Spanish stone fruit and apple producer Abellafruits has implemented TOMRA Food technology to improve grading and packaging operations, with the installation of the TOMRA 5S Advanced system across its production lines.
Founded in 2011 by Xavier Seró Martí, Abellafruits was established after the Seró family left their cooperative to create an independent fruit business. The company has since grown from 600 tons to more than 7,000 tons of annual production, focusing mainly on stone fruit. Its primary export markets include Germany, Brazil, and the United Arab Emirates.
The company manages all stages of production, from cultivation to final delivery, intending to maintain consistency and traceability throughout the supply chain.
© Tomra
Adoption of TOMRA 5S Advanced
Abellafruits installed the TOMRA 5S Advanced across three grading and three packaging lines, reaching a total production capacity of between 15 and 20 tons per hour. According to the company, the integration focused on improving workflow and process management rather than replacing machinery.
Xavier Seró Martí said that close cooperation with TOMRA allowed the system to be adjusted to meet the company's operational requirements. He noted that the ability to test the equipment before implementation helped evaluate its potential in real conditions.
Abellafruits is also working with TOMRA on the introduction of SPECTRIM with LUCAi™, aimed at further improving optical sorting and quality control.
Operational outcomes
Following the installation, the company reported faster packaging speeds, easier handling, and greater flexibility in processing different fruit types, including more delicate varieties such as flat peaches.
The technology has been used to enhance grading precision and consistency while maintaining the integrity of softer fruit. According to Abellafruits, the system has helped streamline production and simplify operations.
Next steps
Abellafruits plans to continue developing its production and packaging systems, focusing on digital connectivity and efficiency improvements in response to changing climate conditions and sustainability goals.
"The sector requires adaptable and easily maintainable technology," Seró Martí said, adding that operational flexibility and process control will remain key focus areas for the company moving forward.
© TomraFor more information:
Duncan Griffiths
Tomra
Tel: +353 87 1990016
Email: [email protected]
www.tomra.com
