Optimizing a Fresh Salad Packaging Line with a Tailor-Made Automated Solution

Context and Challenges

Vegpro International, one of Canada’s leading fresh salad producers, recently launched a new facility in Sherrington, Quebec, featuring an automated harvesting greenhouse and a state-of-the-art packaging plant.

The objective: design a robust, hygienic, ergonomic, and scalable packaging line capable of supporting high harvest volumes (68,000 kg/week) while meeting the highest food safety standards.

Vegpro was looking for a technical partner who could understand its operational realities, integrate a solution into a specific, humid and cold space (4 degrees) and collaborate closely with its internal teams.

Storcan’s Solution

Storcan, a conveyor manufacturer and integrator with over 45 years of experience, was selected to design and implement a fully integrated conveyor system. A collaborative approach with Vegpro’s teams ensured each component was customized to their specific operational needs.

Hygienic and Modular Design

• MatTop conveyors built from AISI 304 stainless steel with welded frames and sealed sanitary bearings, fully washdown-compatible.
• Keltech motors with H1 food-grade oil and IP69K protection, aligned with Vegpro's strict hygiene requirements.

In-Depth Technical Collaboration

• Ergonomic worktables designed based on detailed client specifications to support fast, comfortable product handling and packing.
• Lid-closing system developed using field measurements taken directly from existing installations.
• Adjustments in height, incline, and sequencing tailored to operator workflows and ease of use.

Space Optimization and Increased Productivity

• Suspended and inclined conveyors enabling transitions between elevation levels while freeing up valuable floor space.
• Gravity chutes integrated for smooth transfer of empty boxes.
• Smart monitoring system with an integrated HMI interface for seamless switching between double-line and high-speed single-line operation.

Results

As a result of this collaboration, Vegpro benefited from:

• A high-performance packaging line: Automated lines ensure smooth and continuous transport of products from greenhouse to palletizing, handling large production volumes efficiently.
• Optimized operational costs: The modular MatTop conveyor system reduces equipment wear and simplifies maintenance.
• Improved product quality: Hygienic design contributes to enhanced food safety and facilitates compliance with certification standards.
• Better working conditions: Operator stations designed with ergonomics in mind reduce repetitive movements and physical strain, improving safety and daily comfort.

Why Choose Storcan?

With over 45 years of expertise, Storcan is a trusted partner for food manufacturing facilities:

• Custom automation solutions tailored to the food processing industry
• Proven experience in high-sanitation environments
• Expertise in integrating equipment within spatial constraints
• Collaborative approach with your teams from design to installation

Have a project in mind? Get in touch with our experts to learn how we can help modernize and automate your production line.