Kiremko Remote Service Starts Up French Fry Line in Morocco
Kiremko announced they have successfully started one of their processing lines, that was installed last summer, completely remote by using ‘Augmented Reality’ technology out of Kiremko HQ in Holland – a new experience for both Kiremko and Morrocan potato processor Fun Fries. When the COVID-19 pandemic prevented Kiremko’s engineers from boarding planes, there was an opportunity for an innovative solution that Kiremko developed: the Kiremko Remote Service. This service uses an advanced headset equipped with a camera, sound and monitor, an Internet connection and experienced technicians on both sides of that connection.
Mustapha Laraqui, director of Fun Fries Morocco, commented on his experience with the AR-glasses and the use of this new technology: “It was a really fruitful experience, and I think this is the way to work in the future. Without glasses, I believe we could have gotten in trouble. The online communication on site with the Kiremko team allows us to do the job as if the Kiremko team was physically on site.” Laraqui believes that with the advantage of the AR-glasses, his technicians receive a better training than in a conventional way. “It’s already the present, and not something of the future anymore.”
Matthijs Laks, project manager at Kiremko said this was the first time they started a line in this way, using the AR-technology. “The AR glasses played a crucial role in this project. We were able to assist the customer remotely and to start up the line, despite the travel ban that was in effect. Without this technology it would never have been possible. The technology will further improve and Remote Service will increase our customer’s possibilities in these uncertain times.”
With the Moroccan market registering a double digit growth each year, Mustapha Laraqui says they have all the resources to compete on the European market for some specific products. “We are the first potato processor in the country, although we are a country of potato farming. What is unique about Morocco is that we are able to get at least 4 crops around the year. Based on our farming affiliate company Allied Potato, we can harvest our own crops at the end of September, in February, April up till July,” said Laraqui.
He continued to say that because this was their first experience in this industry, they chose to order a full line, supplied by Kiremko. “Our future plan is to produce coated fries, and sweet potato French fries for export. So there is much more to come,” Laraqui added.