Latest news with #ConsumerPackagedGoods
Korea Herald
2 days ago
- Business
- Korea Herald
Rockwell Automation Report Finds CPG Industry Prioritizing Innovation Over Cost-Cutting
Research shows CPG leaders are investing in AI and talent to stay competitive MILWAUKEE, Aug. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK), the world's largest company dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation, today announced the results of the 10th annual State of Smart Manufacturing Report: Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) Edition. The findings highlight how manufacturers are placing greater importance on innovation, workforce development, and long-term growth strategies. The CPG industry is facing pressure on multiple fronts, from the growth of store brands to the demand for faster innovation and more sustainable products. At the same time, consumer loyalty is harder to earn, and expectations for customization and transparency are rising. In response to this, CPG companies are moving away from small-scale technology pilots and investing in solutions that deliver measurable results across the organization. The combination of workforce training, better use of data, and more adaptable systems is helping these manufacturers stay competitive while managing complexity. And as private-label brands expand and consumer expectations evolve, CPG leaders are prioritizing investments that help them compete more effectively in a crowded and fast-changing market. Notable Key Trends from 2024 to 2025: Rising Competition Leads Industry Concerns: In 2024, economic uncertainty and inflation were main challenges noted in our annual survey. In 2025, competition has taken the lead, driven by increased market pressure from private-label products and changing consumer buying habits. Technology Needs to Work for People: Companies are focusing less on simply adopting new tools and more on making sure new technology fits their teams and operations. Usability and scalability are now critical factors in technological decisions. Capabilities CPG leaders are looking for in their workforce include: communications/teamwork (86%), adaptability/flexibility (85%), while analytical thinking and cybersecurity practices are tied (84%). AI and Robotics Lead Investment Priorities: At the heart of technology investment decisions is a shift in thinking. 70% of CPG manufacturers say they are investing in AI, robotics, and simulation technologies for long-term business growth. This is a shift from last year when technology supported more sales analytics and process optimization. More companies are using data effectively The number of manufacturers who say they are using their data to guide decision-making is up from 40% in 2024 to 44% in 2025. AI is playing a growing role in data utilization in key areas like quality control, logistics, and cybersecurity, scoring 5% above the general average. Workforce strategies are evolving While 2024 emphasized attracting skilled labor, the 2025 report shows 34% of manufacturers are concentrating more on training current employees on updated processes, while 33% of the focus is on managing change effectively and improving employee retention. "CPG manufacturers are no longer just reacting to disruption—they're proactively investing in technologies that deliver sustainable growth and competitive advantage," said Steve Deitzer, vice president, Global Industry, CPG, Rockwell Automation. "This year's report shows a clear pivot toward long-term thinking, where AI, automation, and workforce enablement are central to success." Scalability and integration are now central to how CPG leaders approach growth. By aligning technology, people and processes, companies are working to build more agile and efficient operations that can keep up with market changes. The 2025 State of Smart Manufacturing Report, based on insights from 174 CPG leaders across 15 countries, is part of Rockwell Automation's broader global research initiative surveying over 1,500 manufacturing decision-makers. The full findings of the report can be found here.
Cision Canada
2 days ago
- Business
- Cision Canada
Rockwell Automation Report Finds CPG Industry Prioritizing Innovation Over Cost-Cutting
MILWAUKEE, Aug. 19, 2025 /CNW/ -- Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK), the world's largest company dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation, today announced the results of the 10th annual State of Smart Manufacturing Report: Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) Edition. The findings highlight how manufacturers are placing greater importance on innovation, workforce development, and long-term growth strategies. The CPG industry is facing pressure on multiple fronts, from the growth of store brands to the demand for faster innovation and more sustainable products. At the same time, consumer loyalty is harder to earn, and expectations for customization and transparency are rising. In response to this, CPG companies are moving away from small-scale technology pilots and investing in solutions that deliver measurable results across the organization. The combination of workforce training, better use of data, and more adaptable systems is helping these manufacturers stay competitive while managing complexity. And as private-label brands expand and consumer expectations evolve, CPG leaders are prioritizing investments that help them compete more effectively in a crowded and fast-changing market. Notable Key Trends from 2024 to 2025: Rising Competition Leads Industry Concerns: In 2024, economic uncertainty and inflation were main challenges noted in our annual survey. In 2025, competition has taken the lead, driven by increased market pressure from private-label products and changing consumer buying habits. Technology Needs to Work for People: Companies are focusing less on simply adopting new tools and more on making sure new technology fits their teams and operations. Usability and scalability are now critical factors in technological decisions. Capabilities CPG leaders are looking for in their workforce include: communications/teamwork (86%), adaptability/flexibility (85%), while analytical thinking and cybersecurity practices are tied (84%). AI and Robotics Lead Investment Priorities: At the heart of technology investment decisions is a shift in thinking. 