Kanes Food Case Study: Static, Freestanding Shadow Boards

Kanes Foods

Improved Organisation & Efficiencywith Freestanding Shadow Boards

With a focus on improving organisation and enhancing visual standards across the site, the team at Kanes Foods partnered with Klipspringer to address two key challenges:

Challenge 1: Organisation & Efficiency

The existing approach to storing cleaning equipment lacked consistency, making it difficult for teams to quickly locate the tools they needed. This resulted in time being lost searching for missing items.

Another key objective was to introduce a more structured storage approach that would support positioning equipment closer to production lines, reducing unnecessary movement and improving operational efficiency.

Challenge 2: Untidy Appearance

First impressions are essential during site visits and audits, and existing storage did not always present equipment in a clear, orderly manner. The team at Kanes Foods required a solution that was easy to keep clean, making it immediately obvious where items belonged and if anything was missing or misplaced.

Kanes Foods is a leading fresh food manufacturer, recognised for delivering high-quality, ready-to-eat meals that combine convenience with exceptional taste. Founded in 1990 by Dr John Randall, the business was built on the belief that fast food should never mean compromising on quality.

From vibrant stir fries and crisp salads to fresh noodles and flavourful dressings, every product is made in-house. This commitment to freshness, integrity and innovation ensures Kanes Foods consistently delivers products that meet the evolving needs of modern consumers.

The Solution – Shadow Boards

First, the Klipspringer team conducted a site visit to gain a clear understanding of Kanes Foods’ requirements and to recommend tailored solutions for each production area.

The recommended solution was a system of freestanding static shadow boards. Designed specifically for food manufacturing environments, this hygienic and durable storage solution features dedicated tool silhouettes, making it easy for operatives to return equipment to the correct place and quickly identify what they need.

Each board includes bespoke header text printed directly onto the surface, providing a more durable alternative to traditional labels, which can peel or fade over time.

The Results – What was the impact?

Since introducing shadow board solutions across the site, the team at Kanes Foods has reported improved operational efficiency, with staff spending less time searching for cleaning equipment. The compact design of the boards has also made it easier to position storage closer to production lines, reducing unnecessary movement.

In addition, the clearly defined storage has made it easier to maintain tidy, organised areas, contributing to improved standards of hygiene and the overall look of the site.

Before and After Shadow Boards

“Thanks to the shadow boards, cleaning equipment is now located nearer to production lines and is easier to keep tidy. The boards have also reduced downtime, as staff spend less time looking for cleaning equipment.”

Pierre Nieuwoudt, C. I. Manager at Kanes Foods

Partnering with Klipspringer

Pierre Nieuwoudt, C. I. Manager at Kanes Foods, reflected on his experience working with Klipspringer. He highlighted the team’s willingness to visit site, assess requirements, and ensure a smooth process from order to delivery.

“I recommend working with Klipspringer, the team provided great support by coming on site to assess our needs, and the boards were delivered quickly after we ordered.

The ordering process was simple, made easier by the grid provided for one of our pieces of equipment. We just had to lay the utensil on the grid and photograph it to get the correct dimensions for the shadow board.”

Pierre also noted that the finished shadow boards look professional and were easy to assemble on site.