Amidst the changes in the Food and Beverage (F&B) manufacturing industry, the integration of Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) technology is not only limited to the backend operations but also extends to the manufacturing shop floor. This integration can revolutionize the traditional processes on the shop floor, providing real-time access to relevant data and empowering the workforce to make informed decisions.

By leveraging IIoT with The Connected Enterprise, manufacturers can navigate challenges such as limitations presented by legacy equipment, skills gaps in the workforce, or ineffective data measurement processes. This demonstrates how the adoption of smart manufacturing technologies, including IIoT, is reshaping the F&B manufacturing industry from the shop floor to the backend operations, driving efficiency, quality, and sustainability.

5 Ways How Smart Factory Software can Transform the Food and Beverage Industry

Here are five ways how a Smart Factory Software Solution can improve productivity and visibility in F&B manufacturing facilities.

1. Automated Real-Time Data Collection

Gone are the days of error-prone manual data collection, filling out spreadsheets, and keeping a mental note of machine breakdowns or production line errors. In today’s market, no one has the time to stop what they’re doing to grab a pen and write things down. 

With the adoption of a Smart Factory Software Solution, data is being collected, analyzed and reported in real-time. This renders accurate data that can easily be translated into reports, breaking down preventative maintenance information. This not only saves operator time and company resources but also reduces the waste produced by machine breakdowns.  

Reports on energy usage can also provide cost-savings while contributing to environmental and sustainability initiatives. Implementing energy dashboards, as demonstrated in the Shoplogix smart factory platform, can be automated to production processes with proactive alerts about energy consumption so operators and plant managers can make quick decisions.

Easily accessible data provides the entire shop floor with the confidence to execute their individual jobs effectively, and provides leadership with the tools they need to make better data-driven decisions.

2. Reliable Accountable Communication

Manual data collection increases the risk of miscommunication throughout the shop floor. In a survey taken from ‘The Cost of Poor Communications’ by David Grossman, it was reported that from 400 companies with 100,000 employees each, there was an average loss per company of $62.4 million per year due to miscommunication and error. 

Implementing a Smart Factory Software Solution mitigates miscommunication and drives accountability across teams, supports waste reduction and acts as a hub for all critical communications to be reported, shared and accessible throughout the shop floor. 

With Smart Factory software, employees are able to:

• Track individual and team performances.
• Visually see plant progress, productivity and important announcements on Shoplogix automated dashboards.
• Implement and act on real-time schedule changes.
• Set up and view work action plans for maintenance efforts.

3. Smart Factories Attract Smart People

The manufacturing industry is experiencing a growing need for employee recruitment and this number will continue to skyrocket as baby boomers move towards retirement. According to a report by Deloitte, by 2028 there will be an estimated 2.4 million unfilled jobs due to the major skill gap in the manufacturing industry. 

F&B production, a major player in the manufacturing space,  will require a large number of skilled workers with a range of skills in digital technology, operations, and skilled production in under ten years. There is an urgency to change the perceptions of the manufacturing industry and appeal to the digitally savvy millennial. By transforming outdated, manual operations, the F&B manufacturing industry will offer better learning opportunities, career advancements, and more value for prospective workers. Attracting the right candidates corresponds to an increase in efficiency, competitive advantage, and a productive shop floor. 

Converting your manually operated F&B production lines into a digitally automated Smart Factory Plants offers many benefits. Including:

• Accurate real-time data collection
• Accountable teams and communications
• Attract and retain skilled employees

4. Enhanced Quality Control and Compliance

Smart Factory Software enables real-time monitoring of production processes, allowing for immediate detection of deviations from quality standards. This proactive approach to quality control helps prevent defects and non-compliance issues, ultimately reducing the risk of product recalls and ensuring consistent product quality. Additionally, the software can automate the documentation of production processes, making it easier to demonstrate compliance with industry regulations and standards.

5. Improved Supply Chain Management and Demand Forecasting

By integrating data from various sources, including production, inventory, and sales, Smart Factory Software provides valuable insights for optimizing supply chain management and demand forecasting. This enables F&B manufacturers to better anticipate customer demand, minimize inventory holding costs, and streamline procurement and production scheduling. The software can also facilitate collaboration with suppliers and distributors, leading to more efficient and responsive supply chains.

Final Thoughts – Manufacturing Shop Floor

Smart Factory Software offers a range of transformative benefits for the F&B Industry, from automated real-time data collection and reliable accountable communication to enhanced quality control and compliance, as well as improved supply chain management and demand forecasting. By embracing digital transformation, F&B manufacturers can enhance productivity, visibility, and competitiveness, ultimately driving operational excellence and success in the industry.