Frederick Hiam has become the first company in the world to install a fully automated optical parsnip trimming line. Learn how this bold move helped them double throughput, cut labour by over 90%, and future-proof their business with industry-first technology.

“Adapt or Die”

When Frederick Hiam Ltd. faced a critical labour shortage in the lead-up to Christmas 2021, Managing Director Jamie Lockhart stood in the factory and asked himself a stark question: “Are we going to adapt, or do we stop?” The answer, and the bold decision that followed, has not only transformed their business but set a new benchmark for vegetable processing globally.

In partnership with Wyma Solutions, Frederick Hiam has become the first company in the world to implement a fully automated optical trimming line for parsnips. This achievement has doubled throughput, significantly reduced labour reliance, and opened new commercial opportunities.

A Vision That Started with a Video

The journey began when Jamie saw an early prototype video of Wyma’s Optical Roto-Cut. “We knew immediately this could be game-changing,” he recalls. “There was nothing like it on the market, and parsnips are such a niche crop.”

Rather than wait for the commercial release, Frederick Hiam made the bold decision to install the prototype directly into their working factory. The goal was to fast-track machine learning and tailor the system to the unique complexities of parsnips, from irregular shapes to crown variations.

“We worked closely with Wyma to help the machine learn. That collaboration was key,” Jamie says. “The trimmer we have today is miles ahead of where we started, but the principles are the same.”

From 20 People to Just 2

One of the driving challenges behind the investment was labour. “It’s getting harder to find people willing to stand on vegetable lines all day,” Jamie explains. “We had 20 people feeding the old manual trimming lines. Now we have two, and we think we can get that down to one.”

By automating one of the most labour-intensive stages in parsnip processing, Frederick Hiam hasn’t just reduced headcount. They’ve mitigated one of the biggest operational risks facing fresh produce processors across the UK and Europe.

95% Accuracy. 25% Energy Savings. 2x Throughput.

The gains speak for themselves:

• Trimming accuracy has jumped from 65–70% with manual systems to 95% in-spec with the new trimmers, which is critical for retail-ready pack sizes.

• Throughput has doubled, allowing the business to process more volume in less time.

• Labour on the trimming line has been cut by over 90%, from 20 to 2 people.

• Energy and water usage has been reduced by up to 30%, thanks to smarter systems and water recycling within the wider line upgrade.

• Collaboration with other growers is now possible, with Frederick Hiam trimming parsnips for other packers, driving even more volume and efficiency through the line.

  
  

Built for Real-World Results

From the outset, Wyma’s team worked closely with Frederick Hiam’s engineers to design a system that would integrate seamlessly into their existing space. “It’s not just about machinery. It’s about working within real constraints,” Jamie says. “Wyma’s willingness to problem-solve and adapt was what made it work.”

Beyond machinery performance, Jamie also credits the co-development experience. “We didn’t just buy a solution. We helped shape it. That partnership has been invaluable.”

A Competitive Edge That’s Here to Stay

While the investment was significant, the payoff has been bigger. With the new line in place, Frederick Hiam can now guarantee high-volume, high-quality supply during the busiest periods, including Christmas, giving them confidence and a strong position in the market.

More than that, the new line has enabled a more collaborative approach within the industry. “We’re now working with other growers, sharing technology, and even managing their crop supply chains,” Jamie shares. “It’s something we couldn’t have done before.”

Looking Ahead

Frederick Hiam is now planning Phase 3, which could include optical sorting for quality grading. For Jamie and his team, this is about more than innovation. It’s about survival, sustainability, and staying ahead.

“There are moments in business when you just know you’re on the right track,” Jamie reflects. “This was one of them. We’re proud of what we’ve achieved and excited for what’s next.”

Interested in the technology behind this success?

Learn more about Wyma’s Optical Roto-Cut Trimmer and how it’s helping growers achieve precise, high-throughput trimming with less labour.