Growing consumer demand for better-for-you, gluten-free and innovative baked goods and snacks continues to drive bakers and snack manufacturers to explore new ingredients and formulations. It’s also prompting them to re-examine their equipment needs, as they discover that their existing machinery may not be able to efficiently handle today’s in-demand products. For some manufacturers, a new extruder may be just the ticket.

Equipment manufacturers offering scales and checkweighers now offer systems that feature data connectivity, hygienic design, high speeds, improved accuracy, less waste and the ability to maintain traceability. And in addition to all these improvements, today’s scales and checkweighers are easier to use than earlier models.

A new series of BULK-OUT Half-Frame bulk bag dischargers from Flexicon Corp. features low-cost, variable-height frames and offsets to fit restricted areas.

The bakery systems supplier has promoted Colin Powell to vice president, global operations.

The Douglas Contour Series M-60 Multiwrapper with Automatic Film Splicer from Douglas Machine Inc. allows operators to stage clear or printed film while the machine is running.

The first-time IBIE exhibitor will showcase a variety of cooling solutions.

Yale Materials Handling Corp. says its new robotic lift truck technology can help deliver improved productivity and dependability, while reducing total cost of operations.

JLS Automation’s Osprey robotic case packer now handles flexible packages.

As bakers add gluten-free lines or develop dedicated gluten-free facilities, specialized considerations must factor into operational features.

Product manufacturers need to continuously evaluate portfolio strategies to defend financial goals and positioning for the short- and long-term.