70% of CPG manufacturers say they are investing in AI, robotics, and simulation technologies for long-term business growth. This is a shift from last year when technology supported more sales analytics and process optimization. More companies are using data effectively The number of manufacturers who say they are using their data to guide decision-making is up from 40% in 2024 to 44% in 2025. AI is playing a growing role in data utilization in key areas like quality control, logistics, and cybersecurity, scoring 5% above the general average. Workforce strategies are evolving While 2024 emphasized attracting skilled labor, the 2025 report shows 34% of manufacturers are concentrating more on training current employees on updated processes, while 33% of the focus is on managing change effectively and improving employee retention. "CPG manufacturers are no longer just reacting to disruption—they're proactively investing in technologies that deliver sustainable growth and competitive advantage," said Steve Deitzer, vice president, Global Industry, CPG, Rockwell Automation. "This year's report shows a clear pivot toward long-term thinking, where AI, automation, and workforce enablement are central to success." Scalability and integration are now central to how CPG leaders approach growth. By aligning technology, people and processes, companies are working to build more agile and efficient operations that can keep up with market changes. The 2025 State of Smart Manufacturing Report, based on insights from 174 CPG leaders across 15 countries, is part of Rockwell Automation's broader global research initiative surveying over 1,500 manufacturing decision-makers. The full findings of the report can be found here. About Rockwell Automation Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK), is a global leader in industrial automation and digital transformation. We connect the imaginations of people with the potential of technology to expand what is humanly possible, making the world more productive and more sustainable. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Rockwell Automation employs approximately 27,000 problem solvers dedicated to our customers in more than 100 countries. To learn more about how we are bringing the Connected Enterprise to life across industrial enterprises, visit
Yahoo
02-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
First-Ever Blueberry Boost Accelerator Seeks Next Generation of Food and Consumer Product Innovation
U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council and VentureFuel Team Up to Spotlight Inventive, Up-And-Coming Blueberry Products; Applications Now Open FOLSOM, Calif., June 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC), in partnership with VentureFuel, today announced the launch of the Blueberry Boost Accelerator — a new program designed to discover and support emerging startups that are redefining the future of blueberries. Applications are now open and will be reviewed on a rolling basis through July 11, 2025, at 11:59 pm PT. The nine-week hybrid accelerator program will connect early-stage, revenue-generating companies of products using blueberries as a prominent ingredient with top blueberry, food and Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry leaders to fast-track growth through expert mentorship, tailored commercialization support and strategic guidance. Participants will receive professional brand assets like video commercials and sales materials; gain media exposure; and connect with buyers, investors and innovation leaders. Startups will refine their pitch with 1:1 support and showcase their product at The Blueberry Convention, Oct. 8-10 in Seattle, where the grand prize winner will receive $20,000 and the runner-up will win $10,000. To be eligible, companies must have a safe, working product prototype that has been reviewed under USDA oversight. "USHBC's vision is to make blueberries the world's favorite fruit by fueling demand through innovation, partnerships and research," said Kasey Cronquist, president of USHBC. "Blueberries are packed with possibilities — from health and nutrition to snacking, culinary creativity, functional ingredients and beyond. This program is about uncovering the next generation of ideas that will help blueberries earn a larger role in consumers' everyday lives." The Blueberry Boost Accelerator is seeking startups of CPG products across a wide range of categories, including but not limited to: Snacks Frozen Beverages (including alcoholic options) Confectionery Personal care items (e.g., skincare, cosmetics) Wellness/performance Ready-to-eat meals Sauces and dressings Pet products Interested entrepreneurs are invited to RSVP for a virtual information session on June 25 at 12 pm ET to learn more about the program, areas of interest and the application process. "Blueberries are beloved by consumers for their taste and health benefits, yet there is so much untapped potential when it comes to new formats, uses, and applications," said Fred Schonenberg, founder and CEO of VentureFuel. "Our accelerator connects the best startups working with blueberries with industry leaders and commercial opportunities to fast-track their innovations and unlock new growth opportunities for the category." The Blueberry Boost Accelerator underscores USHBC's commitment to leadership in the food system through innovation. By investing in new ideas, technology and entrepreneurs, USHBC continues to unite stakeholders to strengthen the industry's global competitiveness. For more information or to apply, visit For more resources on using blueberries as an ingredient or to find supplier, visit About the U.S. Highbush Blueberry CouncilEstablished in 2000, The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) is a federal agriculture research and promotion program with independent oversight from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). USHBC represents blueberry growers and packers in North and South America who market their blueberries in the United States and overseas, and works to promote the growth and well-being of the entire blueberry industry. USHBC is committed to providing blueberries that are grown, harvested, packed and shipped in clean, safe environments. Learn more at and About VentureFuelVentureFuel is an independent innovation advisory firm that helps the world's best organizations commercialize innovation to ignite change by working with startups. Its innovation programs help enterprise organizations learn, test, build and invest in emerging technology to solve their biggest problems today and unlock new sources of growth. VentureFuel provides organizations the tools to drive transformative change with less risk, more speed, and greater proximity to the consumer than traditional innovation models. Learn more at LinkedIn, X, and Instagram, and listen to The VentureFuel Visionaries podcast wherever you get your podcasts. PR ContactsAnna WalshA-Corner PR / VentureFuel396017@ USHBC396017@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
