Two plants, two goals, one technological partner. That’s the foundation of the project developed by Clevertech for Conserve Italia, one of Europe’s leading agri-food players and a leader in the production of preserved vegetables. With headquarters in San Lazzaro di Savena (BO) and a network of plants across Italy and abroad, Conserve Italia is one of the most significant cooperative groups in the sector, managing historic brands such as Valfrutta, Cirio, and Yoga – symbols of quality and tradition.
Sharing in this challenge is Clevertech, an Emilia-based company with a strong drive for innovation, specialized in advanced end-of-line automation solutions. An active member of the Smart Packaging Hub – a network of top Italian companies promoting integrated and intelligent solutions – Clevertech is known for its ability to understand production needs in depth and transform them into tailor-made solutions.
This partnership with Conserve Italia highlights just that: the ability to tackle complex challenges with a bespoke approach, while also ensuring efficiency, fast execution, and a high-quality human connection with the client. “They had known about us for a while, but we had never worked together,” explains Amedeo Roma, Area Manager at Clevertech. “After several visits and growing synergy, we entered the race for two parallel projects – and were selected. A strong sign of trust.”
Two plants, two different challenges
The projects involve two Italian facilities of the group: Alseno (Province of Piacenza) and Pomposa (Province of Ferrara), both specializing in the production of preserved vegetables. However, the requirements were vastly different. In Alseno, Clevertech worked on an existing line, integrating a new handling system while respecting strict structural constraints. In Pomposa, the task was to design an entirely new line, with dedicated spaces and greater design freedom.
“Each site had specific needs: Alseno required an intervention within a predefined space, while in Pomposa we were able to design everything from scratch. Two different approaches, with the same attention to detail,” Roma emphasizes.
Alseno plant: maximizing efficiency within fixed constraints
At the Alseno plant, the goal was to upgrade the post-sterilization box handling process while maintaining the existing infrastructure. Clevertech proposed an integrated basket loading and unloading system that interfaces seamlessly with the existing autoclaves.
“We adapted one of our machines to a highly specific layout,” explains Roma, “with precise engineering work. The challenge was handling the baskets and interlayers without manual intervention. Our machines automatically move product layers, retrieve interlayers, and manage them in a closed loop.”
The new system handles a range of box formats – from quarter-kilo to three-kilo sizes – ensuring up to 600 pieces per minute in the smaller formats. Format changes take just ten minutes, thanks to self-adjusting components and minimal manual input.
“We focused on fast, intuitive format changes. The operator only needs to replace a part we call the ‘greca’, and the rest is handled automatically,” adds Roma. A concrete response to the need for greater productivity – without disrupting existing balances.
Pomposa plant: new design for growing volumes
At the Pomposa site, Clevertech had a clean slate. The goal was to increase production capacity with a completely new line featuring automatic basket loading and unloading, including a shuttle transport system to the autoclaves.
“This time, we had more freedom and developed an entirely stainless-steel solution with a shuttle system on rails, capable of handling four baskets per cycle. The complexity wasn’t about space – it was about perfectly synchronizing the process,” notes Roma.
Here too, the system handles various formats and vegetable types, depending on seasonality. Machines insert layers of boxes separated by plastic interlayers, creating a stable structure ready for sterilization. Once the process is complete, the boxes are automatically unloaded and sent to the next phase.
“The client wanted a high-performance, flexible, and autonomous line. We responded with a modular solution that’s easy to manage and ready to support future growth,” Roma adds.
One project, many skills
What made it possible to complete both projects in under twelve months was the close collaboration between technical and commercial teams.
“From pre-sales to commissioning,” says Roma, “the client felt closely supported. They particularly appreciated our listening skills and the consistent presence of our project management team.”
Clevertech’s team worked in synergy, involving the engineering department from the earliest stages to support the initial analysis and solution development. “Every part of the organization must be aligned – from sales to engineering – each role is crucial. That’s how successful projects are built,” Roma affirms.
At Pomposa, the system is already up and running, while the installation at Alseno is scheduled for December, during the planned production shutdown. “We were quick and flexible,” he adds. “In just one year, we deployed two plants with very different characteristics, maintaining high-quality standards.”
A relationship set to grow
The partnership doesn’t end here. Additional projects at other group facilities are already under evaluation – further confirmation of Clevertech’s role as not just a supplier, but a reliable and proactive partner. “When you establish true synergy with a client, you’re no longer just executing a project – you’re sharing a vision,” concludes Roma. “Conserve Italia is a solid, structured company that values expertise. Being chosen by them is a source of pride and responsibility.”
Whether updating an existing line or designing a new one from scratch, Clevertech once again proves its ability to adapt, innovate, and lead – with its eyes firmly on the future. And on the people who make it possible.