About iMAC

The international Meat Automation Congress (iMAC), was first established in the year 2000. iMAC followed the European Commission Meat Automation Concerted Action (MACA 1997-2000), facilitating the exchanges between users and providers of automation and digital technologies.

iMAC participation is by invitation only. The Congress reviews past and present efforts in technology achievements and globally recognised best practice relevant to meat production. The focus is industrial needs and innovation, supported by developments in robotics and automation. The goal is creation of new collaboration, mobilisation of resource, and exchanges between technology developers, providers and end-users for the advancement that deliver short to medium term benefits to the meat sector, including pork, beef, poultry, and fish.

iMAC is grateful to all participants, particularly speakers, sharing their experiences, planning collaborations and technical advancements that deliver value and outcomes resulting in better work conditions, sustainable performance, improved profitability, and effective application of new and robust technologies, embracing best practice.

The contributions of all past speakers and participants, which has made iMAC a world-class forum, is gratefully acknowledged. We look forward to most exciting opportunity to share recent and imminent progress.

Background

It is around 40 years since the pioneering work in robotics and automation for meat processing began in a few technology-motivated countries, led by visionary people and organisations. Developments have persisted with exciting outcomes from Europe, Australia, Japan, and North America, among others. At IFFA 1995, the first robot for meat production was presented for commercial installation. In the years that followed, many new applications from research and development have reached end-users. The Congress has brought industry and researcher organisations together, facilitating collaboration and instigating fresh solutions for practical adoption.

iMAC takes place in Hotel Melia Conference Center at Costa del Sol outside Malaga. The congress held every two years restarted in September 2023. We look forward to your participation and contribution in 2025. The efforts by all concerned in organising, hosting, and attending iMAC is gratefully acknowledged.