The Design-Build Method: Engineering Efficiency in Food Facility Construction

In the world of industrial construction, the Design-Build (DB) method stands out as an innovative construction project delivery method, combining design and construction services into a single workflow. This method has been gaining popularity due to its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. As a full-service engineering firm, The WEBBER/SMITH Group specializes in the design of food manufacturing and distribution facilities, and while we are not a Design-Build company, our role is pivotal in the DB process.

Understanding Design-Build Construction

Design-Build construction simplifies the traditional project delivery by merging the roles of designer and builder into one entity. This method is lauded for its ability to reduce complexity and expedite construction project timelines.

How is Design-Build Different from other Project Delivery Approaches?

  • Traditional: Sequential, Bidding, Low Bid, Prescriptive, Separative, Adversarial
  • Design-Build: As one of the popular project delivery methods, Design-Build is characterized by its parallel approach, proposing, best value, performance requirements, collaborative nature, and shared risk

How is Design-Build Different from other Project Delivery Approaches?

Design-Bid-Build (DBB)

  • Owner has Separate Contracts for Design and Construction
  • Contractor selection & other Procurement occurs after Design – Sequential Process
  • Selection of the Project Execution often based on low bid – lowest up-front cost
  • Changes tend to cost more
  • Adversarial relationship between Design (Quality/Scope) & Construction (Cost/Schedule) entities

Design-Build (DB)

  • Owner Contracts with a single Design-Build entity
  • Design-Builder takes responsibility for complete project Design and Construction
  • Collaborative Approach – Requires trust & teamwork among the design-build team
  • Early involvement of Project Execution entities – earlier real cost & schedule input
  • Opportunity for Parallel Process – reduced overall schedule
  • Owner needs to clearly set objectives and requirements for the project

What are the Benefits & Challenges of Design-Build?

Benefits

  • Earlier Cost & Schedule Definition
  • Collaborative approach between Design & Construction
  • Best opportunity to balance Quality, Cost and Schedule objectives early in the project
  • Fast-track & phased construction possible – Speed to Market
  • Able to better address complex highly integrated projects
  • Greater opportunity for flexibility and transparency
  • Significant potential for lower construction costs
  • Reduced litigation & claims

Challenges

  • Overall scope and quality definition is solely up to Owner
  • Owner required to make early decisions on Big Picture
  • Less opportunity for competitive bidding in selection of Design-Builder – “apples to apples” difficult
  • Requires trust between Owner and Design-Builder
  • More difficult to “off-ramp” during the course of the project
  • More Owner team involvement required at the outset
  • Subcontractors & OEMs often late to the process with less input

Why Design-Build?

Two Landmark Study Comparisons between Design-Build (DB) and Design-Bid-Build (DBB) project delivery systems found significant statistical advantages of Design-Build in a number of areas.

CII Penn State Study also found that DB had 5.2% Less Cost Growth and 11.4% Less Schedule Growth across the life of a project

Who is involved in Design-Build Teams?

  • Client/User Team – Executive Management, Plant Management, Plant Engineering, Plant Maintenance, Line Supervisors, QC & Safety Managers
  • Design Team – Design Managers, Architects, Engineers (Civil, Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing), Process Designers/Engineers, Controls/Automation Engineers, Specialty Engineers (Refrigeration, Fire Protection, Wastewater Treatment, Environmental)
  • Construction Team – Project Managers, Cost Estimators, Schedulers, General Contractor, Trade Subcontractors, Specialty Subcontractors
  • Equipment Team – Equipment Suppliers & Vendors (OEMs), Riggers & Millwrights
  • Project Owner – Responsible for contract management and serves as the single point of responsibility. The design-build model aims to minimize risks for the project owner and reduce delivery schedules by overlapping the design and construction phases.

The Role of The WEBBER/SMITH Group in Design-Build

Our firm, based in Lititz, PA, brings a wealth of engineering expertise to the table, particularly in the dairy, meat, prepared foods, and bakery industries. We collaborate closely with general contractors to ensure that the design phase is informed by practical construction considerations, leading to:

  • Faster Delivery: Our integrated design services help accelerate the construction timeline.
  • Seamless Process: We work hand-in-hand with builders to prevent conflicts and streamline resolutions.
  • Enhanced Collaboration: Our team’s involvement ensures that changes are efficiently communicated and implemented.
  • Cost Savings: With our engineering input, the use of materials is optimized for cost-effectiveness.
  • Successful Project: We establish clear project budgets early on and use the right tools for coordination and communication, ensuring a comprehensive and fair contract that maintains relationships and completes a successful project.

