Food and Beverage Industry Embraces Remote Services and AI amid Digital Transformation
As the digital revolution continues to reshape the food and beverage industry, manufacturers are increasingly adopting remote services and monitoring systems to enhance operational efficiency and address skill shortages. According to the "Trends in Remote Services and Monitoring" research released in January 2024, more than half of end-users, approximately 55.1%, have integrated remote support into their plant operations. This trend is particularly driven by skills gaps and the evident value that remote services offer to end-users.
The move towards digital tools is being led by CPG companies, with insights gathered from industry leaders including VPs, CEOs, and engineers, revealing a shift from reactive to proactive maintenance strategies. According to the survey, challenges remain with some companies hesitant to adopt remote services due to costs, cybersecurity risks, and staff’s limited IT expertise. Yet, the necessity to replace obsolete equipment is pushing the industry forward.
At the forefront of this transition is the integration of advanced technologies such as asset management software, which lays the groundwork for generative AI strategies. During the IFT Food Conference held in July, Michael Warter, Senior Vice President and CIO at Ruiz Foods Products, Inc., discussed the heightened demand for AI integration in the sector. Warter noted the enthusiasm of company boards for AI applications, stressing the need for a clear understanding of what AI entails.
Digital investments have begun paying off, particularly through the deployment of Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) that assist companies in transitioning from reactive to predictive maintenance regimes. The approach helps address the challenge of obsolete hardware found in aging facilities, a widespread issue among Consumer Packaging Goods (CPG) firms.
Perth County Ingredients (PCI) in Ontario, Canada serves as a noteworthy example of this digital transformation. Specialising in dried egg products, PCI took significant strides by implementing Rockwell Automation's Fiix CMMS to streamline maintenance efforts. Over the first nine months with connected systems like PLC and CMMS, PCI reported a $40,000 reduction in costs and a 300% return on investment. Their strategy included deploying WiFi across plants, equipping maintenance teams with mobile technologies, and utilising sensor data for predictive insights.
In a similar vein, Maple Leaf Foods piloted Augmented Reality (AR) technology to improve operations and achieve high Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) metrics. AR facilitated routine maintenance checks by providing virtual instructions, helping reduce errors and increase compliance in equipment sanitisation processes. This aligns with industry trends where tools like AR and online instructional libraries are used to expedite troubleshooting and reduce service disruptions.
Ongoing investments in workforce-connected technology are also being seen across various organisations. For instance, Fluke Reliability partnered with Augmentir Inc. to integrate connected worker platforms within its maintenance solutions. These digital workflows focus on training, skill management, and enhanced collaborative efforts among staff.
Despite advancements, the industry continues to grapple with data management and cybersecurity complexities. However, the vision for a seamless digital foundation to support AI strategies remains a priority, as companies recognise the critical role of these technologies in overcoming existing challenges and preparing for future innovations.
Source: Noah Wire Services