AUTOMATION expenditures in the food and beverage industry are expected to reach $6 billion by 2013, according to a new study by the ARC Advisory Group.
The Automation Expenditures for Food and Beverage Industry Worldwide Outlook study shows three major areas of focus in food and beverage manufacturing is cost management and margin protection, more sustainable manufacturing focused on energy usage and waste reduction, and better ensuring food safety.
“The information architecture is extending its reach all the way to the consumer by way of social networks and a new generation of truly virtual online shopping and online product customisation tools,” principal author of the study, John Blanchard said.
The ARC also said survival is also dependent upon product, packaging, and manufacturing innovation.
Since most CPG companies have similar business strategies, flawless and timely execution differentiates leading companies from their competitors, the study said.
According to the ARC, the study will help users learn what others in the industry are doing and the capabilities of each supplier. The study discusses strategies and tactics for suppliers and user manufacturers to be successful in the rapidly changing environment of the worldwide food and beverage industry.