Mar 18th, 2026
5 mins
Automation is gathering pace across the frozen food sector as operators respond to persistent labour shortages and rising throughput demands. Labour gaps remain a consistent challenge across food‑supply roles, creating real risks to day‑to‑day continuity. Both government and academic studies highlight automation as one of the most effective ways for operators to strengthen resilience and reduce reliance on increasingly scarce warehouse labour¹.
Yet even the most advanced automated systems still rely on manual handling at key touchpoints – and the equipment used has a direct impact on overall performance. To get the full benefit of automation, cold stores need handling solutions engineered for precision, reliability and seamless integration. And that’s where specialist manufacturers like Contact Attachments play a vital role.
Why Attachments Matter in Automated and Semi‑Automated Systems
Automation depends on consistency, and that begins with how every pallet is lifted, aligned and presented. Attachments designed specifically for cold‑store environments help operators achieve:
- Reliable pallet engagement | precision‑engineered forks and clamps ensure automated systems receive loads exactly as required, reducing stoppages and misalignment
- Fewer manual touchpoints | streamlining repetitive tasks supports smoother, faster automated flows
- Improved uptime | cold‑store‑ready materials and components maintain performance in sub‑zero temperatures
- Future‑ready integration | automation‑compatible designs support sensors, telematics and data‑driven systems.
Retrofitting Older Cold Stores
Most UK cold stores weren’t designed for today’s automated technologies. Industry research shows that much of the UK’s cold‑chain infrastructure is ageing and increasingly being ‘pushed to its limits’, with many facilities requiring significant upgrades to support modern operational demands.² ³
Retrofitting can deliver significant efficiency gains, but only when operators plan for the realities of older infrastructure, including:
- Space and racking limitations | tighter tolerances mean narrow aisles, older racking or inconsistent pallet sizes can quickly create bottlenecks
- Manual-automation interfaces | even highly automated sites rely on forklifts for replenishment, exception handling and maintenance. If manual handling isn’t optimised, automation can’t perform at its best
- Unsuitable equipment | generic attachments often lack the precision, repeatability and durability required, leading to mis‑picks, downtime or increased maintenance
- Hybrid operations | people, forklifts and automated systems must work together safely and predictably.
Adaptable Handling: The Backbone of Hybrid Cold Stores
Hybrid environments are now the norm. Adaptable attachments help operators maintain smooth flow between automated and manual zones, scale throughput during peak periods, improve safety, and protect long‑term investment as automation strategies evolve.
As frozen food demand continues to rise, automation offers a powerful route to greater efficiency and resilience – but only when supported by the right handling equipment. With more than 50 years of manual handling expertise, Contact Attachments delivers robust, automation‑ready solutions that keep cold stores operating safely, efficiently and reliably.
To discuss your manual handling requirements, contact the team on 01686 611200 or visit www.forklift-attachments.co.uk
