Robotics reshapes bakery distribution at Penske
Penske Logistics has completed the deployment of an automated bakery fulfilment system in Illinois, using Cimcorp’s robotics and warehouse-control technology to move fresh bread and rolls from production toward retail outlets.
The project replaces a fully manual process in which employees unloaded, stored and picked trays by hand. Stacks could rise above two metres, making overhead handling physically demanding and creating additional scope for picking errors. The new solution selects and assembles orders at tray level, with Penske reporting 100% order accuracy.
Robotics and control software in one flow
At the centre of the installation is Cimcorp’s MultiPick gantry robot, integrated with an intelligent Warehouse Control System. Rather than treating storage and picking as separate activities, the system combines buffer capacity and order assembly in a continuous operation designed for high-volume bakery distribution.
That integration gives the operator more consistent processing and a clearer real-time view of material movement. Faster order completion can also shorten the interval between production and store delivery, helping bakery products arrive fresher and retain more of their shelf life.
Capacity gains without a fixed operating model
Penske expects the automated process to cut labour requirements by 50%, allowing employees to be allocated to higher-value activities while removing the need to handle tall stacks manually. The company also points to improved workplace safety, throughput and scalability as important outcomes.
Cimcorp’s modular architecture is intended to accommodate demand peaks and future business growth rather than locking the distribution centre into a fixed capacity. Data generated by the system can support ongoing operational adjustments and supply-chain optimisation.
Penske chose Cimcorp because of its experience in high-volume bakery environments. The supplier has also implemented bakery automation for Martin’s Famous Pastry Shoppe, Kwik Trip and Fazer Bakeries, alongside systems for fresh-food businesses including Alimerka, Mercadona, Netto and REWE. The project illustrates how targeted automation can address accuracy, labour availability and safety at the same time.