When Design-Build is Ideal

The DB method is particularly effective for large-scale construction projects requiring rapid completion. For instance, in the aftermath of natural disasters, DB can facilitate the swift reconstruction of essential infrastructure. In the food industry, where facilities must meet strict regulatory standards, DB can minimize downtime and ensure compliance.

Challenges and Considerations

While DB offers numerous advantages, it’s not without its challenges. Risk management and contract specificity are crucial to prevent scope creep and financial overruns. Our firm addresses these challenges by providing detailed engineering plans and specifications that guide the construction process.

Best Practices for Collaboration

Successful Design-Build projects hinge on effective collaboration. At The WEBBER/SMITH Group, we advocate for:

  • Inclusive Planning: We ensure all stakeholders, including architects, engineers, and subcontractors, are involved in decision-making.
  • Open Communication: We maintain transparent communication channels to foster a collaborative environment.
  • Strong Relationships: Building rapport with our partners is key to a harmonious and productive project atmosphere.
  • Data Analysis: We leverage insights from past projects to refine our designs and enhance efficiency.

The WEBBER/SMITH Group’s expertise in engineering and design is a critical component of the Design-Build process. By partnering with general contractors, we contribute to the creation of food facilities that are not only designed to the highest standards but also constructed to meet the demanding needs of the industry. Our commitment to excellence ensures that each project is a testament to the effectiveness of the Design-Build method.

Together, we can construct not just buildings, but the future of efficient, compliant, and successful food facilities. Take the first step towards optimizing your construction process—contact The WEBBER/SMITH Group today, and let’s build excellence together.

Jason Walus, P.E. Joins WEBBER/SMITH Associates as Structural Engineer

LITITZ, PA – The WEBBER/SMITH Group is excited to announce the addition of Jason Walus, P.E., as a Structural Engineer, effective May 2024. Jason brings with him an extensive background in structural engineering, having developed his expertise through diverse experiences in the field.

Professional Life

A seasoned professional with a diverse background Jason Walus is a graduate of Penn State University, where he earned his degree in Civil Engineering. His career began at Morris & Ritchie Associates, Inc, where he got his feet wet as a Project Designer, he sharpened his skills in structural analysis and design. Jason then transitioned several important roles in other companies leading himself into Structural Engineer role, where he managed complex projects and assumed greater responsibilities. Jason came full circle by coming back to Morris & Ritchie Associates 10 years later in 2019, for another 5 year run with the company, focusing on detailed structural assessments and innovative design solutions that contributed to several high-profile projects.

Personal Life and Adaptability

Jason is married to a fellow engineer and entrepreneur, and together they have two children, Ben and Michael, who bring a rich mix of arts and sports enthusiasm to the family. Jason has navigated the shifting landscapes of the work environment, including the transitions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, by adopting hybrid work models and demonstrating resilience and adaptability—traits that he brings into his new role at WEBBER/SMITH.

A Valuable Addition to The WEBBER/SMITH Group “We are delighted to welcome Jason to our team,” said Jim Depew, Vice President of Engineering/Principal. “His diverse experience and proactive approach to structural engineering will be valuable as we continue to provide top-notch service and innovative solutions to our clients.”

Jason’s addition to WEBBER/SMITH marks a significant step in our commitment to excellence and innovation in structural engineering. His expertise will enhance our capabilities and contribute to our continued success and the success of our clients.

WEBBER/SMITH is a dedicated engineering firm specializing in building design and structural solutions in the food & beverage industry. Based in Lititz, PA, we are committed to delivering high-quality and sustainable projects that meet the unique needs of our clients across various sectors.

Please join us in welcoming Jason Walus to our professional team. We look forward to his contributions and are excited about the future projects he will lead.

