Page 49 — British Frozen Food Federation (BFFF)

ODTH AND MOVU ROBOTICS SET NEW BENCHMARK IN WAREHOUSE AUTOMATION WITH FIRST MOVU OPS DEPLOYMENT FOR ATLAS SHUTTLE SYSTEM

Posted on August 27, 2025January 7, 2026 by Sarah Collison

Breakthrough project showcases Movu’s brand vision of accessible automation and compact scalability, as ODTH deploys Movu Robotics’ shuttle system and launches real-time warehouse orchestration software integrated with SAP ERP, achieving major gains in safety, sustainability, and throughput.

Rumst Belgium, 26 August 2025: ODTH First Class Logistics, a leading family-owned logistics provider in Belgium, and Movu Robotics, a leading innovator in scalable warehouse automation, part of stow Group, have successfully completed the first phase of a scalable warehouse automation project at ODTH’s Rumst site — transforming a conventional warehouse into a high-density, software-driven logistics hub. The collaboration marks a significant leap forward in operational efficiency, real-time visibility, and environmental impact mitigation.

The solution combines Movu atlas, Movu’s cutting-edge shuttle-based Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS), and the first full-scale deployment of Movu OPS warehouse execution software (WES) to control the Movu atlas shuttle system, entirely developed in-house by Movu’s R&D team and integrated with ODTH’s SAP ERP. The system operates in a live SAP-connected environment, enabling dynamic pallet routing, intelligent buffer management, and seamless control of shuttle operations and conveyor systems. The rollout follows a carefully phased implementation plan, designed to maintain full operational continuity while gradually increasing automation capacity.

This achievement marks a major step forward in Movu Robotics’ brand mission of delivering “Accessible Automation and Compact Scalability” to warehouse operators worldwide.

“This project is a turning point not just for ODTH, but also for Movu Robotics,” said Christophe Coulongeat, CEO of Movu Robotics. “It’s the first time our Movu OPS software orchestrates the Movu atlas pallet shuttle system, fully developed in-house. The result is a seamlessly integrated solution—fast, flexible, and intelligent—proving that accessible, modular automation is the future of warehousing.”

Key achievements from Phase 1

The scale of the project is impressive. When the project is completed the Rumst facility will accommodate more than 31,000 pallet positions across 14,000 square meters of warehouse space. Twenty autonomous Movu atlas shuttles will operate across four vertical levels, coordinated by five high-speed elevators. With five inbound and seven outbound stations, the system is capable of handling up to 6,000 pallet movements per day—3,000 inbound and 3,000 outbound—without compromising the site’s 24/7 operational commitments to its fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) clients. The completion of the first phase lays the groundwork for the remainder of the project, as all the integrations and software implementation are ready to be deployed to phase 2 & 3 which will become operational in September. The final phase of the project will go live in Q1 2026.

One of the defining features of the project is its smart, sustainable design. Instead of building from scratch, ODTH and Movu Robotics chose to reuse the warehouse’s existing racking infrastructure. This decision not only reduced capital expenditure but also avoided more than 680 tonnes of CO₂ emissions, underlining both companies’ commitment to sustainable development. The system’s flexibility is equally noteworthy, with seamless support for both Euro and industrial pallets ranging from 1200 mm wide to 2400 mm in height, enabling ODTH to serve a diverse customer base with varying logistics needs.

Strategic impact and smart automation in action

With a growing SKU base, strict service level agreements, and space constraints at the Rumst facility, ODTH required a solution that would increase storage density while minimizing internal transport and energy usage.

By deploying Movu atlas in a modular, six-phase approach, ODTH ensured continuity of operations while gradually increasing system capacity and intelligence. Each phase builds on the previous one, allowing for uninterrupted service and risk-free scaling.

“We chose Movu Robotics for their ability to deliver a scalable, intelligent solution that fits our site’s specific constraints,” said Wim Van Leuven, Project Manager at ODTH. “The reuse of our existing infrastructure helped us cut installation costs and carbon impact — while delivering real value from day one. The full project is being deployed in a fully operational warehouse and has been delivered thus far without any customer impact. This shows the strength and flexibility of the MOVU-ODTH cooperation.”

