments.
Its Rockwell-powered solutions allow customers to tailor systems for unique needs.
This adaptability helps food manufacturers stay competitive in a fast-changing global market.