Role of Technology in the Bakery Industry 

The bakery industry has experienced significant technological change in recent years, and this is continuing. Modern technologies have found their way into bakeries and are influencing both the production processes and the way employees work.  

Automation 

An essential aspect is the automation of production processes. By using (partially) automated machines and systems, numerous work steps can be made more efficient, as is the case here also at our Schmitt Bakery. Computer-controlled dough kneading machines, automatic portioners and ovens with programmable settings make it possible to produce large quantities of baked goods with consistent quality. This leads to an increase in efficiency and reduces manual, often monotonous work. We implement this for a wide range of deliveries to the catering industry, grocery store and our 6 own branches - the computer already calculates automatic weighings, ensuring success. 

Digital tools and Training 

Online ordering, contactless payment and apps for pre-ordering are being used more and more frequently.  

I can therefore say that bakery professionals need to familiarize themselves with these technologies and acquire new skills in order to provide optimal customer service. Innovations and curiosity is needed, being open to new things, including new technologies. We do training courses for office and marketing, these are offered in Germany by the ADB associations (baking schools), where you can get further training in these areas. 

E-learning platforms and online training courses make it possible to continuously expand knowledge and keep up to date with the latest trends and technologies. This is also practiced within our staff in the Schmitt bakery. 

Personalized offers 

Customer loyalty can also be improved through personalized offers and digital loyalty programs. We are currently in the final steps of our own app, which uses its own algorithm to adapt to customer behavior. Before that we had classics like Newsletter, which still has its place. 

Data Analysis 

Finally, data analysis enables colleagues and bakeries to optimize their business processes. By evaluating sales data, inventories can be better managed and food waste reduced. Special forecasting software programs help to optimize the quantities delivered to the sales outlets (branches) with a view to the best possible availability of goods for the customer, but also to avoid food waste.

Here we work closely with Shop-IQ with software and hardware on this topic. For example, we have a shelf with a weighing function. This calculates the demand for the next day in real time and places orders for the following day based on the data generated that day.