Software intelligence at the core

The true innovation lies in Movu OPS, Movu’s proprietary WES platform, which serves as the system’s digital brain. Integrated natively with ODTH’s SAP ERP via standardized APIs, the software enables:

Seamless communication with Movu Conveyor Control (MCC) and Movu Tower traffic controller
Real-time shuttle assignment and elevator routing optimization
Support for chaotic storage logic, increasing throughput and flexibility
Configurable location strategies and smart buffering during off-peak hours
Modern user interface, improving control and decision-making for operators

This integration allows ODTH to automate its logistics flow end-to-end, using live warehouse data and intelligent decision rules to execute movements with precision, a key capability for a fast-paced, high-throughput environment serving FMCG clients.

“The integration of Movu OPS into an SAP environment unlocks a new level of orchestration and real-time control,” said Thomas De Rudder, Integration Manager at Movu Robotics. “It enables ODTH to operate a complex shuttle system with maximum responsiveness and zero manual oversight.”

Looking ahead to Phase 2

With five additional implementation phases planned, ODTH and Movu Robotics will continue to expand the system’s footprint, add more automation capacity, and introduce advanced orchestration features. This roadmap will reinforce ODTH’s position as a leader in people-focused, sustainable logistics and further validate Movu Robotics’ modular approach to warehouse automation.

“This partnership with ODTH proves that brownfield automation is not only possible, but strategic,” concluded Coulongeat. “By combining intelligent software with reusable infrastructure, we’re helping logistics providers build the warehouse of the future — today.”

OAKLAND INTERNATIONAL LAUNCHES: TAILORED VEGETABLE PROCESSING SOLUTIONS FOR EVERY NEED

Posted on August 26, 2025January 7, 2026 by Sarah Collison

Oakland International is extending its value-added proposition by setting a new benchmark in the vegetable processing industry with its bespoke services designed to meet the unique needs of recipe box providers, restaurants, cafes, convenience outlets, and food banks.

Investment in the state-of-art processing line supplied by The Food Machinery Company Ltd based in Rochester, was initiated primarily to support leading food charity partner FareShare UK in its drive to divert more food from being wasted at farm, processing or supermarket level. The plant has a capacity of up to 100 tonnes per week handling most types of root vegetables to process into sliced or diced, chilled or frozen, retail or bulk packs.

By combining cutting-edge technology with a commitment to sustainability, Oakland delivers innovative solutions that save time, reduce waste, and enhance efficiency.

Recipe box providers and foodservice clients can rely on Oakland for perfectly portioned ingredients that meet exacting standards. With advanced slicing, dicing, chopping, and shredding capabilities, Oakland ensures uniformity and precision in every batch. Their customisable packaging options streamline operations, allowing you to deliver fresh, ready-to-use produce that enhances the customer experience.

Oakland’s services are a game-changer for restaurants looking to optimise kitchen workflows. By outsourcing vegetable preparation to Oakland, chefs can focus on creating exceptional dishes without the hassle of in-house processing. Whether it’s bulk preparation for high-volume menus or bespoke cuts for specialty dishes, Oakland ensures consistent quality and freshness while reducing labour costs.

Cafes benefit from Oakland’s ability to provide pre-prepared vegetables in small quantities or specific formats ideal for salads, sandwiches, and soups. Their flexible service ensures you receive exactly what you need, no more overordering or waste. With additional options like freezing and tempering, cafes can maintain high-quality offerings while managing inventory effectively.

Convenience outlets can expand their fresh produce offerings with Oakland’s consumer-friendly packaging solutions. From re-bagging bulk products into grab-and-go formats to date coding and top sealing for compliance, Oakland simplifies the process of bringing fresh produce to retail shelves. Their efficient turnaround times ensure your stock is always fresh and ready for customers.

Proud to support food banks by addressing critical challenges like short shelf-life and bulk donations, Oakland can repack surplus produce into consumer-sized portions and offer rapid turnaround for chilled stock nearing expiration. Through their partnership with FareShare and other food bank charities, they ensure surplus food is distributed efficiently to those in need whilst directly reducing food waste.

Oakland stands out by prioritising customisation over mass-market strategies. Their services also include tempering, freezing, re-bagging, date coding, storage, and distribution, offering end-to-end solutions tailored to your specific needs.

Richard Hall, Managing Director of the Food Processing division, explains: “We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Our innovative methods allow us to deliver customised solutions that work for everyone, from recipe box providers to food banks, helping them overcome their everyday challenges efficiently and effectively.”

Oakland International has a strong focus on environmental and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) practices across their operations. They are a Certified B Corporation, and BRCGS accredited, and by combining innovation with purpose, they are transforming vegetable processing into a sustainable and customer-focused service that benefits businesses and communities alike.

