Grespania automates its end of line for ceramic picking with Stretch Hood by Innova

Grespania, one of the leading companies in the ceramic sector in Spain, has once again trusted Innova Group’s technology to further automate its processes, this time at its facilities in Nules (Castellón, a plant dedicated to logistics and picking With this new installation, based on Innova’s Stretch Hood system, Grespania becomes a pioneer in the automation of packaging for picking in the ceramic industry, effectively addressing the challenges of flexibility and protection when handling loads of different sizes.

Innova has developed a Stretch Hood system specifically designed for Grespania’s picking needs, capable of wrapping both pallets with just a single ceramic box and fully loaded pallets. This solution fills a gap in the automation of these types of loads, providing unmatched versatility and protection that other systems, such as automatic wrappers or shrink-wrap systems, cannot achieve.

The new picking packaging line was installed at Grespania's Nules plant, a factory and distribution center for the group’s ceramic products to big department stores and large retailers throughout Spain. This installation complements other Grespania projects with Innova, including a double packaging line at its main factory in Castellón and a specialized line for XL formats and ceramic slabs at its Moncofar plant.

Challenge: Efficient automation for picking loads

Grespania aimed to optimize the packaging of its picking loads and automate a process that was previously manual, relying on a manually applied shrink wrap system. Additionally, the variability of loads—ranging from small batches with a few boxes to full pallets—posed an additional challenge.

The solution: Stretch Hood adapted for picking

Innova Group proposed a Stretch Hood solution that adapts to the wide range of sizes and volumes in Grespania’s picking loads. The system installed in Nules includes:

• Stretch Hood wrapping system, with a laser height measurement system to adjust the wrapping to the exact size of the pallet. Additionally, it includes two film reels to handle different pallet sizes, from euro pallets to special formats. The Stretch Hood wrapping not only offers Grespania this versatility in packaging but also improves the product’s presentation thanks to the completely transparent film, which allows full visibility of the contents and enhances logistical traceability for shipments to different distribution centers.
• A conveyor line designed for both light and heavy loads. Chain conveyors are included for optimal traction, a rotating system in the exit line to optimize factory space, as well as a spacious and efficient pallet accumulation station to facilitate staggered collection.

Results for Grespania and future plans

The new installation has enabled Grespania to optimize productivity by eliminating the manual process, reducing packaging time, and improving workplace safety. Additionally, the Stretch Hood system has helped the company reduce energy and plastic consumption compared to the shrink wrap system, aligning with Grespania’s sustainability goals.

This solution has not only improved the packaging of loads but also strengthened Grespania’s brand image, providing an impeccable presentation of products up until final delivery. Furthermore, the future integration of the new packaging line with other picking stations will ensure greater production flow, further optimizing the distribution process.

With this project, Grespania becomes once again a pioneer in the automation of a complex ceramic packaging process. Having already trusted Innova for the installation of Stretch Hood XL for its large formats—also an innovation in automation—it has done so again with this Stretch Hood solution for picking.

Máximo Dolz, Technical Director of Grespania, commented: "It has been a pleasure to work again with Innova Group. We are very satisfied with the installation and the results of the project. We were aware of the benefits of the Stretch Hood system, but its adaptability has been key in addressing our packaging challenge.."

Fernando Ferrer, Logistics Director of Grespania, added: "This installation has allowed us not only to improve efficiency in our picking process but also to enhance our brand image all the way to the customer, whether in small orders or full loads."

On behalf of Innova Group, Sergio Llidó, General Manager, stated: "This project has been a true example of how our solutions can be integrated and adapted to the specific needs of each client. We are proud to contribute to the innovation of a pioneering company like Grespania, with whom we hope to continue collaborating in the future."