Snack Processors Balance Tradition vs. Automation

“At the same time, we strategically use modern technology where it adds value — particularly in shipping logistics, quality assurance, and communication with our retail partners and customers,” Skolnick says. “This balanced approach allows us to preserve authenticity while operating efficiently and staying responsive in today’s marketplace.”

St. Louis, Mo.-based Volpi Foods performs a similar balancing act. The company started out in 1902 as a charcuterie processor and has seen the need for change over the years to meet consumer demand, says Claire Donohue, marketing manager for Volpi Foods. Charcuterie is no longer considered by consumers to be an occasional indulgence, but instead an everyday, eat-on-the-go snack, and Volpi has launched snack-sized products to meet that need.

“This growth reflects a need for operational flexibility and scalability to maintain consistency and quality as the brand reaches more consumers through national retail distribution,” she says. “Volpi is focused on supporting both traditional artisanal production and implementing modern forms of robotic automation in its manufacturing process, ensuring that convenience and craftsmanship go hand in hand.”

Donohue says Volpi’s approach thus far has produced solid results, with the company having grown its snack-focused portfolio into more than 1,800 doors across foodservice, convenience and retail in 2025, all without compromising its slow-aging processes and traditional family recipes.

“By investing in capacity planning, refining production workflows and strengthening supply chain efficiency, the team supported increased volume while protecting product consistency, food safety and flavor integrity,” she says. “Rather than accelerating timelines, the focus remains on preserving the curing methods that differentiate us from other brands at shelf.”

The philosophy at Uncle Jerry’s has always centered on simple, clean ingredients and a time-tested recipe, Skolnick says, and because of that approach, the company hasn’t needed to redesign equipment or production processes to this point.

“Because our pretzels are handcrafted and free from added oils, sugars or preservatives, our production remains stable and consistent,” she explains. “This continuity helps us maintain both product integrity and operational efficiency while delivering the authentic taste customers expect.”

Meanwhile, Volpi launched its Snack Cups line two years ago, and Donohue says it stands as a great example of a product that required “thoughtful consideration throughout its production processes.” Snack Cups are portable cups of ready-to-eat meat and cheese that the company markets for on-the-go consumption, having created the cups to fit into a car’s cupholder.

“Producing this format required rethinking elements of the line to ensure each component could be portioned, assembled and packaged in a way that protects flavor, texture and overall product quality at scale,” she adds.