Largest UK sushi manufacturer use automation for retailer compliance

Ichiban UK has invested in automation to ensure compliance with retailers codes of practice. The OAL system has prevented label and packaging errors that can result in substantial fines and help identify areas for improvement during production.

Ichiban UK is the leading supplier of both own label and branded authentic sushi for major retailers. Ichiban recognised that to maintain their excellent relationships with the retailers, the site needed to secure their factory by proactively investing in automation.

Working with OAL, a leading automation and food processing technology provider, Ichiban UK ensured the correct packaging and labelling are applied to their products by using a single automated system to control their packaging lines and integrate existing packaging devices. Julie Rice, Technical Manager, explains why Ichiban UK chose the OAL Autocoding system:

“We chose the OAL system because it’s a tried and tested solution that provides the compliance we need. It’s easy to use and has helped us focus by accurately recording line stoppages and identifying areas for improvement.”

The system Ichiban UK had installed works by scanning a 2D barcode printed on every product to check and verify the date code, and packaging is correct. If a mismatch error occurs, the line stops, and the problem is investigated.

Payback has been shortened through the use of OAL’s Factory Performance software module that provides the team production information on improvement areas. When a line stop occurs operators must record a reason code on the touchscreen terminal. The recorded data is both highly accurate and can be used in real-time so actions can be taken if any issues occur. The automatic system replaces existing manual production logs, providing more accurate and reliable data, helping Ichiban UK identify areas for improvement.

By investing in automation, Ichiban UK has secured compliance with retailer codes of practice for label and date code verification whilst producing actionable data to improve production performance.

For more information on how automation can help with compliance, contact OAL on

+44 1733 394 700 or visit www.oalgroup.com/connected/