BRAKES LAUNCHES ‘GET SET SUPPLY!’ TO SUPPORT SMALLER SUPPLIERS

Posted on August 26, 2025January 7, 2026 by Sarah Collison

Brakes, the UK’s leading foodservice supplier, has launched a major new initiative to support small businesses that want to start supplying wholesale.

‘Get Set Supply!’ is set to be the most comprehensive support programme for smaller suppliers entering the wholesale market. Each selected supplier will be mentored by experienced Brakes’ colleagues or other established suppliers and offered a programme to drive sales through the UK’s largest foodservice wholesaler.

Following an online application process, around 12 shortlisted companies will be invited to a quarterly innovation session attended by customers and key procurement contacts. After the innovation session, successful suppliers will be selected to have their products listed.

Once selected, the new supplier will be given a programme of support to help them grow within Brakes, including sales presentations, sampling and promotion.

Brakes has also committed to training its merchandising team to provide specific support to food producers joining the programme.

Paul Nieduszynski, CEO of Sysco GB, said: “It can sometimes be daunting for small suppliers to try to get into large businesses and, once there, to be successful.

“We want to demystify the process and provide support for around 25 new suppliers every year, giving them the opportunity to start supplying Britain’s foodservice market in a sustainable way that can grow with their business. We know that there are some great products out there and we want to help those companies tell their story.

“Our programme will be a real incubator for talent and, as part of the world’s leading foodservice wholesaler, who knows where it will take them!”

Applications for the first wave of Get Set Supply! nominees are now open, with more information available at www.brake.co.uk/get-set-supply.

THE ROLE OF FORKLIFT ATTACHMENTS IN COLD CHAIN SAFETY

Posted on August 20, 2025January 15, 2026 by Jason Cadman

In the frozen food industry, health and safety are paramount. From production to delivery, maintaining the integrity of chilled and frozen goods relies not only on accurate temperature control, but also on the efficiency, reliability, and safety of material handling systems.

BFFF member Contact Attachments, based in Newtown, Powys, understands the vital role its equipment plays in the cold chain process – and that just as crucial as having the right tool for the job, is ensuring that it’s used correctly and safely.

In this article, Tom Pelling, Operations Manager at Contact Attachments, explores how forklifts and attachments contribute to health and safety in frozen environments, the legal responsibilities surrounding equipment upkeep, and why continuous training is key to accident prevention.

Forklifts and Attachments in Frozen Environments: More Than Just Moving Pallets

Operating in sub-zero environments brings its own unique set of challenges. Forklifts in frozen food warehouses must be specially adapted to work efficiently in cold, often damp conditions, where condensation, ice build-up, and visibility issues are common. Stainless steel or galvanised attachments are often chosen for such environments due to their corrosion resistance, which is an important factor in hygiene-sensitive frozen food facilities.

The type of attachment plays a central role in optimising operations and safety in these demanding settings too. Whether it’s slip sheet attachments that reduce the need for wooden pallets (minimising splinters and contamination risk), pallet puller attachments to eliminate the need for workers to manually handle heavy or awkward loads, or drum rotators for emptying contents safely and with ease – these tools increase productivity without compromising safety.

Legal Responsibility: Thorough Examinations Are Not Optional

When it comes to forklift equipment safety, it’s important to recognise that an attachment is not just an accessory – it becomes part of the lifting equipment. Many businesses do not realise that under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) 1998, forklift attachments (unless permanently affixed to the forklift truck) must undergo a Thorough Examination every six months.

Any new attachment must be:

Certified for use with the specific forklift,
Included in the Thorough Examination, and
Assessed for its impact on the forklift’s rated capacity and stability.

In the context of a frozen food warehouse, where extreme temperatures and frequent use can accelerate wear and tear, Thorough Examinations are essential for identifying potential failures before they cause accidents.

As a CFTS accredited company with decades of experience, Contact Attachments are able to carry out certified Thorough Examination inspections on all your forklift attachments and material handling products – whether manufactured by Contact Attachments or not – to ensure you remain compliant with the latest health and safety requirements. We can collect, inspect, remedy if required, and redeliver your attachment in a fully compliant state – with an up to date Thorough Examination Certificate and Report. And as we aim to carry out Thorough Examinations within 24 hours of receipt of the attachments, downtime is kept to a minimum too.

People Power: Why Training is the Cornerstone of Safety

Even well-maintained equipment can quickly become a safety hazard if it is used incorrectly, so adequate training is just as important as the equipment itself.

