CenFRA (the Centre for Food Robotics and Automation) is aiming to achieve financial self-sufficiency ?as early as autumn next year?, after securing additional cash from regional development agency (RDA) Yorkshire Forward designed to tide it over until at least next spring.

DS Smith said it has completed its take over of French company Otor earlier than expected as it announced ?good volume growth? across its business in its latest interim management statement.

Italian supplier Lati said it has developed an injection mouldable compound on the back of a request from a leading pasta manufacturer for a food contact compliant and lightweight plastic alternative to costly stainless steel food ingredient handling units.