JBS spending $55 million on automation in Alberta

 BS Inc., the world’s largest meat-packing company, is spending $55 million over two years to fully automate its beef warehouse at Brooks .Alta., the former XL Meat Packers plant.

It is installing automation and robotics from Scott Technology in Auckland, New Zealand.

The Brooks facility employs more than 2,800 workers and their union is expressing concerns.  Scott Technology said the system also will improve efficiency by loading one pallet of 110-pound beef boxes every 30 seconds, reduce storage costs and sorting errors.

. The United Food and Commercial Workers Union said JBS Canada officials are promising that any affected workers will be offered positions in other parts of the plant.