Training should cover:

How each attachment affects the forklift’s handling and load stability
Safe operational limits, such as load capacity and lifting height
Attachment installation and removal procedures, and
Emergency protocols in case of malfunction

In cold storage environments, where visibility may be reduced due to fogging and condensation, and floors are often slippery, this training becomes even more critical. Operators must be trained to anticipate these hazards and adapt their behaviour accordingly. And refresher training and hands-on demonstrations should be part of a continuous improvement culture, not just a one-time event.

Not only does providing adequate training ensure compliance with HSE guidelines, but it also empowers operators to take ownership of their own safety and that of their colleagues. At Contact Attachments, our team is fully certified and experienced at providing product training on a wide range of forklifts and attachments, regardless of the manufacturer. Our ‘on-site’ service is delivered to a maximum of three trainees per 90 minute session – ensuring full one-to-one attention within a short, focused, and thorough (yet easily digestible) training period.

Conclusion: A Culture of Safety

At the heart of every safe and efficient frozen food operation is a team of people who are properly equipped and fully-trained, supported by specialist machinery that is regularly inspected and maintained.

As the quality leader in forklift attachments we don’t just provide products, we provide an ongoing partnership – from helping customers to select the right attachments for their individual needs, ensuring compatibility and compliance, to offering practical training, and guidance and assistance on routine maintenance.

Whilst the cold chain may be demanding, when material handling is done right, it can significantly reduce the risk of injury, equipment damage, and product loss – ultimately protecting both people and profits as one of the safest links in the logistics network.

For more information on our range of cold-store-compatible forklift attachments or for a friendly no-obligation chat about our Thorough Examination service or dedicated training support packages, visit www.forklift-attachments.co.uk or contact our team directly on 01686 611200.

CAMPBELL BROTHERS INTRODUCES BRAND NEW ‘RESPONSIBLE SOURCING’ GUIDE TO ELEVATE SUPPLY CHAIN TRANSPARENCY

Posted on August 20, 2025January 7, 2026 by Sarah Collison

Wholesale meat suppliers and catering butchers, Campbell Brothers, have unveiled a new ‘Responsible Sourcing’ guide, showcasing the business’s core values, as well as renewed dedication to ethical sourcing, quality and traceability within foodservice.

Currently, meat and poultry is the leading category, at 40%, where people take most notice of sustainability claims[1]. From farm to plate, this further highlights the need for greater transparency in regard to sourcing and animal welfare.

Designed for its customers, suppliers and key players within the meat industry, Campbell Brothers’ new guide clarifies and spotlights its standards, reinforcing ethical and sustainable practices and ultimately supporting the development of a stronger, more transparent supply chain.

Developed by its Sustainability, Sales, and Health and Food Safety teams, the ‘Responsible Sourcing’ guide delves into what Campbell Brothers is doing in terms of quality management, its work with suppliers and local farmers, sustainable and ethical sourcing, product certifications, as well as the latest industry trends.

[1] Mintel, Sustainability in Food, UK – 2025

Neil McCole, Sales Director at Campbell Brothers, said: “I’m delighted to present our new ‘Responsible Sourcing’ guide, reflecting not just our commitment to quality, but our responsibility to the entire foodservice supply chain, from farmers and producers to chefs and consumers.

“By being transparent about our sourcing standards and working closely with ethical and sustainable suppliers and industry partners such as Dunbia, the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) and the Red Tractor assurance scheme, we aim to set a benchmark for trust and integrity in our industry.

“Responsible sourcing is at the heart of everything we do, and we believe that when our customers know the amazing story behind their ingredients, everyone benefits – from farmer to consumer.”

Campbell Brothers’ ‘Responsible Sourcing’ guide will be updated annually, along with one of its sister brands, Direct Seafoods, which, after two editions, will release its 2025/2026 issue later this year.

To read Campbell Brothers ‘Responsible Sourcing’ guide, please visit: https://viewer.ipaper.io/bidcorp/bidfresh/campbell-brothers/campbell-brothers-responsible-sourcing-guide-20252026/?page=1

BFFF NEW PRIMARY AUTHORITY PROVIDER FOR FIRE SAFETY

Posted on August 20, 2025January 9, 2026 by Sarah Collison

We have recently set up a new primary authority partnership for fire safety with Tyne & Wear Fire & Rescue Services (TWFRS), the beauty of primary authority scheme is the ability to choose an authority that best suits your organisations requirements, at this time TWFRS offers the best support for BFFF members.

