LANSING, Ill. — Land O’Frost’s Lansing, Ill., facility is one of the company’s most versatile and high-volume plants, producing roughly 128,000 pounds of deli meats and hot dogs each day. Designed for rapid SKU changeovers and tight end-of-line footprints, the facility balances throughput with operational flexibility, allowing teams to respond quickly to customer needs while testing new technologies.

The Lansing plant recently became the first in Land O’Frost’s network to integrate multiple gantry-style palletizing robots in partnership with Formic. The automated systems handle up to 12 picks per minute, reducing manual strain on employees and maintaining consistency across every pallet.

“Lansing is one of our highest-volume and most versatile facilities,” said Alfred Williams, vice president of manufacturing at Land O’Frost. “It also serves as a proving ground for new technology within Land O’Frost.”

The robotics complement the facility’s high-paced production lines without replacing human expertise. Operators manage the advanced systems, switching pallet patterns with the touch of a button, which streamlines changeovers and allows for faster turnaround on new SKUs. Williams noted that the technology frees up engineering time for additional improvement projects, highlighting how automation supports both efficiency and innovation.

Product development is another key function at Lansing. The plant works closely with Land O’Frost’s R&D, quality, and commercial teams to pilot new products and adjust packaging or case configurations. Production lines are designed to accommodate frequent SKU shifts, and the automated palletizing systems enhance this agility. Williams explained that the team’s approach accelerates product development and ensures solutions are informed by operational knowledge.

Workforce expertise and culture are central to Lansing’s success. Many employees have been with Land O’Frost for years, bringing institutional knowledge that keeps operations running efficiently. Williams said, “Lansing exemplifies the heart of Land O’Frost’s companywide ‘One Team’ value, with experienced operators, technicians, and continuous improvement leaders who take pride in their craft and embrace new technology.”

When robotics were introduced, the workforce adapted quickly, seeing the systems as an opportunity to expand skills and improve safety. Operators who once stacked boxes manually now oversee automated lines, performing higher-value tasks that reduce physical strain. Williams noted, “By automating repetitive tasks, employees can focus on higher-value work, fostering growth, collaboration, and continuous improvement while reducing physical strain.”

The Lansing facility also serves as a model for integrating technology without disrupting culture. Employees and supervisors collaborate daily to refine processes, test new formats and ensure products meet customer expectations. This combination of experienced staff, advanced equipment and continuous improvement creates a flexible operation capable of supporting diverse product portfolios.

Automation and workforce expertise converge to give the Lansing plant a competitive edge. The facility can run pilot programs, adjust quickly to customer requests and maintain consistent quality across high-volume production. By designing lines for both speed and adaptability, Land O’Frost ensures the plant can handle both everyday throughput and the demands of innovation.

Williams said the facility’s success comes from combining technology with a people-first approach. “Operators who once manually stacked boxes are now overseeing advanced robotic systems, showcasing the facility’s dedication to streamlining operations and creating a more efficient, employee-friendly environment”.

Beyond day-to-day operations, Lansing reflects Land O’Frost’s broader strategic priorities. Investments in automation and workforce development demonstrate a long-term perspective on safety, efficiency and customer responsiveness. The plant’s ability to integrate new technologies while maintaining employee engagement and high standards positions it as a central hub in Land O’Frost’s deli and protein operations.

By balancing speed, versatility and culture, the Lansing facility continues to support Land O’Frost’s growth and innovation objectives. Its combination of high-volume throughput, flexible lines, skilled operators and targeted automation enables the company to meet evolving market demands while maintaining operational excellence and a commitment to its workforce.