Attending the AAMP 2024 Convention: Insights and Opportunities for the Meat Processing Industry

As the food and beverage industry continually evolves, it’s imperative for professionals within the sector to stay abreast of the latest trends, technologies, and techniques to remain competitive. The American Association of Meat Processors (AAMP) is a pivotal organization in the meat processing industry, and its annual convention is a cornerstone event for industry professionals. This year, the convention is set to return to Omaha, Nebraska, a location rich in agricultural history and a hub for the meat processing industry.

A Deep Dive into AAMP’s 2024 Convention

Scheduled from Aug 1-3, 2024, at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, the AAMP convention promises a comprehensive program designed to benefit both large and small meat processors. The event offers a plethora of opportunities for networking, learning, and exploring the latest innovations in the meat processing industry. One of the most anticipated elements of the convention is the extensive lineup of educational sessions. These sessions are expertly crafted to provide valuable insights on a variety of topics including food safety, product development, and operational efficiencies.

For companies like The WEBBER/SMITH Group®, which specializes in creating food-safe environments for the food and beverage industry, the convention offers an invaluable platform to connect with industry professionals and potential clients. The company’s focus on delivering sustainable and scalable design solutions aligns perfectly with the needs of meat processors looking to expand or upgrade their facilities.

Why Omaha?

Omaha’s selection as the venue for the AAMP 2024 convention is no coincidence. The city is centrally located in the United States, making it an accessible meeting point for meat processors from across the country. Moreover, Omaha has a storied history in the meat packing industry, which makes it a symbolic location for discussing the future of meat processing.

Keynote Speakers and Educational Highlights

The full list of speakers and sessions for the AAMP 2024 convention has been announced, the event traditionally attracts industry leaders and experts who share their knowledge and experiences. Sessions typically cover critical areas such as regulatory updates, innovative meat processing techniques, and strategies for business growth and customer engagement.

For businesses, these sessions provide a deep dive into industry standards and emerging trends, helping them stay ahead of the curve. For The WEBBER/SMITH Group®, the insights gained from these sessions directly inform their design and engineering practices, ensuring that their solutions are not only current but also forward-thinking.

Exhibition and Sponsorship Opportunities

The convention also features an expansive exhibition area where manufacturers and suppliers display the latest equipment, technologies, and services. For exhibitors, this is a prime opportunity to showcase new products and technologies to a targeted audience. The WEBBER/SMITH Group® often finds these exhibitions crucial for understanding evolving technology trends and customer needs, which assists in tailoring their engineering solutions.

Networking: The Heart of AAMP Convention

Perhaps one of the most valuable aspects of the AAMP convention is the opportunity it provides for networking. For professionals and companies alike, building relationships with peers, mentors, and potential clients is invaluable. The WEBBER/SMITH Group® particularly values this aspect of the convention, as it allows them to connect directly with industry leaders and meat processors who might benefit from their comprehensive design and engineering services.

Looking Forward

As The WEBBER/SMITH Group® prepares to attend the AAMP 2024 convention in Omaha, the focus is on how to best serve the meat processing industry through innovative design and engineering solutions. The company is particularly interested in sessions and technologies that enhance food safety and operational efficiency, which are critical components of their client-centric approach to project design.

As The WEBBER/SMITH Group® gears up to participate in the AAMP 2024 convention in Omaha, the team is keenly focused on delivering top-tier design and engineering solutions that meet the evolving needs of the meat processing industry. Our engagement at the convention will be directed towards absorbing new insights and exploring groundbreaking technologies, particularly those enhancing food safety and operational efficiencies. This event offers an unparalleled platform for us to showcase our expertise, forge significant industry connections, and further solidify our reputation as leaders in creating sustainable, food-safe environments. The experiences and relationships cultivated at this year’s convention will undoubtedly influence industry practices and spur innovations for the foreseeable future, marking a pivotal moment for all attendees.

Exciting Developments at the 68th Summer Fancy Food Show: A Look into the Future of Food Innovation

The 68th Summer Fancy Food Show, a pivotal event for the specialty food industry, has once again sold out, indicating a promising and expansive future for food and beverage innovators. Organized by the Specialty Food Association, this year’s show boasts an impressive lineup of more than 2,300 exhibitors from across the globe. As an attendee representing The WEBBER/SMITH Group®, a leader in designing food-safe environments for the food and beverage industry, I am thrilled to provide insights into what makes this event a cornerstone for both industry professionals and enthusiasts.

