Among the 120 sites operated by the prestigious LDC Group, the Société Normande de Volaille (SNV) site in Chailland stands out for its specific positioning.
The facility specialises in producing of Janzé Label Rouge chickens, as well as chickens certified for « bien-être animal ». This activity is subject to strict European standards governing the conditions under which poultry are hatched, reared and processed.
While the meat market as a whole is declining, the poultry sector is an exception, with demand continuing to grow steadily. SNV Chailland is benefitting fully from this trend. To meet this growing demand and make full use of the site’s potential, the group decided to invest in increasing its production capacity to 300,000 chickens per week. To support this ambitious development, 40 permanent positions were also created.
In this context, SNV Chailland commissioned CM2A to design a new automated unloading machine, with the aim of improving hygiene, « bien-être animal » and site productivity. Designed to meet the requirements of the Label Rouge and free-range poultry markets, the installation incorporates a controlled-atmosphere stunning tunnel, providing a gradual and « bien-être animal » conscious killing process.
However, this project had to address two major challenges:
- The growing risk of avian influenza, requiring enhanced washing and disinfection procedures.
- Recruitment difficulties in abattoirs, particularly due to the demanding working conditions.
To meet these challenges, CM2A’s teams proposed a comprehensive solution combining industrial performance, sanitary requirements and improved working conditions.
The installation includes a washer capable of effectively cleaning and disinfecting modules and plastic drawers, together with a series of automated conveyors transporting the drawers to the controlled-atmosphere stunning tunnel. Operators therefore benefit from a calmer, better-lit environment with reduced exposure to dust, helping improve their comfort and safety on a daily basis.
The CM2A team was tasked with designing a new unloading machine.
Commissioned in early 2025, this CM2A-designed machine, forms part of a four-year strategic investment programme. It is a key element in the site’s future development.
The stunning tunnel ensures a gradual killing process by exposing the birds to an atmosphere with reduced oxygen levels in several stages. It combines productivity with animal welfare.
Working conditions for operators are improved through a calmer, better-lit environment with reduced dust levels.