Edwards the Welsh Butcher, UK - Eliminate errors with OAL's AI-Driven Label and Date Code Verification System
As a fast-growing leader in the high-quality convenience meats industry, Edwards needed to ensure the correct application of labels and date codes on its expanding range of award-winning products. OAL automated their manual processes with a state-of-the-art, AI-driven label and date code verification system that has been critical in Edwards growth plans.
Challenge
Edwards, The Welsh Butcher faced the daunting task of maintaining label and date code accuracy amid rapid business growth.
Mistakes could lead to expensive recalls, tarnished brand reputation, and regulatory snags. A rapid expansion from 20 to 50 SKUs alongside similar branded artwork was significantly increasing the risk of error.
Why OAL?
Edwards chose to partner with OAL not only for our cutting-edge solutions but also for our ease of collaboration. Our reputation for being easy to work with made OAL a perfect fit for this critical project.
Solution
OAL provided our OAL Connected system for label and date code verification, a hardware and software solution that automates the set-up of printers to stop date coding errors. It uses cameras powered by AI to verify that the packaging is correct. Key features include:
Digitalised master product database. No more paperwork.
Real-Time AI 100% Date Code Verification: Advanced artificial intelligence inspects and verifies every pack date code, eliminating missing and wrong date codes on the pack.
2D Barcodes for Version Control: OAL assisted Edwards in adding 2D barcodes to their packaging artwork, thereby enabling better version control and traceability.
Seamless Integration: Our system is smoothly integrated with Edwards current manufacturing setup, ensuring minimal disruption.
Scalability: Designed with expansion in mind, the system can easily scale to meet increasing production volumes.
User-Friendly Interface: The system features a straightforward dashboard, requiring minimal training for monitoring and control.
APRIL Eye inspects and verifies every pack date code, eliminating missing and wrong date codes on the pack.
Artwork and technical support
Worried about artwork changes? OAL provided consultancy and advice to assist in the integration of 2D barcodes onto the packaging.
2D codes provide full artwork version control. By standardising 2D code placement, cameras are fixed on the line, eliminating operator interventions.
Key results
After implementing OAL’s AI-based label verification system, Edwards experienced:
Zero Errors: The system eliminated previous issues related to incorrect labelling and date coding.
Operational Efficiency: Automation of the verification process, formerly manual, allowed staff to reallocate their time to other key tasks.
Streamlined Growth: The system’s scalability has been crucial in facilitating Edwards growth initiatives.
Enhanced Compliance: Regulatory compliance is now more straightforward, alleviating administrative burdens significantly.
Conclusion
OAL’s AI-driven label and date code verification system has been a cornerstone in the Edwards growth strategy. By ensuring unparalleled accuracy in labelling and date coding, we’ve enabled them to concentrate on what they do best: crafting quality convenience meat products.
For more information on how OAL's AI solutions can help your business, please contact us.
You can automate and digitalise your operations - speak to our team today for advice and guidance.
At a glance
Customer since: 2023
Challenge
Retailer Code of Practice Compliance
Maintaining Label and Date Code Accuracy
Managing complexity as the business grew from 20 to 50 SKUs
Increased Risk of Errors
Solution
Digitalised Product Database
Real-Time AI Date Code Verification
2D Barcodes for Version Control
Seamless Integration
Scalability
User-Friendly Interface
Results
Zero Errors
Operational Efficiency
Streamlined Growth
Enhanced Comliance