Unpacking the Significance of the Summer Fancy Food Show

The Summer Fancy Food Show is more than just an exhibition; it’s a hub of innovation and a meeting ground for thought leaders in the specialty food industry. For us at The WEBBER/SMITH Group®, it’s an opportunity to connect with clients and peers, and to stay abreast of the latest trends and technologies in food production and safety. The show’s sell-out status underscores its importance and the vibrant interest in exploring new tastes, technologies, and marketing strategies.

Show Highlights and What to Expect

This year, the show is set to feature an array of international pavilions, each showcasing unique products from around the world. These pavilions provide a snapshot of global food trends and offer attendees a taste of unique ingredients and culinary innovations. For businesses like ours, understanding these global influences is crucial as they often dictate the direction of consumer preferences and market demands in the U.S.

In addition to the diverse exhibitors, the show offers an extensive educational program that includes lectures, panels, and workshops led by industry experts. These sessions are invaluable for gaining insights into consumer behavior, regulatory changes, and new marketing techniques. For professionals involved in designing and building food-safe environments, such as The WEBBER/SMITH Group®, these learnings can influence design considerations and operational efficiencies.

The Role of The WEBBER/SMITH Group® at the Show

At The WEBBER/SMITH Group®, our focus is on creating environments that not only comply with rigorous food safety standards but also embrace sustainability and efficiency. Attending the Summer Fancy Food Show allows us to observe firsthand the operational challenges our clients face and the innovative solutions they are employing. This direct insight informs our client-centric design process, ensuring that our solutions are not only compliant but also forward-thinking.

Our team is particularly interested in the latest advancements in food processing and packaging technology. With sustainability being a key concern for the industry, we are keen to explore eco-friendly packaging solutions and energy-efficient design adaptations that could be integrated into our projects.

Networking and Business Opportunities

Networking is a critical component of the Fancy Food Show. The event gathers thousands of industry professionals, making it an ideal platform for forging new partnerships and strengthening existing ones. For The WEBBER/SMITH Group®, these interactions are essential for understanding client needs and market shifts. They also provide a forum for discussing potential collaborations that could lead to more innovative, scalable, and cost-effective design solutions for our clients.

Looking to the Future

The insights gained from the Summer Fancy Food Show are instrumental for us at The WEBBER/SMITH Group® as we continue to refine our design and construction practices to meet the evolving needs of the food and beverage industry. By staying connected with the latest industry trends and maintaining a presence at key events like this, we ensure our services remain at the cutting edge, providing our clients with the best possible outcomes.

As we prepare to participate in this year’s show, we are excited about the opportunities to learn, share, and connect with our peers and clients. This event promises to be a dynamic platform for discovery and innovation, and we look forward to contributing to and being part of the ongoing transformation in the specialty food industry.

By attending the 68th Summer Fancy Food Show, The WEBBER/SMITH Group® not only reinforces its commitment to excellence and innovation in food-safe design but also continues to support and contribute to the growth and success of the specialty food industry. For anyone involved in the food and beverage sector, this show is a not-to-miss event that promises new insights, exciting opportunities, and a glimpse into the future of food.

The WEBBER/SMITH Group at the 2024 PFMA Annual Conference: A Gateway to Innovation and Networking

The Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association (PFMA) has long been a cornerstone in advocating for the food and beverage retail industry. This esteemed statewide trade association, with its rich history dating back to 1952, encompasses a diverse membership that includes convenience stores, supermarkets, independent grocers, wholesalers, consumer product vendors, and both national and regional chain stores. As we look forward to the 2024 Annual Conference, it’s essential to reflect on PFMA’s mission to enhance the public image, effectiveness, and profitability of businesses within this vital sector.

The PFMA Annual Conference, scheduled to take place at the Marriot Hotel in Lancaster, promises to be an enriching event filled with legislative insights, regulatory updates, seminars, certification programs, and ample networking opportunities. For us at The WEBBER/SMITH Group®, this conference represents more than just an event; it’s an opportunity to connect, learn, and grow within the industry we passionately serve.

