Noble Foods is choosing to invest in robotics so that they can automate every single step in the egg-grading process: 

1. Robots will lift the eggs from trays onto the egg-loading system.

2. The egg grader scans for defects, e.g. leakers, dirt, cracks, blood or color variations.

3. The equipment will weigh and grade the eggs.

4. The eggs will automatically be placed in cartons or trays.

5. These cartons and trays will automatically be placed in self-ready boxes.

6. These boxes will be palletized by robotics.

This huge commitment to automation was the only way to go for Noble Foods, because finding staff was becoming increasingly difficult. More robotics means less manpower is required.

Thirst for innovation

The investment in automation in North Scarle's plant is a great example of the company's passion for innovation. This passion began back in 1920, when founder William Dean started collecting eggs from smallholders and selling them door-to-door in and around Tring in Hertfordshire under the name Deans Farm. The business prospered and it wasn't long until William and his family were selling eggs to local grocery stores and supermarkets in the south. The Dean's had a clear vision and a thirst for acquisition and innovation, which ensured continuous growth for their company.

In 2006, the company was renamed Noble Foods. The portfolio and the company continued to grow and so did their passion for innovation. In 2009, Noble Foods launched the 'Happy Egg Co.' brand, which quickly became the UK's leading egg brand. Today, Noble Foods is the primary supplier of farm-fresh eggs to the major retailers and it is the market leader in the UK for egg products.