When team well-being becomes a performance driver: ActiMeat's successful gamble

When team well-being becomes a lever for performance: the successful bet of ActiMeat

When team well-being becomes a lever for performance: the successful bet of ActiMeat

In the food industry, production work often involves intense physical efforts, repetitive handling, and health risks for operators. It is in this context that the company ActiMeat, based in Manosque, decided some time ago to take a committed turn: that of the well-being of its employees. And the result, at the intersection of human and performance, deserves to be told.

ActiMeat logo

A clear diagnosis: back pain, a too frequent risk

As part of its analysis of work stoppages, ActiMeat identified a concerning trend: nearly 30% of the stoppages were related to back pain, directly linked to the handling of large blocks of meat.

To try to address this, the company had already implemented handling assistance systems, including suction cups designed to lift and move the blocks. However, the experience proved incomplete: a large portion of the blocks — nearly 40% — were poorly grasped due to their weight or irregular shape, which exposed operators to the risk of falls.

In light of these findings, ActiMeat realized the obvious: despite partial automation, the human element remained essential, and it was necessary to rethink the ergonomics of the work to preserve the health of the teams.

The choice of a sustainable solution: passive exoskeletons

In March 2022, the company made a bold decision. During a day dedicated to health and safety, it called upon Hapo to test several pieces of equipment with the concerned operators. The verdict was clear: the "ergo-skeletons" (or passive exoskeletons) emerged as the most suitable solution.

In practical terms, these devices resemble harnesses worn like a backpack, with an abdominal belt and thigh straps, connected by flexible mechanical rods that extend up to the shoulder straps. The objective: to lighten the load of heavy lifting without reducing the operator's muscle strength. After a one-month testing phase, the feedback from the 14 concerned employees was unanimously positive.

Officially handed over on January 10 in the presence of Ergosanté, the financiers, and occupational health services, these exoskeletons are now integrated into the daily routine of the teams.

A double benefit for the man... and for the company

For employees, the impact is tangible: carrying loads has become significantly less strenuous, the risk of back pain is reduced, and the quality of work life has improved. By feeling supported, recognized, and protected, employees gain in motivation and serenity.

For ActiMeat, it's a winning bet. Fewer work stoppages, less turnover, thus more stability. But also a boost in efficiency: a more comfortable work environment promotes engagement, concentration, and ultimately, collective performance.

Exoskeleton Hapo SD for the back

An approach aligned with a global strategy of innovation and respect

The decision to invest in team well-being is not a spur-of-the-moment choice; it is part of a broader vision. ActiMeat has always placed innovation, quality of work life, health, and safety at the heart of its strategy.

By adopting exoskeletons, the company demonstrates that industry, performance, and respect for people can go hand in hand, and that technology, far from dehumanizing, can support the opposite stance.

Read the case study on ActiMeat's website.

Contact one of our experts

Our teams are at your disposal to assess your needs and organize real-life tests to allow your employees to experience the benefits of exoskeletons in their work environment.

Contact an expert

Contact one of our experts

Our teams are at your disposal to assess your needs and organize real-life tests to allow your employees to experience the benefits of Hapo exoskeletons in their work environment.

Contact an expert