Expanding Factory Automation Capabilities in Australia

Alnico Systems Pty Ltd has officially joined the ABB Robotics Authorized Value Provider (AVP) program. Based on the Central Coast of New South Wales, the company delivers advanced industrial automation solutions, including PLC, DCS, robotics, and control systems. This partnership enhances their visibility within ABB’s global network and positions them as a trusted integrator in Australia’s growing automation sector.

Expertise in Bespoke Automation Projects

The company specialises in turnkey factory automation projects tailored to customer requirements. Their portfolio includes end-to-end system design, pre-sales consulting, and integration of robotics, machine vision, AGVs, and conveying systems. Notable clients such as The Avocado Collective and Bendotti Avocado rely on Alnico Systems for high-volume fruit processing automation. This demonstrates their ability to deliver customised solutions that improve efficiency and throughput.

Skilled Engineering Team and Industry Network

Alnico Systems operates with a core team of five engineers supported by expert contractors. This lean yet highly skilled workforce enables them to deliver across industries including food, beverage, agriculture, and logistics. Their approach reflects a growing trend in industrial automation, where specialised integrators combine technical expertise with flexible networks to meet diverse operational needs.

Proprietary Automation Products for Agriculture

Beyond integration services, Alnico Systems designs proprietary equipment such as high-speed tray stackers and pallet-scanning systems. These solutions automatically read barcodes on full pallets, streamlining post-harvest operations in packing sheds. Such innovations highlight the importance of automation in agriculture, where efficiency and traceability are critical for competitiveness.

Long-Term Commitment to ABB Robotics

Director Jamie Bailey has worked with ABB robots since 2001. After joining ABB’s Channel Partner network in 2020, Alnico Systems delivered three major systems featuring seven ABB robots. Their custom robotic gripper for palletising fruit trays demonstrates engineering creativity, ensuring precise nesting and stable pallets. Integrated with ABB’s IRB 660 palletising robot, this tooling improves reliability in factory automation environments.

Impact on Production Efficiency

Jamie emphasises that ABB technology consistently boosts throughput, efficiency, and product quality. Customers benefit from reduced downtime and improved consistency, which are essential in competitive industries. As a result, Alnico Systems positions itself as a trusted provider of industrial control systems that align with customer business objectives.

End-to-End Project Execution

Alnico Systems manages projects from design to commissioning, including after-sales support. Their nationwide capability is strengthened by ABB’s reliability and service infrastructure. Quick execution, fast spare parts turnaround, and responsive support make ABB a standout supplier in Australia’s automation industry.

Strategic Benefits of Becoming an AVP

By joining the AVP program, Alnico Systems gains access to ABB’s innovations, technical resources, and advanced training. This ensures their engineers remain prepared for evolving industrial challenges. Moreover, the partnership allows co-promotion of new systems alongside ABB, leveraging ABB’s global footprint while strengthening local credibility.

Advanced Tools and Global Collaboration

As an AVP, Alnico Systems benefits from ABB’s RobotStudio®, an offline programming and simulation tool. This enables advanced robot programming, validation, and optimisation. In addition, collaboration with other AVPs fosters innovation and knowledge sharing, which is vital for the future of industrial automation systems.

Application Case: Fruit Processing Automation

One of Alnico Systems’ flagship projects is Bendotti Avocado’s new automation line. The system delivers 5,000 trays per hour, a 320% increase in throughput compared to previous setups. Another upcoming project for The Avocado Collective will feature nine ABB robots, five tray-handling lines, pallet dispensing, 27 tray stackers, and two pallet-scanning systems. These solutions showcase how factory automation can transform agricultural supply chains.

Author’s Commentary

The partnership between Alnico Systems and ABB Robotics reflects a broader industry trend: integrators are increasingly vital in bridging global technology with local operational needs. In agriculture, where margins are tight and demand is rising, automation offers measurable gains in efficiency and consistency. Companies that combine proprietary innovation with trusted global platforms, like ABB, are well-positioned to lead Australia’s next wave of industrial automation.