Completely new logistics facility based on long-standing cooperation
Snellman is a leading producer of chilled meat products for the retail market. From Finland, the family business supplies products to supermarket chains both domestically and internationally. Inther's existing logistics installation is nearing the end of its technical lifespan. At the same time, Snellman wants to expand production and further increase logistics capacity. Therefore, the company decided to invest in a completely new automated distribution system.

The new installation is being built entirely separate from the existing system. This allows the current operation to continue running uninterrupted while the new solution is being implemented. As soon as the new installation is operational, the transition to the new system will take place.

"A project like this doesn't start with technology, but with trust," says Marc Biermann, Head of Sales Engineering at Inther Group. "We have worked with Snellman for over a year on various design variants. In doing so, we looked not only at current logistics needs, but especially at how the system can continue to evolve over the next twenty years. We see their choice of Inther again as a confirmation of the excellent collaboration we have built up over the past few years."

Prepared for the logistics of tomorrow: Robot picking as a key step in automation
An important part of the project is the implementation of robotic picking for high-volume products. For this, Inther is collaborating with robot supplier Bila. The robots take over part of the order picking, while remaining products are processed via ergonomic manual Goods-to-Person picking stations. Furthermore, the installation is designed to be scalable. This allows Snellman to easily add extra robots in the future and further increase the proportion of automated order picking. The solution also consists of a shuttle storage system for 60,000 bins, lifts, conveyors, automatic replenishment, ergonomic picking workstations, and a new palletizing solution.

Whereas the existing system operates almost continuously, the new installation is designed to handle significantly more capacity within fewer operating hours. At the same time, the solution offers sufficient room for future expansion, including through additional shuttle aisles, supplementary workstations, and further automation of the picking process.

Integration of all disciplines
For Inther, the project brings together virtually all the expertise within the organization. Software, PLC control, hardware engineering, and the integration of multiple specialized suppliers are combined into one complete system.

"This project clearly demonstrates Inther's strengths," says Noud van Schijndel, Project Manager at Inther Group. "We combine software, hardware, and control technology into one integrated solution. Additionally, we are collaborating with specialized partners to create a system that not only meets Snellman's current needs but is also prepared for further growth and expansion."

Investing in a sustainable future
With the new installation, Snellman is opting not only for higher capacity and further automation, but also for a logistics solution that can grow with the organization over the coming decades. The combination of proven technology, new automation concepts, and a long-standing partnership makes this project an important next step for both companies.

The fact that Snellman is choosing Inther again underscores the long-standing relationship between the two companies. Over the past twenty years, Inther has remained closely involved in software support and the further development of the existing installation. In recent years, they worked together on the plans for the new construction, which are now actually being realized. Execution of the project is scheduled to start in 2027, after which the new installation will be operational in 2028.