Why The WEBBER/SMITH Group is Attending

As engineers and building designers specializing in the food and beverage industry, The WEBBER/SMITH Group is dedicated to creating food-safe environments that are sustainable, scalable, and cost-effective. Our client-centric design development process ensures that we meet the unique needs of our clients, whether through new facility designs, plant renovations, expansions, master planning services, or remedial design. Being based in Lititz, PA, and having all engineering disciplines (except civil) in-house allows us to provide comprehensive design solutions nationwide.

Attending the PFMA Annual Conference aligns perfectly with our goals of staying at the forefront of industry trends and innovations. The conference will enable us to:

  1. Network with Industry Leaders: Connecting with fellow professionals, potential clients, and industry leaders is invaluable. The relationships we build here can lead to collaborative projects, new business opportunities, and a deeper understanding of industry needs.
  2. Gain Insights from Experts: The conference features speakers who are experts in their fields, including those from the food merchant sector. These insights will help us refine our practices and stay updated with the latest advancements and regulatory changes.
  3. Showcase Our Expertise: We are eager to share our experiences and expertise in engineering and building design for food-safe environments. Engaging with others at the conference will allow us to highlight our capabilities and the innovative solutions we bring to the table.

Excitement and Anticipation

Personally, I am thrilled to be attending this year’s PFMA Annual Conference. The opportunity to meet new people and learn from the best in the industry is something I greatly value. Engaging with experts, especially those in confectionery manufacturing, will provide us with fresh perspectives and innovative ideas that we can incorporate into our projects.

The energy and knowledge shared at such conferences are truly inspiring. They remind us why we do what we do and reinforce our commitment to delivering excellence in every project. I look forward to discussing challenges, exploring new solutions, and bringing back valuable insights that will benefit our team and our clients.

See You There?

The 2024 PFMA Annual Conference is not just a date on the calendar; it’s a milestone in our journey of continuous improvement and growth. At The WEBBER/SMITH Group, we are committed to leveraging this opportunity to enhance our knowledge, expand our network, and reinforce our dedication to creating exceptional, food-safe environments.

We are excited about the potential this conference holds and look forward to contributing to and learning from this prestigious event. See you in Lancaster!

We are heading to the 2024 Sweets & Snacks Expo in Indianapolis!

We’re thrilled to announce that the WEBBER/SMITH Group® will be participating in the highly anticipated 2024 Sweets & Snacks Expo, set to take place this May in Indianapolis. As industry leaders in engineering and design for food-safe environments, we are excited to engage with professionals from the confectionery and snacks industries and showcase our comprehensive range of services.

Why the Sweets & Snacks Expo?

The Sweets & Snacks Expo is the premier event for new product introductions, business-building solutions, and innovations in the candy and snack industries. For us, it represents an unparalleled opportunity to connect with over 18,000 industry professionals and more than 800 exhibitors. We’re particularly excited to explore the latest trends in consumer preferences and technological advancements that align with our commitment to designing and engineering state-of-the-art food and beverage facilities.

What We Bring to the Table

At the WEBBER/SMITH Group®, we offer a complete suite of engineering services focused on creating efficient, safe, and innovative environments for the food and beverage industry. From total design for new facilities to expansions and renovations, our in-house team of experts handles it all. We believe our presence at the Expo will allow us to demonstrate how our master planning and remedial design services can directly address the unique needs of the confectionery and snacks industries.

Showcasing Our Expertise

We are looking forward to showcasing several of our recent projects which highlight our expertise in integrating complex systems and ensuring compliance with stringent food safety standards. These projects demonstrate our ability to enhance operational efficiencies and manage project scopes of various magnitudes, from minor renovations to major expansions.

Networking and Collaborative Opportunities

Networking is a core component of the Expo, and we are eager to meet with existing clients and forge new relationships. The collaborative atmosphere of the Expo will allow us to exchange ideas, learn from other industry professionals, and potentially partner on future projects. Our team is particularly interested in discussions around sustainable practices and how we can integrate these into our designs to not only meet but exceed, the expectations of our clients and the industries we serve.

