IFFA 2025: MHM Automation brings handling and freezing solutions
MHM Automation will showcase its latest advances in materials handling, chilling and freezing solutions at IFFA 2025, highlighting innovations aimed squarely at boosting efficiency and safety for meat processors.
The New Zealand-founded automation specialist, now part of Houston-based Fortifi Food Processing Solutions, will exhibit several breakthrough technologies at its stand (Hall 11.0, Stand A01).
Visitors can experience a live demonstration of an autonomous mobile robot (AMR), along with immersive virtual reality and engaging on-screen presentations showcasing its rapid chilling and freezing tunnels, and innovative, industry-first de-boxing equipment.
MHM Automation will demonstrate a fully operational AMR, a next-generation technology designed to function like an unmanned forklift.
AMRs safely navigate crowded processing and warehousing environments, easily integrating alongside human operators.
Tony Johnson, general manager sales & marketing at MHM Automation, noted the flexibility AMRs offer over traditional automated guided vehicles (AGVs).
“AMRs integrate seamlessly with existing manual operations, boosting productivity without demanding complete changes to existing workflows,” Johnson said.
“This makes them particularly appealing for processors looking for incremental automation gains without major disruption.”
Building on technology pioneered by its predecessor, Milmeq, MHM’s carton/box chilling and freezing tunnels deliver an energy saving of around 25% energy saving compared to traditional blast freezing cells—while also achieving faster freezing times for improved product quality and extended shelf-life.
Currently, MHM is installing a state-of-the-art freezing tunnel at a UK-based meat processing facility, capable of freezing cartons of pork rapidly within 24 hours.
Equipped with fully automated loading and unloading capabilities, the tunnel completely removes the need for manual or forklift handling of product during the freezing process.
Johnson emphasised the productivity and safety benefits: “This tunnel installation will substantially boost output at the plant and dramatically reduce workplace injury risks associated with manual handling tasks in cold environments.”
After notable success automating packaging removal for the cheese sector, MHM’s universal de-boxer technology is now transforming operations within meat processing plants.
The latest model accommodates varying carton sizes and styles — taped or shoebox configurations—without operator intervention, and delivers unboxed product directly to the line ready for further processing.
“Our de-boxing technology streamlines a previously hazardous and labour-intensive manual process,” Johnson said.
“Processors handling heavy, frozen cartons significantly reduce injury risks by automating this critical stage. We’re seeing substantial interest, particularly from our customers in the US market, where we presently have multiple installations underway.”
Supporting its growing international presence, MHM Automation has recently expanded its dedicated service teams in key markets, including new deployments in the US and UK, complementing its established teams in New Zealand and Australia.
Johnson highlighted the importance of proximity: “Local service teams ensure rapid, responsive support in customers’ own time zones, and a proactive approach to servicing and maintenance maximises the reliability and lifespan of our equipment.”
MHM Automation invites IFFA attendees to experience these solutions first-hand from May 3-8, 2025, at Messe Frankfurt, Hall 11.0, Stand A01
