Food robotics organisation CenFRA has said there is a shortage of food manufacturing experience within automation suppliers and a lack of automation experience within food manufacturers.

This lack of experience, coupled with low confidence in food companies, means that many producers are unable to access the engineering resources needed to recognise automation opportunities and then specify, buy and install the optimum solutions.

The smarter food companies are looking to grow out of the recession using the latest technologies and equipment, according to CenFRA, which has recently recruited more engineers due to a surge in new enquiries.

CenFRA's overall aim is to successfully bridge the gap between equipment manufacturer and end user to ensure that reliability, trust, clarity and co-operation are integral parts of the automation procurement process.

CenFRA aims to eradicate uncertainty in purchasing decisions and give food manufacturers the confidence that the correct investment choices are being made.

Equipment suppliers will also be looking for closer partnerships with food manufacturers to ensure that history does not repeat itself and there is a viable future for both industries.

ABB Robotics food and beverage segment manager Alan Spreckley said: "It is CenFRA's unique application of knowledge and impartiality that makes it so essential to the industry.

"The company has established itself as a vital resource centre, bringing suppliers, installers and food producers together to ensure that the correct purchasing decisions are made. There is no hidden agenda with CenFRA - it is not focused on selling machinery, but instead is committed to providing the bridge in automation knowledge and expertise between equipment producer and buyer."