Learning and Innovation

The Sweets & Snacks Expo is also an educational platform that provides insights into market trends and consumer behaviors. By attending the various educational sessions, we aim to gain deeper insights into the current and future landscape of the snacks and confectionery industries. This knowledge will directly inform our strategic planning and design processes, ensuring that our solutions are not only effective but also innovative and forward-thinking.

Meet Us There!

If you are attending the 2024 Sweets & Snacks Expo in Indianapolis this May, make sure to stop by the WEBBER/SMITH Group’s booth. Our team will be on hand to discuss how we can help your business through our tailored engineering and design solutions. Whether you are planning a new facility, considering an expansion, or simply looking for ways to optimize your current operations, we have the expertise to assist you.

We can’t wait to connect with you at the Expo and explore what the future holds for the snacks and confectionery industries. See you in Indianapolis!

For more information about our services and past projects, please visit our projects page. Let’s build something great together.

Celebrating Success: A Heartfelt Thank You from Hy-Vee Construction


We’re thrilled to share a wonderful note of appreciation from HY-VEE CONSTRUCTION, L.C. for the exceptional work done by Chris Purdue and The WEBBER/SMITH Group on the Lomar project. Dylan Davis, Project Engineer, commended our team for their unwavering dedication and support, emphasizing the importance of our collaborative efforts in the project’s triumph. This acknowledgment reflects the strong character and commitment of our team members.

A big thank you to Hy-Vee, Inc. for recognizing our collective hard work and to our team for consistently going above and beyond. #Partnership #Excellence #ConstructionSuccess

About Us: The WEBBER/SMITH Group®

The WEBBER/SMITH Group® is a team of engineers and building designers dedicated to creating food-safe environments for the food and beverage and related industries throughout the USA. Our client-centric design development process delivers sustainable, food-safe environments that are scalable, cost-effective, and well-executed to meet your needs.

Based in Lititz, PA, our firm has all engineering disciplines (except civil) in-house, allowing us to perform total design for new facilities, plant renovations and expansions, master planning services, and remedial design. Our comprehensive approach ensures that every project is tailored to our clients’ unique needs, resulting in environments that are both functional and innovative.

Thank you to our incredible team for their continuous hard work and dedication, and to our clients for their ongoing trust and support. Together, we continue to achieve excellence in every project we undertake.

The WEBBER/SMITH Group at the 2024 Petfood Forum in Kansas City

As a leader in engineering and designing food-safe environments, The WEBBER/SMITH Group® is eager to announce our participation in the 2024 Petfood Forum in Kansas City. This event is an essential gathering for professionals in the pet food industry, providing a platform to discuss the latest trends, technologies, and production techniques.

With our extensive experience in the food and beverage sector, we are well-equipped to contribute to the forum’s discussions. Our company excels in a variety of engineering disciplines that are crucial for constructing top-quality food manufacturing facilities. Our expertise includes designing HVAC systems to ensure hygienic conditions, integrating advanced plumbing systems for optimal cleanliness and safety, and implementing customized fire protection systems tailored to meet the specific needs of food production environments.

During the Petfood Forum, we plan to share our insights and experiences from our projects within the pet food industry, including our work on facilities that produce a range of pet food products from dry and wet foods to treats and chews. Our designs always adhere to strict FDA regulations, ensuring pet food safety and quality.

Our portfolio includes projects where we have designed renovations and expansions with a focus on reducing pathogen growth and preventing cross-contamination—key aspects of maintaining product safety and quality. We handle complex projects that address the specific needs of pet food production, covering everything from ingredient handling to packaging and distribution.

This forum will be an opportunity for us to delve deeper into these projects and share our design strategies that help pet food manufacturers meet the high expectations of consumers and regulatory standards.

Participating in the Petfood Forum underscores our commitment to innovation and safety in the food and beverage industries, specifically within the specialized area of pet food production. Our involvement highlights our role as a leader in creating efficient and compliant manufacturing environments.

For industry professionals and companies looking to enhance their pet food production facilities with cutting-edge, food-safe engineering solutions, engaging with The WEBBER/SMITH Group at the 2024 Petfood Forum in Kansas City is an opportunity not to be missed. Connect with our experts at the forum to learn how our innovative design and engineering services can help you meet the highest standards of quality and safety.

