08
Nov
2024
Automation ranks as a key tool for food manufacturers striving to overcome productivity, supply chain, workforce, safety, and cost-control challenges. Although typically chosen for processes that are repetitive and unchanging, automation increasingly is in demand on lines where product sizes, materials, and formats change regularly, perhaps multiple times a day. Automation can provide this flexibility via modular systems, which can be added, removed, and reconfigured quickly to adapt to changes in demand.
Other automation technologies shaping the industry are the growing use of collaborative robots (cobots), artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, and supply chain integration, according to The Future of Automation in Packaging and Processing report from PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies.
Cobots work alongside human workers, performing tasks that are repetitive, strenuous, or dangerous. Designed to be flexible and easy to program, cobots can be used for a wide range of applications. This trend is expected to continue as the use of cobots is becoming more widespread in the industry, particularly in packaging and palletizing operations.
Data analytics, AI, and machine learning provide insight into processes, identify areas for improvement, reduce downtime, and improve quality control. By analyzing data, AI can identify patterns and make predictions, which support data-driven decisions. The use of AI also is leading to the development of predictive maintenance systems, which can identify potential problems before they occur, reducing the risk of equipment failure and unexpected downtime. As a result, AI has the potential to transform packaging and processing, according to, 2024 The AI Advantage in Equipment: Boosting Performance and Bridging Skills Gap, another report published by PMMI. Benefits of AI include more efficient machine performance, especially when random inputs and outputs are involved; increased worker productivity due to support of time-consuming tasks such as data entry and coding; and mitigation of skills gaps and labor issues by enabling optimized and personalized training. But, more importantly, the benefits of AI are not finite, improvement is continuous. The report explains that’s because “… the longer these technologies are used and the more data they process, the better the outputs become. … [the] systems learn over time.”
The integration of automation across the value chain helps address the needs of the growing e-commerce channel. Integration of manufacturing, packaging, and logistics operations with those of suppliers and customers makes it possible for food processors to boost efficiency, reduce costs, and improve overall competitiveness even as fulfillment operations increase in complexity, according to the Future of Automation report. Although end-to-end integration of automation may help serve the e-commerce channel, manufacturers may need additional resources to successfully navigate the fulfillment complexity it brings. As consumers become accustomed to higher levels of convenience, shorter delivery times, and higher levels of order transparency from companies like Amazon, the last mile becomes more challenging. If in-house capabilities don’t have the flexibility or speed to efficiently prepare and ship direct-to-consumer orders and deliver the more personalized experience consumers expect, e.g., personalized variety packs, food processors and retailers are turning to third-party service providers to help design efficient, automated fulfillment networks or assume e-commerce fulfillment duties.
Lastly, as the use of automation increases, it is important to ensure worker safety. This requires the use of sensors, safety gates, and emergency stop buttons. It also necessitates training to ensure workers are prepared to operate and maintain these automated systems safely.
PMMI’s Future of Automation and AI reports provide valuable insights into the trends and developments that are shaping the packaging and processing industry. As technology continues to evolve, the use of automation is becoming increasingly important for manufacturers to maintain competitiveness, improve efficiency, reduce costs, and achieve more sustainable operations.
Food processors will find the latest automation innovations at PACK EXPO International (Nov. 3–6, 2024; McCormick Place, Chicago). The latest processing and packaging technologies will be found at the Processing Zone on the upper level of Lakeside (LU), the Logistics Pavilion in the North Hall (N), and Emerging Brands Central (Booth W-20049), a new show feature offering 30-minute presentations on product development, packaging innovation, and scaling strategies.
Another new feature, Sustainability Central (located in West Hall, Booth W-21020), will take an expansive look into packaging sustainability and what it means to brands, including expert speakers discussing hot topics like global recyclability, extended producer responsibility (EPR), e-commerce, and circularity. Other educational sessions will be offered at the Innovation Stage (Booth N-4560, N-4580, and N-4585), Processing Innovation Stage (Booth LU-7147), Industry Speaks (Booth N-4565), and Reusable Packaging Learning Center (LU-6737).
Networking opportunities also abound including the PACK gives BACK™ fundraiser for the PMMI Foundation featuring a comedy performance by Nate Bargatze, the Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network Breakfast with Lisa Sun, the founder & CEO of retail brand and lifestyle company GRAVITAS, and the Young Professionals Network Reception.
The most expansive and all-encompassing packaging and processing industry event in 2024, PACK EXPO International, will feature 2,600 exhibitors offering solutions to many of today’s biggest manufacturing needs from an intersection of industries to 40-plus vertical markets. More than 45,000 attendees from consumer packaged goods and life sciences companies worldwide will converge, searching for innovation, connection, and insight. For more details and to register, go to packexpointernational.com.
Fresh ideas. Served daily. Subscribe to Food Business News' free newsletters to stay up to date about the latest food and beverage news. |
Subscribe |
Halloween-inspired products are launching across the retail and foodservice sectors.
Limited-time offerings debut across foodservice menus.