Rapid Resource Deployment and Operational Excellence During Peak Season

SITUATION

Our client faces an intense operational challenge each year during their 10-week harvesting season. During this period, they process approximately 100% of the total annual volume for fresh pack related products, by harvesting approximately 15,000 acres of produce. The plant operates at full capacity to ensure quick and efficient processing, making this the most critical time of year for the company. Staffing is a significant concern, requiring coverage for 24 hours a day, every day, during harvesting season, often involving senior-level expertise. Maintaining production continuity and minimizing downtime during this high-pressure window is essential for success.

SOLUTION

To address these challenges, the client relied on us to place 11 specialized resources on site to focus on seasonal and processing support. Our team worked six days a week, totaling 52 hours, with a mix of four 8-hour shifts and two 10-hour shifts to ensure continuous coverage. This client provided two internal staff members dedicated to plant operations, and our team covered second and third shift support to maintain round-the-clock productivity.

The partnership was further strengthened by our relationship with plant management and our ability to quickly find senior-level talent in controls and automation. Our expertise enabled rapid troubleshooting, debugging, and support when equipment breakdowns occurred, ensuring minimal disruption to operations. The season demands harvesting and processing produce at peak ripeness, requiring immediate, reliable support, and we were able to consistently deliver the right resources with turnaround times of less than 24 hours.

RESULT

Our swift deployment of resources and effective collaboration resulted in the client meeting its production targets on time, preserving the critical season output for canning and other preservation methods. The rapid response capability and technical expertise offered ensured that any breakdowns were addressed quickly, keeping the plant running at maximum efficiency. The professional relationship developed was cultivated by ongoing trust, leading to the continuation of this support on a yearly basis. We will continue to assist this client with our ability to deliver quick resource turnaround and reliable support when it matters most.