Attending the PMCA Production Conference: An Exciting Opportunity

I’m thrilled to share that I will be attending the upcoming PMCA Production Conference! As the Opportunity Development Director for The WEBBER/SMITH Group, this event represents an incredible opportunity to connect with fellow professionals and gain valuable insights from industry experts.

Why I’m Attending

PMCA, an esteemed international association, has been at the forefront of enhancing the careers of confectionery and snack professionals since 1907. Their mission aligns perfectly with my role at The WEBBER/SMITH Group, where we specialize in designing and engineering food-safe environments for the food and beverage industry. By attending this conference, I aim to:

  • Exchange Information: The interactive forums provided by PMCA are a perfect platform for sharing and gathering the latest information in confectionery manufacturing. This exchange of knowledge will help us stay ahead of industry trends and continue delivering top-notch solutions to our clients.
  • Learn from Experts: The conference features a lineup of speakers who are experts in their fields. Their presentations will offer cutting-edge insights into the latest advancements and techniques in confectionery production. This knowledge is invaluable as it directly contributes to our ongoing mission of creating innovative, sustainable, and cost-effective food-safe environments.
  • Network and Build Connections: One of the highlights of such events is the opportunity to meet like-minded professionals. Building long-term personal connections is crucial in our industry, and I look forward to forging new relationships that can lead to future collaborations and partnerships.

The WEBBER/SMITH Group: Our Role and Vision

At The WEBBER/SMITH Group, we pride ourselves on our client-centric approach to design and engineering. Our team, based in Lititz, PA, is dedicated to developing food-safe environments that are not only sustainable and scalable but also cost-effective. With all engineering disciplines in-house, we provide comprehensive design services for new facilities, plant renovations, expansions, and more.

Attending the PMCA Production Conference allows us to stay updated with the latest industry standards and practices, ensuring that our solutions remain at the forefront of innovation and efficiency. The insights gained from this conference will directly impact our ability to serve our clients better and contribute to their long-term success.

Looking Forward

I am genuinely excited about the opportunities that this conference presents. The chance to learn from industry leaders, engage in meaningful discussions, and expand my professional network is invaluable. The knowledge and connections I bring back will not only enhance my professional growth but also benefit our entire team at The WEBBER/SMITH Group.

The PMCA Production Conference is more than just an event; it’s a gateway to growth, learning, and lasting connections. I look forward to sharing my experiences and insights with my colleagues and clients, driving forward our mission to create food-safe environments that bring people joy.

Stay tuned for updates from the conference, and feel free to reach out if you’re attending as well – I’d love to connect!

Join Us at PACK EXPO East 2024: Where Innovation Meets Expertise

We are thrilled to announce that The WEBBER/SMITH Group® will be attending PACK EXPO East 2024, set to take place from March 18-20 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia. As a leader in engineering and building design for the food and beverage industry, we are excited to be part of this dynamic event, which stands as the largest PACK EXPO East show to date.

PACK EXPO East 2024 promises to be an unparalleled gathering of over 7,000 industry professionals and more than 400 exhibitors, showcasing the latest in packaging and processing solutions across 100,000+ net square feet of exhibition space. This event is the premier destination for those looking to explore cutting-edge technologies, forge new partnerships, and witness innovation in action.

For 45 years, the WEBBER/SMITH Group® has been dedicated to creating sustainable, food-safe environments that are scalable, cost-effective, and meticulously executed. Our participation in PACK EXPO East underscores our commitment to staying at the forefront of industry trends and solutions that enhance operational efficiency and safety.

Attendees will have the opportunity to delve into a wide array of solutions addressing the needs of over 40 vertical markets, including food and beverage, life sciences, pharmaceuticals, and more. The show floor will be brimming with educational opportunities, networking events, and the chance to connect with experts and peers alike.

We invite you to join us at this landmark event to discover how our client-centric design development process can benefit your operations. Whether you’re looking to improve your current facilities or embark on new projects, PACK EXPO East provides the perfect platform to explore possibilities and drive your business forward.

Don’t miss this chance to experience the future of packaging and processing technology. We look forward to meeting you at PACK EXPO East 2024 and discussing how we can support your goals with our expertise in creating food-safe environments.

For more information and to register for the event, please visit https://www.packexpoeast.com/