Raymond Nogael, MECATHERM/ABI: “Our EYE-Q platform brings artificial intelligence directly into the heart of baking production.”
European Baker & Biscuit caught up with Raymond Nogael, President & CEO of Mecatherm, during this year’s iba trade show, to discuss the company’s strategic direction in the age of smart manufacturing. In a wide-ranging conversation, Nogael shared insights into MECATHERM’s investments in digitalization, artificial intelligence, and plug-and-play solutions designed to support industrial bakers facing labor shortages and growing demands for flexibility. He also spoke candidly about the future of predictive maintenance, the evolving role of sustainability across the baking value chain, and MECATHERM’s continued growth in key markets such as Eastern Europe and North America.
Q: Technology and AI are becoming increasingly integrated into industrial processes. What do you see as the main challenges in this transition?
A: I think technology is catching up, with AI and smart machines now taking over areas where previously you needed a lot of trained manpower. The main challenge we all face in the industrial context is finding people—and more specifically, qualified people. Once you find them, you need to train them and then retain them. That’s one of the biggest challenges we have for the future: how to address knowledge management and how to help operators on the shop floor. Maybe tomorrow there will be less people in the factory. How can the industry adapt to this? . At MECATHERM, this perspective is part of our strategy. That’s why we’re investing significantly in digitalization.
Q: What steps are you taking in that direction?
A: We created a company called MaMaTa. This company supports MECATHERM and ABI in developing all the digital IT solutions. We are investing significantly in that area because I really believe in it. We can improve product quality, industrial performance, and address sustainability. All our equipment is now fully connected. All new lines come with access to MyMecatherm free of charge during the warranty period. After that, there’s a fee, but the first year allows customers to get familiar with and adapt to the tool.
Q: How do you see these digital tools—like MyMecatherm—changing the relationship between equipment producers and industrial bakers? Does it facilitate communication or increase trust?
A: That’s a very good question. At Mecatherm, we are an organization—like most companies selling production lines—that operates globally. We’ve sold almost 1,000 lines worldwide, and it’s difficult to track each one. But we want to be more supportive to customers than ever before. I push for us to stay close to our customers and help them, for the reasons I just mentioned. Digital tools help maintain that relationship, especially with customers who are far away. You don’t visit them every day, but even when you’re not there, you can still stay connected, offer support, and be proactive—if they agree, since not all customers accept that. With this system, you have a complete record of your relationship. It’s a never-ending story. Like with your phone—you can localize, call, send messages anytime. You’re always connected. We’ve improved equipment performance, anticipated breakdowns, and enhanced the line’s profitability. That already brings a lot of satisfaction.
Q: What feedback have you received from clients who have already adopted the system?
A: Very good. We’re still at the beginning, but customers are happy and satisfied—although also very demanding. The more they use the tool, the more requests they have. It’s like using any app. Customers’ engagement with the tool pushes us to improve and enhance its capabilities in the future.
Q: You have different packages for clients—like a free version, Care, and Care Plus. Could you elaborate on what each one is offering?
A: Yes. Today, most customers choose Care. That package includes basic performance monitoring—a simple dashboard to know what’s going on in the factory. But the package that people should move toward is the predictive one, because it helps anticipate breakdowns. However, it requires more information, more education, and a better understanding of how it works. Shows like this are important because we can explain, discuss, and especially listen—to evaluate how to address this topic. Predictive maintenance is important, but it needs to be adapted to each case. Customers are concerned they might pay for something and then nothing happens. I say: it’s like insurance. You pay every year hoping nothing happens, but when it does, you’re glad you’re covered.
Q: Tell me a bit about your R&D process. What drives the transition from technical feasibility to finished product—market demand, client feedback, or trends?