• ABB has been supporting Heineken Guadalajara, one of the world’s top brewing companies, in maintaining a stable power supply, ensuring the smooth operation of essential equipment like boilers and compressors to meet production goals.
• The collaboration spans over a decade and focuses on implementing ABB’s preventive maintenance strategies, guaranteeing efficient energy distribution, and minimizing electrical consumption.
• Since 2012, Heineken Guadalajara has relied on ABB for the installation and upkeep of crucial electrical systems, such as the main substation and uninterruptible power supply (UPS).

As a globally recognized brand, Heineken places immense value on its reputation for excellence. At its Guadalajara facility in Mexico, the plant operates round-the-clock, producing 30 million liters of beer and cider each month, with a dedicated workforce of over 300 employees.

Uberth Rios, Maintenance Coordinator at Heineken Guadalajara, emphasizes the importance of a dependable power supply to ensure the plant can meet production demands for its portfolio of 20+ brands.

“We also rely on critical machinery like boilers and compressors that must remain functional at all times. Any interruption would require swift action to restore operations and avoid delays,” says Rios. “Thanks to ABB’s proactive maintenance service, we can mitigate these risks.”

“ABB ensures the reliability and safety of our equipment while providing a consistent and high-quality energy supply,” adds Rios.

A Focus on Sustainability

Sustainability is a core goal in Heineken’s longstanding partnership with ABB, and the company relies on ABB’s expertise to meet this challenge.

“ABB plays a pivotal role in Heineken’s sustainability efforts by ensuring efficient energy distribution, reducing power consumption, and guaranteeing the reliability of our electrical systems,” Rios notes. “As a trusted partner, ABB has kept us updated on the latest technologies that enhance our processes. We look forward to future projects with ABB that will further improve our operational efficiency.”

A Trusted Partnership for Over a Decade

Heineken’s collaboration with ABB started in 2012, with the installation of the main substation in the machine house.

“Heineken is a valued client of ours,” says Josue Cervantes, Senior Engineer at ABB Electrification Service in Mexico. “We have worked closely with them for several years, assisting with installation, conditioning, commissioning, training, and maintenance for all ABB products, including their switchgear and UPS systems.”

Over the years, ABB has developed a strong understanding of the Guadalajara facility’s systems and engineering needs, which has helped strengthen the partnership. Through ongoing consultation, ABB has enhanced its predictive maintenance strategies, supporting Heineken’s efforts to assess and improve the reliability, safety, security, and sustainability of its operations.

As Heineken continues to future-proof its operations, continuous insight and guidance from ABB are essential.

Israel Omar Lucio Nieto, a senior service engineer with 16 years of experience, describes the relationship between Heineken and ABB as built on mutual respect.

Nieto believes the ideal technician is one who combines professionalism, extensive product knowledge, and the ability to resolve any technical challenges.

“A good technician demonstrates responsibility, adaptability, and technical expertise while understanding diverse industries, people, and cultures,” says Nieto. “ABB has proven to be a reliable maintenance partner for Heineken through their technical support and prompt, efficient maintenance services,” confirms Rios.

Cervantes shares this view, highlighting how a culture of respect and trust is fostered through years of reliable service, commissioning, and upgrades. “Our partnership has flourished over the years due to the exceptional maintenance services ABB has provided. We take pride in proactively making upgrades to enhance the lifespan and performance of equipment, while offering ongoing guidance to help Heineken optimize the performance of its electrical systems.”

“ABB is vital to Heineken’s sustainability goals by ensuring effective energy distribution, reducing power consumption, and maintaining the reliability of our electrical systems,” says Rios.

Nieto, Cervantes, and the ABB Electrification Service team are working closely with Heineken to update older equipment at the Guadalajara plant with ABB’s latest technology, including switchboards, cases, and UPS systems. This upgrade will help reduce energy consumption and optimize space within the plant.

“Ultimately, these improvements boost Heineken’s productivity and contribute to cost savings,” says Cervantes.

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