Frederick Hiam:
Pioneering Efficiency and Innovation in Vegetable Processing
See how Frederick Hiam partnered with Wyma to boost efficiency, improve crop quality, and achieve automation success.
Transforming Efficiency with Wyma Solutions
Frederick Hiam Limited is a family-owned business specializing in fresh produce for nearly 100 years. As they approach their centennial anniversary, they continue to lead the way in innovative vegetable processing.
Project Overview
Frederick Hiam partnered with Wyma Solutions to modernize their parsnip processing operations. The collaboration spanned two project phases:
- Phase One: Installation of a new washing and intake line. You can watch the full phase one case study here.
- Phase Two: Implementation of advanced trimming technology, including the innovative Optical Roto-Cut system.
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Key Outcomes
The project delivered significant improvements across multiple areas:
Energy and Water Savings
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25% reduction in electricity usage, vital amid rising energy costs.
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25-30% water savings, ensuring compliance with stricter licensing regulations.
Labor Efficiency
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Transitioned from 20 manual trimming line operators to 2, thanks to automation.
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Enabled consistent throughput of 6 tonnes per hour, meeting growing production demands.
Accuracy and Throughput
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Achieved 95% trimming accuracy, reducing crop damage and waste.
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Doubled throughput, with benefits extending to supplier and customer satisfaction.
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The Challenge
Frederick Hiam faced increasing difficulty sourcing labor for manual processing and recognized the need for a solution to ensure operational efficiency. Parsnips, a niche crop, required a tailored approach as off-the-shelf solutions were inadequate.
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The Solution
Wyma Solutions collaborated with Frederick Hiam to develop and implement the Optical Roto-Cut. This cutting-edge technology utilized advanced computer vision systems and was optimized on-site to suit varying crop conditions.
Wyma’s expertise ensured seamless integration of the new equipment into the existing factory setup, even overcoming logistical challenges from phase one installations.
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Why Wyma?
Jamie Lockhart, Managing Director at Frederick Hiam, highlighted Wyma’s collaborative, flexible approach and their commitment to delivering tailored solutions. He praised the build quality of the equipment and the support provided throughout the process.
“There are certain moments in business when you just know you’re on the right track. This partnership with Wyma has been transformative for us.”
— Jamie Lockhart, Managing Director
A First in the Industry
Frederick Hiam’s factory now boasts the world’s first fully automated parsnip trimming line. This innovation has solidified their position as a leader in efficiency and technology within the fresh produce sector.
Looking Ahead
The success of this project has opened new doors for collaboration, including a partnership with Burgess Farms to handle all retail parsnip processing. Frederick Hiam has also established a grower group to optimize their supply chain, positioning them for sustained growth.
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