Global provider of packaging line automation solutions, AutoCoding Systems, which has a subsidiary office in Melbourne, has been acquired by JBT Corporation, a global technology solutions provider to high-value segments of the food and beverage industry.
The acquisition for £12.5 million ($22.5 million) extends JBT’s capabilities in packaging line equipment and associated devices, enabling the company to continue with its expansion and growth within the food and beverage industry.
AutoCoding Systems’ packaging line automation software solution integrates all in-line packaging devices, such as coders, scanners, labellers, checkweighers and inspection equipment.
By automating the setup and control of the equipment, the need for human intervention is removed, thereby reducing manual inspection and downtime for line configuration.
While AutoCoding is scalable across JBT FoodTech’s diverse end markets, it provides a particularly strategic fit with JBT’s Proseal business, where its tray sealing equipment begins the end-of-line process.
According to Mike Hughes, AutoCoding Systems’ managing director, this marks an exciting time for AutoCoding Systems in the UK, the US and Australian regions.
“With the support of JBT and their experience across multiple businesses supplying the food and beverage industry, AutoCoding Systems can expand their reach into previously untapped markets for packaging line automation software,” says Hughes.
AutoCoding Systems offers a completely vendor independent solution, which provides its customers with complete freedom of choice of coding and printing technologies from all the leading suppliers in the industry.
“AutoCoding’s offering embodies JBT’s broader mission to make better use of the world’s precious resources by providing a solution that substantially enhances our customers’ success,” explains Brian Deck, JBT’s president and CEO.
“AutoCoding helps its customers reduce food waste, ensures complete and accurate food packaging information, and facilitates traceability and food safety.
“The acquisition also expands our capabilities in the large and growing global market for in-line coding and inspection solutions, which includes hardware and software for food and beverage, pharmaceutical and nutraceutical customers.”
