German meat processor NWT-CT GmbH has found its niche in a rapidly evolving and volatile market by combining decades of craftsmanship with cutting-edge equipment. With the Marel ProTen, the company has not only elevated product quality but also secured a unique position in global meat processing.
Founded in 1968, NWT-CT GmbH, Part of Vion Food Group, has grown from a poultry slaughterhouse into a specialized processor of pork by-products with a weekly input of 1.200 tons. Today, the company ships tailored, high-quality meat solutions worldwide. With roughly 180 employees and its own logistics fleet serving over 70 suppliers weekly, NWT thrives on flexibility and innovation.
The company’s operations include trading, curing, smoking, sawing, deboning, MDM production, cooking, packing and the creation of bacon cubes. By focusing on manual and niche harvesting tasks that large, automated plants cannot manage, NWT has carved out a valuable role in the meat value chain.
Until 2013, NWT relied on traditional equipment before investing in Marel's ProTen system. The decision marked a turning point.
“With the Marel ProTen we quickly generated a unique position in the market by being flexible in low and high pressure forming and processing 70 tons of pork bones daily,” says Gert-Jan Kuiper, CEO of NWT.
This flexibility has enabled NWT to adapt to the meat industry’s fluctuating landscape, shaped by evolving regulations and geopolitical factors. The ability to respond rapidly to market needs is a key competitive advantage.
Kuiper describes the company’s methodical approach to choosing Marel’s ProTen system:
“A suitable meat harvesting machine is at the heart of our business. We tested all the machines on the market thoroughly. The Marel ProTen outshined its competitors based on quality, capacity, and cell structure in end products. All of this was even supported by research from Utrecht University.”
The scientific backing added credibility to their decision. More than just a machine, the ProTen became a cornerstone of their production line.
Another standout feature of the Marel ProTen is its hygienic design. With an easy-to-disassemble structure, the machine is fully cleaned every evening - an essential practice for maintaining food safety and operational excellence.
“NWT is committed to the highest hygiene standards. Cleaning the ProTen daily ensures optimal performance and aligns with our certifications and international export licenses,” says Kuiper.
As the global meat market becomes increasingly complex, NWT’s strategy is to remain agile. The company aims to continue adding value where automated plants fall short - through precision, speed, and tailor-made solutions supported by world-class equipment.
“We are not looking to be the biggest, but the most responsive. With the right technology, like the Marel ProTen, we can stay ahead of the curve,” concludes Kuiper.
NWT has been successfully working with the ProTen since 2013, and therefore, has maintained a strong and positive partnership with Marel for over 10 years.
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