CASE STUDY: ACORN Helps Food Manufacturer with Lubrication Compliance

The Challenge

When a food manufacturing site in Kirkcaldy, which holds an impressive BRC AA+ rating, faced a crucial challenge: ensuring that its lubricant usage aligned fully with the BRC Global Standard for Food Safety (Issue 9), they weren’t sure where to turn. While their production quality met the rigorous standards required, they needed specialised guidance to establish control over their lubricants in a way that would promote both safety and compliance. This required a supplier who could bring not only expertise in food-grade lubricants but also a strong focus on compliance and operational efficiency. That’s where ACORN stepped in.

The Solution

ACORN’s Lubrication Product Manager, Andrew Howard and Business Development Manager, Robert Karbownik, responded with a thorough, hands-on approach that transformed the manufacturer's lubricant management process. The first step was to undertake an in-depth lubrication survey across the production areas, outlining the exact needs of each application. From there, ACORN’s product experts recommended food-grade lubricants specifically suited to the site's operations, focusing on safety and availability for auditing.

Following this, the next stage involved developing a comprehensive lubrication compliance manual. This was not just a list of procedures, but a complete guide customised to the manufacturer’s unique needs. The manual included all critical documentation, from safety and technical data sheets to allergen statements, equipping the site with everything needed for a seamless audit and providing peace of mind in day-to-day operations.

Finally, ACORN implemented a streamlined lubricant stock management system, ensuring that the manufacturer maintained optimal quantities of lubricants without overstocking. This system allowed for safe storage while preventing waste and ensuring smooth, controlled usage.

The Results

Thanks to ACORN’s intervention, the food manufacturer fully complies with the BRC Global Standard for Food Safety Issue 9. With increased control over their lubricant usage, they’ve transformed their approach to meeting strict food safety standards.

Additionally, the manual has significantly simplified the compliance process, making it easier for them to track and audit lubrication practices while reducing any potential risks associated with lubricant storage and use. This structured system of documentation and usage has redefined how they approach food safety, setting a new standard for operation.

The Future

Looking to the future, ACORN is already developing further improvements, including a vendor-managed stock system for essential consumables like fixings, fasteners, and lubricants. This next step promises to drive even greater efficiency and convenience for the manufacturer, who can confidently move forward safe in the knowledge that their compliance and operational control are under control. Not only this but by working with ACORN to implement their compliance documentation, the site can benefit from using a range of lubrication suppliers to ensure all their needs are met with cost-effectiveness in mind.

In partnering with ACORN, the manufacturer has not only met compliance standards but set a powerful foundation for continuous improvement and growth.