Signing up to any of the federation’s primary authority partnerships is free, this means you get free industry level advice including fire safety, health & safety, food safety, food hygiene and trading standards.

Your company name goes onto the primary authority register for other authorities to see, this means other authorities are required to contact the ‘Primary’ before visiting your business. To sign up to any of our free primary authority partnerships simply contact: simonbrentnall@bfff.co.uk

Andy Dunne is our new contact at Tyne and Wear and we look forward to working with him going forward. In addition to the free service for industry level advice, Tyne and Wear can provide specific advice, visit your premises and/or review your current fire management systems for a nominal fee.

Andy has provided a short introduction as below:

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) has 17 fire stations and covers an area of 208 square miles with a population of 1.1 million people. TWFRS operates several national resilience assets including an urban search and rescue team and a high volume pumping unit.

Like all fire and rescue services, TWFRS has a statutory duty to enforce fire safety within its area. This function is carried out by the Fire Safety team. Another role of this team is to facilitate TWFRS’s contribution to the Primary Authority scheme.

The Primary Authority scheme was introduced in 2009 following the passing of the Regulatory Enforcement and Sanctions Act 2008. Its primary purpose is to reduce the regulatory burden on businesses and improve consistency in how they are regulated, particularly those operating across multiple local authority boundaries.

TWFRS has participated in the Primary Authority Scheme since 2014. As of August 2025 we work with 28 partner organisations that operate in a range of industries.

TWFRS offers a range of services to its primary authority partners. These include guidance relating to fire risk assessments, assistance to create fire safety policy documents and help with developing fire safety training. A further benefit is access to our extensive fire training facility located near Sunderland.

I joined County Durham & Darlington Fire and Rescue Service as a firefighter in 2009. After several years I gained my initial fire safety qualification and began carrying out fire safety enforcement work alongside my role as a firefighter.

In 2020 I transferred to TWFRS. I worked as a firefighter at Gateshead and then Wallsend fire stations before leaving the service in 2023 to become a fire risk assessor for a local authority. In December 2024 I re-joined TWFRS as a primary authority officer.

Andy Dunne

Primary Authority Officer

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service

August 2025.

Sponsorship Packages

We offer a range of sponsorship opportunities to BFFF members across our events throughout the year, with flexible packages that can be tailored to suit your business objectives.

Need a comment from the BFFF?

The voice of the frozen food industry
Representing over 340 businesses in the frozen food industry
Available out of hours

Contact the BFFF PR Team

what our members say...

Helen Atkinson

Wakefield Council

“What an amazing piece of work and indicative of how BFFF respond to the concerns of their members and make an impact on the whole industry sector.”

See Full Quote
Paul Duncalf

Sysco

“You guys really ‘Do The Right Thing’ for the good of the industry”

See Full Quote
Co-CEO Dries Talpe

Darta

“The BFFF awards night is becoming an “appointment not to miss” on our calendar and we again enjoyed it immensely together with lots of well-known people from our industry. The…

See Full Quote
Lewis Kain

Kantar Worldpanel

“The Business Conference was an excellent day that was very well organised and allowed so many likeminded individuals in the room to learn so much more around the Frozen industry….

See Full Quote
Gail Hodson - Technical Director

Lakeside Food Group Ltd

“This Not For EU labelling situation alarmed us and quickly became a major worry to our business. These are times when you really rely on some support and from previous…

See Full Quote
Domenic Granelli - Financial Controller

Meadow Vale Foods Limited

“We had a few questions with respect to the new EPR waste packaging legislative changes. I know some of my colleagues have been assisted by BFFF in the past so…

See Full Quote
Dave Griffiths, General Manager

Newberry International Produce Ltd

“I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for the outstanding event you organised. I have only worked in this sector for the past nineteen months coming from twenty-five years…

See Full Quote
Liam, Commerical Director

Place UK Ltd

“The BFFF 2024 Conference was compelling and thought provoking, with a many relevant and interesting topics covered at great pace and some depth by excellent speakers – will certainly attend…

See Full Quote
Peter Bambury

Roswel Spedition GMBH

“Thank you and the team for rushing around so brilliantly before, during and after the conference. It was pleasure to be part of the conference.”

See Full Quote
Alexandre Alves De Mattos

Seara

“The event was great, in my opinion. Not only it was very well organised, but the venue and the catering were excellent too. Furthermore, the content of the presentations was…

See Full Quote